Harry Potter and the Secrets of Dumbledore

Harry Potter and the Secrets of Dumbledore

Chapter 16

Harold's Hidden Gift

Harry, like the rest of the world, couldn't believe what had just happened. How could anyone be so cold, so callous, and so merciless? What was this going to prove? Did Benedict think that the people of the world were simply going to allow him to take over now? How were the muggle leaders going to explain this? Would the idea of entire magical communities around the world be any more believable than aliens from outer space? Would this start some kind of world war between muggles and wizards? What would Benedict do next?

Harry's mind was a whirlwind of questions for which he had no answers. He suddenly became aware that he was breathing hard and fast. Further everyone in the room was staring at him. He slowed his breathing and opened his eyes. "I'm fine, and I have no answers," he said in a slightly raised voice.

Everyone looked back at the television when Josephine gasped. For the first time in over twenty years the dark mark, originated by Voldemort, was floating above Las Vegas. The only difference was that now the serpent was wrapped around a lightning bolt.

Harry stood up and said, "That's it! I've got to get out of here."

Looking concerned, Antonia asked, "Where are you going?"

"To headquarters. I'm sure all hell will break loose around there, if it hasn't already. Don't wait up, I don't know how long I'll be." He leaned down, kissed Antonia, and disappeared.

Evan said, "Well, as part of the Order, I guess I should go too. Harold, I hope you understand why I can't take you with me, at least right now." Harold silently nodded and turned his attention back to the news reports.

"Wait, I'll go with you," Antonia said. Josephine made a move to stop her. "Mama, I have to do this. The world is in trouble and I'm part of the Order. It's where I belong at the moment. I'll be fine." They apparated without another word.

Harold, Josephine, and Petunia just looked at each other. "Looks like it's going to be a long day," Petunia said. "Guess I'll make breakfast for the three of us."

When Antonia and Evan arrived at Grimmauld Place, they found a fairly chaotic scene. Witches and wizards apparating in while others arrived via the floo network. Everyone was talking at once, trying to figure out what had happened and what they should be doing.

"Where's Harry?" Antonia asked.

George said, "He's in the office with Remus and Mad-Eye. They don't want to be disturbed unless it's an emergency."

Antonia took George by the hand and led him into the kitchen where Fred was helping Molly. "This is getting us nowhere, we need to get their attention."

Fred smiled, "Allow us. George, would you do the honors?"

"Certainly." He pulled something out of the pocket of his robe and tossed it at the ceiling. Upon impact there was a loud "Bang" and lines of electrical light ran across the ceiling. Everyone froze and looked up.

Antonia winked at George, "Thank you."

"Anytime."

"Now that we have your attention." Antonia looked around the room and continued, "Please take a seat. Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes. In the meantime, I suggest you talk in small groups and try to come up with suggestions to give Harry, Remus, and Mad-Eye when they finish their meeting."

Everyone sat down and quietly started talking. Molly, Antonia, and the twins served breakfast. Just as things seemed to be going along in a calm and organized fashion, Ron and Hermione arrived. "Where is Harry?" Hermione demanded.

"He's in a meeting and doesn't want to be disturbed unless it's an emergency," George said.

"Well, this is close enough." Hermione proceeded to the office and knocked on the door. Without waiting for an answer, she marched on in. "Sorry to barge in like this, but I've just received a note from Olaf Johannessen, the Minister of Magic for the United States. The President would like to meet with you. Further, I just spent the better part of an hour with the Prime Minister. He also would like to speak with you."

Harry ran his fingers through his hair and sighed. "I figured I'd hear from them, just not so soon." He got up and paced for a few minutes. "Okay, tell Olaf to get the President to come to London for a meeting with the Prime Minister. Once they are alone at Ten Downing, I'll bring them to the Hillside and we can meet there. It's safer, easier, and more comfortable than either of their places. Try for tomorrow if possible."

"Harry, do you think they'll agree to that?"

"It's the best I can do at the moment. I just can't apparate around the world at the moment and risk being out of touch with the magical side of things right now. From my previous experiences with each of them, I think they will understand and agree."

"Alright, I'll get word back to both Olaf and the Prime Minister. Sorry to have interrupted your meeting. See you later."

As the door closed, Harry turned his attention back to Remus and Mad-Eye. "At the moment I can hardly think straight, much less come up with any way to counteract what happened in Las Vegas. Either of you have any ideas?"

"I think the first matter at hand is to come up with a story for the world leaders to give muggles around the world," Remus sighed. "Obviously we don't want them to reveal our world, as that may lead to a muggle - wizard war. They can't blame each other as that might lead to wars amongst themselves. If they tried to blame it on space aliens, they'd either be laughed out of office or start a worldwide panic."

Mad-Eye growled, "Hell, why not tell them that some mad scientist is on the loose!" Harry and Remus looked at each other and then at Mad-Eye. "I was just kidding. It's something I've seen on several old muggle movies over the years."

"Hang on," Harry smiled. "Why should that be any less believable than space aliens or wizards, which over ninety nine percent don't even believe in? We could modify the story where an international crime syndicate had a small group of scientists working on experimental terrorism. The experiment got out of control and resulted in the New Year's catastrophe."

"It's rather out there, isn't it?" Remus asked.

"Compared to what? Space aliens? Wizards?" Harry slumped back in his chair. "I don't know. I guess we'll have to wait until I speak with the president and prime minister. I need something to eat. I can't think straight any more. I suggest you do the same. We'll adjourn for the time being."

They joined the rest in the kitchen. The discussion turned to how best to help those in Las Vegas without revealing who, or what, they are.

It was Neville who spoke up with the best idea. "Why don't about three dozen of us apparate to Las Vegas in small groups to various parts of the city. We can use our magic, very subtly of course, in the recovery operations. We can arrange six hour shifts and use headquarters as our point of origin."

Harry looked at Remus, then back at Neville. "Good idea, Neville. In fact, I think you should be in charge of the entire operation!"

"M-me?"

"Why not? You are a Hogwarts professor, a member of the Order, and a fairly powerful wizard who managed to rid the world of Bellatrix. I have to prepare for my meeting with the president and prime minister. I can only do so much and need to be able to rely on others that I trust. So, get started." Harry then turned around and poured himself a cup of coffee. Just as he was about to leave the room, Hermione appeared right in front of him. Harry froze, as they were nose to nose, closed his eyes, and said, "Don't do that!"

"Sorry. Something very strange is going on. We need to talk...alone." She grabbed Harry's free hand and pulled him back into the office.

As Harry went to close the door behind them, he felt someone pushing it open at the same time. He turned around to see Evan standing there with a look of confusion and fear on his face. "Sorry, but this can't wait. Something very strange is going on around here."

Harry motioned to both of them to sit down while he closed the door. "What the hell are you two on about?"

They both started to talk at the same time, stopped, and looked at each other. Hermione bowed her head and extended her hand toward Evan. "Thank you." He said. "I was talking to Olaf about arranging the meeting in London tomorrow, which is all arranged by the way, when he gave me some confusing and disturbing news. He told me that he had checked with the Johnson's in Minnetonka and several other wizard families around the country who live in muggle neighborhoods and therefore have televisions and other muggle devices in their houses. All the wizards that were watching television saw the same thing we did. The object, the balls of light and beams of light destroying Las Vegas. The muggles saw a catastrophic earthquake! The lasers and other special effect equipment used throughout the city malfunctioned, along with gas lines blowing up and electrical lines falling to the ground, starting fires and adding to the damage."

At that point Hermione broke in. "The Prime Minister mentioned the same thing. So I checked with a few friends who live in muggle areas around London and got the same story Evan just related. Harry, what's going on?"

Harry listened intently to their reports. He sat in silence for a few minutes once they had stopped talking. Suddenly, his eyes opened wide and his face broke into a very strange expression. "Hermione, tell Remus that Evan and I have to check out something and will be back as soon as possible. Then if you and Antonia don't mind, please help Neville organize the relief efforts."

"But, Harry, what's wrong? What does it all mean?"

"Sorry, I can't explain right now. I have two ideas racing through my head and I have to check one out for sure and the other may have to stay a supposition. Come on Evan."

"Where are we going?"

"To the Hillside...NOW!"

A moment later the two men appeared in Harry's living room. Evan tried to ask what the hurry was, but Harry just held up his hand and started walking quickly toward the media room.

Having finished breakfast, Petunia, Josephine, and Harold had brought their coffee back to the media room to watch the continuing media coverage of the disaster. All three turned with a start when Harry walked into the room followed by Evan. "Aunt Petunia, exactly what did you see earlier this morning? What caused all the damage to Las Vegas?"

"Harry, you were here. I saw the same thing you did."

"Please, just humor me. Exactly what caused the destruction?"

"Well, the object with the lightning bolt logo sent out balls of light and beams of light. That was followed by the military planes which finally destroyed it, but added to the damage." Petunia stared at him, completely perplexed.

"Josephine, what about you?"

"The same thing that Petunia just described."

"Evan?"

"The same."

Harry turned and looked at Harold. "And what did you see, Harold?"

"The same thing everyone else saw. The object, the balls, and beams of light, the fighter jets. Why? What's the matter with you?"

Harry was silent, but had a very strange look on his face. "Ladies, please stay here and keep monitoring the relief efforts. Harold, Evan, follow me." He turned and walked out of the room.

Harold quietly asked Evan, "What's the matter with him?"

"I haven't a clue. Come on."

Harry led them into the gym and closed and locked the door behind them. "Lights low. Feather, twelve inches long, ten feet to my left." Immediately, the lights dimmed and a feather appeared on the floor. Silently standing next to Harry, the other two men were completely confused.

Harry reached into his pocket and pulled out his wand. He handed the wand to Harold, who reluctantly accepted it. "What am I supposed to do with this?"

"I want you to point it at that feather, concentrate on levitating it, and say 'Wingardium Leviosa'."

"Harry, I'm not a wizard. What are you trying to prove?"

"I'm testing a theory. Just humor me and do as I ask, please"

Harold glanced at Evan who just shrugged his shoulders and looked as confused as Harold sounded. "I feel like I'm making a fool of myself."

Harry sighed, "If anyone is making a fool of himself, it's me. Now, please, do as I ask."

Harold shook his head, pointed the wand at the feather, and said, "Wingarum Levosa." Nothing happened.

Trying to keep patient, Harry said, "No, no, no, listen to me. I'm deadly serious about this. Try again, but this time concentrate completely on levitating the feather. Also enunciate the words properly, it's 'Wingardium Leviosa'. Keep concentrating and repeat the words every five seconds until I tell you to stop."

Harold took a deep breath and let it back out. Again, he pointed the wand at the feather, concentrated as hard as he could, and said "Wingardium Leviosa." He repeated the spell every five seconds as instructed. On the fourth repetition, the feather started to shiver and slowly lifted off the floor about an inch. Harold gasped, looked at Harry, and said, "Okay, what did you do?"

"Nothing. Try it again."

Evan stood frozen, staring at Harold. Cautiously he said, "Go ahead."

Harold repeated the procedure. This time the feather lifted two inches off the floor and simply floated there until Harold lifted the wand.

Harold handed the wand back to Harry, who noticed that Harold was visibly shaken. "Harry, I'm confused and, frankly, a little scared. What does this mean?"

Looking toward the ceiling, Harry said, "Three straight back arm chairs." The chairs appeared, and Harry arranged two of them close together facing each other, leaving the third back a couple feet facing the other two. "Harold, sit there. Evan, there." Harry sat directly across from Harold.

"Harold, I need your permission to enter your mind. This will be somewhat different than the last time, as it will be a much deeper probe."

"What are you looking for?"

"I can't tell you. I need your mind as open and unsuspecting as possible. Again, I simply have to ask you to trust me."

Harold sat silently considering the request. "Well, you haven't done anything to harm me, and you've never lied to me." He paused and took a deep breath. "Alright, go ahead."

"Just relax and look into my eyes." The two men stared into each other's eyes, not moving a muscle. This was lasting much longer than Evan had ever witnessed. He noticed that both men had developed beads of sweat on their foreheads. Finally, Harry turned his head away and Harold's head fell back and he was breathing heavily.

Evan looked at Harold, and asked, "Are you alright?"

"Yeah, just drained."

Evan then turned his attention to Harry and asked in a rather exasperated tone, "Are you going to tell us what this is all about now?"

Harry sat up and faced Harold. "This is going to be a bit of a shock; but here goes. Harold - you're a wizard!"

Evan and Harold looked at each other and then back at Harry, and in unison, said, "WHAT?"

"The test with the feather and the mind probe confirmed my suspicions."

Evan asked, "When did this suspicion start?"

"I'm not sure exactly when it started. I guess the broom ride during his first visit would be the first curiosity. I had to do far less than I expected to keep him in the air. There were a few other little things here and there, but it was the television that really got my attention."

"Wait a minute," Harold said. "What the hell does television have to do with all this?"

"Evan met with the Minister of Magic in the U.S. a few hours ago and returned with a rather strange story. Hermione had heard the same stories in London and did some quick detective work. It seems that any wizard watching the events in Las Vegas early this morning saw the object and all that it entailed. At the same time, muggles were watching a catastrophic earthquake and a series of events that followed. You saw the object, not an earthquake! That's why I tested you with the feather first, and you did that completely on your own. When I probed your mind, I found it buried in the far recesses, way past your conscience thoughts."

"Found what?"

"Your magic!"

"So what does all this mean? What happens now?" Harold started going on, feeling excited, scared, and confused all at the same time.

Harry sighed and looked at him thoughtfully. "Well, you've got a decision to make. And I don't want to hear any decision right away. You need to weigh what I'm about to propose carefully and thoroughly. No one can make this decision for you, it's going to have to be your own decision, completely and freely."

"Just what is this proposition?"

"First of all, you are perfectly free to leave things just as they are, and you will be fine. Your other choice is to allow us to gradually release your magic, which will bring out you're your full magical potential. I can't tell you how powerful your magical abilities are, as I have no way of knowing at this point. This is the first time I have encountered this type of phenomenon. Your powers may be less than Aunt Petunia's, or greater than Evan's. That can't be determined until we start seeing results of the procedure."

"What would be involved if I decide to go through with this procedure?"

Harry sat back in the chair and said, "Well, you'd have to take a leave of absence from your job. We'd be doing the procedure here, where Evan and I would be able to supervise the entire process, since we've already had success with my aunt. You'd get private lessons from the staff at Hogwarts, along with constant medical checkups to make sure all is going well. You could stay here, at the Hillside, as I've got plenty of room."

Harold slowly stood up. "If you don't mind, I need to go for a walk."

"Sure, go ahead. I would suggest you stay inside the property line."

"Actually, I was wondering if you could turn this place into summer on Lake Minnetonka?"

Harry smiled, "Sure. Picture the scene in your mind."

Harold closed his eyes and nodded.

"Open your eyes. Is this what you had in mind?"

There was the dark blue of the lake, surrounded by the woods on a perfect summer's day, complete with light breeze. "Perfect! Thanks."

"Evan and I have to return to headquarters for awhile. Feel free to stay here as long as you like. When you are ready to leave, just say 'finished' and the place will empty itself. Good luck." Harry and Evan left without another word.

Harry poked his head into the media room to let the ladies know that he and Evan were returning to headquarters for a bit, but would be home in time for dinner.

"Wait! Aren't you going to tell us what's going on around here?" Aunt Petunia asked.

"It will have to wait. And please don't disturb Harold while he's in the gym."

*******

Back at Grimmauld Place, Harry informed Remus and Mad-Eye about the differences in what wizards and Muggles saw on the television while watching the destruction of Las Vegas. "In a way, it's a good thing as we don't have to figure a way to avoid revealing our world. On the other hand, Benedict has either discovered or perfected some kind of perception charm with enough power to affect muggles through television transmissions."

"Actually, it's a bit worse than that," grumbled Mad-Eye. If a muggle and a wizard are watching the same television, and each is seeing a different version of the same event, then he has found a way to send that perception charm through the transmission and directly into each individuals mind. If he has actually found a way to do that, there is no telling what other curses he could send around the world, whenever he pleased."

"Have I ever told you what a comfort you are to have around Moody?"

"You know me, Harry, constant vigilance! I thought that was the reason for my being here, to come up with ideas and possibilities?"

Harry rolled his eyes, "I didn't say I didn't appreciate your thoughts and ideas. You just have a way of bringing things up that nobody has considered; and those thoughts and ideas have a bad habit of needing new and creative ways of approaching the problem."

"Alright you two," Remus interjected. "What I want to know is how you ever came up with the idea that muggles were seeing something different than we were?"

"Evan returned from the U.S., and Hermione from London with similar stories about who saw what. The only problem I had with the idea was that Harold was watching with us and seemed to see the same thing we did. We returned to the Hillside to check it out, and got more than we bargained for."

Remus sat up and cocked his head. "Just-what-did-you-get?"

Harry sat back and smiled. "Harold is a wizard!"

"What do you mean, he's a wizard? The man is forty years old and never had a clue?"

"Well, if I wasn't 'the boy who lived' and had all that attention centered on me since that fateful night; would I know that I was a wizard? He never had that attention." Harry sighed, "We could go through dozens, if not hundreds, of possibilities and never get it right. It doesn't really matter at this point."

"What's he going to do with this information?

"We gave him a few things to think about. Now we wait for him to ask questions or make the next move." Harry stood up and said, "If you'll excuse me, I think I should check on the recovery operation that Neville is heading up."

Harry was rather impressed with the way Neville had taken charge and organized his recovery operation. Satisfied that all was going well, Harry found Antonia and returned to the Hillside.

Josephine had insisted on making dinner, giving Petunia 'media duty' as Harold was still in the gym. A delicious aroma of ravioli and garlic bread was emanating from the kitchen. Josephine had conjured a special picnic basket when Harry told her that he, Antonia and Evan would prefer to bring dinner to Harold in the gym. Although curious as to what all this was about, she didn't question him. Once the three 'young people' had disappeared behind the door, she brought dinner to the media room for Petunia and herself.

Harold was sitting on the ground leaning up against a tree, staring at the boats sailing silently across the lake. His thoughts were interrupted when Antonia snapped the red and white checked blanket in front of his eyes. He watched as it floated down and covered the ground in front of him. "How long have I been sitting here?"

"About five hours," Evan replied. "Thought it was about time you had something to eat. Can't have you starving to death!"

"Thanks." Harold paused and looked at his three magical friends. "You guys sure as hell know how to throw someone into mass confusion. Do you have any idea how incomprehensible this is to me?"

"I have somewhat of an idea," Harry said. "Although I was only eleven when I was informed that I was a wizard, I still remember the shock and confusion I went through. I'm sure it has to be magnified being an adult and having all this thrust upon you. Remember, you don't have to do anything. You can continue living your life as if this had never happened."

Harold opened his eyes wide, raised his eyebrows, and looked at Harry. "You're kidding, aren't you? Do you think I could just go on living my life as I have been with this knowledge in my head? I'd always wonder 'what if'. On the other hand, so much would change if I went through with the changeover. How would I ever explain this to Sophia?"

"Sophia?' Antonia asked.

"Yes, my fiancée. I'm sorry, with everything that has been going on around here since my arrival, I haven't felt it appropriate to go into my personal life."

Antonia held up her hand. "That's fine, I can understand that. What is Sophia's last name?"

"Palmisano."

"So, you're that Harold."

"What Harold? What are you talking about? I'm confused enough and really don't need any more at the moment." Harold was starting to sound a bit testy.

"Sophia Palmisano is my cousin!"

Harry, who almost choked on his garlic bread, rolled his eyes, and mumbled, "Naturally."

"Are you trying to tell me that Sophia is a witch? She never mentioned anything about it to me."

Antonia took Harold's hand in both of hers and looked straight into his eyes. "She loves you and was afraid of what your reaction might be if she told you. She planned not to use magic except in private when you were away on assignment. So, before you get irritated by the fact that she didn't say anything, you better consider what she was willing to sacrifice because of her love for you."

"It still would have been better if she had told me."

"Really. You've known Evan, and the fact that he is a wizard, for many years. Did you ever mention that to her? Did you mention that you had met Harry and even witnessed an attack on his life? Did you tell her where you were over the Thanksgiving holiday and what you did?" She paused to let this sink in. "Seems to me you're as guilty as she is!"

Harold glanced over at Harry and Evan who had decided to stay out of this, opting to sit, eat, and watch in silence. After all, people pay good money to go to the theatre and watch this type of thing!

"I guess you have a valid point there," Harold sighed. "It would be a lot easier if Sophia were here to help me with this decision."

A sly smile crept over Antonia's face. "That can be arranged." The next moment she disappeared.

"Where did she go?" Harold asked with a look of confusion.

Reaching for another piece of garlic bread, Harry calmly said, "I'm not positive, but I think we are going to need another plate and wine glass." With a wave of his hand, another place setting appeared on the blanket.

Harold looked at the new addition to the blanket and said, "I'm confused."

Evan smiled, and said, "Seems you've been in that state for several hours now. I suggest you eat something while we wait."

The three men ate in silence for a few minutes. Harold's eyes kept darting around the room, trying to figure out what as going to happen next.

Finally, Antonia reappeared with Sophia at her side.

Harold's eyes opened wide, his smile stretched from ear to ear, as he said, "Sophia!" He pulled her close and passionately kissed her.

"Enrico, I've missed you so much. You wouldn't believe the dream I had about you last night."

Evan looked at Harry and asked, "Enrico? I thought you were Enrico."

Harry shrugged his shoulders. Harry, Harold; they're both Enrico in Italian."

"All four of you listen to me," Evan said, eyes darting from one to the other. "From now on, when the four of you are together, and in my presence, there is no Enrico! I can't keep up without a scorecard."

Everyone laughed and agreed to his request.

Antonia introduced Evan to Sophia and then Harry. "Now, Harry, would you like to take care of that dream?"

"Oh, right. Sophia, stand still and look into my eyes." As they stared at each other, Harry's eyes momentarily turned vibrant green. He turned back toward Antonia and said, "Done."

Sophia blinked her eyes a few times. Her expression changed as she said, "That wasn't a dream. You two were on the ship last night!" She looked around at the others present; as here eyes settled on Harold, she said, "Would you like to explain what is going on around here? How did you get to the ship? What are you doing in England? How do you know my cousin? And why are we in the woods next to Lake Minnetonka while in England?"

"Why don't we all sit down?" Harold gulped. He handed Sophia a glass of wine and started from the beginning. "...And now I have to decide what to do about it."

"This has all been going on for almost two months and you haven't told me anything about it?"

Harold raised his voice just a bit, "I found out only twenty minutes ago that you are a witch! Why didn't you ever tell me? Thinking you were a muggle, how was I going to tell you anything about all this? I thought you would have had me committed!"

Antonia broke in, "Enough, both of you. Now you know what's gone on. I suggest you discuss the past later. You have a more immediate situation to discuss. By the way, Sophia, this is my fiancée, Harry Potter."

Sophia blushed and shook Harry's hand. "It's nice to meet you. Please forgive my temper. One minute I'm walking off a ship, the next, my cousin has me in Great Britain!"

"It's nice to meet you too. Sorry about the dream spell. Harold was missing you so much last night, that we got a little carried away. Of course, neither of us knew you were a witch at the time either."

Evan smiled, "Hello Sophia, remember me?"

"Of course, I do. It's been quite awhile though. I hope you, also, will forgive my bad manners tonight." She looked at Antonia and continued, "Any other surprises?"

"Just one." Antonia got up and left the room. When she returned, Josephine and Petunia were right behind her.

"Aunt Jo!"

"Sophia. What are you doing here?" Josephine embraced her niece and noticed everybody watching them. "Oh, I want you to meet my new friend and Harry's aunt. This is Petunia Dursley, and this is my niece, Sophia Palmisano."

Petunia spoke up. "Would someone mind telling us what is going on around here? There has been all kind of secrecy and comings and goings all day."

"Park bench," Harry ordered. "Sit down ladies and we'll go through this story one more time."

Some time later, everyone was finally on the same page. All eyes turned toward Harold when Sophia asked, "Have you made up your mind as to what you are going to do?

"Well, if you agree, I think I'm going to go for it."

"No, this is entirely your decision. I'll love you with or without magic!"

"I guess I'll go for it then. I've just got to figure out how to get an extended leave of absence."

Harry casually said, "I don't think that will be too much of a problem; your boss' boss is very much on our side."

"My boss' boss is the president. Not exactly someone that I have an intimate relationship with."

"Well, I don't know if I'd go as far as calling it an intimate relationship, but the president is going to be in my living room tomorrow. You can ask him then!"

"What?"

*******

The President had traveled to England without the First Lady. The Prime Minister's wife would be out all day at a series of charitable events to start fundraising projects for the New Year. The meeting had received little press and had been billed as a social call. Advisors on both sides had been left out of the loop. The two leaders had left word that they were not to be disturbed.

Olaf Johannessen and Joe Kubasek apparated into the Prime Minister's office after the doors had been closed and locked. A few minutes later, Harry, Hermione, and her assistant, Colin Creevey appeared. Once the introductions had taken place, Harry produced two jars containing the polyjuice potion. Joe and Colin drank the potions and turned into their respective countries leaders.

Harry held out his arm and said, "Mr. President." The president took his arm and they disappeared, followed by Olaf. He immediately returned to the office. Offering his arm, he said, "Prime Minister." A moment later they arrived at the Hillside followed by Hermione.

Petunia, Evan, Antonia, and Josephine had all gone to Hogwarts for the first day of the new term. Harry had made an appearance that was just long enough to attend breakfast and welcome the students back from the Christmas holiday. Harold was in the media room...waiting.

Coffee and biscuits were on the dining room table for anyone who wished to partake. "If you all will excuse me for just a moment, I will get the last member of this meeting." Harry headed down the hall to the media room.

While they waited for the mystery guest, the guests helped themselves to the refreshments. Harry returned, followed by Harold. "Mr. President, Prime Minister, Minister Johannessen, may I introduce Harold Porter. Mr. Porter is an undercover agent for the U.S. government and has the highest security clearance. Of course, you already know Minister Weasley."

The President calmly said, "Really."

"You didn't know?" asked the Prime Minister.

"Do you know all your agents?"

"Good Point."

Harry poured himself a cup of coffee and said, "The reason for Harold's presence at this meeting will be discussed later. Now to the matter at hand. We all know what happened in Las Vegas on New Year's Eve. I also understand that you both have been informed as to the different versions that were witnessed by our two different worlds."

The Prime Minister shook his head, saying, "Yes, Hermione has explained it, but I must admit I still don't understand how it is possible."

"I don't blame you for not understanding," Harry said. "It took us awhile to realize what had happened, and then how it happened. One of my top associates in the Order explained that Benedict had either discovered or perfected a perception charm that allowed him to use your television transmissions to transmit magic that affects muggles. This discovery has made the situation all the more dangerous. We figure that if he was able to use this perception charm to affect people worldwide, then there is no telling what he will be able to send through those transmissions at any time."

The president asked, "Is there anything that can be done? I know it may sound ridiculous, but if there is anything we can do to help, just let us know."

"The only thing you can do is help keep a lid on what is actually happening. Right now one of my biggest fears is that word gets out about the wizarding world and what is causing all these things to happen. I would hate for this to turn into a war between muggles and wizards. It's something that would cause untold death and destruction to both worlds with no perceivable end."

The prime minister asked, "How can that be? With your lot being able to use magic, what possible recourse would we have?"

"First of all, there are almost seven times as many muggles on the planet than there are wizards. Secondly, wizards are humans who just happen to have magical powers." Harry paused to let this sink in. "They can be killed with guns, knives, etc. just like anyone else. It would be horrendous on both sides."

Harold didn't know why, but he made a mental note of that information.

"That is about all the information we have for you at the moment," Harry said. "I know it's not exactly the positive information that you would have liked to have heard, but I see no reason to lie to any of you. Just know we have wizards working on this around the clock to find a way to stop Benedict. Other than that, I have no other updates on the subject at the moment."

"Thank you for the honesty," the President said. "I guess we'll have to hope your people come up with something soon. Now, would you mind telling us why Mr. Porter is here?"

Harry shifted in his chair, drank some coffee, and said, "We made an interesting discovery about Harold yesterday. Amazing as it sounds, Harold is a wizard." Hermione's mouth dropped as her eyes grew to the size of saucers. The President and Prime Minister had similar reactions. Olaf, on the other hand, looked interested, though mixed with an expression that Harry couldn't quite figure out.

"How is it possible that Harold is a wizard, but didn't know about it?" the President asked. "Also, why does he need a leave of absence?"

"It's not that unusual for a witch or wizard not to know from the beginning. Most of the time it's a case like Hermione, whose parents are muggles and never thought about it. She received her letter from Hogwarts when she reached eleven years of age. That was her introduction to the magical world. I've never heard of anybody going as long as Harold has without knowing."

The president looked at Harold and asked, "Didn't your parents have any idea about this?"

"Well, sir, I never knew my parents. They were killed in a car accident when I was about a year old. I was raised by my aunt and uncle, who tried to ignore my existence as much as possible. I can't ask them anything about it as they are both deceased. Harry figured it out because I was able to see the same thing on T V as he did in the destruction of Las Vegas and not the earthquake that you saw. He did a simple test, followed by a probe of my mind, and...well...here we are."

"And the leave of absence?"

"Harry and the other professors are going to perform some kind of procedure that will bring the powers out and turn me into the wizard. The way I understand it, in order for the procedure to be done correctly and safely, it will take quite awhile."

"And you're sure you want to do this?"

"After everything I've seen and experienced on my two visits here...I have to."

The President shook his head, and said, "Leave granted. Please keep me informed through Minister Johannessen. You don't mind, do you Olaf?"

Seemingly lost in his own thoughts, Olaf absentmindedly said, "Yes, that will be fine."

"Are you alright, Olaf?" Harry asked with concern in his voice.

"Yes, I'm fine."

"Sorry, but you seem distracted or perturbed by this news."

Olaf mumbled, "Never thought it would come to this. Not sure this is a good idea."

"Come to what?" Harry asked with growing concern. "Have you encountered something like this before?"

"No. Just the mutterings of an old man."

"I don't mean to be rude, Olaf, but that look on your face tells me something very different. I realize that I don't know you well, but I do know that look."

"And where, pray tell, do you know this look from?"

"After knowing Albus Dumbledore for almost thirty years, I know that look."

Olaf looked at the floor and said, "Ah, Albus, I do miss him. No, Mr. Potter, there is nothing to concern yourself about. After spending more than fifty years as headmaster of Lakeview and now as Minister of Magic, I'd say I've pretty much seen and heard most everything."

Harry also knew when a subject had been closed. Still he just couldn't shake the feeling that there was something else that Olaf wasn't telling them. The conversation drifted back to Benedict and the recovery and rebuilding of Las Vegas.

*******

Once Harry had safely returned the two leaders to Ten Downing, he quickly checked in at headquarters, and then returned to the Hillside.

"Harold, if you're going to move in here for awhile, I suppose you'd like a few more clothes and maybe a few personal effects. We still have a couple hours before everyone returns from school if you'd like to make a quick trip to Minnesota."

"I'd really appreciate that," said Harold. "If possible, I'd like to stop at the Johnson's and ask them to look after the house while I'm here."

"That's no problem. In fact, it will be a good excuse to check on Dennis's recovery. I also have something to give Sean."

They each grabbed their empty backpacks and in mere moments were standing in Harold's living room. They headed to the bedroom, filled the packs with clothes, shoes, and a few other necessities. Harold went through the house and chose a small number of mementos to take with him. The packs were left in the living room while the two of them headed over to see the Johnson's.

"Harry, Harold!" exclaimed Mary as she opened the door. "Happy New Year! Please, come in. What are you two doing here?"

They removed their snow covered shoes and left them, and their jackets in the mudroom. As they entered the living room, Dennis stood up and said, "Happy New Year! It's good to see you; please, sit down."

Feeling both surprised and relieved, Harry shook his hand. "You certainly have made great progress in the past ten days!"

"The healers come by every two or three days, and being with the family certainly helps. I should be fully recovered and back to work in another week or so. After seeing what happened to Las Vegas, I'm more determined than ever to help rid the world of that jerk!"

Mary looked at Harold and then at Dennis. "There is nothing to prove that Benedict had anything to do with the earthquake."

Harold smiled, and said, "Mary, I know the truth. I was watching with Harry, Evan, and a few witches. I saw the same thing they did."

"How is that possible? I thought muggles saw something different."

Harry slowly said, "Well, that's the main reason for our visit. We were wondering if you would mind keeping an eye on Harold's house along with Evan's for awhile?"

"Certainly, that's no problem. I'm still confused and now am curious as to where you're going."

Harold took a deep breath and said, "I'm going to be staying at Harry's for awhile. It will be easier for them to teach me during the procedure."

Mary threw her hands into the air. "Now I'm even more confused! Teach you what, during what procedure?"

"We have discovered that Harold is actually a wizard and we're going to use an ancient procedure to bring his magic to the surface. Of course, like any of us, he has to be taught how to use it properly." Harry then explained the entire story to them. "So, you see, we came back to get some of his stuff to take back to my place...and here we are."

"That's one of the most amazing things I have ever heard," Dennis said. "In fact, I've never heard or even read of such a thing."

"From the reactions so far, I don't think anyone has heard of such a thing before," Harold said. "I'm both excited and nervous to tell you the truth. One thing is for sure...my life will never be the same again!"

Mary sat, shaking her head. She started looking back and forth between the two of them and gradually got a strange look on her face.

"What is it?" Harry asked. "You seem perplexed about something."

"Do you two realize that you could pass for brothers? In fact, if Harold's hair was a bit more unruly, and he wore glasses, and had green eyes; you could almost pass as twins!"

Harry started laughing. "If my mum and dad were still alive, that might come as quite a shock to them!"

Sean entered the room and shouted, "HARRY! What are you doing here? Hi, Harold."

"Hello, Sean. I came to see how your dad was doing and to talk to your parents about a few things. I also brought you something."

"Really? What is it?

"Hang on a minute." Harry started to raise his arm, but stopped himself. He was just about to get up when he spied a wand on the coffee table. "May I borrow your wand for a moment?"

Dennis shrugged his shoulders. "Sure."

Harry took the wand, pointed it toward the mudroom, and said, "Accio gift." A package wrapped in brown paper flew into his hand. He handed it to the boy and said, "Here you go."

Sean ripped the paper off and opened the box. He pulled out what looked to be an ordinary globe with a castle inside. "Cool castle."

"That's Hogwarts, the school I'm headmaster of."

"Really? It looks like a really cool place! Why is it so dark?"

"It is a bit different than most globes. It changes from day to night and will change with the weather! You'll always know what the weather is and if the sun is up or not there. If you look close, you can tell it's windy there right now. See the little trees moving?"

"This is really great Harry, thanks!"

"Your welcome. Glad you like it." Harry turned toward Mary and Dennis, "Well, thanks for everything. I'm glad to see you are doing so well Dennis. We'd better get back before everyone gets home from school and starts dinner without us."

"Dinner?" Sean said. "It's only eleven in the morning!"

Harry laughed, "It's eleven in the morning here, but it's five in the evening there."

"Oh yeah."

Mary looked at Harold, "Good luck with your...procedure. I'm still not sure I understand it all, but it will be nice to have you in wizarding world. Don't worry about the house, we'll take care of everything."

*******

When they appeared in the living room at the Hillside, everyone had already returned and dinner was being prepared. Evan appeared a few minutes after the other two. "I checked in at headquarters for a few minutes. Everything is running smoothly and nothing new has happened...yet. Neville is doing a great job directing the recovery help in Las Vegas and the teams are making good progress." Harry and Harold were still standing there with their packs. "Where are you two going?"

"Not going," Harry remarked. "We just got back from Minnesota. Since Harold is going to be here for an extended time, we went to get a few more of his things. By the way, Dennis Johnson is making fantastic progress and should be back to work next week."

Harry saw Antonia enter the kitchen from the hallway. He took the pack off his back and shoved it into Harold's chest. "When you've emptied it, just put it in my room. I have to see Toni."

Harold in turn shoved the pack into Evan's arms and said, "Here, make yourself useful." As they passed the kitchen where Petunia was cooking, and trying not to watch Harry and Antonia, he asked, "Where's Sophia?"

Not even turning to look at him, Antonia reluctantly pulled her lips away and said, "In Petunia's living room with mama." She and Harry resumed their 'hello' as the packs were taken down the hall.

Harold let his pack slide off his back onto the bed, while Evan set Harry's against the wall. "I'll deal with that later," Harold said as he headed off to see Sophia.

Evan stood in the doorway, looked to his left and then to his right. With a sigh, he shrugged his shoulders and said to himself, 'Guess I'll watch T V.' It wasn't long before Petunia and Josephine joined him.

After a few minutes of watching the update on the disaster, Josephine calmly said, "You need to find a nice woman to settle down with."

Evan sighed, "You're not the first motherly type to suggest that. I just haven't found the right woman yet. Either I'm too busy with my work, or the women I do go out with aren't independent enough to allow a balance, like Antonia and Sophia do."

"Next time Antonia and Harry come to Rome, you come too." Josephine said in an authoritative manner. "I have lots of nieces and friends with daughters. I'm sure you can find one there. Your friends did!"

Evan turned toward Petunia and said, "Isn't it about time for dinner?"

*******

Hermione was telling Ron, Molly, Ginny, and Neville the news about Harold. "I don't know; there is something strange going on there."

"What do you mean?" Ron asked.

"Have you ever really looked at the two of them? Noticed how similar their mannerisms are?"

Molly and Ginny were quietly considering Hermione's words. Neville bluntly said, "If you are trying to make a point, just say it. I'm getting confused."

"Next time you see the two of them together, picture Harold with more unruly hair, or visa versa. Then picture Harold with the same glasses, or Harry without his. Give them the same color eyes and then tell me what you see."

"I see where you're going with this, Hermione dear," Molly said. "But the only relatives Harry has are Petunia and Dudley. I don't see how there could be anything else. Anyway, you know that saying about everybody having a twin somewhere in the world."

"I know, I know. It's just a bizarre feeling I get."

Everyone stared as Ginny started laughing. Finding it hard to talk, she finally managed to say, "Can you imagine another Fred and George on the loose somewhere in the world?" Everyone joined in the laughter at that point.

*******

"You sent for me, my lord?"

Benedict looked over and said, "Ah, Draco, come in and sit down. Your friend Potter is beginning to be quite a thorn in my side. Meetings with muggle world leaders, using his predecessors' knowledge, making plans to counteract my own, even using the founders of Hogwarts against me."

"I assure you, my lord, Potter is no friend of mine."

"Be that as it may, I want you to personally deliver a message to him. By now he has figured out that the muggles saw something different on that television thing they watch than the wizards did. He probably thinks I had something to do with that and is worried that I have found a way to transmit spells through that contraption."

"You mean that wasn't you?"

"No, it wasn't me. I wanted all the world to see my power and be scared enough to surrender. It was those damn founders again! For some reason they are not telling Potter that they had anything to do with it. They are up to something, but I intend to take advantage of their silence."

Benedict fell silent for a few minutes. Draco squirmed uncomfortably in his chair thinking about what he would say next. He sat up straight when Benedict finally started talking again. "Potter is about to change that muggle friend of his into a wizard. He found out that his friends' magic was pushed far into the recesses of his being. He has no idea of what he may face if he goes through with that procedure."

"What will he face, sir?"

"That is none of your concern at the moment. I want you to personally deliver a message to Potter."

"Where am I supposed to meet him?"

"You're going to pay a visit to his house."

Draco gulped. "How am I going to do that with all the protective charms he has around that place?"

"They only stop people who intend harm. You will go completely unarmed...not even your wand. You will simply stand there and talk."

"Not even my wand?" Draco repeated nervously.

"That's right, you can't even have a thought about harming him, or anyone else on the property. Surely you're not afraid of him? If Harry Potter wanted to kill you, he would have done so years ago. Face it Draco, when it comes right down to it, you are no more of a match for Potter than you are for me."

Knowing he was right, Draco fought the anger trying to bubble to the surface and simply said, "Yes sir."

"Now, here is the message I want you to give him..."

8