Fic: The Hidden Child 4/?
Title: The Hidden Child 4/?
Author: Rhea530
Pairings: None
Rating: General
Disclaimer: Not mine, though I wish he was.
Summary: Percy chronicles the major events that have helped shape his life.
Author's note: Thanks to everyone who has given me feedback. Comments are a really helpful way for me to improve the quality of the story; not to mention, feedback is love and encourages me to keep writing :) I hope everyone enjoys this chapter; it's a bit long but I promise that it will shed some light on the state of Percy's magic.
Waking up in strange places was becoming an inconvenient habit. Even worse were the constant conversations rumbling over his head that were inevitably about him.
Percy yawned and rubbed at his eyes. Was he still in Dumbledore’s office or perhaps another bathtub? Cracking open an eye, Percy ruled out both places. He was neither wet nor asleep on a fur rug. In point of fact he was in a proper bed, with soft sheets, warm blankets and a pillow that was fluffy, rather than flat like the ones at home. Percy stretched in a cat-like pose and noted that his bed had curtains. Heavy red curtains. On the other side, he could hear voices, several in fact, but not a single one had the deep murmur of the adults. Curious, Percy peeked through the curtain.
To his delight, he saw other boys, all older, pulling on identical vests, trousers and robes. A familiar crest glittered on their chests had Percy flinging open the curtain and jumping from the bed.
“Bill! Charlie!”
The flurry of activity in the room ceased and Percy found himself the recipient of much gawking. Percy flushed, but continued to scan the room. Surely, his brothers were around?
“Hold on, what have we here?” An older boy with wavy brown hair grabbed Percy by the shoulder. “And who might you be?”
“I’m Percy Weasley.” Percy stood as tall as he could. “My brothers are Bill and Charlie!”
“With hair as red as that, I suppose it must be true.” Percy scowled as the other boy ruffled his hair. “Well Percy, I’m Edward, the prefect for Gryffindor. Your brother Charlie is already at quidditch practice, so you won’t be seeing him until breakfast.” He chuckled as Percy’s face fell. “But don’t worry, Bill’s here. In fact,” Edward pointed to a bed in the far corner whose curtains were still drawn, “that there is Bill’s bed. Why don’t you go wake him up, eh?”
Percy didn’t need to be told twice. Forgetting all propriety, he raced across the room, flung open the curtains and jumped, landing squarely on Bill’s stomach.
“Good morning Bill!” He grinned from ear to ear.
Bill groaned and blinked once, twice, three times, before it seemed to register as to who was sitting on his chest. “Perce?”
“I came to visit.” Percy said excitedly. “Are you glad to see me Bill?”
‘Percy?” Bill repeated, and touched his brother’s arm as if to reassure himself that Percy was, in fact, really there. “Why are you here?”
“To see you of course.” Percy poked him playfully on the chest, still grinning. “I came last night.”
“But why?”
“I already said why. Twice.”
“Yeah, you did.” Bill rubbed his eyes, sitting up. “Is Mum here too? And the twins?”
“No, just me.” Percy frowned. “Are you not happy to see me?”
“Of course he’s happy to see you, mate!” Edward appeared to Bill’s left and punched him amicably on the shoulder. “He’s just a bit dim when he first wakes up. Give him a minute and he’ll wise up.”
“S’very funny.” Bill complained. He looked once more at Percy, before reaching over and pulling Percy into a hug. “It is good to see you Perce. Just a bit surprising is all.”
Percy tolerated the hug. It was nice to see Bill too.
“Can you take me to the library?” Percy smiled dreamily as visions of towering bookcases danced through his head. “I won’t be a bother. Unlike Fred and George, I know how to behave.”
Bill chuckled and rolled out of bed. “We’ll see.” He held out a hand to help Percy down. “First off, we should check with the Headmaster and see how long you’re staying.”
Percy watched as Bill rummaged through the trunk at the end of the bed for his school clothes. “Do you suppose I can attend lessons with you?” Percy was desperate to learn potions. He secretly hoped he might find a potion that would cause the twins to lose their voices. “I am a very fast learner, Bill.”
Bill tugged his vest over his head. “We need to check with Professor Dumbledore first. I didn’t even know you were at Hogwarts until this morning.”
“That Man brought me here. Without asking if I even wanted to go.”
“That Man, Perce, is our Dad.” Bill finished adjusting his tie. “Did you happen to bring any clothes with you?”
“No. That Man didn’t give me time to collect any.” Percy pretended he didn’t see Bill roll his eyes. “He also made me sleep, Bill! In fact, I believe I’ve been kidnapped.”
“Does Mum know where you are?”
Percy nodded.
“Then you’re not kidnapped.” Bill gathered up his books and gestured for Percy to follow. “Come on, we need to hurry or we’ll miss breakfast.”
“But I’m not dressed for breakfast!” Percy looked at his pajamas in dismay. “I can’t be seen like this!”
“Trust me, Perce, it’s not a problem.” Bill winked. “All the girls will think you’re adorable. Now come on, or we’ll miss Charlie.”
The thought of seeing his brother was all the incentive Percy needed. Mortification forgotten, he hurried down the winding staircase after Bill.
***
The great hall was everything Percy had imagined and more. Percy gawked at the lazy blue sky swathed in white fluffy clouds overhanging the hall. He tugged on Bill’s sleeve. “How does it do that?”
“How does what do what?” Bill asked absently, scanning the hall for Charlie.
“Up there!” Percy pointed. “How can the sky be inside?”
“Oh, you mean the ceiling. That’s not the sky, Perce. It’s just a spell.” Bill jerked his head towards the windows lining the walls. “See? It’s actually raining.”
Percy looked and sure enough, the sky outside was overcast and hurtling rain towards the castle. “Wow. That’s brilliant!”
A group of girls seated at the Gryffindor table began to giggle. A slim girl with blonde hair stood and saddled up to Bill. “Who is this, William?”
“Bill.” Percy corrected her. “He’s only called William when he’s in trouble.”
This earned another round of giggles from the table. “Oh Bill, he’s adorable!” A girl with curly brown hair squealed. “One of yours, is he?”
“He’s my little brother.” Cheeks red, Bill gestured to Percy. “Florence, this is Percy. Percy, this is my friend Florence.”
“Is she your girlfriend?” Percy asked bluntly and was rewarded with more giggling.
“Uh, no.” Bill stammered. “Just a friend. Oh look! There’s Charlie, we should go.” Grabbing Percy by the arm, Bill propelled him further down the table away from the giggling girls. Charlie was sitting by himself viciously buttering a piece of toast.
“Hey Charlie!” Bill plopped down on the bench. “Guess who came to visit?”
Percy beamed as Charlie lifted his head.
“Percy?”
“He got here last night.” Bill gestured for Percy to sit. “I’m going to take him to see Dumbledore after breakfast.”
“How was quidditch practice?” Percy asked. “I bet you were really good.”
“Practice was horrid.” Charlie took a ferocious bite of toast. “It was impossible to fly with all this bloody rain.”
“You swore.”
“Be quiet.” Charlie scowled at Percy. “Does Mum know he’s here?”
“Of course Mum knows I’m here!”
Bill handed Percy some toast and milk. “Dad brought him here last night.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know.”
“It’s because I did magic.” Percy bit into his toast. It wasn’t as good as Mummy’s.
“You did what? Of all the stupid, idiotic things to do!”
“Charlie!” Bill hissed. “Stop it.”
Percy’s lip quivered. “It was an accident.” He stared morosely at his plate. “I just wanted the monsters to go away.”
Bill put an arm around Percy’s shoulders. “S’okay Perce. The first time is always an accident. Did you know that when Charlie first did magic he almost clobbered me with a tree branch?”
“Really?”
Bill nodded. “When I first did magic, I blew up the sandbox.”
“I set the living room on fire.” Percy said glumly. “Mummy had to put me in the bathtub.”
Bill and Charlie exchanged a look.
“You’re okay, though?”
“It didn’t hurt.” Percy held up his hands. “See? No burns.”
“Well,” Bill said carefully. “That’s good.”
“We had to move. But the new house, Bill! It’s so cool! It has its own cave and everything!”
“Really?” Bill smirked bemusedly at Charlie. “A cave?”
“Uh huh. It’s a smugglers cave. I found it with Fred and George when we went adventuring.”
“And where is this cave?”
“Under the loveseat.” Percy took a sip of milk. “It’s a secret though, so don’t tell anyone else.”
“We’ll try to keep it to ourselves.” Charlie said dryly, and then yelped. “Why’d you kick me?”
“I didn’t kick you.” Bill said innocently and winked at Percy. “Did you kick Charlie, Percy?”
“No.” Percy took another bite of toast. “I don’t kick people unless I’m on an adventure.”
“Well, there you go Charlie. No one kicked you.”
“You bloody well did.” Charlie rubbed his leg and glared daggers across the table. “I’m gonna get you for that.”
“Sure, sure.” Bill laughed. “You almost done there, Perce? I need to get you to Dumbledore before class starts.”
Percy gulped down the last of his milk. Pushing his plate away, he nodded. Waving good-bye to Charlie, he hurried after Bill, who was already striding towards the doors.
Puffing, Percy followed Bill down a long hall that narrowed, then turned right into a set of statures featuring magical creatures. Bill mumbled something under his breath and the statues moved to reveal a set of winding stairs. Percy climbed the steps awkwardly, trying to ward off feelings of vertigo. The steps seemed to spiral endlessly upwards but just as he thought he would need to stop and catch his breath, they were back in the office of the Headmaster. Dumbledore was already seated at his desk poring over an assortment of parchments. He stopped when he saw them.
“Good morning, boys. “
Percy shuffled and mumbled a quiet “good morning.”
“Thank you for bringing Percy to me, William. I believe that you have class to go to?”
Bill nodded. He looked down at Percy and ruffled his hair. “See you, Perce. Tell Mum I said hi!”
Percy opened his mouth to speak but his brother was already gone, red hair disappearing around the corner. Alone again, Percy turned back to the desk and gulped.
“Am I in trouble?”
Dumbledore chuckled and gestured for Percy to sit. “No, you’re not in trouble.”
“Okay.” Percy sat gingerly in the high-backed chair That Man had occupied the night before. Percy abruptly wondered where he was.
“Did you have a nice visit with your brothers?”
“Charlie wasn’t very nice, but Bill was okay.” Percy fingered the hem of his nightshirt. He tugged at a stray thread. “They weren’t expecting me. My visit was rather sudden. ”
Dumbledore chuckled. “Next time, we’ll have to give them some notice.”
“Yes, then I can go to classes with Bill.” Percy’s eyes lit up. “I asked Bill to take me to the library. I know that Hogwarts has a lot of books.”
“Perhaps another time.” Dumbledore peered solemnly over the tops of his reading glasses. “I would like to speak with you about a very important matter.”
“What kind of matter?” Percy asked, though he already had a very good idea of what the “important matter” might be.
“It’s very rare for someone of your age to willfully channel their magic.” Percy opened his mouth to protest, but Dumbledore continued, “Even rarer is the type of magic that you possess. Tell me Percy, what do you feel when your magic occurs?”
Percy shrugged. “I don’t see why you want to talk about that.”
“What is wrong with speaking about your feelings?”
“It’s silly. Why waste time worrying about feelings when there are other, more important things that need doing?”
“What could be more important than acknowledging one’s feelings? Our feelings define us.” Dumbledore shook a chiding finger at Percy. “Emotions, my dear boy, dictate our reaction to circumstance.”
“Taking care of my brothers so Mummy can rest does not require emotion,” Percy countered, “a stern voice and a strict adherence to rules works just fine.” He sighed. “Besides, emotion makes you weak.”
Dumbledore frowned. “Emotion does not make you weak.”
“It does when you have four brothers.” Percy remembered all too well the unsavory nicknames he’d been given by his siblings. “What does this have to do with anything, anyhow? I thought we were discussing my magic?”
“We are.” Dumbledore began searching for something on his desk. “Are you familiar with the Books of Magic? Has Bill spoken of them?”
Percy shook his head. “Are they spell books?”
“Among other things.” Dumbledore rummaged through the many piles of books and parchment littering his desk, clucking his tongue. “Now, where is it? Ah! Here we go.”
He held up a thick, leather-bound book. “This, Percy, is one of three ancient books of magic. It is known as the Book of Secrets. It was written so long ago that the author’s name has been lost to history.” Opening the aged cover, he thumbed through its pages. “Only a handful of wizards and witches are able to read the contents of the Book of Secrets. What makes this book so unique is that only certain information is revealed to the reader. To date, no single person has ever been privy to the complete writings contained within its pages.” Finding what he was looking for, Dumbledore thrust the book towards Percy. “Tell me what you see, if anything.”
Percy squinted. The right page was blank while the left was filled with writing. The words were written in a language that Percy didn’t know, yet instinctively understood. Tentatively, he reached forward, and then quickly withdrew his hand as the writing began to glow.
“Do you understand the words?” Dumbledore flinched and removed his fingers as the book sparked. The Book of Secrets hovered over the desk before moving closer to Percy. The left page, while previously blank, now glistened like a mirror. Percy watched a figure take shape on the page.
“Percy! Do you understand the words?” Dumbledore’s voice sounded impossibly far away. “Answer me!”
“Yes.” Percy whispered, glancing again at the right page. The words were no longer stationary. Each letter rippled and undulated as if alive. Slow, lazy wisps of warm color rose from the parchment, extending sparkling curls towards Percy. He thought of pulling away, but the curls were warm and made his body tingle pleasantly.
“Can you tell me about them?”
“No.” The book didn’t want Dumbledore to know. It was not a secret for Percy to tell.
A curl of ginger wrapped around his wrist while a wisp of crimson sat at his ear. He tilted his head as the crimson wisp whispered quietly to him. “Only certain people can know and you’re not one of them.”
“Will the book permit you to speak about your magic?” Dumbledore leaned forward, eyes pensive. “What type of magic do you possess?”
“I’m special.” Percy’s entire body was bathed in light. Ruby curls and scarlet wisps twisted and burrowed his skin, bathing him in a translucent sheen. “I can do something most others can’t.”
“And what is that?”
Percy grinned. “It’s a secret.”
He extended his hand. Strands of gossamer flowed from his fingertips. They surrounded the book and snapped it shut. Percy retracted his hand and the book floated towards him, settling on his lap.
“The book does not want to stay with you any longer, Professor Dumbledore.” Breathing deeply, Percy pressed the book to his chest. The leather cover rippled, turning to liquid. He stared defiantly at the Headmaster as the book melted into him, noting with satisfaction, the shocked look on the older man’s face. “It’s mine now.”
***
He loved to read. Percy couldn’t name a single pastime that was better than settling in with a good book. Of course, he’d never read like this before! He sat inside a pulsing veil of rich color, surrounded by the ebb and flow of words, of knowledge. He didn’t even need to see the words in order to know what they meant. Spells, potions and incantations flowed into him with each breath.
The book was full of marvelous information. Not all of its secrets were open to him but those that were, were fascinating. There were so many possibilities now! Percy stood at a cross roads where anything and everything was possible. It was both exhilarating and freeing. The book was better than any class he might attend. A year’s worth of experience was imparted in a single minute; a library of knowledge passed on in a second. He let the information wash over him and played out the possibilities in his head. It was a game now, deciding what to do and when. Decision-making no longer carried regret. If the outcome was a disappointment, he simply restarted, avoiding previous mistakes. Percy realized that life could be perfect, that he could be perfect.
He just needed more time.
Only his time was interrupted. Even as he struggled to move forward, familiar voices wrapped like weights around his ankles, anchoring him to the here and now. His solitude was breached by a harsh staccato of baritone which tore away the protective veil of his sanctuary.
“What have you done Albus?”
“Believe me Arthur when I say that I had no idea that this would happen. The book has never before behaved in such a manner.”
“I should think not!”
“Please, calm yourself. As you can see, Percy is in no immediate danger.”
“Are you daft? My son is on fire!”
“He’s perfectly all right. I daresay that he is communicating with the book.”
“Communicating with it? He bloody well absorbed it!”
“Arthur, your anger is not helping matters. Please, lower your voice.”
“Not until someone explains to me just what the bloody hell is happening to my son!”
“Percy is an elemental. From what we have witnessed, we can surmise that his element is fire. Your son’s magic is directly proportional to his emotional state. The more emotional he becomes, the more potent his magic. When he is upset, as happened last night, Percy’s magic flared out of control. Today, when he was calm, he displayed substantial self-control.”
“And now? What do you say now?”
“He’s learning about his ability, but your son will need further instruction. We must start searching for a fire mage.”
“Ludicrous! There hasn’t been one of those in England for ages. Bloody hell, there hasn’t been a recorded elemental presence in the United Kingdom in the past decade.”
“Then we will extend our search to Russia and to America. Elementals do exist and we will find them.”
“And until we do? Molly and the kids can’t be moving every time Percy has a temper tantrum.”
“Percy’s ‘temper tantrums’ are the result of built up frustration, Arthur. Though he displays great maturity, Percy is still only a small child. A small child who has been given much responsibility, too much, I fear.”
“Molly and I do the best that we can -“
“Peace, Arthur. I did not intend to criticize your parenting skills. Raising such a large family, especially during wartime, is no easy feat.”
“The twins are a handful and it’s not easy on Molly. This last pregnancy has been complicated. She really depends on Percy to keep the twins in line.”
“A most daunting task.”
“Perhaps you’re right. About Percy, I mean. Maybe I can arrange to spend more time at the house. It would be a big help to Molly.”
“It would certainly allow you the opportunity to spend more time with your son. Perhaps, he would come to see you as a father and not as a stranger.”
“Yeah, he’s pretty adamant about not calling me Dad. I’m more like ‘That Man.’”
“I hadn’t noticed.”
The voices dissolved into deep throaty laughter, further disturbing his calm. Percy huffed with annoyance. They really were breaking his concentration. The book didn’t appreciate the interruptions anymore than he did as, to his disappointment, the lettering started to fade. The rich veil of crimson and scarlet retracted, revealing the cool blues and grays of Dumbledore’s office. Percy primly uncrossed his legs, setting his feet carefully on the floor. The wisps and curls covering his body melded into his skin, leaving him with the feeling of being covered in a warm blanket.
“Percy! Thank goodness!” Percy grimaced as he was swept into That Man’s arms and crushed to his chest. “I don’t know what I would have told your mother.”
“I can’t breath.” Percy gasped.
“Right! Sorry.” That Man set Percy back on his chair. “You’re feeling okay?”
“Yes, but I wasn’t finished my book!”
That Man looked relieved. “Good, that’s good.”
“There’s nothing good about it! My lessons have been interrupted!” Percy crossed his arms and huffed. “You’re always ruining everything. Why can’t you just let things be?”
“Percy, you don’t mean that.”
“Yes I do!”
They stared at each other for several minutes. Percy not blinking That Man blinking too much.
After a moment That Man sighed and rubbed his eyes. “Yes, well, are you hungry?”
Percy was surprised to realize that he was. His stomach growled loudly, causing him to blush.
“Come on.” That Man stood and tentatively held out his hand. “Let’s find us some lunch, eh?”
“Arthur,” Dumbledore interjected. “I would like to speak further with Percy. Can you bring him back after you’ve had something to eat?”
“No, Albus, I believe you have done enough for one day.” Arthur smiled down at Percy. “How about we go see Mum?”
Without waiting for a response, he took Percy’s hand and apparated.
***
The house was in total chaos. Percy and That Man stood on the front lawn of the safe house. Though the windows were drawn tight, they knew that inside lay pandemonium. Something white was seeping under the front door and the distinct smell of toilet bowl cleaner filled the air. The two exchanged looks of apprehension.
“I suppose we should go in,” That Man didn’t look overly convinced of his own words as he gave the special knock “and see what mischief your brothers have gotten into.”
Percy thought he’d rather stay outside. It was probably safer. When no one answered, he was certain of it. That Man gulped and knocked a bit harder. From the other side of the door, they could hear loud footsteps rapidly approaching.
A lock clicked and the door was flung open to reveal a harried Molly Weasley. “What were you thinking coming here in the middle of the day?” Her eyes grew wide. “And with Percy no less!”
“Well, you see dear -“
“For heavens sakes, get in here, the both of you!” She reached around That Man to drag Percy into the house. “And shut the door!”
Percy found himself standing in the middle of a whirlwind of white downy, graying feathers and shredded foam. Patterned pillowcases lay strewn on the floor like deflated balloons, having lost most of their contents to the storm.
“Don’t just stand there, Arthur! Help me with the twins!”
Percy watched Mummy thunder towards the bedroom, leaving him and That Man standing in the living room.
“Oh my, what have we come home to?” That Man tried for reassuring, but succeeded in looking mostly apprehensive. “I’ll just go help Mum.”
Percy sniffed and stepped carefully around a pile of blocks as That Man lumbered down the hallway. Hands on hips, he surveyed the disaster that was the living room. From his vantage point, he could see a bag of flour tipped on its side and broken eggs dripping yolks down the cupboards in the kitchen. The twins had managed to destroy the house in less than a day. He really didn’t want to know what they’d done to the bathroom. He shook his head tiredly and started towards the bedroom. He really hoped the twins hadn’t ruined his pillow. He stuck his head into the bedroom to see Mummy and That Man try and fail to catch the twins, who were racing around the room like wild things.
“Stop that this instant!” Percy strode into the room, ignoring the shocked expressions on the adults’ faces to grab Fred, then George by their ears. “Get into bed!”
“But Percy, we don’t have pillows!”
“And whose fault is that?” Percy released Fred to pull back the covers on the bed. “It’s time for a nap, so climb in! You too George!”
“But Percy!”
“No buts!” Percy commanded and drew the covers to their chins. “If you hadn’t been so foolish you’d have a pillow. Now you’ll have to do without.”
Grumbling the two complied. After several moments of restless shifting, they settled down. Nodding in satisfaction, Percy turned and faced the shocked adults. They stood together mutely until Percy suggested they go clean up the kitchen so they could have lunch.
Emotions indeed. Percy snorted as he followed the adults to the kitchen. Obviously, Dumbledore had never had to deal with twin boys. His stomach growled again, making him hope that something edible had survived his brothers.
***
They ended up having grilled cheese and orange juice. Not the best combination, but Percy was so hungry he would have eaten green eggs and ham. He finished off the last of his sandwich then stared mournfully at his empty plate. What he wouldn’t give for another sandwich or a cookie.
“Mummy, is there anything else to eat?”
“Sorry Luvy, but no.” Mummy patted her stomach guiltily. “I had a bit of a craving today.” She gestured towards the sac of ruined food waiting to be taken outside. “I was planning on making caramel/cheese/chocolate chip blondies with maple syrup but then the twins happened, and-“
That Man reached across the table and patted Mummy’s hand. “Don’t worry dear; we’ll get some more groceries.”
Percy secretly thanked Fred and George for their interference. Mummy’s craving didn’t sound very good. As his stomach growled loudly, he relented. Any food would be good right about now.
“You’ve got quite an appetite today, eh Percy?” That Man handed Percy the remains of his sandwich. “You’ve had an exciting day as well.”
Percy nodded and took the sandwich. He finished it in two bites. To his embarrassment, his stomach growled again.
Mummy looked even guiltier. “I’m so sorry, Percy.” She lurched to her feet and waddled to the cupboards. “There must be something here that I can cook.”
Percy stared intently at the empty breadbox on the counter. Mummy always made the best bread. Her loaves were fluffy, not heavy and had a sweet taste that store-bought bread lacked. His mouth watered as the scent of baked bread filled his nostrils. If he concentrated hard enough, he could almost see a lightly browned loaf sitting in the breadbox…
“Mummy, are you certain there’s no bread left?”
“Of course I am --” Mummy began but stopped, for there, sitting in the corner of the breadbox was a fresh loaf. Her mouth opened and closed.
“Is there bread Mummy?”
“Why yes, there is.” Percy watched Mummy slowly remove the loaf from the breadbox. “How odd, I was certain we had eaten it all.”
“MayI have a piece,” Percy licked his lips “with butter?”
“Yes dear.” Shaking her head in confusion, she cut a slice of bread and buttered it. “I must be more tired than I thought. Arthur, did you see -“
That Man shook his head in bewilderment. “We must both be tired dear, because I didn’t see it either.” He looked uncertainly at Percy. “Perce, did you -“
“Do what?” Percy asked around a mouthful of bread. He closed his eyes to savor the taste. He really did love it freshly baked.
“Nothing.” That Man shook his head. “Never mind.”
“This is really good bread, Mummy.” Percy finished off the slice and looked longingly at the loaf. “Really good.”
“You have quite the appetite today.” Mummy cut another piece and handed it to him.
“It’s because I was learning magic. It makes me really hungry. Don’t worry though, the Book says that’s normal.”
Mummy stopped, her knife posed over the butter. “Come again?”
“Percy, why don’t you give your Mum and I some privacy? I’d like to speak with her.”
“Okay.” The last two days were beginning to take their toll. As he stifled a yawn, Percy wondered if maybe he should be joining the twins for a nap. He really didn’t want to listen to another conversation where everyone spoke about him, but not to him. “Can I sleep in your bed, Mummy?”
“Of course you can, Sweetie.” Mummy planted a kiss on his forehead. He pushed his chair from the table and trotted towards the bedroom.
***
“Percy,” a soft voice breathed in his ear, “it’s time to wake up.”
“Leave me alone.” Percy burrowed further under the covers. “I’m trying to sleep.”
“You’ve been asleep far too long already. It’s time to start your journey.”
“Preposterous. We aren’t going anywhere as there is no place to go.” Percy batted away the insistent hand shaking his shoulder. “Go bother someone else.”
The voice giggled. It was strangely familiar. “You’re so silly. We can go where we like. The mind is infinite.”
“What are you babbling about? Leave me alone.”
“Oh Percy,” the voice sighed dramatically, “must you always be so difficult? Tom Sawyer would never have stood for this. He’d have gone off and left you by now.”
“Audrey?” Percy’s eyes snapped open. He sat up and blinked. Audrey sat cross-legged beside him. He reached out a shaky hand to touch her shoulder. “Is that really you?”
Audrey grinned toothily at him. “Who else would it be?” She punched his shoulder playfully. “It’s only us.”
“What are you doing here?” Audrey looked as she had before. She wore her favorite pink overalls with the hole in the knee and daisy-print t-shirt.
“I’ve come to collect you for breakfast sleepyhead! Can’t you smell the bacon and eggs?”
As she spoke a waft of bacon grease tickled Percy’s nose. “What are you waiting for? There won’t be any left if we don’t hurry!”
Percy looked up to see Audrey standing at the door. She grinned that same toothy grin and disappeared out the doorway in a blur of pink. Percy followed quickly as his stomach rumbled loudly.
The kitchen was just as he remembered it - the same long, polished table surrounded by a mishmash of creaking wooden chairs, same green macktacked cupboards. Even the hole in the linoleum was there, snagging his socks as he took a seat across from Audrey.
A plate filled with scrambled eggs, toast and crispy bacon sat in front of him. Percy frowned; he didn’t remember seeing his mother in the kitchen.
“Aren’t you going to eat?” Audrey asked around a mouthful of eggs. “It’s getting cold.”
“Where is everyone?”
“Around.” Audrey shoved a piece of bacon in his mouth, silencing his next question. “Will you be quiet and eat? Your growling stomach woke me up this morning.”
Percy munched indignantly on his bacon. “It did not.”
“Did too!”
“Did not!”
“Did too!”
“You once slept through Fred and George screaming in your ear.” Percy said triumphantly. “My stomach did not wake you up!”
Audrey glared and took a bite of toast. “Says you.”
Percy snorted. A comfortable silence descended on the kitchen as they ate. It felt good to see Audrey. He’d missed her terribly.
“Are you going to eat that?” A hand snaked across the table to grab his last piece of bacon. “Thanks.”
“Hey!” Percy tried to snatch back his breakfast but caught her arm instead. Images flashed before him. Jagged bone protruding from skin, wilted flowers, a headstone.
He dropped her hand.
“You can’t be here.” He whispered.
Audrey cocked her head to the side. “Why not?”
“Because, because of them.” Percy spluttered. “Because they-“ Visions of blood-spattered walls and tattered clothes flashed in his memory. “-hurt you.” He finished lamely.
“Percy, I can be here because you want me here.”
“Am I dreaming?”
Audrey rolled her eyes. “The mind is infinite, Perce. It creates our reality through our imagination and memories. I’m here because you wanted to see me. We’re here,” she gestured to the room, “because of all the places you’ve lived, this is where you were the happiest.”
“This can’t be real.” Percy shook his head. “There was a fire. I remember the fire!”
“That was just one of several possibilities.” Audrey explained. “In this possibility, the house still stands.”
“But it happened ages ago.” Percy did the mental math. “Six months. It’s been six months.”
“Time doesn’t mean what you think it does.”
“You’re not Audrey.” Percy realized, suddenly “You’re the book.”
Not-Audrey smiled. “Now you’re catching on.” Not-Audrey pursed her lips and blew. A sphere formed in the centre of the table. Inside the sphere, Percy could see himself. “This is an Omnipresent.” Not-Audrey explained, “It allows you to see yourself at varying points in time.” The Percy in the globe began to age. He grew taller and filled out. He wore appalling horn-rimmed glasses.
Percy looked disgusted. “Those glasses are bloody awful.”
“You don’t need to wear those glasses. You can choose a different path.”
Percy was nonplussed. “I could just pick a different pair of glasses.”
“You’re missing the point,” Not-Audrey rotated the Omnipresent, “which is that you don’t need to wear eye-glasses at all. You can choose not to have poor eyesight.”
“That’s impossible.”
“Nothing is impossible for you. Such is the nature of your magic.”
“Dumbledore thinks I’m a fire mage.”
“Are you?” Not-Audrey’s eye glittered crimson. “Is that what you want to be?”
Percy snorted. “You’re the book. You tell me.”
“I can’t silly,” Not-Audrey shook her head. “It’s up to you. “
“Stop speaking in riddles.” Percy fumed. “I hate it when people do that. If you have something to say, then say it! So much time is wasted by these pointless games. I want you to finish what you started. Show me more about the Re-Set.”
“The Re-Set has consequences.”
“There didn’t seem to be any before.” Percy knew he sounded petulant but didn’t care. “I was doing just fine.”
“That was different. You were exploring possibilities.” Not-Audrey’s eyes narrowed, giving Percy the impression she was reading his thoughts. “What you propose to do with the Re-Set would create a ripple effect that would cause scores of irreconcilable shifts. The changes for many, including you, would be irrevocable.”
Percy was silent. “Is there anything I can do?” He asked finally. “What good is my magic if I can’t do the things that need doing?”
“You learn more.” Not-Audrey indicated the Omnipresent. “Perhaps an opportunity will present itself - if you are willing to continue.”
“I am.” Percy gazed intently at his older self. Those glasses really were horrific. “Tell me more about the Omnipresent. I really don’t want to wear such horrid glasses”
Not-Audrey smiled. Her eyes began to glow. “I will show you and much more,” she held out a hand to Percy, “if you will open your thoughts to me.”
Percy didn’t hesitate. He took her outstretched hand.
Author: Rhea530
Pairings: None
Rating: General
Disclaimer: Not mine, though I wish he was.
Summary: Percy chronicles the major events that have helped shape his life.
Author's note: Thanks to everyone who has given me feedback. Comments are a really helpful way for me to improve the quality of the story; not to mention, feedback is love and encourages me to keep writing :) I hope everyone enjoys this chapter; it's a bit long but I promise that it will shed some light on the state of Percy's magic.
Waking up in strange places was becoming an inconvenient habit. Even worse were the constant conversations rumbling over his head that were inevitably about him.
Percy yawned and rubbed at his eyes. Was he still in Dumbledore’s office or perhaps another bathtub? Cracking open an eye, Percy ruled out both places. He was neither wet nor asleep on a fur rug. In point of fact he was in a proper bed, with soft sheets, warm blankets and a pillow that was fluffy, rather than flat like the ones at home. Percy stretched in a cat-like pose and noted that his bed had curtains. Heavy red curtains. On the other side, he could hear voices, several in fact, but not a single one had the deep murmur of the adults. Curious, Percy peeked through the curtain.
To his delight, he saw other boys, all older, pulling on identical vests, trousers and robes. A familiar crest glittered on their chests had Percy flinging open the curtain and jumping from the bed.
“Bill! Charlie!”
The flurry of activity in the room ceased and Percy found himself the recipient of much gawking. Percy flushed, but continued to scan the room. Surely, his brothers were around?
“Hold on, what have we here?” An older boy with wavy brown hair grabbed Percy by the shoulder. “And who might you be?”
“I’m Percy Weasley.” Percy stood as tall as he could. “My brothers are Bill and Charlie!”
“With hair as red as that, I suppose it must be true.” Percy scowled as the other boy ruffled his hair. “Well Percy, I’m Edward, the prefect for Gryffindor. Your brother Charlie is already at quidditch practice, so you won’t be seeing him until breakfast.” He chuckled as Percy’s face fell. “But don’t worry, Bill’s here. In fact,” Edward pointed to a bed in the far corner whose curtains were still drawn, “that there is Bill’s bed. Why don’t you go wake him up, eh?”
Percy didn’t need to be told twice. Forgetting all propriety, he raced across the room, flung open the curtains and jumped, landing squarely on Bill’s stomach.
“Good morning Bill!” He grinned from ear to ear.
Bill groaned and blinked once, twice, three times, before it seemed to register as to who was sitting on his chest. “Perce?”
“I came to visit.” Percy said excitedly. “Are you glad to see me Bill?”
‘Percy?” Bill repeated, and touched his brother’s arm as if to reassure himself that Percy was, in fact, really there. “Why are you here?”
“To see you of course.” Percy poked him playfully on the chest, still grinning. “I came last night.”
“But why?”
“I already said why. Twice.”
“Yeah, you did.” Bill rubbed his eyes, sitting up. “Is Mum here too? And the twins?”
“No, just me.” Percy frowned. “Are you not happy to see me?”
“Of course he’s happy to see you, mate!” Edward appeared to Bill’s left and punched him amicably on the shoulder. “He’s just a bit dim when he first wakes up. Give him a minute and he’ll wise up.”
“S’very funny.” Bill complained. He looked once more at Percy, before reaching over and pulling Percy into a hug. “It is good to see you Perce. Just a bit surprising is all.”
Percy tolerated the hug. It was nice to see Bill too.
“Can you take me to the library?” Percy smiled dreamily as visions of towering bookcases danced through his head. “I won’t be a bother. Unlike Fred and George, I know how to behave.”
Bill chuckled and rolled out of bed. “We’ll see.” He held out a hand to help Percy down. “First off, we should check with the Headmaster and see how long you’re staying.”
Percy watched as Bill rummaged through the trunk at the end of the bed for his school clothes. “Do you suppose I can attend lessons with you?” Percy was desperate to learn potions. He secretly hoped he might find a potion that would cause the twins to lose their voices. “I am a very fast learner, Bill.”
Bill tugged his vest over his head. “We need to check with Professor Dumbledore first. I didn’t even know you were at Hogwarts until this morning.”
“That Man brought me here. Without asking if I even wanted to go.”
“That Man, Perce, is our Dad.” Bill finished adjusting his tie. “Did you happen to bring any clothes with you?”
“No. That Man didn’t give me time to collect any.” Percy pretended he didn’t see Bill roll his eyes. “He also made me sleep, Bill! In fact, I believe I’ve been kidnapped.”
“Does Mum know where you are?”
Percy nodded.
“Then you’re not kidnapped.” Bill gathered up his books and gestured for Percy to follow. “Come on, we need to hurry or we’ll miss breakfast.”
“But I’m not dressed for breakfast!” Percy looked at his pajamas in dismay. “I can’t be seen like this!”
“Trust me, Perce, it’s not a problem.” Bill winked. “All the girls will think you’re adorable. Now come on, or we’ll miss Charlie.”
The thought of seeing his brother was all the incentive Percy needed. Mortification forgotten, he hurried down the winding staircase after Bill.
***
The great hall was everything Percy had imagined and more. Percy gawked at the lazy blue sky swathed in white fluffy clouds overhanging the hall. He tugged on Bill’s sleeve. “How does it do that?”
“How does what do what?” Bill asked absently, scanning the hall for Charlie.
“Up there!” Percy pointed. “How can the sky be inside?”
“Oh, you mean the ceiling. That’s not the sky, Perce. It’s just a spell.” Bill jerked his head towards the windows lining the walls. “See? It’s actually raining.”
Percy looked and sure enough, the sky outside was overcast and hurtling rain towards the castle. “Wow. That’s brilliant!”
A group of girls seated at the Gryffindor table began to giggle. A slim girl with blonde hair stood and saddled up to Bill. “Who is this, William?”
“Bill.” Percy corrected her. “He’s only called William when he’s in trouble.”
This earned another round of giggles from the table. “Oh Bill, he’s adorable!” A girl with curly brown hair squealed. “One of yours, is he?”
“He’s my little brother.” Cheeks red, Bill gestured to Percy. “Florence, this is Percy. Percy, this is my friend Florence.”
“Is she your girlfriend?” Percy asked bluntly and was rewarded with more giggling.
“Uh, no.” Bill stammered. “Just a friend. Oh look! There’s Charlie, we should go.” Grabbing Percy by the arm, Bill propelled him further down the table away from the giggling girls. Charlie was sitting by himself viciously buttering a piece of toast.
“Hey Charlie!” Bill plopped down on the bench. “Guess who came to visit?”
Percy beamed as Charlie lifted his head.
“Percy?”
“He got here last night.” Bill gestured for Percy to sit. “I’m going to take him to see Dumbledore after breakfast.”
“How was quidditch practice?” Percy asked. “I bet you were really good.”
“Practice was horrid.” Charlie took a ferocious bite of toast. “It was impossible to fly with all this bloody rain.”
“You swore.”
“Be quiet.” Charlie scowled at Percy. “Does Mum know he’s here?”
“Of course Mum knows I’m here!”
Bill handed Percy some toast and milk. “Dad brought him here last night.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know.”
“It’s because I did magic.” Percy bit into his toast. It wasn’t as good as Mummy’s.
“You did what? Of all the stupid, idiotic things to do!”
“Charlie!” Bill hissed. “Stop it.”
Percy’s lip quivered. “It was an accident.” He stared morosely at his plate. “I just wanted the monsters to go away.”
Bill put an arm around Percy’s shoulders. “S’okay Perce. The first time is always an accident. Did you know that when Charlie first did magic he almost clobbered me with a tree branch?”
“Really?”
Bill nodded. “When I first did magic, I blew up the sandbox.”
“I set the living room on fire.” Percy said glumly. “Mummy had to put me in the bathtub.”
Bill and Charlie exchanged a look.
“You’re okay, though?”
“It didn’t hurt.” Percy held up his hands. “See? No burns.”
“Well,” Bill said carefully. “That’s good.”
“We had to move. But the new house, Bill! It’s so cool! It has its own cave and everything!”
“Really?” Bill smirked bemusedly at Charlie. “A cave?”
“Uh huh. It’s a smugglers cave. I found it with Fred and George when we went adventuring.”
“And where is this cave?”
“Under the loveseat.” Percy took a sip of milk. “It’s a secret though, so don’t tell anyone else.”
“We’ll try to keep it to ourselves.” Charlie said dryly, and then yelped. “Why’d you kick me?”
“I didn’t kick you.” Bill said innocently and winked at Percy. “Did you kick Charlie, Percy?”
“No.” Percy took another bite of toast. “I don’t kick people unless I’m on an adventure.”
“Well, there you go Charlie. No one kicked you.”
“You bloody well did.” Charlie rubbed his leg and glared daggers across the table. “I’m gonna get you for that.”
“Sure, sure.” Bill laughed. “You almost done there, Perce? I need to get you to Dumbledore before class starts.”
Percy gulped down the last of his milk. Pushing his plate away, he nodded. Waving good-bye to Charlie, he hurried after Bill, who was already striding towards the doors.
Puffing, Percy followed Bill down a long hall that narrowed, then turned right into a set of statures featuring magical creatures. Bill mumbled something under his breath and the statues moved to reveal a set of winding stairs. Percy climbed the steps awkwardly, trying to ward off feelings of vertigo. The steps seemed to spiral endlessly upwards but just as he thought he would need to stop and catch his breath, they were back in the office of the Headmaster. Dumbledore was already seated at his desk poring over an assortment of parchments. He stopped when he saw them.
“Good morning, boys. “
Percy shuffled and mumbled a quiet “good morning.”
“Thank you for bringing Percy to me, William. I believe that you have class to go to?”
Bill nodded. He looked down at Percy and ruffled his hair. “See you, Perce. Tell Mum I said hi!”
Percy opened his mouth to speak but his brother was already gone, red hair disappearing around the corner. Alone again, Percy turned back to the desk and gulped.
“Am I in trouble?”
Dumbledore chuckled and gestured for Percy to sit. “No, you’re not in trouble.”
“Okay.” Percy sat gingerly in the high-backed chair That Man had occupied the night before. Percy abruptly wondered where he was.
“Did you have a nice visit with your brothers?”
“Charlie wasn’t very nice, but Bill was okay.” Percy fingered the hem of his nightshirt. He tugged at a stray thread. “They weren’t expecting me. My visit was rather sudden. ”
Dumbledore chuckled. “Next time, we’ll have to give them some notice.”
“Yes, then I can go to classes with Bill.” Percy’s eyes lit up. “I asked Bill to take me to the library. I know that Hogwarts has a lot of books.”
“Perhaps another time.” Dumbledore peered solemnly over the tops of his reading glasses. “I would like to speak with you about a very important matter.”
“What kind of matter?” Percy asked, though he already had a very good idea of what the “important matter” might be.
“It’s very rare for someone of your age to willfully channel their magic.” Percy opened his mouth to protest, but Dumbledore continued, “Even rarer is the type of magic that you possess. Tell me Percy, what do you feel when your magic occurs?”
Percy shrugged. “I don’t see why you want to talk about that.”
“What is wrong with speaking about your feelings?”
“It’s silly. Why waste time worrying about feelings when there are other, more important things that need doing?”
“What could be more important than acknowledging one’s feelings? Our feelings define us.” Dumbledore shook a chiding finger at Percy. “Emotions, my dear boy, dictate our reaction to circumstance.”
“Taking care of my brothers so Mummy can rest does not require emotion,” Percy countered, “a stern voice and a strict adherence to rules works just fine.” He sighed. “Besides, emotion makes you weak.”
Dumbledore frowned. “Emotion does not make you weak.”
“It does when you have four brothers.” Percy remembered all too well the unsavory nicknames he’d been given by his siblings. “What does this have to do with anything, anyhow? I thought we were discussing my magic?”
“We are.” Dumbledore began searching for something on his desk. “Are you familiar with the Books of Magic? Has Bill spoken of them?”
Percy shook his head. “Are they spell books?”
“Among other things.” Dumbledore rummaged through the many piles of books and parchment littering his desk, clucking his tongue. “Now, where is it? Ah! Here we go.”
He held up a thick, leather-bound book. “This, Percy, is one of three ancient books of magic. It is known as the Book of Secrets. It was written so long ago that the author’s name has been lost to history.” Opening the aged cover, he thumbed through its pages. “Only a handful of wizards and witches are able to read the contents of the Book of Secrets. What makes this book so unique is that only certain information is revealed to the reader. To date, no single person has ever been privy to the complete writings contained within its pages.” Finding what he was looking for, Dumbledore thrust the book towards Percy. “Tell me what you see, if anything.”
Percy squinted. The right page was blank while the left was filled with writing. The words were written in a language that Percy didn’t know, yet instinctively understood. Tentatively, he reached forward, and then quickly withdrew his hand as the writing began to glow.
“Do you understand the words?” Dumbledore flinched and removed his fingers as the book sparked. The Book of Secrets hovered over the desk before moving closer to Percy. The left page, while previously blank, now glistened like a mirror. Percy watched a figure take shape on the page.
“Percy! Do you understand the words?” Dumbledore’s voice sounded impossibly far away. “Answer me!”
“Yes.” Percy whispered, glancing again at the right page. The words were no longer stationary. Each letter rippled and undulated as if alive. Slow, lazy wisps of warm color rose from the parchment, extending sparkling curls towards Percy. He thought of pulling away, but the curls were warm and made his body tingle pleasantly.
“Can you tell me about them?”
“No.” The book didn’t want Dumbledore to know. It was not a secret for Percy to tell.
A curl of ginger wrapped around his wrist while a wisp of crimson sat at his ear. He tilted his head as the crimson wisp whispered quietly to him. “Only certain people can know and you’re not one of them.”
“Will the book permit you to speak about your magic?” Dumbledore leaned forward, eyes pensive. “What type of magic do you possess?”
“I’m special.” Percy’s entire body was bathed in light. Ruby curls and scarlet wisps twisted and burrowed his skin, bathing him in a translucent sheen. “I can do something most others can’t.”
“And what is that?”
Percy grinned. “It’s a secret.”
He extended his hand. Strands of gossamer flowed from his fingertips. They surrounded the book and snapped it shut. Percy retracted his hand and the book floated towards him, settling on his lap.
“The book does not want to stay with you any longer, Professor Dumbledore.” Breathing deeply, Percy pressed the book to his chest. The leather cover rippled, turning to liquid. He stared defiantly at the Headmaster as the book melted into him, noting with satisfaction, the shocked look on the older man’s face. “It’s mine now.”
***
He loved to read. Percy couldn’t name a single pastime that was better than settling in with a good book. Of course, he’d never read like this before! He sat inside a pulsing veil of rich color, surrounded by the ebb and flow of words, of knowledge. He didn’t even need to see the words in order to know what they meant. Spells, potions and incantations flowed into him with each breath.
The book was full of marvelous information. Not all of its secrets were open to him but those that were, were fascinating. There were so many possibilities now! Percy stood at a cross roads where anything and everything was possible. It was both exhilarating and freeing. The book was better than any class he might attend. A year’s worth of experience was imparted in a single minute; a library of knowledge passed on in a second. He let the information wash over him and played out the possibilities in his head. It was a game now, deciding what to do and when. Decision-making no longer carried regret. If the outcome was a disappointment, he simply restarted, avoiding previous mistakes. Percy realized that life could be perfect, that he could be perfect.
He just needed more time.
Only his time was interrupted. Even as he struggled to move forward, familiar voices wrapped like weights around his ankles, anchoring him to the here and now. His solitude was breached by a harsh staccato of baritone which tore away the protective veil of his sanctuary.
“What have you done Albus?”
“Believe me Arthur when I say that I had no idea that this would happen. The book has never before behaved in such a manner.”
“I should think not!”
“Please, calm yourself. As you can see, Percy is in no immediate danger.”
“Are you daft? My son is on fire!”
“He’s perfectly all right. I daresay that he is communicating with the book.”
“Communicating with it? He bloody well absorbed it!”
“Arthur, your anger is not helping matters. Please, lower your voice.”
“Not until someone explains to me just what the bloody hell is happening to my son!”
“Percy is an elemental. From what we have witnessed, we can surmise that his element is fire. Your son’s magic is directly proportional to his emotional state. The more emotional he becomes, the more potent his magic. When he is upset, as happened last night, Percy’s magic flared out of control. Today, when he was calm, he displayed substantial self-control.”
“And now? What do you say now?”
“He’s learning about his ability, but your son will need further instruction. We must start searching for a fire mage.”
“Ludicrous! There hasn’t been one of those in England for ages. Bloody hell, there hasn’t been a recorded elemental presence in the United Kingdom in the past decade.”
“Then we will extend our search to Russia and to America. Elementals do exist and we will find them.”
“And until we do? Molly and the kids can’t be moving every time Percy has a temper tantrum.”
“Percy’s ‘temper tantrums’ are the result of built up frustration, Arthur. Though he displays great maturity, Percy is still only a small child. A small child who has been given much responsibility, too much, I fear.”
“Molly and I do the best that we can -“
“Peace, Arthur. I did not intend to criticize your parenting skills. Raising such a large family, especially during wartime, is no easy feat.”
“The twins are a handful and it’s not easy on Molly. This last pregnancy has been complicated. She really depends on Percy to keep the twins in line.”
“A most daunting task.”
“Perhaps you’re right. About Percy, I mean. Maybe I can arrange to spend more time at the house. It would be a big help to Molly.”
“It would certainly allow you the opportunity to spend more time with your son. Perhaps, he would come to see you as a father and not as a stranger.”
“Yeah, he’s pretty adamant about not calling me Dad. I’m more like ‘That Man.’”
“I hadn’t noticed.”
The voices dissolved into deep throaty laughter, further disturbing his calm. Percy huffed with annoyance. They really were breaking his concentration. The book didn’t appreciate the interruptions anymore than he did as, to his disappointment, the lettering started to fade. The rich veil of crimson and scarlet retracted, revealing the cool blues and grays of Dumbledore’s office. Percy primly uncrossed his legs, setting his feet carefully on the floor. The wisps and curls covering his body melded into his skin, leaving him with the feeling of being covered in a warm blanket.
“Percy! Thank goodness!” Percy grimaced as he was swept into That Man’s arms and crushed to his chest. “I don’t know what I would have told your mother.”
“I can’t breath.” Percy gasped.
“Right! Sorry.” That Man set Percy back on his chair. “You’re feeling okay?”
“Yes, but I wasn’t finished my book!”
That Man looked relieved. “Good, that’s good.”
“There’s nothing good about it! My lessons have been interrupted!” Percy crossed his arms and huffed. “You’re always ruining everything. Why can’t you just let things be?”
“Percy, you don’t mean that.”
“Yes I do!”
They stared at each other for several minutes. Percy not blinking That Man blinking too much.
After a moment That Man sighed and rubbed his eyes. “Yes, well, are you hungry?”
Percy was surprised to realize that he was. His stomach growled loudly, causing him to blush.
“Come on.” That Man stood and tentatively held out his hand. “Let’s find us some lunch, eh?”
“Arthur,” Dumbledore interjected. “I would like to speak further with Percy. Can you bring him back after you’ve had something to eat?”
“No, Albus, I believe you have done enough for one day.” Arthur smiled down at Percy. “How about we go see Mum?”
Without waiting for a response, he took Percy’s hand and apparated.
***
The house was in total chaos. Percy and That Man stood on the front lawn of the safe house. Though the windows were drawn tight, they knew that inside lay pandemonium. Something white was seeping under the front door and the distinct smell of toilet bowl cleaner filled the air. The two exchanged looks of apprehension.
“I suppose we should go in,” That Man didn’t look overly convinced of his own words as he gave the special knock “and see what mischief your brothers have gotten into.”
Percy thought he’d rather stay outside. It was probably safer. When no one answered, he was certain of it. That Man gulped and knocked a bit harder. From the other side of the door, they could hear loud footsteps rapidly approaching.
A lock clicked and the door was flung open to reveal a harried Molly Weasley. “What were you thinking coming here in the middle of the day?” Her eyes grew wide. “And with Percy no less!”
“Well, you see dear -“
“For heavens sakes, get in here, the both of you!” She reached around That Man to drag Percy into the house. “And shut the door!”
Percy found himself standing in the middle of a whirlwind of white downy, graying feathers and shredded foam. Patterned pillowcases lay strewn on the floor like deflated balloons, having lost most of their contents to the storm.
“Don’t just stand there, Arthur! Help me with the twins!”
Percy watched Mummy thunder towards the bedroom, leaving him and That Man standing in the living room.
“Oh my, what have we come home to?” That Man tried for reassuring, but succeeded in looking mostly apprehensive. “I’ll just go help Mum.”
Percy sniffed and stepped carefully around a pile of blocks as That Man lumbered down the hallway. Hands on hips, he surveyed the disaster that was the living room. From his vantage point, he could see a bag of flour tipped on its side and broken eggs dripping yolks down the cupboards in the kitchen. The twins had managed to destroy the house in less than a day. He really didn’t want to know what they’d done to the bathroom. He shook his head tiredly and started towards the bedroom. He really hoped the twins hadn’t ruined his pillow. He stuck his head into the bedroom to see Mummy and That Man try and fail to catch the twins, who were racing around the room like wild things.
“Stop that this instant!” Percy strode into the room, ignoring the shocked expressions on the adults’ faces to grab Fred, then George by their ears. “Get into bed!”
“But Percy, we don’t have pillows!”
“And whose fault is that?” Percy released Fred to pull back the covers on the bed. “It’s time for a nap, so climb in! You too George!”
“But Percy!”
“No buts!” Percy commanded and drew the covers to their chins. “If you hadn’t been so foolish you’d have a pillow. Now you’ll have to do without.”
Grumbling the two complied. After several moments of restless shifting, they settled down. Nodding in satisfaction, Percy turned and faced the shocked adults. They stood together mutely until Percy suggested they go clean up the kitchen so they could have lunch.
Emotions indeed. Percy snorted as he followed the adults to the kitchen. Obviously, Dumbledore had never had to deal with twin boys. His stomach growled again, making him hope that something edible had survived his brothers.
***
They ended up having grilled cheese and orange juice. Not the best combination, but Percy was so hungry he would have eaten green eggs and ham. He finished off the last of his sandwich then stared mournfully at his empty plate. What he wouldn’t give for another sandwich or a cookie.
“Mummy, is there anything else to eat?”
“Sorry Luvy, but no.” Mummy patted her stomach guiltily. “I had a bit of a craving today.” She gestured towards the sac of ruined food waiting to be taken outside. “I was planning on making caramel/cheese/chocolate chip blondies with maple syrup but then the twins happened, and-“
That Man reached across the table and patted Mummy’s hand. “Don’t worry dear; we’ll get some more groceries.”
Percy secretly thanked Fred and George for their interference. Mummy’s craving didn’t sound very good. As his stomach growled loudly, he relented. Any food would be good right about now.
“You’ve got quite an appetite today, eh Percy?” That Man handed Percy the remains of his sandwich. “You’ve had an exciting day as well.”
Percy nodded and took the sandwich. He finished it in two bites. To his embarrassment, his stomach growled again.
Mummy looked even guiltier. “I’m so sorry, Percy.” She lurched to her feet and waddled to the cupboards. “There must be something here that I can cook.”
Percy stared intently at the empty breadbox on the counter. Mummy always made the best bread. Her loaves were fluffy, not heavy and had a sweet taste that store-bought bread lacked. His mouth watered as the scent of baked bread filled his nostrils. If he concentrated hard enough, he could almost see a lightly browned loaf sitting in the breadbox…
“Mummy, are you certain there’s no bread left?”
“Of course I am --” Mummy began but stopped, for there, sitting in the corner of the breadbox was a fresh loaf. Her mouth opened and closed.
“Is there bread Mummy?”
“Why yes, there is.” Percy watched Mummy slowly remove the loaf from the breadbox. “How odd, I was certain we had eaten it all.”
“MayI have a piece,” Percy licked his lips “with butter?”
“Yes dear.” Shaking her head in confusion, she cut a slice of bread and buttered it. “I must be more tired than I thought. Arthur, did you see -“
That Man shook his head in bewilderment. “We must both be tired dear, because I didn’t see it either.” He looked uncertainly at Percy. “Perce, did you -“
“Do what?” Percy asked around a mouthful of bread. He closed his eyes to savor the taste. He really did love it freshly baked.
“Nothing.” That Man shook his head. “Never mind.”
“This is really good bread, Mummy.” Percy finished off the slice and looked longingly at the loaf. “Really good.”
“You have quite the appetite today.” Mummy cut another piece and handed it to him.
“It’s because I was learning magic. It makes me really hungry. Don’t worry though, the Book says that’s normal.”
Mummy stopped, her knife posed over the butter. “Come again?”
“Percy, why don’t you give your Mum and I some privacy? I’d like to speak with her.”
“Okay.” The last two days were beginning to take their toll. As he stifled a yawn, Percy wondered if maybe he should be joining the twins for a nap. He really didn’t want to listen to another conversation where everyone spoke about him, but not to him. “Can I sleep in your bed, Mummy?”
“Of course you can, Sweetie.” Mummy planted a kiss on his forehead. He pushed his chair from the table and trotted towards the bedroom.
***
“Percy,” a soft voice breathed in his ear, “it’s time to wake up.”
“Leave me alone.” Percy burrowed further under the covers. “I’m trying to sleep.”
“You’ve been asleep far too long already. It’s time to start your journey.”
“Preposterous. We aren’t going anywhere as there is no place to go.” Percy batted away the insistent hand shaking his shoulder. “Go bother someone else.”
The voice giggled. It was strangely familiar. “You’re so silly. We can go where we like. The mind is infinite.”
“What are you babbling about? Leave me alone.”
“Oh Percy,” the voice sighed dramatically, “must you always be so difficult? Tom Sawyer would never have stood for this. He’d have gone off and left you by now.”
“Audrey?” Percy’s eyes snapped open. He sat up and blinked. Audrey sat cross-legged beside him. He reached out a shaky hand to touch her shoulder. “Is that really you?”
Audrey grinned toothily at him. “Who else would it be?” She punched his shoulder playfully. “It’s only us.”
“What are you doing here?” Audrey looked as she had before. She wore her favorite pink overalls with the hole in the knee and daisy-print t-shirt.
“I’ve come to collect you for breakfast sleepyhead! Can’t you smell the bacon and eggs?”
As she spoke a waft of bacon grease tickled Percy’s nose. “What are you waiting for? There won’t be any left if we don’t hurry!”
Percy looked up to see Audrey standing at the door. She grinned that same toothy grin and disappeared out the doorway in a blur of pink. Percy followed quickly as his stomach rumbled loudly.
The kitchen was just as he remembered it - the same long, polished table surrounded by a mishmash of creaking wooden chairs, same green macktacked cupboards. Even the hole in the linoleum was there, snagging his socks as he took a seat across from Audrey.
A plate filled with scrambled eggs, toast and crispy bacon sat in front of him. Percy frowned; he didn’t remember seeing his mother in the kitchen.
“Aren’t you going to eat?” Audrey asked around a mouthful of eggs. “It’s getting cold.”
“Where is everyone?”
“Around.” Audrey shoved a piece of bacon in his mouth, silencing his next question. “Will you be quiet and eat? Your growling stomach woke me up this morning.”
Percy munched indignantly on his bacon. “It did not.”
“Did too!”
“Did not!”
“Did too!”
“You once slept through Fred and George screaming in your ear.” Percy said triumphantly. “My stomach did not wake you up!”
Audrey glared and took a bite of toast. “Says you.”
Percy snorted. A comfortable silence descended on the kitchen as they ate. It felt good to see Audrey. He’d missed her terribly.
“Are you going to eat that?” A hand snaked across the table to grab his last piece of bacon. “Thanks.”
“Hey!” Percy tried to snatch back his breakfast but caught her arm instead. Images flashed before him. Jagged bone protruding from skin, wilted flowers, a headstone.
He dropped her hand.
“You can’t be here.” He whispered.
Audrey cocked her head to the side. “Why not?”
“Because, because of them.” Percy spluttered. “Because they-“ Visions of blood-spattered walls and tattered clothes flashed in his memory. “-hurt you.” He finished lamely.
“Percy, I can be here because you want me here.”
“Am I dreaming?”
Audrey rolled her eyes. “The mind is infinite, Perce. It creates our reality through our imagination and memories. I’m here because you wanted to see me. We’re here,” she gestured to the room, “because of all the places you’ve lived, this is where you were the happiest.”
“This can’t be real.” Percy shook his head. “There was a fire. I remember the fire!”
“That was just one of several possibilities.” Audrey explained. “In this possibility, the house still stands.”
“But it happened ages ago.” Percy did the mental math. “Six months. It’s been six months.”
“Time doesn’t mean what you think it does.”
“You’re not Audrey.” Percy realized, suddenly “You’re the book.”
Not-Audrey smiled. “Now you’re catching on.” Not-Audrey pursed her lips and blew. A sphere formed in the centre of the table. Inside the sphere, Percy could see himself. “This is an Omnipresent.” Not-Audrey explained, “It allows you to see yourself at varying points in time.” The Percy in the globe began to age. He grew taller and filled out. He wore appalling horn-rimmed glasses.
Percy looked disgusted. “Those glasses are bloody awful.”
“You don’t need to wear those glasses. You can choose a different path.”
Percy was nonplussed. “I could just pick a different pair of glasses.”
“You’re missing the point,” Not-Audrey rotated the Omnipresent, “which is that you don’t need to wear eye-glasses at all. You can choose not to have poor eyesight.”
“That’s impossible.”
“Nothing is impossible for you. Such is the nature of your magic.”
“Dumbledore thinks I’m a fire mage.”
“Are you?” Not-Audrey’s eye glittered crimson. “Is that what you want to be?”
Percy snorted. “You’re the book. You tell me.”
“I can’t silly,” Not-Audrey shook her head. “It’s up to you. “
“Stop speaking in riddles.” Percy fumed. “I hate it when people do that. If you have something to say, then say it! So much time is wasted by these pointless games. I want you to finish what you started. Show me more about the Re-Set.”
“The Re-Set has consequences.”
“There didn’t seem to be any before.” Percy knew he sounded petulant but didn’t care. “I was doing just fine.”
“That was different. You were exploring possibilities.” Not-Audrey’s eyes narrowed, giving Percy the impression she was reading his thoughts. “What you propose to do with the Re-Set would create a ripple effect that would cause scores of irreconcilable shifts. The changes for many, including you, would be irrevocable.”
Percy was silent. “Is there anything I can do?” He asked finally. “What good is my magic if I can’t do the things that need doing?”
“You learn more.” Not-Audrey indicated the Omnipresent. “Perhaps an opportunity will present itself - if you are willing to continue.”
“I am.” Percy gazed intently at his older self. Those glasses really were horrific. “Tell me more about the Omnipresent. I really don’t want to wear such horrid glasses”
Not-Audrey smiled. Her eyes began to glow. “I will show you and much more,” she held out a hand to Percy, “if you will open your thoughts to me.”
Percy didn’t hesitate. He took her outstretched hand.