Harry Potter and the Hilltop Fortress - Chapter 13 (Patreon)

Ever since Harry returned from his visit to the Lovegoods, his life at Runestone Castle had become a whirlwind of activity. The sprawling estate, once silent and forgotten, was now alive with the echoes of his training, the clinking of potions brewing in cauldrons, and the busy rustling of the house-elves tending to the castle.

Harry had always been driven, but now his determination had reached new heights. Perhaps it was the inspiration he found in Luna's unshakable belief in the impossible or Xenophilius's quiet confidence. Whatever the reason, Harry knew he had a lot of work ahead of him if he was to live up to the legacy of the Potter family.

Every morning, Harry rose with the sun, its first light casting long shadows across the ancient stone floors of the castle. He would head straight to the training grounds he had set up behind the castle—a large open space surrounded by towering trees that shielded him from prying eyes. Here, Harry honed his dueling skills with a mix of wandwork and physical exercises.

Reeny, the ghostly elf who had been with the Gosling for generations, watched over him as he practiced. Her translucent form hovered nearby, occasionally offering advice on spells or techniques she had seen Eldridge Gosling use in his youth.

"Master Harry," she would say, her voice a soft whisper on the wind, "Master Eldridge used to favor a disarming spell followed by a quick Stupefy. Try it, and be sure to stay light on your feet."

Harry would follow her advice, sweat dripping down his forehead as he dodged and countered imaginary opponents. He pushed himself harder each day, his movements becoming more fluid, his spells more precise. There was no room for error—he knew that the world outside the walls of Runestone Castle was far more dangerous than any training ground.

When he wasn't training, Harry immersed himself in potion-making. The castle's old potions lab, once neglected and covered in dust, was now one of his favorite places. Shelves lined with ingredients—some familiar, others exotic—stood ready for his use. Cauldrons bubbled and hissed as Harry experimented with various concoctions, from simple healing potions to more complex brews.

He found solace in the careful precision required for potion-making. The measurements, the timing, the subtle adjustments—it was like solving a puzzle. And Harry had always been good at puzzles.

One of his favorite projects was brewing potions that would help him during his training. Invigoration Draughts to keep his energy up during long sessions, Calming Draughts to help him focus when studying difficult spells, and even a batch of Polyjuice Potion, just in case he ever needed to change his appearance.

Brewing the Polyjuice Potion was a challenge—one that required patience and exactness, as it took an entire month to brew. He knew the dangers of getting it wrong, and he was determined to master it.

But it wasn't just potions that occupied Harry's time. His broomstick project had become a personal mission. He had started with just one broom, a sleek design that he had carefully crafted from the finest materials he could find. But as he worked, he found himself enjoying the process so much that he decided to make ten broomsticks.

His goal was to perfect them, to create brooms that were not only fast but also incredibly responsive and durable. He planned to gift some to those he trusted and perhaps sell a few if he ever needed more money. Though his vault was well-stocked, Harry knew it was always wise to have a backup plan.

Each broomstick took weeks of careful work—shaping the wood, attaching the twigs with precision, and adding the final enchantments that would make them fly. Harry worked late into the night, sometimes losing track of time as he became engrossed in the project.

Meanwhile, Norky and Rosly, the two house-elves Harry had bought and brought to Runestone Castle, had settled into their new home with surprising ease. Despite Harry's suggestion that they take breaks and rest, the elves worked tirelessly, eager to please their new master.

Norky was in charge of keeping the castle clean, and under his meticulous care, every room sparkled. The old tapestries were dusted, the floors polished to a shine, and even the most obscure corners of the castle were spotless. He took great pride in his work, and it showed.

Rosly, on the other hand, had taken charge of the kitchen. She prepared meals that were nothing short of extraordinary, using recipes passed down through generations of house-elves. Each dish was a work of art, and Harry found himself looking forward to mealtimes, not just for the food, but for the comfort of the routine.

Despite their dedication, Harry noticed that Norky and Rosly seemed almost afraid to rest. It was as if they had been trained to believe that any moment of idleness would result in punishment. Harry made it a point to reassure them that they were free to take breaks whenever they wished.

"You've done excellent work, both of you," he told them one evening after a particularly delicious dinner. "You're not slaves here. If you need to rest, or if you want to do something for yourselves, you can. I won't punish you for it."

Norky and Rosly exchanged a glance, unsure how to respond. But over time, they began to take Harry's words to heart. Harry was pleased to see them occasionally relaxing by the fire, or enjoying a cup of tea when they thought no one was watching.

Reeny, the ghostly elf, seemed delighted with the new additions to the household. She floated through the castle with a renewed sense of purpose, often joining Norky and Rosly in their tasks and offering guidance when needed.

"Master Harry is a good master," Reeny would say, her voice filled with pride.

Harry's interactions with the elves made him reflect on his own upbringing. He had grown up in a household where he was treated like a servant, and he vowed to ensure that the elves at Runestone Castle would never feel that way.

When he wasn't training, brewing potions, or working on his broomsticks, Harry spent his time in the castle's library. The books he had purchased from Diagon Alley were now carefully organized on the shelves, alongside the ancient tomes that had been in the castle for centuries.

Harry devoured every book he could get his hands on, from wizarding laws and customs to advanced spellwork. He knew that knowledge was power, and he was determined to learn as much as he could.

The book on Occlumency, in particular, had become a focal point of his studies. The idea of protecting his mind from external influence intrigued him, and he spent hours practicing the techniques outlined in the book. It was difficult at first—clearing his mind and building mental defenses required intense concentration—but Harry was nothing if not persistent.

As the days passed, he found himself getting better at it. His thoughts became more ordered, his emotions more controlled. He knew that mastering Occlumency would be crucial in the future, especially if he ever had to face someone skilled in Legilimency.

In addition to his studies, Harry made sure to stay in touch with the Lovegoods. He sent regular letters to Luna and Xenophilius, keeping them updated on his progress and asking for advice when needed. Luna's letters were always filled with her unique brand of wisdom, often accompanied by drawings of magical creatures and plants.

Xenophilius, on the other hand, provided Harry with more practical advice. He would often send books or articles from the Quibbler that he thought might be of interest, along with words of encouragement.

Harry found himself looking forward to their letters—it was a reminder that he wasn't alone, that he had friends who cared about him and his journey.

As the weeks turned into months, Harry began to feel more at home in Runestone Castle. The once-quiet halls were now filled with life, and the castle had become a sanctuary where he could focus on becoming the wizard he was meant to be.

But even as he trained and studied, Harry knew that his time at the castle was limited. Soon, the school would begin, and he would have to go to Hogwarts. There, he would face new challenges, new dangers, and new opportunities.

But for now, Harry was content. He had found a place where he could grow, where he could prepare for whatever lay ahead. And with the support of his new friends and allies, Harry knew he was ready to face the future—whatever it might hold.

Harry sat in one of the castle's many sitting rooms, a copy of The Quibbler spread out before him. The magazine, with its eccentric articles and colorful illustrations, was as fascinating as it was unconventional. Luna had often mentioned that her father, Xenophilius Lovegood, was proud of the work they did, claiming that The Quibbler was the voice for those who sought the truth in a world that often refused to see it.

However, as Harry flipped through the pages and examined the content more critically, he realized that The Quibbler wasn't as widely read or respected as Xenophilius had led him to believe. The stories, while intriguing, didn't seem to attract the mainstream wizarding audience. The publication was often dismissed as a collection of fanciful tales, far removed from the more conventional and established wizarding publications like The Daily Prophet.

Harry pondered this as he read through another article about nargles and the conspiracy behind butterbeer. He knew Luna and Xenophilius believed deeply in what they published, and in many ways, that earnestness was what made The Quibbler unique. But Harry also knew that if he could help them reach a broader audience, it would mean the world to them.

One idea came to him almost immediately—if he were to give an exclusive interview to The Quibbler, it would no doubt boost their readership. After all, Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived, was still one of the most talked-about figures in the wizarding world. The public was endlessly curious about him, and an interview would surely draw attention to the magazine.

But as quickly as the idea surfaced, Harry dismissed it. He wasn't ready for that level of attention—not yet. He had spent so much time keeping a low profile, focusing on his training and studies, and he wasn't eager to step back into the limelight. There was too much at stake, too many things still in motion. He needed more time to prepare before he could consider sharing his story with the world.

Still, the thought lingered. If he ever did decide to give an interview, Harry promised himself that it would be with The Quibbler. Luna and Xenophilius had been nothing but kind and supportive to him, and if anyone deserved that exclusive, it was them.

As Harry mulled over these thoughts, a small owl arrived at Runestone Castle, bearing an invitation that brightened his mood considerably. It was from Luna, inviting him to her upcoming birthday party. The invitation was written in Luna's usual whimsical style, with doodles of fantastical creatures filling the margins and a gentle reminder to "keep an eye out for snorkacks" during his travels.

Harry smiled as he read the letter. He had grown quite fond of Luna during their time together, and he was eager to attend her birthday celebration. But as he began to think about what gift he should bring, Harry realized he wanted to give her something truly special—something that would not only make Luna happy but also benefit her family in a significant way.

Then, an idea struck him.

The day of Luna Lovegood's birthday had finally arrived. Harry woke up early, filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He had spent days thinking about the perfect gift for Luna, something that would make her happy and also help the Lovegoods in a way that would last. Now, the day was here, and he was ready.

Deciding to attend as Harry Gosling, he knew it was crucial to conceal his true identity. The thought of other people at the party recognizing him as Harry Potter made him uneasy. He needed to blend in, so he used a charm to alter his appearance. His features subtly shifted—his lightning bolt scar disappeared, his hair darkened slightly, and his face took on a different shape, just enough to make him unrecognizable to anyone who might have seen a picture of the famous Harry Potter.

Next, he turned his attention to his outfit. He knew the Lovegoods were known for their eccentricity, and Luna herself was famous for her unusual fashion sense. To honor that, Harry decided to wear something that would stand out but also fit in with the whimsical spirit of the event. He rifled through his new wardrobe, filled with wizarding clothes he'd acquired on his shopping trip to Diagon Alley. After some thought, he settled on a bright green cloak that shimmered with an enchanted design of a dragon flying around a wizard on a broomstick. The cloak billowed dramatically as he moved, the dragon's wings flapping realistically across the fabric.

Underneath, he wore a pair of black trousers and a red shirt—an odd combination, but one that worked in the magical world. Harry had to admit that he felt quite pleased with his look. It was bold, it was different, and it would hopefully distract anyone from looking too closely at his altered face.

With his outfit complete, he turned to the gift. It sat on his bed, a large cylindrical package wrapped in fancy paper. Inside was something that he knew Luna would cherish, something that would bring her joy and, with any luck, also help The Quibbler gain the recognition it deserved. Harry smiled to himself, pleased with his choice. He wanted to keep the contents of the gift a surprise, so he made sure it was securely wrapped, tied up with a ribbon, and enchanted so that it wouldn't accidentally be opened until Luna herself untied the bow.

Now ready, Harry faced his final challenge—getting to the Lovegoods' home, The Rookery. Unfortunately, he wasn't connected to their fireplace via Floo Powder, and apparating was out of the question, as he hadn't yet learned how. He briefly considered flying there on his broomstick, but the idea of soaring through the skies with a large, conspicuous gift in his hands didn't seem very practical.

In the end, he decided to take the Knight Bus. It was a bit more public than he would have liked, but it was the fastest way to get there. He grabbed his cylindrical gift and carefully made his way outside, taking a deep breath before raising his wand to summon the bus.

With a loud BANG, the Knight Bus appeared out of nowhere, screeching to a halt in front of him. The door swung open, and the conductor greeted him with a toothy grin.

"Where to, young sir?" the conductor asked, eyeing Harry's colorful attire with a mixture of amusement and curiosity.

"The Rookery, near Ottery St. Catchpole," Harry replied, stepping onto the bus with his gift clutched in his ride was as wild and unpredictable as ever. The bus careened around corners, squeezed between impossibly narrow gaps, and generally moved with a reckless style that left Harry clinging to his seat and gripping his gift tightly. The other passengers on the Knight Bus barely seemed to notice, as they were used to the chaotic journey. Harry, however, kept a firm hold on his cylindrical package, ensuring it wouldn't be damaged before he could deliver it.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the Knight Bus screeched to a halt in front of The Rookery. The conductor gave Harry a friendly nod as he disembarked, his cloak billowing dramatically as he stepped off the bus. Harry took a moment to steady himself, both from the wild ride and the nerves that had started to build up inside him.

"The Rookery, near Ottery St. Catchpole," Harry replied, stepping onto the bus with his gift clutched in his ride was as wild and unpredictable as ever. The bus careened around corners, squeezed between impossibly narrow gaps, and generally moved with a reckless style that left Harry clinging to his seat and gripping his gift tightly. The other passengers on the Knight Bus barely seemed to notice, as they were used to the chaotic journey. Harry, however, kept a firm hold on his cylindrical package, ensuring it wouldn't be damaged before he could deliver it.

Taking a deep breath, Harry adjusted his cloak and walked up to the front door. He knocked, and after a moment, the door swung open to reveal Luna herself, beaming at him with her usual dreamy expression.

"Harry Gosling!" she greeted him cheerfully. "I'm so glad you could make it."

Harry smiled back at her, feeling a sense of warmth and relief wash over him. "Happy Birthday, Luna. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Luna's eyes lit up as she noticed the cylindrical gift in his hands. "Oh, what's that? It looks intriguing."

"It's a surprise," Harry said with a grin. "But you'll have to wait until later to open it."Luna giggled, clearly delighted by the mystery. She ushered him inside, where the party was in full swing. The house was filled with guests—some Harry recognized, and some he didn't and several eccentric-looking individuals who Harry assumed were friends of the Lovegood family.

As he entered, Harry couldn't help but notice the eclectic decorations that filled the house. There were colorful streamers, floating candles, and enchanted balloons that changed shape and color as they drifted through the air. The atmosphere was light-hearted and joyful, with everyone enjoying themselves.

Despite the festive environment, Harry was grateful that his appearance was altered. It allowed him to move through the crowd without drawing too much attention. He exchanged pleasantries with a few of the guests, careful not to give away too much about himself.

Luna stayed by his side, guiding him through the party and introducing him to her friends. She seemed genuinely happy to have him there, and Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Despite the chaos of the wizarding world and the challenges he faced, moments like this reminded him that there were still reasons to smile.

As the party continued, Luna eventually led Harry to a small table near the back of the room, where they could talk more privately. Harry handed her the cylindrical gift, and Luna's eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"You really went all out with the wrapping," she remarked, tracing her fingers along the edges of the fancy paper.

"Well, it's a special gift," Harry replied. "I wanted to make sure it was presented properly."

Luna carefully unwrapped the package, her delicate fingers peeling away the paper with a mix of anticipation and reverence. As the cover came off, her eyes widened in shock and disbelief. Hovering inside the cylindrical gift packet were two golden balls, gently bobbing in the air. At first glance, they looked like snitches, but as Luna peered closer, her breath caught in her throat.

"These aren't snitches…" Luna whispered, her voice trembling with awe. "They're golden snidgets!"

For a moment, Luna could only stare at the tiny birds in stunned silence. The snidgets, with their shining golden feathers, delicate wings, and smooth tails, were nothing short of miraculous. Everyone had believed them extinct for centuries, yet here they were, alive and well.

Harry nodded, his heart swelling with pride at Luna's reaction. "That's right. I found them living on my property. There's actually a whole colony of them at my property. I had no idea they were so rare until I read about them in a book."

Luna's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Daddy has to see this! Come on, let's show him!"

Without another word, Luna grabbed Harry's hand and led him through the party, carrying the golden snidgets with the utmost care. As they made their way through the crowd, guests began to notice the birds, and soon a wave of murmurs and exclamations followed them.

"Are those… golden snidgets?"

"I thought they were extinct!"

"Merlin's beard, where did they find those?"

By the time Luna reached her father, Xenophilius Lovegood, a small crowd had gathered around them, eager to catch a glimpse of the legendary creatures. Xeno, who had been deep in conversation with a fellow magical creature enthusiast, turned to see what all the fuss was about. His eyes widened as he took in the sight of the golden snidgets, and for a moment, he was rendered speechless.

"Luna… where did you…?" Xeno stammered, his voice filled with awe.

Luna beamed, holding out the snidgets for her father to see. "Harry found them, Daddy! He gave them to me as a birthday present!"

Xeno blinked in astonishment, his gaze shifting from the snidgets to Harry and back again. "This… this is incredible! Luna, do you realize what this means? We must document this immediately! The world needs to know that the golden snidgets are still alive!"

The excitement in Xeno's voice was contagious, and soon everyone at the party was buzzing with curiosity and wonder. Guests crowded around, eager to catch a glimpse of the rare birds and to hear more about their discovery.

Harry watched from the sidelines, content to let Luna and Xeno take the spotlight. This was their moment, and he was happy to see them so thrilled. The golden snidgets were in good hands, and he knew that the Lovegoods would do everything in their power to protect and preserve the species.

As the party continued, Harry couldn't help but reflect on the significance of the gift he had given. The golden snidgets were more than just a rare species—they were a symbol of hope, a reminder that even in a world filled with darkness, there were still wonders waiting to be discovered. By giving them to the Lovegoods, Harry had not only brought joy to Luna on her birthday but had also ensured that The Quibbler would have a story that would captivate the entire wizarding world.

Ever since Harry had read Quidditch Through the Ages, he had been fascinated by the history of the game. In those old books, there was no mention of the Golden Snitch; instead, Quidditch players had once chased golden snidgets—tiny, fast birds that were nearly impossible to catch. Harry had never found the old version of the game particularly entertaining, especially since the grounds of Runestone Castle were home to a thriving population of golden snidgets. To Harry, they were just another part of the magical ecosystem that flourished in and around the castle. It wasn't until he read about their extinction in the modern wizarding world that he realized the significance of the treasure he had stumbled upon.

The golden snidgets at Runestone Castle were a relic of a bygone era, a species thought to have been wiped out centuries ago. Yet here they were, living peacefully, undisturbed by the outside world. Harry had initially dismissed them as just another magical bird among many, but now he understood their true value. The snidgets were more than just birds—they were a symbol of Quidditch itself, a sport beloved by witches and wizards across the globe. If news of their existence ever got out, the castle would be besieged by poachers and treasure hunters eager to get their hands on one of the rare birds. Harry was determined to prevent that from happening.

Yet, despite his desire to protect the snidgets, Harry couldn't ignore the potential they had to help the Lovegoods. Luna and her father were passionate about magical creatures, traveling the world in search of rare and unusual species. The discovery of the golden snidgets would not only bring them joy but could also boost the popularity of their magazine, The Quibbler. The Lovegoods often struggled to be taken seriously by the wider wizarding community, and Harry knew that the rediscovery of the snidgets could change that. An article about the birds, complete with photos and detailed descriptions, would draw attention from Quidditch fans, magical creature enthusiasts, and even professional players. It was a story that would captivate the entire wizarding world.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the Rookery,the party showed no signs of winding down. Music filled the air as guests danced and chatted, and the atmosphere was one of pure joy and celebration. Harry found himself wandering through the garden, admiring the eclectic decorations and marveling at the unique charm of the Lovegoods' home. Every corner of the Rookery seemed to hold a new surprise, from the enchanted wind chimes that played hauntingly beautiful melodies to the odd sculptures that appeared to shift and change shape when no one was looking.

Luna eventually found Harry again, a wide smile still plastered on her face. "This is the best birthday ever, Harry. Thank you so much. I've never seen my father so happy."

Harry smiled back, pleased to see Luna so content. "I'm glad you're having a good time. You deserve it, Luna."

They stood in companionable silence for a moment, watching the party unfold around them. Luna's gaze eventually drifted back to the snidgets, who were now safely housed in a protective cage that Xenophilius had conjured. They fluttered about, their golden feathers shimmering in the fading sunlight.

"Do you think they'll be safe?" Luna asked quietly, her tone more serious now. "I mean, once people find out…"

Harry understood her concern. The magical world could be a dangerous place, especially for rare creatures like the golden snidgets. Once word got out, there would undoubtedly be those who sought to exploit them for profit or sport. But Harry had already thought about this.

"I've put a protective charm on the snidgets," Harry reassured her. "Only people you trust will be able to find them. And I've got more protective spells at my place, so if you ever need a safe place for them, you can bring them there."

Luna's eyes shone with gratitude. "That means so much, Harry. We'll do our best to protect them too. Daddy is already planning a special edition of The Quibbler all about the snidgets. He thinks it will help raise awareness and get more people involved in their preservation."

Harry nodded, pleased with the plan. The more people who knew about the importance of protecting magical creatures, the better. And The Quibbler was the perfect platform to spread the word. Despite its reputation as a somewhat eccentric publication, it had a dedicated following, and this story could bring it even more attention.

As the evening wore on, Harry found himself drifting between conversations with various guests, all of whom were eager to know more about the golden snidgets. He answered their questions as best he could without revealing too much about their location, always careful to protect the secret of Runestone Castle.

One guest, an elderly witch with a sharp gaze and an even sharper tongue, cornered Harry near the buffet table. "You're quite the mysterious young man, aren't you?" she remarked, her eyes narrowing as she studied him. "Harry Gosling, was it?"

Harry nodded, doing his best to remain calm under her scrutiny. "That's right."

"And how, pray tell, did you come across such a rare find as golden snidgets?" she asked, her tone probing.

Harry hesitated for a moment before replying, "I inherited a property in Mexico that has some… unique features. The snidgets were just part of the surprise."

The witch raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but not entirely convinced. "Interesting. Well, I suppose you're full of surprises, young man. But do be careful. The magical world is a small place, and secrets have a way of getting out."

With that cryptic warning, the witch turned and sauntered off, leaving Harry with a sense of unease. He knew she was right—secrets in the wizarding world were often hard to keep, and the discovery of the golden snidgets was bound to attract attention, both welcome and unwelcome.

As the night wore on, the party slowly began to wind down. Guests started to say their goodbyes, and the once-bustling Rookery became quieter. Luna and her father were still beaming, clearly overjoyed by the success of the day. As Harry prepared to leave, Luna caught him by the arm.

"Harry, before you go, I just wanted to say… thank you. Not just for the snidgets, but for everything. You've been a true friend."

Harry smiled, touched by her words. "You're welcome, Luna. I'm glad I could help."

She gave him a quick hug, then stepped back, her eyes twinkling with their usual dreamy quality. "I have a feeling that this is just the beginning. There's so much more to discover, isn't there?"

Harry chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Always. But we'll face whatever comes together, right?"

"Right," Luna agreed, her smile widening. "Safe travels, Harry Potter. And don't be a stranger."

With a final wave, Harry turned and made his way back to the Knight Bus, the cylindrical gift box now empty in his hands. As he settled into his seat and the bus lurched into motion, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. He had accomplished what he set out to do, and more importantly, he had made a difference in the lives of people who mattered to him.

But as the bus sped through the night, Harry's thoughts turned to the future. The golden snidgets were just one piece of the puzzle—there were still so many mysteries to unravel, so many challenges to face. And while he didn't know what lay ahead, he felt ready for whatever came his way.

The next few weeks would be critical. Once The Quibbler published its special edition on the golden snidgets, the magical world would be abuzz with excitement. Harry would need to stay vigilant, keeping a close eye on the snidgets and ensuring that their safety wasn't compromised. But for now, as the bus hurtled through the darkness, Harry allowed himself a moment of peace, content in the knowledge that he had done something good—something that would resonate far beyond the Lovegoods' party.

The night stretched on, and Harry leaned back in his seat, the rhythmic clattering of the Knight Bus lulling him into a state of quiet contemplation. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, new adventures, and new discoveries. But tonight, Harry was simply happy to have made a difference, and that was enough.