Rogue Harry

Chapter 2

Harry skipped breakfast at his aunt's and went straight to the Manor with his books. He asked Winky for breakfast and studied becoming an Animagus. After breakfast, he reviewed the Fidelius Charm. Setting the house boundaries in his mind, he cast the spell successfully. Feeling drained but accomplished, he rested and had lunch. Harry then cast the Fidelius Charm again, securing the area to the front gate. Exhausted, he barely made it inside before napping and having dinner. He attempted to hide his scar with a glamour and succeeded. Satisfied, he returned to Privet Drive, wanting to test his ability to blend in publicly. Tired but content, he went back to the Dursleys in his usual manner.

Harry recognized his limitations and calculated that it would take him three more days before he could depart from the Dursleys, a timeline he deemed acceptable. He then proceeded to send brief updates to Lupin, Hermione, Ron, and Ginny about his well-being and current situation. Harry understood that crafting a thoughtful message for Ginny required special attention and planning. Additionally, he acknowledged the importance of appearing normal to his minders and decided to wash Uncle Vernon's car as a suitable task to strategize while completing. Though the car wash was not perfect, it served its purpose in allowing Harry to plan for the upcoming interactions effectively.

On his return, Uncle Vernon, displeased, grasped Harry's arm. "What have you done to my car?" he demanded sternly.

Harry freed himself. "I was merely maintaining appearances. Remember, the house is always under observation." His uncle appeared startled. "I must be seen occasionally. Rest assured, I only cleaned your car."

His uncle's ire lessened slightly, though his complexion remained ruddy. "When will you be leaving, boy?"

The word "boy" had become Harry's least favorite due to his uncle's use of it. He mentioned sending "I'm fine" letters until he leaves and then an "I've moved" letter. Despite not intending to send the latter soon, he kept it to himself. After some time, Harry changed his mind about Ginny's letter, making it short for a different reason. Despite the hour not being late, Harry decided to sleep due to exhaustion from spell work. As he fell asleep, he contemplated his plan and the challenges it would bring Dumbledore, imagining Sirius's pride.

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Harry woke early feeling fine, verified his disguise, put his letters in his coat, told Hedwig to meet him at the park, used his Invisibility Cloak to leave unnoticed, met Hedwig, took her to the Owl Emporium, purchased a cream owl with his friend's assistance, then traveled to Ottery St. Catchpole. During the bus ride, he calmed the owls with treats. After a walk, Harry arrived at the makeshift Quidditch pitch at The Burrow and handed the letters to Hedwig for delivery. She flew off, and Harry waited under a tree.

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Ginny finished breakfast as Hedwig arrived with a letter from Harry. She took the Weasley family letters and informed her mother before heading out to run an errand. Her mother gave her some money and a shopping list, reminding her to return by lunchtime and to be cautious. Ginny then left the house, equipped with her wand hidden beneath her clothing, and headed towards the village for her task.

Upon arriving at the paddock, Ginny was surprised by Harry's unexpected appearance with an owl in a cage. Concerned it might be a trap, she recognized Hedwig and cautiously approached him. Harry explained the urgency of speaking in person to avoid interception.

Intrigued, Ginny inquired about the reason for their meeting. Curious about Harry's sudden visit, she noticed his mysterious attire and the subject of the conversation piqued her interest even further. Harry sought a more private setting to ensure their conversation remained confidential, away from Ron's interference.