NationStates Jolt Archive

Kurt looked over at him, "I hope you're right," he said before noticing something. "How about you, are you Ok?"

"No, I'm fine." I said.

Kurt raised an eyebrow. "Not feeling a little odd at all?" he asked.

Somewhere a gunshot rang out, sending birds flying from the trees.

"Fuck, what was that?" Eamonn swore.

"I don't know. Should we check it out or leave?" I asked.

Kurt looked toward the shuttles and saw that the others were not back yet. "Dan and I will check it out, the rest of you wait aboard the shuttle," he told them. He looked at Daniel and headed off around the side of the mansion.

I ran with Kurt, trying to catch up with the speedy blue demon, adding dose of Force Speed when I need to.

Kurt continued to run until he reached what appeared to be a tennis court. Master Forre walked up to them with a gun in hand and passed it to Kurt.

"Welcome to my existance," he said. "Beware Lady Nocturne."

Once again the old Jedi Master vanished.

"Who's Lady Nocturne?" I asked Kurt.

"I have no idea," Kurt admitted with a shrug. "I was hoping you knew."

Kurt looked around but he could remember where the sound of the gunshot had come from. He knew that the others had to be somewhere in the mansion grounds. His eyes crossed the grounds directly in front of them, no sign of any movement.

"Can you sense anyone?" Kurt asked. "I can't."

"Hmm." I reached out... "It's real faint...I don't know."

Kurt closed his eyes and listened. He could hear the wind in the trees and the faint sound of the others back at the shuttles, he could faintly pick out a conversation between Eamonn and Quatre. Nearby he could hear a splash, the sound of ducks made him wonder if there was a lake nearby. Kurt didn't waste anytime and headed in the direction he could hear the ducks.

Past a high hedgerow, he found himself on the shore of a rather large lake. Nearby was a boathouse, a door looked to have been used recently. His eyes crossed the lake, across the way was land, possibly an island. The prince put his hands behind his and and wondered. Could they have all taken a boat and gonr to that island? There did look to be a boat out there.

Not waiting for Daniel, Kurt headed for the boathouse and walked inside. Inside he found there was no boat, though there were signs that one was moored there. If the second party had used the boat then it was probably them at the island in the middle of the lake.

"So..." I said, looking into the boathouse. "What do you think?"

"I think they've headed for the island and they haven't left us a boat," Kurt replied. He turned around to face Daniel. "Want to take a splitsecond trip through another dimension?"

"I'll get my sickbag." I said, my face scrunched up in unamusement.

Kurt smirked at him, "Ready when I am," he said and placed his hand on the young Jedi's shoulder.

In a flash they were on the island, nearby was the empty boat. The motor on the back was still warm so it had certainly be used recently. The island itself seemed pretty large, the prince suspected it could even be large enough to have it's own postcode to the mansion and grounds.

"They're here, I can sense them," he said.

"Yeah. I can sense them too." I said.

"Tried contacting them but I can't," Kurt said. "Something is wrong here."

The prince walked over to the boat and looked inside. There on one of the seats was a medallian of a pagasus.

"Belongs to General Flack," he said, picking it up. "There is definitely something wrong, he wouldn't leave it here like this."

"Ok..." I scratched my head. "So we have a threat here...now what?"

"We find out what the threat is," Kurt told him. "My guess is to look out for a cave or any kind of entrance."

"All right." I said, starting to look around for the entrance. "Might be guarded. That'll be easy to spot..."

"If it's guarded it'll be something spiritual," Kurt told him. He walked along the shore of the lake, so far nothing out of the ordinary until he found some footprints leading away from where they were. "Hold on Dan, I have something."

The prince crouched down to inspect the footprints.

"Hmm." I took a look at the footprints. "Where are they leading?"

"Let's find out shall we?" Kurt said standing up. "If I could read the prints I'd be able to tell you who's shoe the print belongs to."

Kurt followed the footprints which led them up to a rocky path. There the footprints were lost to the rocks, but he knew to follow the path up the hill. He briefly looked back to see if Daniel was following him. After a couple of minute walking, they came across a cave entrence.

"I'd say this is what we're looking for," he said.

"Yup. After you." I smiled, mock-bowing.

Kurt took a branch from a tree and lit it with his hand before climbing down into the cave. While the light of the flame flickered on the walls, the prince stopped walking and looked around.

"You smell that?" he asked sniffing. "Smells like something died in here."

"Ugh. Yeah." I said, not liking the stench.

"Yeah it's rather overpowering, can't smell anything else," Kurt told him as they headed deeper into the cave.

Somewhere down there, they could see an orange glow. Kurt stopped walking and stood still as he tried to listen out for any sounds.

"Well, let's see what's here..." I whispered, slowly unlatching my lightsaber, just in case.

Kurt nodded. I can't hear anything, he told him telepathically. Something's up, stay close behind me and be very careful.

Kurt grabbed his zat'ni'katel and slowly began creeping down towards the orange glow.

I stayed close, reaching out ahead to sense for danger...

They eventually reached where the orange glow was coming from. Silently stepping into a large cavern, they crept over behind a rock to gain some cover as they looked to see what was going on. Kurt looked over the top of the rock and saw a group had gathered around. They looked familiar, but they weren't the ones from the second shuttle, this was an entirely different ground.

"Well what do we have here then?" came a voice from behind them.

I straightened up, trying not to feel shocked at not sensing the guy Shit!

"Uh, we were just looking for minerals?" I said, sheepishly.

The man glared at him before seeing who Daniel was with. "Prince Kurt?" he said, blinking his eyes several times. "Are you not dead?"

Kurt looked up at the man and burst out laughing. "I could have said the same thing about you, Balder," he said, a glint of surprise evident in his eyes.

"Well that medling Grimdale country screwed a few things up trying to get you on the throne," Balder said.

The rest of the group hadn't seemed to take any notice of what was going on.

"Balder I'd like you to meet Daniel," the prince then said.

"An honour to meet you young Daniel," Balder said, offering his hand.

I took it and shook. "So you know each other, I take it?"

Kurt smirked. "Of course and you have already met his half-brother Thor," he told him.

"And how is Thor doing since he left the Asgard?" Balder asked.

"Fine, drinking and eating alot," Kurt shrugged.

"Sounds like his usual self," Balder smiled. "So what brings you here?"

"Currently looking for some of my group who seem to have gone missing," the prince told him. "What about you?"

Balder shook his head. "I have not seen those to which you seek," the God replied. "As for why we are here young Kurt, since the Norns moved Yggdrasil here and the well with it it is to this place that we now hold court."

I sat down, watching the conversations unfold.

"That doesn't sound good if you haven't seen them," Kurt sighed shaking his head.

"Perhaps it is the Norns playing tricks on you," Balder suggested. "I would guess that maybe your other group is currently looking for you and neither can see one another."

That does actually make sense," the prince agreed.

"Yeah, it does..." I said.

"Come on Daniel, we'd better go tell the others," Kurt said.

Balder nodded. "Then it is farewell for now young friends," he said before joining the other Gods.

The young prince looked briefly at where the Gods were holding court before turning to head back out of the cave.

"All right." I waved back as I headed out of the cave. "See you next time!"

When they made it out of the cave it was raining hard. Not exactly what Kurt wanted especially since he was covered in fur. He quickly grabbed hold of Daniel's shoulder and teleport them back to the waiting shuttle. The other were safely inside out of the rain.

"Where are the others?" Quatre asked as Kurt climed on board.

"Balder thinks that the Norns are playing mind games on us," Kurt told him. "It is apparent that we cannot see them and they cannot see us."

"So what do we do?" he then asked.

Kurt shrugged, he had no idea.

"I think we should go back now." I said. "Looks like we're done here."

"Back to the Ayreon?" Kurt questioned. "Guess so, maybe then we would be able to see the others."

"What's the point? You know what she said." I said. "I was suggesting we head back to Tortuga."

Kurt shook his head as the others stared at Daniel. "Umm we do need to get about the ship to go to Tortuga," he told him.

I ignored the looks the others gave me and just sat down. "What next, then?"

"Get back to the ship, change into dry clothes and hope the others return or we might just have to mount a rescue mission," Kurt told him, settling down in the pilots seat. After a brief check over, the prince started the engines and lifted off.

Once back in the docking bay, they saw that the other shuttle was already there. The others headed off but Kurt stood there wondering if it was in fact real.

"What is it, Kurt?"

"I no longer know whats real or whats not any more," Kurt said looking at Daniel. "The same shuttle we left behind is now here, yet there was nothing else heading toward the ship."

I glanced at him oddly. "Are you ok, Kurt? Think you need to lie down..."

Kurt shook his head. "It's the Norns fucking with my head," he said, before heading for the door. "A change of clothes and a good meal should do me well. Once I know the others are fine of course."

"All right, if you say so." I said, heading to my room to take a shower, and change into fresh clothes.

Eamonn was already there, he was sat on his bed reading a book. "Everyones been accounted for," he told Daniel. "Apparently 'we' told them to head back to the ship."

"Oh. That explains it, then." I said. "Now if you'll excuse me..."

I headed into the shower, and started singing a few really, really offkey songs.

And with that noise, Eamonn could no longer read. Instead he wandered over to the rooms entertainment system and put some music on. That way he could continue reading.

Kurt meanwhile had changed into dry clothes and had met with Lady Katherine before heading off to the dining hall. A brief flash meant the ship had entered hyperspace.

I finished showering, dried off, and put on my fresh clothes, putting the dirty ones in the laundry chute.

"Didn't know we had any cats on board to strangle," Eamonn said with a cheeky grin.

--------------------

Kurt looked up as Thor entered the dining hall, it was strange for the God to do that since he would usually be trying to get as drunk as possible in the bar. He went and sat down opposite the prince.

"Did Balder ask about me?" he asked.

Kurt nodded as he stuffed a fork full of lasagna into his mouth.

"And?"

"I told him you were fine," the prince assured him.

Thor shook his head and stood up again. "I do miss being a part of the Asgard."

"Didn't know we had any cats on board to strangle," Eamonn said with a cheeky grin.

"Oh, shut up." I threw a pillow at him. "My singing's not that bad."

Eamonn pushed the pillow away and burst out laughing. "I just hope no one else could hear it," he laughed.

"Yeah, yeah, don't rub it in." I decided to finish off reading Oliver Twist.

Eamonn put down the book he had been reading and headed off to the dining room.

Not hungry, I continued reading.

Soon the journey back to Tortuga DN was over and the ship floated over the planet as most of those aboard planned to return to the surface. Eamonn walked through the corridors to which he was now familiar with, back to the room he shared with Daniel.

"Hey Dan we're here," he said, after entering the room.

A shuttle left the ship bound for the colony. Kurt incidently had stayed behind and was up in the Pel'tac discussing the ships logs with Wes.

Soon the journey back to Tortuga DN was over and the ship floated over the planet as most of those aboard planned to return to the surface. Eamonn walked through the corridors to which he was now familiar with, back to the room he shared with Daniel.

"Hey Dan we're here," he said, after entering the room.

"Alright." I finished the book within the next minute, and then headed to the shuttle.

A shuttle left the ship bound for the colony. Kurt incidently had stayed behind and was up in the Pel'tac discussing the ships logs with Wes.

*On the shuttle*

Eamonn breathed in the Tortugan air as he and the others climbed out of the shuttle. "Ah good to breath real air for a change," he smirked. "So what do you want to do Dan?"

"Something doesn't feel right here," Kurt mentioned, nervously twitching his tail.

Wes shook his head. "Everythings fine Kurt," he told him. "Well aside from the out come."

Kurt sighed and looked out the view screen. "It was all too easy getting to them, in the end only one showed up," the young prince replied. "Seeing the other shuttle in two different places was just odd."

"Hmm. You know, now that I think about it, that was a bit strange..." I said.

"Huh?" Eamonn asked and shook his head. "Doesn't feel strange to me."

"'More training in expanding your senses, you need, Padawan.'" I croaked like Yoda, getting a good laugh out of it.

Eamonn shook his head. "Nope nothing out of place," he replied. "It's just the Norns fucking with your head."

-----------------

"You are really acting strange Kurt," Wes mentioned.

Kurt glared at him. "I am fine," he said. "Just need a little rest planet side."

I sighed. "If Kurt and I are feeling it, then it must mean something, especially for the both of us. 'Sides, it'd be interesting to see what comes out of this."

"Maybe you two sniffed something you shouldn't have," Eamonn smirked as they walked out into the main square.

Everything looked just as it had before they left. Nearby a group of woman were crowded around a shop window.

I just shook my head and followed my friend.

Eamonn made a sniffing noise as he headed up off up toward the governers palace. "My mothers away on holiday," he said. "So not really much for me at home. You never did say what you wanted to do"

Kurt exited the shuttle and headed into the square. The first thing he noticed was that no one took any notice of him, there would usually always several people who would come to greet him. Even Wes silently walked past, heading up toward the governers palace. Noticing a couple of guards nearby that were acting rather strangely, they were standing around talking and had left their weapons leaning against a nearby wall. This was too strange for the prince and he teleported himself up to the governers palace where Eamonn and Daniel were headed.

"Hey guys," he greeted. "This may sound a little strange but something wierd is going on here."

"Yeah, it's strange." Many a small child would always want to come to me for autographs or some amazing story of my journeys. Now, no one took notice of even me. "Are we invisible or something?"

"No you're just paranoid," Eamonn remarked and walked off.

Kurt glared at him. "Eam isn't like that, he's usually curious," the prince replied. "I feel it may be more then being invisible."

"So you saw it too, eh?" I said quietly enough so Eamonn won't hear. "He's acting differently now. Colder, too. Something's definitely not right."

Kurt leaned closer to Daniel. "What if we are still in that cave?" he said.

Eamonn was now suitably further away from them. So Kurt didn't have to whisper.

"What if the Norns are still fucking with our heads."

"Then...I'd be quite unhappy." I said.

Kurt shook his head. "I'd be more then unhappy, I'd be completely pissed off," he replied. He looked up toward the governers palace. "Seems to want us to go up there, could just be paranoid but I'm wondering what might be up there."

Kurt shook his head. "I'd be more then unhappy, I'd be completely pissed off," he replied. He looked up toward the governers palace. "Seems to want us to go up there, could just be paranoid but I'm wondering what might be up there."
I nodded. "Ready when you are."

Kurt nodded and headed up the path to the governers palace. "If the worst comes to the worst I just hope that I can teleport us both out of trouble," he told him as the building came closer.

Looking around he could see guards on duty. He could also see Eamonn already up by the doors, it appeared that he was waiting for them.

"Hey, Eamonn. You're here too?" I asked.

Eamonn gave him a funny look. "You really were sniffing something back there weren't you," he remarked before turning to walk inside.

Careful Dan, if they're mere illusions then they wouldn't know it, play along, Kurt warned.

Thanks for the warning. I replied and walked in.

Exactly as it was the last time, Kurt commented. Perhaps it feeds off our thoughts and memories.

Lady Rasputin walked gracefully by, talking to a couple of aides. She did nod in their direction before disappearing through one of the doors. Eamonn was no longer anywhere to be seen.

Not being ignored though so we're not invisible.

Kurt scanned through the various rooms in the goveners palace until he found Eamonn in the library. From what he'd sensed everything 'seemed' fine, but whether or not it actually was, was an entirely different thing.

"Always the library," he muttered. "Come on Dan."

I chuckled, maybe a bit nervously than I liked, and followed Kurt into the library. Now, perhaps we could get to the bottom of this...

They entered the library and Kurt looked for Eamonn. They found him stood facing a bookcase with his back to them. It looked as though he was looking for something.

"Eam?" Kurt said. "What are you doing?"

"You are too smart for us," Eamonn replied, not even turning around. He instead folded his arms.

"'Us'? Who's us?" I asked.

Eamonn laughed and appeared to phase through the bookcase.

"Now thats just fucked," Kurt said before realising something. "Hang on this looks suspiciously like the library back in the Norns mansion, shit."

"Yeah, so it does." I remembered. "So you think we're still back there?"

Kurt sighed. "If we are then we never left," he said, shaking his head. "I think it's safe to say that we're not lying unconscious on the cave floor."

He then looked around briefly.

"Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore."

"Nope. I knew we shouldn't have taken that turn at Dagobah..." I said.

"Shouldn't that be Albuquerque?" Kurt joked. "Seriously I think we need to leave."

"Yeha, but how?" I wondered.

"I wonder," Kurt thought and walked up to where Eamonn had been standing. He placed his hand on a book, but it went straight through. "That is rather interesting." He moved his hand all around but the result was just the same, it was like he could phase through the books. "Think we should follow?"

I shrugged. "One small step for man..."

I walked through, and entered...

The pair stepped through the bookcase and found themselves in a dark, narrow corridor. They could easily walk side by side however. Kurt held up his hand and created a ball of light so they could see where they were going. The corridor stretched off into the darkness ahead.

"I hope this isn't going to be like that dream where it just goes on and on," Kurt grimaced.

"Let's hope not." I said, and kept walking through the corridor.

Kurt kept sensing for Eamonn but could find no sign of him, but that was more then likely down to the fact that it hadn't been him in the first place. Another step and the floor beneath them broke away and they fell through. A hard stone floor broke their fall.

"Shit that hurt," Kurt cursed as he sat up, rubbing his back. He looked up and found there was no hole in the ceiling above them. In fact what they were now in looked like an old victorian mansion. "Oh now what?"

"Hmm. Not bad, except that my back hurts." I said, rubbing it from the fall. "We're in another mansion, looks like."

"Victorian if I'm not mistaken," Kurt replied, standing up.

Looking around he saw a painting of a man with long blond hair hung up on one of the walls. Taking a closer look at the paint it looked as though the man was glaring at them.

"That painting looks like its glaring at us," he said, pointing to it.

"Don't you dare point that filthy... finger at me," the man in the painting spat.

Kurt's eyes widened, this was too weird, yet somewhat familiar.

"Ok...talking paintings..." I could guess where we are, but it's pretty absurd. "Let me guess, a wizard is going to show up any time soon."

"Yes of course wizards will show up, filth like you are not wanted here," the painting yelled at them.

"We'd better get out of here," Kurt told Daniel. "Who knows what the Norns have planned for us."

"Out, out, out," the painting continued to yell.

So far there was no sign of any life in the mansion.

"Any chance that it'll be someone benevolent, like, oh, Dumbledore?" I asked, trying to joke.

Kurt shook his head. "Unfortunately I think this is the Malfoy household," he said, still shaking his head. Remembering where they were facing when they had fallen through into the mansion, Kurt decided the best course of action would be to continue that way. Which seemed lucky that there was a door down that way. "Come on."

"You know, there's a good chance I'd get to fry that good-for-nothing Malfoy brat..." I smirked.

"Heh, I like him though," Kurt grinned and headed off towards the door.

Once they'd arrived, Kurt silently nodded and creapt to the door. Slowly he opened it and looked inside. He groaned and silently shut the door.

"It's Jason Isaacs, he looks just like Jason Isaacs did in the film," he groaned and looked Daniel. "I think I am going to have to apologise to you, last two films I saw before coming here just happened to be Chamber Of Secrets and Azkaban."

"Oh." Please, Force, don't let me meet dementors!

"I also don't want to go in there with Lucius in that room," he said walking away from the door. "Come on we'll go the other way and hopefully we'll fall through the floor again."

"Did you just say Lucius Malfoy? As in even-more-stuck-up-Death-Eater Malfoy?" I hissed.

"Yes, thats why I said he looked like Jason Issacs," Kurt replied, walking off down the way they had already come. "Though I am looking forward to blocking a few spells."

"Wizard/Jedi duel, ought to be interesting." I said.

Kurt smirked as the painting began yelling at them again. His ears picked up the sound of footsteps coming up the hall. The prince quickly opened a nearby door.

"In here quick," he said.

Of course, it's better not to get caught, so I entered the door...

Moments after shutting the door and leaning against it, they could hear footsteps outside the door which then stopped. Kurt grimaced, he suddenly expected the door to open and so he silently stepped away from the door and prepared for a fight. Instead he could hear voices.

"Have our two guests arrived yet?"

"No Professor Snape, but the word going around the paintings is that we have a blue demon somewhere in the mansion."

Thats a lie, Kurt told Daniel. I'm an elf not a demon.

I prepared the Force, just in case we were caught...

What do we do? Kurt asked as more footsteps were heard.

We work fast. Catch them off guard before they can fire their spells. I replied.

Agreed, but hopefully they'll... Kurt began, but the lights going on in the room caught him him off guard.

Without really thinking, he grabbed Daniel and hid behind an old fashtioned settee.

What now? I asked.

I sense someone very close, Kurt warned.

He looked up and saw a very familiar face looking down at him.

"Made it then?" Draco said. "My fathers been waiting for you."

I almost fried him right there and then. "Don't sneak up on me like that, ever again."

Draco's face turned to a scowl. "I'll do what I want," he replied. "Now come on, my father wishes to meet you before dinner."

As he stood up and dusted himself down, Kurt looked over at Daniel. Looks like we can get out of this without having to dodge spells, he then said.

I hope so. I said, as I walked behind Oil-Hair Boy.

Draco led them out of the room to where Lucius and Professor Snape were waiting.

"I see you have found our guests, well done Draco," the tall blond man said before staring at Kurt. "Interesting, a human sized elf covered in fur. Kurt Wagner II I presume."

Kurt just nodded.

"And you must be Daniel Masaki," he then said looking in Daniels direction. "I have heard alot about you."

I arched an eyebrow. "Even the wizards have heard of me?"

Draco, who was now stood beside his father, smirked at him.

"My dear boy there are somethings that even us wizards do not know," Lucius said. "But we always find those things out, Dibble come here."

Suddenly a small house-elf appeared from out of nowhere. "Y.yes master?"

"Take our guests to the guest rooms, there they will find their dinner dress waiting for them," Lucius told them. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have other matters to attend to."

As the three wizards walked off, Kurt turned to Daniel. This is really fucking weird, he told him.

Yeah. It's odd that I'm almost as well-known as Harry, but then, that's what you get for taking down Chudda's lair...and Tak'a-Tamen before that. I shrugged, not worrying about the attention.

Then again, we do have the Norns trying to fuck with our heads, Kurt then pointed out, as they followed the house-elf to the guest rooms.

The house-elf led them up to a double door and opened them. "D.dibble shall b.be outs.side if you need anything Sirs," he said.

"Thank you," Kurt said as he entered the guest room.

He found no beds however, it looked more like a victorian study. There were however four other doors and the large windows at the other end of the room showed that the sun was begining to set.

"Wow," was all Kurt could say.

I snorted. "What do you expect from a rich wizard family? But it is nice, of course. Just not a match for our Palace..."

"Meh, its impressive for wizards but theres no electronic stuff, no telly, stereo's or computers," Kurt replied walking over to one of the doors that had clothes hung on them. "Hey we get our own wizard robes... oh wait guess this room's yours. It has your name on the clothes hanger."

He then went over to the other door and found the clothes hanger had his name on.

I much prefer my own cloak, which I currently carry on my shoulders. But hey, in all retrospect, there's no difference except in color. I exchanged clothes for the wizard's clothes, and then headed out.

Kurt put on the wizard robes and was glad to find that it comfortably let his tail hang free tomove about. He then left the guest rooms to where Daniel and the house-elf to the dining room. The Malfoy family were already there waiting for them, as was the potions master and another boy. As the pair were led to their places, the boy looked up and his eyes widened. Kurt was surprised, the boy looked like Eamonn only he looked a couple of years older.

I don't recall Eamonn having an older brother...is this a cousin? Or is it really Eamonn? Questions swam in my mind...

Kurt looked to Daniel with a strange look on his face as they sat down. Soup bowls appeared in front of them. Lucius looked towards the boy.

"I said our guests would surprise you... Eamonn," he said.

The boy still had a look of shock on his face as he said nothing.

"Now, now Eamonn, where are your manners?" Lucius then asked. "Do you not have anything to say to our guests."

"Fuck me," he suddenly blurted out, the words not exactly was the Malfoy family usually tolerated.. "Are you two real?"

"Looks like it, Eamonn. I could sense their magical energies." I said. "Whatever happened to you?"

"What happened to me?" he asked, raising his eyebrows as he stared at him. "It's been two years since we went to the Norns planet and neither of you has grown up."

"What?" Kurt was confused, it hadn't been two years, had it?

"Yeah, after you two went after the others and we waited for you to come back , you never did," Eamonn explained. "Never saw the others again either, after a month we had to head back for supplies and reinforcements to help look for you."

Lucius was listening to what they were saying with interest.

"Do my ears decieve me? Two years?!" I asked. "We've only been separated for a day! Less!"

What kind of crazy world did we step into?

"Thats fucked," Eamonn said, shaking his head.

"A little less of that language if you please," Lucius warned. Draco was smirking.

"Sorry Mr Malfoy," he apologised. "Thing is I have been hear nearly two years, Quatre's the same."

"Quatre is here?" Kurt asked, his eyes lighting up.

"Hes living with the Zabini's," Draco told him. "He'll probably be in Diagon Alley tomorrow."

Kurt looked toward Daniel. Do you buy this? he asked him. I guess this time thing is a way for the Norns to fuck with our heads.

Somehow, I don't think that surprises me anymore. I thought back wryly. I mean, we came from a galaxy far, far, away only to land smack dab in the middle of England. How crazy can things get?

I shudder to think what else could happen, Kurt replied. Well how many people can say they've had dinner with the Malfoy's?

Kurt then noticed a badge on Eamonn's robes. "You have the Slytherin badge on your robes."

Eamonn nodded. "Started last year."

"You mean you... you go to Hogwarts?" the prince then asked.

Again Eamonn nodded.

Ok Dan, can it get any weirder? Kurt asked.

I had to chuckle. "I'd probably be in Gryffindor."

The Malfoy's glared at Daniel.

Careful what you say Dan Eamonn warned.

"We'll see about that," Lucius said.

I glared back at them, eating my dinner. Already, the animosity of the two houses touched me. It was bound to happen sooner or later, I thought dryly.

Draco smirked at Daniel, "Gryffindor's are all a bunch of lame four eyes worshippers," he said. "Who'd in their right mind would want to be one of them?"

Draco smirked at Daniel, "Gryffindor's are all a bunch of lame four eyes worshippers," he said. "Who'd in their right mind would want to be one of them?"
I decided not to rise to the bait, and completed my meal.

As the soup bowls disappeared, a house-elf brought in a tray with four envolopes on it. The house-elf placed it down on the table and quickly scampered off. Draco and Eamonn each recieved an envolope, the two remaining were addressed to Daniel and Kurt. Kurt took his envolope and his eyes widened when he read what it was.

"I've been excepted into Hogwarts," he said, looking over at Daniel realising his letter would say the same. Well whatever the Norns are planning it's obvious that they which us to learn magic. Should be fun eh Dan?

Yeah. I read the letter:

Daniel Masaki, we are pleased to announce that you have been accepted to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Enclosed is the equipment you will need while attending...

I went down the list. Wizards' robes, dragonskin gloves, etc. Not to mention several textbooks, a wand and an animal (toad, cat, or owl). Would be a bit expensive, but nothing my account can't handle. I just need to figure out the exchange rates...I continued reading.

We await your owl by no less than Sept. 1.

Sincerely,

Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster
Order of Merlin, 1st class...

And a few other titles that seem very impressive on him. It'd be interesting to see him, as well as the famous threesome and other 'characters' I read about.

Lucius looked at the two guests. "We will be going to Diagon Alley tomorrow to get your school items," he told them.

Better keep your mouth closed if we meet up with Harry, Kurt warned. These are not the ones to get on the bad side of, particularly as the Norns have left them to 'look' after us.

I made a mental face at Kurt, though they are hosts. You think I like being near such ugliness? "Thank you, Mr. Malfoy, Draco. Now, I think I'll turn in."

I know it's like eating dinner with my grandfathers lackies, Kurt replied.

"Suit yourself," Lucius said.

"I think I am going to turn in as well," Kurt also said.

"I understand that you do have alot to come to terms with," Lucius then said, standing up from the table. "An early night helps ones own mind."

He then left the dining room. Kurt shrugged and teleported himself back to the guest room.

I walked back, and got ready for bed. I couldn't help but wonder what really is the motive for these Norn to have me learn magic. I mean, the Force has many similarities to magic, like the telekinetic-based spells, and it'd be redundant for me. Maybe as spies...wouldn't be the first time gods need confirmation of their own omniscient abilities.

In any case, I waved my hand, shutting off the candles with a slight puff of air, and then climbed into bed. Several minutes later, I was asleep.

The next morning Kurt had changed into the wizard robes and was heading to the dining hall to see if breakfast was ready, though he was still half asleep as he yawned and tried to remember his way there. In one of the hallways he bumped into Eamonn.

"You are really Kurt aren't you," he asked.

"Yeah I am," Kurt yawned.

"You could just be saying that," the young Jedi replied. "I don't even know what is real anymore."

"I know what you mean Eam, the Norns are really doing a number on us," he agreed. "Right now I just want breakfast."

Eamonn nodded and together they headed for the dining room. They found Lucius already there eating breakfast, he silently looked up at them before going back to the scroll he had been reading.

I woke up to the sun streaming into my window. "Ahh, looks like a beautiful day."

Smiling, I washed up and put on my clothes. Then I headed down to the dining room, tracking the others through the Force.

"Is that the Daily Prophet?" I asked Lucius as breakfast was served. "What's the latest so far?"

Lucius looked up at Daniel. "Just something on an incident at Hogwarts that happened earlier this year," he replied, eyeing the boy with suspicious looking eyes.

"Interesting." I said, wondering what the incident could be, but let it drop. I ate the scrambled eggs, ham and toast in silence, then drank down the orange juice and wiped my mouth with the napkin provided.

"We'll be leaving for Diagon Alley in about an hour, use your time wisely," Lucius said as he rolled up the scroll and left the dining hall.

Eamonn grimaced. "That should be fun," he said.

I smiled. "Yeah, it should be. Of course, except for the Dark Lord..."

Eamonn nodded. "After last year the Ministry of Magic and Dumbledore aren't really on talking terms now," he then said. "Last school year was the Triwizard tornament."

"Oh no," Kurt suddenly realised. "Umbridge." His face sank into his hands as he thought of the teacher they would be facing.

Wha--? Not her?! But then, I remembered another little tidbit from the book. The DA. I smiled, thinking of how I'm going to join it later on in the year. "Don't worry, I'll deal with her. She's probably never met a Jedi."

Kurt groaned. "I can already see you starting a lot of shit," he said, shaking his head. "Just don't do something you later regret."

I turned into the pillar of innocence. "Who, me? I won't do anything bad, honest."

Kurt smirked. "I know you too well now," he replied. "You could have fooled me when we first met at the academy, but can no longer."

"So what do you guys want to do before we go to Diagon Alley?" Eamonn asked.

Kurt could only shrug.

"Chess?" I asked.

*An hour later...*

The trio, along with the Malfoys were now stood around a table. In the centre was an expensive looking vase.

"This is a portakey," Lucius explained. "Once activated it will port us to Diagon alley, however you will only be ported if you're holding it. When you are ready."

Kurt, Eamonn and Draco all reached over and placed a hand on it.

I placed my hand on it...

Lucius placed his hand on it, muttering something. There was a strange feeling that felt like a hook pulling at the navel, but soon they were directly in front of Gringotts, the wizarding bank.

"Welcome to Diagon Alley," Lucius announced.

"Fun place." I commented, looking at all the shops.

"Quite," Lucius said. "Now Draco play nice, Eamonn I'm sure you know your way around here now I'm sure you'll want to show your friends around. I have some importaint business to attend to."

As he wandered into the bank, Eamonn looked at the others. "So guys," he began. "What do you want to do first?"

"First, I'm going to see what the exchange rate is for my money." I said, pulling out some decicreds, enough cash for everything I need, I hoped. "Know where the booth is?"

"Everything comes out of my fathers account and I doubt they'd take whatever currency you use where you come from," Draco said, rather coldly.

"All right, all right." I said. "Let's see...wands first."

"Ollivanders, the only place to get good wands from," Draco told them and headed off in the direction of the wand shop.

"Brat," Kurt muttered under his breath as they went to follow.

Draco hadn't seemingly heard the remark.

"You got it." I added, and headed into the wand shop.

There was a sound from the back of the shop as they entered.

"Ah two strangers, I have been waiting to see you Mr Masaki and Mr Wagner," Mr Ollivander said coming into view. "So who wish to seek theie wand first?"

Kurt looked over at Daniel.

"I will, sir." I said, holding out my right hand.

"Hmm, let's see," Mr Ollivander pondered, going through a few boxes in front of him before handing one to Daniel. "Twelve inches, oak, dragon's heartstring."

I took it, and gave it a wave. Sparks flew strongly. Also, I felt it much as I felt my lightsaber, like it was a part of me. "It's perfect."

"Very, a wand chooses it's owner," the shopowner said before turning to Kurt. "I have just the wand for you, I would be very surprised if it did not take to you Mr Wagner."

Mr Ollivander disappeared into the back of his shop, Kurt waited and a few moments later, he reappeared. Handing Kurt the wand, he stepped back. The prince held it up and there was a bright white light and a battle cry thundered through the room.

"Interesting, that Mr Wagner is made from Donars Oak, fourteen inches and contains a strand of hair from your godfathers beard," Mr Ollivander explained.

"Figures," Kurt replied with a smile.

After that and payment, I decided to get my schoolbooks (Standard Books of Spells, 1-3, 3 required, Transfiguration, Charms, Potions and a couple other classes) and other equipment. I went to the bookstore and bought what I needed, plus a rolling trunk. Next, I aimed for the pet shop.

"Hmm..." I went through the squawking owls, the ribbiting toads, and the cats. I settled on a handsome eagle owl named Lincoln, carrying him out with his cage and How-to-Care-For-Owls kit.

Kurt, Eamonn and Draco left Daniel to his solitary wishes and had gone to their school stuff for the year. Once all was done they went off to a cafe situated near Gringotts bank to wait for him. In the petshop, Kurt had laid eyes on a russian blue cat and had instantly falling for it. The cat was now curled up asleep on his lap.

I came up back near the bank, and spotted the others. "Looks like we're done, then."

"Hey Dan," Kurt greeted as his cat woke up and climbed onto the table. "Like the owl."

"Here come the Zabini's," Draco remarked.

Kurt looked and saw a man with black hair walking towards them, beside him was a black haired boy, who was very likely his son and a very familiar looking blond with them.

"Quatre!" he yelled, leaping from his seat.

"Kurt!" the blond yelled and leapt into the princes arms, kissing him passionatly.

"Eww, guys not in public," Eamonn said, screwing his face up in disgust.

"I thought I'd never see you again," Quatre said, breaking the kiss. "The last two years have been torture."

Kurt pulled him close. "I am never leaving you out of my sight again," he promised.

Yeah, the Force between them is pretty strong. But really, Kurt should find a girl. I wondered if I could hook him up with Hermione...nah, he'd hate to be bookwormed.

I went to the black haired boy. "So, what's your name?"

"Blaise Zabini, and you are?" he then asked.

"Daniel Masaki. Pleased to meet you." Lincoln hooted. "And Lincoln, too."

"So you are one of the new ones then, a friend of Eamonn's I guess," Blaise said, a slight hint of italian was evident in his voice.

"Yeah." I smirked. "Best friend."

Blaise looked over at Eamonn, "Rather strange he is though," he remarked.

Eamonn grinned at him. "You'd probably think everyone from where I come from is weird," he replied.

Kurt rolled his eyes. "So what is the plan now?" he asked.

"Hmm." I said, drinking butterbeer. "I'm out of ideas. How about you guys?"

Eamonn shrugged. "Pretty much done all we've needed here," he said. "Guess we should wait for Mr Malfoy to return."

Draco looked around. "My father should be back soon," he said.

"I myself must be off," Mr Zabini said. "It's been a pleasure to meet you."

I idly leafed through the Standard Book of Spells, going through several hexes that could be useful. I particularly liked Wingardium Leviosa and Accio, two spells that are telekinetic in nature. There were a few curses, and I took note of them too.

"I trust you boys have gotten everything you need," Lucius asked, walking up to them.

"Yes father," Draco nodded.

"Good, pack up your school stuff, we shall be staying at the summer mansion before heading for Kings Cross," he announced.

Kurt lifted his still nameless cat onto his shoulders and picked up his school stuff before heading off with the others.

I took my school stuff with me as I headed back with the others.

The next day, the train was already packed as the four were forced to share a compartment with Draco and Blaise. Kurt could already see that Daniel was far from pleased about the seating arrangement. He also wondered where Crabbe and Goyle were. Outside their compartment, other students were still rushing around trying to find somewhere to sit. His cat, who he still couldn't think of a name for was again lying curled up asleep on his lap, he had one hand wrapped around him to make sure he didn't fall off.

"How long until the train leaves?" he then asked.

"A couple of minutes at least," Quatre replied.

I'm far from pleased with the seating arrangement. I don't want to associate with the git Malfoy is. I wondered where the threesome is. I'd really like to meet them.

"Hey Kurt, I think Shadow would be a nice name for that cat." I said.

The cat raised his head and looked over at Daniel, who would have sworn that the cat smiled at him.

"Looks like he likes the name," Kurt replied. "Shadow, simple name but it does suit him."

"Yeah, it is." I stroked the cat a few times, and idly reached out with the Force, sensing the strong auras each of the kids have. I smiled, as I felt three of the strongest auras a little bit towards the front.

Shadow purred as a guards whistle blew, signalling the train was about to depart.

"So what are you calling your owl?" Kurt asked.

"Lincoln." I said, as he looked around before going back to sleep.

"Oh yeaa, I remember you mentioning his name now," Kurt said.

There was a slight jolt as the train began to pull away. It actually reminded him of the way the ships would jolt as they went into hyperspace. This was a very different mode of transport to what he was used to.

Draco suddenly stood up. "If you'll excuse me I have matters to attend to," he said and left the compartment.

I rolled my eyes. "How long you think it'll be before he's hexed?"

"Two minutes," Blaise said and laughed. "That boy is a glutton for punishment."

"Oh yeah." I laughed. I got up, not wanting to miss the banter of the two enemies.

"Here he goes," Eamonn said, rolling his eyes.

Outside, Draco was talking to Crabbe and Goyle.

In another place, they'd be Rodians... I made my assessment of the two lackeys, and went on, walking down the corridor of the train.

Eamonn left the compartment and followed Daniel down the narrow train corridor, he hoped to make sure his friend didn't do anything stupid.

Not long did I feel the Force flowing around the Gryffindors. I wondered why we never went to Dumbledore first, rather than a clear Darksider like Lucius. Maybe it was a test of how much I could stand living under such prats. I smiled wryly as I started to hear the banter of Harry and Ron. Seems to me they're arguing about that sport...Quiddich, right? Yeah. Brooms are nice, but they're definitely no match for the feel of an X-wing at your fingertips.

Eamonn kept a watch out from a distance, knowing Daniel he was bound to do something stupid.

Inside the compartment, Hermione glanced out into the corridor. "Don't look now but one of Malfoy's new cronies is coming our way," she warned the others.

If you only knew the truth, my dear witch...if you only knew. I just smiled, when I heard Hermione. "Something tells me that you're a bit off there. By the way, I'm Daniel Masaki, transfer student from America. You may or may not know of Eamonn Jarlath here. I'd say he's a better Slytherin than Malfoy, and that's saying alot."

My eyes glanced over the threesome. They lingered at Harry's emerald-green eyes, and I could sympathize with the older boy as I looked at the sadness behind them. Both of us have lost relatives to Dark Lords.

"Oh pull the other one," Ron said, rolling his eyes. "You are all the same now bugger off."

"Ron!" Hermione yelled. She then stood up to face Daniel. "Leave now or I'll be forced to hex you."

Hmm. It's going to take some time to get them to trust me. But woe to Hermione, since I could curse her faster than she could think with my reflexes. "Let's just say, that things are not always as they seem, my friends. You see me as a Slytherin? Fine. But don't think that I am one of Malfoy's idiot lackeys, because I know better than to stand up for a stuck-up git like him. I'd rather be one of you, than a hundred of him, anyway."

"Besides, with the likes of Voldemort brewing trouble, you never know when you'll need an ally." I added, noticing Ron flinch at the name. "No matter the house."

I said it especially for Eamonn, subtly reminding him of his mandate as a Jedi foremost. Then, I left them to contemplate.

"You are being an idiot Daniel," Eamonn told him. "The Norns associated us with the Malfoys and because of that you can't ever be friends with the trio, the Norns will never allow it, you should have realised that by now."

Eamonn shook his head and returned to the 'Slytherin' compartment.

"I don't care about some stupid gods." I muttered. "I only care about what's right, and I will never, ever associate with those who do evil, no matter who else thinks otherwise."

Then I smirked evilly. "Wait till Malfoy hears about my heritage. If that won't do him in, I don't know what will."

Harry Potter wondered about the younger boy Daniel, how he said what he said, like someone who really knows what he's talking about. He certainly doesn't sound like a Malfoy crony. And of all the other students, he seems to be one of the few who believes that Lord Voldemort is back. And there was something funny about him, like he knew more than he let on.

"Y'know, guys, I think you were a little harsh on him." Harry said reprovingly. "At the very least, you could have given him a better reception."

"What about that other bloke he's with? He's clearly Slytherin." Ron said.

"Yeah, but Daniel's not like them." Harry said. "If I didn't know better, I'd think he was a Gryffindor."

"A Gryffindor and Slytherin, friends?" Ron gave his best friend a look.

"Stranger things have happened, Ron, like you and Fleur." Hermione teased.

Ron turned pink. "Oh, and what about you and Vicky, huh?"

"Don't call him Vicky!" Hermione shot back, starting another row with Ron.

When will they ever give it up? Harry sighed.

"Daniel sometimes you just have to play along with it, you can't just expect to go up to them and expect them to take kindly to you because you are associated with Malfoy," Eamonn warned him. "I know I've been here two years already." He then noticed Draco staring at them. Plus they're not real, it's only part of the Norns and from what I gather they're feeding off Kurt's imagination go blame him for them not trusting you.

I gritted my teeth in anger. Fine. But don't expect me to go along with their stupid charade all the time. If they don't like it, tough.

I don't expect you too, Eamonn replied, entering the compartment. First year they hexed me for being a Slytherin, in the books they wouldn't do that, unfortunately this isn't the books and we're stuck with certain characters being somewhat out of character. Do you really think that canon Malfoy's would even let us stay at their mansion?

Kurt looked up briefly as he, Quatre and Blaise were talking quietly to each other.

Oh. I guess I'll have to deal with it, then. And Umbridge, too. Not to mention that I'll have to do a lot of self-studying in order to counterattack Gryffindor and Slytherin attacks (I'm going to have lots of fun hexing my "own" House). Good thing I'm a Jedi. Another good thing is that it'd be good practice for dodging.

Eamonn groaned as he sat back in the seat.

"Another year another DADA teacher, eh Eamonn?" Blaise grinned, seeing the look on his face.

"This is going to be a long year," the young Jedi groaned.

"Yeah." I agreed. I then closed my eyes. Let's see how much I can recall from the books...Stupefy, Petrificus Totalus, Protego, Expelliarmus, Wingardium Leviosa, Lumos, Nox, Furunuclus, Expecto Patronus (better try that one, wonder what my Patronus would be?), The Unforgivables but I won't need 'em, Incendio, Impedimentia...

"Looks like we scared Draco off anyway," Blaise commented.

"Good riddence," Quatre smirked.

"I hope so." I said, murmuring some spells and flicking my wand.

"Getting a head start Dan?" Quatre asked.

"Yeah. Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger wanted to hex me, so I'd best be prepared." I smirked. "When I'm done, there's going to be no one in that school who could best me, except maybe Harry and the professors. And I'm sure I have the edge on Harry in speed."

Blaise burst out laughing. "Your scared of a Weasley hex?" he grinned. "He has a better chance of hexing himself."

"He has a point," Quatre said. "Unless he got a replacement wand."

"Bah. I'm more afraid of jinxing him too much!" I chuckled. "Now 'Mione could be trouble, she's a bright girl and knows spells I probably don't. And Harry, well, you all know who he is, he won't give up without a fight. And of course, there's my #1 target: Malfoy."

"You Daniel are so suitable for Slytherin," Blaise told him. "If you want to hex him, best get him alone and do it in the back so he doesn't know it was you or his father will go apeshit."

"Hmm. Good idea." I said. "Though I'd rather have a duel with him, see his strengths and weaknesses."

Draco soon re-entered the compartment and slumpt down in the remaining empty seat. "Why do they have to be so fucking dense," he swore.

Blaise raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Now what would your father have to say about you using language like that?"

"Blame him," he said pointing at Eamonn, who just smirked back. "He uses language like that all the time."

"What now, Draco?" I asked, while looking up from the latest curse.

"Nevermind, those two buffons... urgh they'd make anyone think Slytherin was full of retards," Draco scowled. "Not a single braincell between them."

"So why do you keep 'em around you?" I was genuinely interested. Why does Draco keep Crabbe and Goyle around?

Draco mockingly looked around the compartment. "Don't see them around now do you?" he coldly told him. "The only thing they're good for is to bash heads."

I smirked. "No doubt."

"Now let's see..." I went back to the curse, which happened to be an ice-based curse.

Draco cracked his knuckles as the English countryside rolled past.

"Worst part of this journey is it takes so long," Eamonn yawned.

"Lemme know when we need to get into our uniforms, then." I said.

"Yeah we kind of noticed you hadn't changed into the school robes like the rest of us had," Draco remarked with a sly grin.

"I will. I will." I said. Maybe I should now.

I went to my trunk and got out my first shirt, pair of pants and tie. Then I put them on (in privacy, of course) and won't bother with my sweater and cloak until later, when it gets cooler in Scotland.

Draco folded his arms. "You do that," he said.

"How long does the journey take?" Kurt asked.

"Hours," Quatre told him. "It's best to find something to do, like Dan."

Now that i looked like your average British schoolboy, my stomach growled a bit. "Heh, snacktime, I guess."

As if on cue, the old witch with the snack trolley trundled past.

"Hey where do you think you're going," Draco yelled, heading for the compartment door. He grabbed a few sweet boxes from the trolley and handed over the money. "Grab what you want."

"mmm. What do we got here?" I asked. I chose a packet of Every Flavor Beans, some chocolate frogs, and a few other snacks.

The others took their turns in grabbing what they wanted and the old witch trundled off to the next compartment. Eamonn lost a chocolate frog through an open window.

"Shit," he swore. "Happens every time."

"Better luck next time," Blaise assured him.

Kurt suddenly spat out the bean he had been eating. "Eww tarmac," he said screwing his face up in disgust.

I scrunitized a yellowish bean. "Hmm. Corn."

Then I ate a squirming chocolate frog, and got a card. "I got Flamel."