Insert text here.Harry called to Frankie, as he bolted out the door. “I'll be back a bit late today. Is my routine going to be ready?” “Yeah, I'm gonna finish it right now. Don't be late, Liu-sifu hates that.” Harry groaned a bit as he jogged along. He'd been so excited last night that he'd had trouble getting to sleep then he'd over slept this morning. He made it to the dojo with about three minutes to spare, he'd decided to just put his sweats on over his gi to save time, besides it was warmer. This winter was shaping up to be one of the coldest in recent memory, February was fading into March with no sign of warmer weather. In fact, it was raining or snowing almost daily (Purps is this right? Or would it just be snowing) As Harry stripped off his sweats he felt someone behind him. He didn't bother to check to see who it was, the shadow on the wall let him know that they had something in their hand and they were raising it over their head. He dropped into a crouch and kicked backwards. He caught Liu-sifu right in the solar plexus. He followed up his kick by darting away from his teacher. He wasn't sure what was up so he was getting away until he knew more. Liu-sifu stood up, holding his stomach and panting slightly. “Very good, you put me down. But why didn't you follow up?” Harry backed up another step. “I'm still not sure whether I'm going to follow up or not. What the hell was that about?” “Another test. You passed. Come here.” Harry eyed his teacher for a moment then walked over to him. “Good. Now, no nonsense, who's trying to kill you? And I don't want any dancing around.” Harry thought for a moment then told Liu-sifu a version of the same story he'd told Frankie and Johnny. His teacher nodded, gazing at him a bit suspiciously. “There's more to this than you're telling me, but you've told me all I need to know. I'll teach you how to defend yourself as best I can. This has gone from lessons in mixed martial arts for arts sake to self defense.” He rubbed his stomach again. “I can tell that you know when to hold back and when not to. Come along.” Harry followed as soon as he got his things stowed away in his locker. . Liu-sifu set Harry to do his meditation first, cautioning him to do a calming one after his surprise attack. Harry calmed himself easily enough and spent the rest of his meditation getting ready for his workout. Obviously the sifu wanted his nerves steady. When he was done he went to stand by the table Liu-sifu had already set out. Harry examined the throwing pins and the dart. He decided that the dart wasn't for him, it was too hard to control. He didn't have time to learn how to use it, he needed some offensive weapons now. “Sefu? I don't think I have time to learn the dart. I'm sorry. I...” “That's fine, Deshi, I'd like you to try to learn the bo, however. I think it will turn out to be useful.” Harry thought about that for a moment. “Ok. If you really think I should, I'll try. I'm ready if you are.” “Very good. Take a handful of the pins and throw them at the target. Never mind aiming right now. All I want you to do is work on form. After you have thrown all the pins, do your first kata. When you're done with that, come back to the table and throw the pins again. You will do that with each kata you know. Then I'll teach you another kata. Ready? Go!” Harry picked up the pins and threw them, one by one, at the target. He obeyed Liu-sifu and didn't really try to aim other than to make sure he hit the target somewhere. He didn't even bother to check exactly where they hit, he just started his kata. Liu-sifu pulled the pins from the target, amazed that Harry had managed as well as he had. He'd gotten all the pins within the eight ring, an amazing accomplishment for someone who'd never thrown a pin before. Liu-sifu was beginning to realize that there was much more to his young deshi than an abused boy. Something which worried him a great deal. Harry picked up the pins again, thought for a moment then applied his Seeker reflexes to the exercise. It made a real difference, the reflexes that helped him catch the Snitch also helped him aim his pins. This time he got half the pins within the nine ring. Liu-sifu was impressed. While Harry did his next kata, Liu-sifu watched him. Harry was learning at an incredible rate, almost as if he was having double sessions every other day instead of single ones. Or else he was just a really quick study. He never thought it might be both. Harry finished his second kata and had to stop for a second to breath, he found Liu-sifu right in his face. “Did I tell you to stop?” Harry shook his head. “Then don't. Keep going! Move it!” Harry picked up the pins and threw them for the third time. He did just as well as he had the second time and hurried to do his third kata. By the time he finished his third and hardest kata he was panting slightly, and did rather poorly in throwing. He got two pins in the seven ring and waited for Liu-sifu to dress him down, instead, he announced that he was very satisfied with Harry's workout, handed him a bottle of water, and told him to sit until he got his breath back. “Well, that is surprising. I didn't expect you to do nearly as well. You only got two pins outside the eight ring. Most impressive. Finish your water, rest a bit more and we'll start on your new kata. You're doing very well on the last one. I'm impressed with your progress, you're very physically coordinated and you don't try to stint on your exercises. You're as good as Frankie was at your age, in fact, I do believe you're a bit better. Come, I'll show you the next kata.” Harry groaned to himself. Every time he learned a new kata, he went home exhausted, and today he was going to begin learning his dance routine. He sighed and set himself to watch as his teacher started the kata. Liu-sifu demonstrated the kata and watched as Harry worked his way through it, it took him three tries to get it correct. He was disgusted with himself and tossed his towel onto the floor with some force. “What is it, my deshi?” Harry rubbed his face. “I'm sorry I'm so stupid. I should have this right by now.” Liu-sifu stopped Harry from pacing by gripping his shoulders. He pulled Harry around to face to face with him and patted his cheek gently. “What makes you say such a thing?” “I ... I should have done better, I shouldn't take this long to get it.” Liu-sifu shook his head and bent to pick up Harry's towel. “You pick up the kata more quickly than anyone I've ever taught. Don't be so hard on yourself. Who ever gave you the idea that you're stupid should be kicked. Multiple times. Now, I want you to finish that water, go home, take a real rest. That means, no reading, no revising, nothing. Eat your lunch. I know you're going to start learning a dance routine today, relax. Frankie is more patient than I am, try to have some fun with it. Ok?” Harry sighed. “Ok. I'll get my chores done, shower and go home to rest. Thanks. Um ... my Uncle always told me I couldn't learn anything, I'm too stupid to live.” Liu-sifu just frowned and shook his head. “Well, he's not only wrong, he's a fool. You're one of the brightest people I've ever taught. Now, scoot.” Harry scooted. He did his chores quickly and grinned, Liu-sifu knew that something was going on, Harry got done with his chores too quickly, but as they were done properly, he didn't say anything. Harry was doing all his chores with elf magic, it made them really easy. He was going to have Dobby teach him more elf magic as soon as he was done learning his routine. He finished folding the last of the clean towels and left, calling to Liu-sifu to let him know he was leaving. . Harry jogged back home, relieved than he'd done well on his new kata. Liu-sifu was always supportive but now Harry knew that his praise was earned not just given. He felt a feeling of calm accomplishment that he'd never had before. He fought hard for every crumb of praise he ever got. Now, here, he was praised and complimented every day and he knew it wasn't just a show, they told him he earned it. He felt he did and grinned all the way home. When he got through the front door, he kicked his shoes off and called out that he was there. Frankie answered him from the office. “Harry! Will you make lunch? I'm in the middle of something. I know it's my turn but I'd really appreciate the time to finish this before we go practice your new routine.” Harry just called back that he'd get right on it. He went into the kitchen and washed his hands then rummaged the fridge to see what there was to fix. He didn't find much and gave up in disgust, he didn't know whose turn it was to shop but they hadn't done it. He never shopped because he wasn't on the household accounts and groceries came out of that. “No food? And what's up with that expression?” Harry snorted in disgust. “No, no food. Whose turn was it to shop? It didn't get done, who ever it was. So, there's nothing to cook. Let's get fish and chips, or Shepherd's pie at the local, ok?” “Ok. And I've got your budget. We could go over it while we eat.” “Great! I really don't want to be a free loader. You need some money to feed me with. I'll get lunch, shall I?” Frankie nodded, ducking his head into his collar to avoid having a draft blow down his neck. “Great. With buckets of tea. It's damn cold, season's clinging on, too.” They made it to the pub and stumbled into the restaurant, half frozen. When they settled at their table and got menus, Harry tossed his on to the table with barely a glance. “I'm having fish and chips, side salad and ... wish I could have a Guinness, but I'll have to settle for tea. And for pudding I'll have ... ummmm ...” He picked the menu back up and studied it for a moment. “Wish there was a fruit pie on offer but there's not so I guess I'll settle for rice pudding.” Frankie just sighed and ordered Chicken Chef's salad and tea. “Bottomless pit, that's what you are. I'm glad to see you enjoy your tucker. Here's the budget, let's go over it while we wait.” Harry leaned over a bit so he could see the paper Frankie produced from his pocket. Frankie explained each entry in the budget and answered all Harry's questions. When he was done he asked Harry to give him a summary, to see if Harry understood the underlying principles. “Ok, let me see. I need to budget at least 10% for savings, half the budget goes for room and board, utilities and all that. Then food and clothing at 15% of the remainder each. Ok? I've forgotten something.” “Not really. I allow for one movie and dinner out a month, but that's up to you. You need to be careful of your spending, try to save extra until you have at least six months expenses in reserve. Questions?” Harry shook his head. “Not really. I may come up with some later. We better get to the club, or we'll be in the way of the dancers rehearsals later. I don't want to piss anyone off by getting special favors. I like getting along with everyone.” So Harry paid the bill and they headed off to the club. . Draco sat in Potions class and wished he was somewhere else, for the first time ever. He loved brewing, he found it soothing, but as the tensions in his house had gotten worse the other Slytherins had started playing tricks on him in his classes. Most classes this didn't bother him too much, but in Potions, it was dangerous in the extreme, as he was well aware. Especially now, in Sixth year. So Professor Snape had changed his lab partners. He was now paired with Hermione Granger and Ronald Weasley. Granger was tolerable as she was diligent and intelligent, but Weasley was ... annoying. He fiddled and grumbled his way through brewing as if it was the greatest trial on earth. He supposed it was to someone whose whole purpose in Potions was to get through it and never brew again. Hermione tossed her hair over her shoulder and snarled, “This just sucks. Something's wrong with the potion. It's the wrong color and I don't think the consistency is right either.” Draco looked over her shoulder. “It's not. But what could have gone wrong?” A sneering voice from behind them made all three of them jump. “Oh, I don't know. Perhaps the addition of a human hair.” Snape pointed at Hermione. “Pray tie that mess back. I've politely ignored it for the last five years but now ... it is beyond my comprehension how you can work with that mess in your face ... and your potions. Do not come into class without your hair tied back again.” Draco picked up a stirring rod and fished in the potion for a moment, he extracted a very long wavy hair. “Definitely yours Granger. I really would tie it back if I were you. Professor Snape is not in a good mood lately. I wouldn't push my luck. He'll give you a detention with Filch if you're not careful.” Ron glanced at Snape, then shook his head. “Yeah, he will. And I've been hearing some things I don't like about his detentions. He got really rough with that Hufflepuff last week. Someone said he actually caned him.” Draco snorted. “Did you hear what he did?” Both his partners shook their heads. “He pushed a firsty into a flat of juvenile strangle vine. Professor Sprout (she is the Herbology Proffessor) almost didn't get him out before they choked him to death.” Ron just grunted. Hermione looked horrified and spent the rest of the class period alternately trying to rescue their potion and questioning Longbottom about the plant. Draco decided that it was going to be a long two months till the end of term. He actually sulked through the rest of the class. . Harry watched Frankie as he worked his way through the dance routine he'd choreographed for Harry. It was sexy and demanding. Harry wondered what kind of music he was going to have. The whole process was fascinating to him. He was also a bit concerned about his costume. He didn't think the patrons of the club would understand the normal belly dancing costumes, and as a rakka he wasn't really entitled to wear the costume he liked. He bit at his lip for a bit while he tried to decide what he really wanted to do about a costume. Frankie finished his demonstration and walked over to Harry. “What do you think?” Harry grinned. “I really like it. What kind of music were you thinking of? And what about a costume? I don't think most of the patrons here want to see me in the same sort of stuff Kalil wears. I'm trying to come up with something but ... we really need a theme. I feel more comfortable with one. So ... any ideas?” Frankie shook his head. “Not really. Why don't you think about it for a while? There's no real rush, it'll take us at least two weeks to get this thing worked up.” Harry sighed but nodded. “Ok. I'll be tending bar tonight?” “Yeah. Early shift only.” “So, what do I do for second shift?” Frankie gave Harry a sympathetic look and said, a bit flatly, “Door.” Harry sighed, made a face and resigned himself to it. . Dobby popped into Harry's bed room, wringing his hands. “Oh, Master Harry Potter Sir, Dobby is sorry. He cannot get Harry the potions he asked for. Snape has put alarms on the potions cabinets. He is noticing that potions are missing.” Harry blinked at Dobby for a moment then knelt down to grasp him by the shoulders. “Dobby, hush, be quiet. Frankie and Johnny are both home. You know you're supposed to come to the door.” Dobby gulped, nodded and popped out again. He knocked on the door, opened it and slipped in. “Dobby is here.” Frankie just looked up from his newspaper then nodded his head in the direction of Harry's room. Dobby hurried to the door and slipped in. “Now, calm down and tell me what's going on. And don't scare me like that again.” Dobby yanked at his ears then started to slap himself. Harry grabbed his hands and snapped, “Stop it! Right now! I don't have the patience to deal with this shit. I'm not mad at you, I just want to know what has you so upset.” Dobby blinked at Harry for a moment then opened his mouth to wail. Harry clamped a hand over his mouth. “Quietly. Frankie and Johnny don't need to hear you.” “Yes, Sir. Dobby is sorry. Dobby is very upset that he can't get Master Harry Potter Sir his potions. If he tries, he is getting in very much trouble with Professor Snape. Dobby is stealing!” Dobby bogged his eyes and lowered his voice. It would have been funny if Dobby hadn't been so upset. Harry nodded his head. “Ok, I see. Dobby, if you did your very best, that's all I can ask of you. Don't hurt yourself, I don't like it. Now, calm down. Go make us some tea, ok?” Dobby dried his eyes on a tissue Harry handed him, then blew his nose with a great honk. He started to hand the tissue back to Harry, but Harry just held out the waste basket from under his desk. Dobby's ears started to droop again, but Harry reached out and tweaked one gently. Dobby perked up, smiled a bit and went to the kitchen. When he came back with the tray he opened his mouth to apologize again. Harry held up his hand. “No, Dobby, no more apologizing. I'm sorry I snapped at you, but you scared me half to death. I thought something really horrible happened. Play Mother, will you?” Dobby blinked once then put the tray down on a small table he conjured. He poured the tea, added appropriate measures of sugar and milk then handed Harry the plate of cookies. “Biscuit?” Harry just said, “Please.” They sipped tea and nibbled on cookies for a bit. Finally Dobby glanced at Harry out of the corner of his eye. “Can Dobby ask something?” “Sure.” “If ... When Dobby failed his old master, he was punished most vigorously.” Harry cut him off with a sigh. “Dobby, you're a free person. I don't have the right to punish you.  Neither did Malfoy really. If you did the best you could, that's all I can ask. And Malfoy is an ass.” Dobby nodded, ears flopping. “He is not nice. But he is as he was raised to be. He does not know better. He loves his family, but no others. He ... Dobby thinks he is not very happy.” Harry grimaced. “Never mind him. Teach me something. Teach me to make food.” Dobby looked puzzled. “Master Harry Potter already knows how to cook. Does he mean teach him a recipe?” “No, teach me how to conjure food. Or transfigure it.” Dobby started to tug on one ear. Harry reached out and grabbed his hand. “Dobby, I wasn't kidding about this. If you insist on abusing yourself, you'll have to leave. I won't sit here and watch you. Talk to me.” “Dobby is again letting the kind, wonderful, powerful Harry Potter Sir down.” Harry rolled his eyes. The more upset Dobby got the more he reverted to his old ways. “How? All I asked is for you to teach me some elf magic.” “Is not possible to do what Harry Potter asks. Food is not conjured. It is ... conjured food looks, smells and tastes like real food but it is not. There is no good in it.” Harry thought about that for a moment then asked, “No good in it? I don't understand, what good?” “The things ... Dobby doesn't know what to call them. Nourishment ... there is none in conjured food, nor transfigured food ... unless one food is conjured into another. Like porridge into eggs. This can be done but the food will have the nutrition of porridge not eggs. See?” Harry nodded. “Makes sense. Well, teach me something else.” So Dobby taught Harry a few spells to check for hexes, charms and spells on objects. Harry finally bid him good-night at about 10 p.m. He went to bed, secure in the knowledge that Dobby finally understood what Harry expected of his friend. Dobby's gentle, “Good-night, Harry friend, sleep well.” had assured him of that. . Harry worked at the bar, on the door and on his routine for the next week. He also worked out with Liu-sifu, who seemed determined to see that Harry was ready to defend himself from any physical attack he could imagine. Harry was exhausted, and exhilarated. He had friends who cared for him, non-magical and ignorant of the war raging around him. He pulled himself out of his reverie just in time to avoid a reprimand from Frankie for not paying attention. “Yeah, I'm still trying to come up with a theme for the dance. I feel like something's missing, but I can't figure out what.” Frankie flopped, gracefully, which made Harry snarl a bit, onto the floor. “I know. I think something's missing too. It's really bugging me. The routine is good, but not great, and that's what I want for you. Greatness.” Harry sighed. “Thanks. I'd really like to make you proud of me. I like the routine, but it seems ... off balance ... somehow. And that sounds silly. Do you know what I mean?” Frankie fiddled with a lock of hair for a moment. “Yes, I know exactly what you mean. If I don't figure it out soon, I'll go crazy.” “Er.” Harry ducked Frankie's half-hearted swat. He grinned at Frankie then got a far away look in his eyes. “I think I just got an idea. I need to go talk to ... what's the costume guy's name? I've seen him around but you said that we'd wait until later to deal with the costume, when we had a hook. I think I've got the hook, if I can get the type of costume I want.” Frankie clapped his hands. “Oh! Tell, tell. I'm dying of suspense.” Harry grinned. “Nope. Not telling. I want it to be a surprise. Ok?” “Ok, evil boy.” Frankie pouted a bit then smiled. Harry seemed so excited by his idea that Frankie didn't have the heart to even tease him, instead he wandered off to molest Johnny. Harry realized, after he walked off, that Frankie hadn't told him the man's name. He shrugged, he'd ask one of the other guys. He wandered into the dressing room, in search of the costumer or information on where he was. He found a 'hen party' instead. He interrupted without compunction, no one would mind. “Hi, guys. I need some help here. What's the name of the costume guy and where can I find him.” Harry plopped down in one of the barber shop style chairs near the mirrors and sighed. He was still sweating slightly from his last practice session “Here, have some water. His name is Colin, he's me. What do you need?” A tall, slender man handed Harry a bottle of water and grinned at him. Harry grimaced. “Why is everyone always handing me water? What about a nice cuppa or a soda, or even an ale?” Everyone laughed, hooted or snickered. They all carried water around as a matter of course, their activity levels made them all sweat so dehydration was a real concern. Harry was so bad at taking care of himself that they always assumed that he hadn't drunk enough. “Shut it. Or don't. What do you need?” “A costume. I have an idea for the theme of my routine but it won't work if I can't find the right costume. Even then, I'm not sure the routine is right yet. Something ... I'm not sure what.” Colin just shrugged. “Let's find you the perfect costume first, maybe that'll give you more ideas. So .... come on.” Harry followed Colin into the costume room and frankly gawked. The room was full of all sorts of things. Costumes from not much more than a butt plug and a bit of leather to full body suits of latex. Harry shuddered at some of the things and had to hide a snicker for others. He was sure that Colin and he could find something. He just wished he had a real idea what he wanted. “See anything?” Harry sighed, “I think I need a drink.” Colin snickered and suggested that they get a fountain soda from the bar. “Ok, sounds good.” As they walked through the main bar Harry was started to hear Johnny talking to someone. He walked closer to check to see if he was alright, he sounded upset. “Look, man, I'm really sorry. We don't need a second dancer, and you're just too big. I'd really like to help you out.” “That's ok. I just thought I'd give it a look in. I'd really like to work here. A little lighting trick and I don't look quite so big.” The deep voice made Harry shiver. He got close enough to look, he nearly fell over. The man was huge! How could this giant, or extra large human, be a dancer? Then his vague ideas jelled with a nearly audible click. “Johnny! Please, let him dance. I think ... I've been looking for something and, if he can really dance, he might be part of it.” Johnny looked relieved, he really hated turning people in need away. “Ok.” He turned to the huge man and said. “Well, Mac, looks like you lucked out. Go, dance.” So Mac stepped up on the stage and danced. Harry was delighted to see that he was very good. He pulled on Johnny's sleeve. “Johnny, if you think he's good enough, hire him. Please?” So Johnny called Mac down from the stage and told him he had a job if he worked out with Harry. Harry looked up, and up, the man was nearly as tall as Hagrid. Harry got a really good look at him, he was very black, very tall, muscular and exactly what Harry had in mind. “You'll do great. I have to get my costume, you'll need one too. So ... we better get going. Colin will be waiting on us ... me.” Mac looked down at Harry, a small smile on his face. “I know Colin, he's good. What did you have in mind?” Harry shrugged. “Not really sure. I think ... I'll know it when I see it.” “Well, then, let's go see what there is.” Harry led the way back to the costume room. . Lucius Malfoy read the reports from the Gringotts Goblins and snarled softly. It was costing a rather large fortune to put Potter Hall back into good heart. As Harry's guardian, it was his duty to see that all his properties were properly taken care of. He was just glad he'd managed to stop ten's of thousands of Galleons from just disappearing. The goblins were still trying to figure out where some of them had gone.  I've never heard of something being put into good heart, but that could just be me, so ignore if this is right. He signed several parchments, added totals and nodded in satisfaction. It was pleasing to see that, while the repairs were costly, the renewed income was more than taking care of it. And Harry's interest was increasing nicely as well. All in all, Lucius felt that he was more than upholding his duties as guardian. Now, if he could just find the annoying little git. Draco had come home the last Hogwarts weekend with horror stories from some of the muggle raised students. Stories that had made even him shudder in disgust. Children as young as 12 and 13 living in boxes in alley ways, eating out of garbage? What were muggles thinking? He completely discounted the rest of the report. . Dumbledore nearly glared at his potions professor, Severus was being unusually uncooperative. He refused to search for Harry Potter anymore, not unless Dumbledore came up with some sort of clue as to where to search. He was tired of tramping around London, if Potter was even still in that city. In fact, Dumbledore was finding Snape uncooperative in several ways. It never occurred to him that his erstwhile spy was just worn out, between serving Voldemort, and Dumbledore; teaching and being head of house, as well as responsible for brewing every potion for the infirmary, Snape had had his hands more that full for over five years now. And before that, he'd kept an eye on Death Eaters, at Dumbledore's insistence, which meant that he'd been involved in things he found repugnant, or at least boring in the extreme. It was no wonder he was feeling uncooperative, annoyed and exhausted. And it did absolutely nothing to ameliorate his acerbic temper. Dumbledore dragged his attention back to Professor Snape's remarks. “I don't feel that I need to continue the search. I have given up. That boy has managed to hide himself from every single thing I've tried. If you can come up with something ... anything, I'll be glad to try again. But not until you have concrete proof that you have located the area he's in. Now, I want to speak to you about Professor Binns. Every single one of my House is complaining about him. He never teaches anything useful. He never gets past the Goblin wars and he gets most ... no, all his facts wrong. He's continuing a ...” Dumbledore interrupted, “Yes, yes, I've looked into it. Next year, I'll see about getting someone a little more in tune with the times. Shall I replace Sybil Trelawney as well?” Snape snorted. “You know you won't, nor would I want you to. I know as well as you do that she's no where else to go. Binns, on the other hand, will continue to haunt the class room. To no one's detriment. Excuse me. I'll be leaving, as I can see that you're in a snit.” Snape swept out the door, snarling at the gargoyle as he went. The damn thing had made him waste ten minutes guessing sweets before it let him in. he swore that it changed the password itself, just to annoy. He returned to his chambers, took another nerve repairing potion and settled in his comfortable chair. He ached all over. . Frankie worked with Harry and Mac all the next week, teaching them the moves he's choreographed. When he'd seen Mac and heard Harry's idea, he'd jumped on the idea with cries of glee. It hadn't taken him long to incorporate Harry's idea into the routine. So, now all they had to do was pick some music. Harry and Mac had been practicing to Frankie's count but they needed music now that they had all the steps learned perfectly. Frankie played music until he was ready to scream, but he, Harry and Mac agreed that they hadn't found the perfect song yet. However, Harry had listened to and loved, Heather Alexander, Tom Smith and Tempest. He was settled in, listening to techno just for a break. He'd know it when he heard it. He'd always relied on his 'gut' instincts and they hadn't let him down yet. He straightened up suddenly, this was the song. He glanced at the CD player to get the track number then he called Frankie. “Power Soul by Genetic Cystimmes. It's the one. You come listen to it.” Frankie laughed, trust Harry to pick something like that to dance to. The challenge was huge, but he could already see it. He just hoped Harry's costume lived up to the rest. Harry wouldn't let anyone see it. “well, that's really different. I like it, it works well with the dance.” Frankie turned to Harry just in time to see him run his fingers through his bangs, they were in his eyes again. “You need another hair cut. You want to keep the length? I think you should, it looks really good on you. But it's your hair.” Harry grinned at Frankie, his way of making suggestions was so backhanded. “I think I'd like to keep the back long. But this fringe is just too much. It's in my eyes and sticks to my forehead when I sweat. Maybe I could get it feathered.” “Sounds good. I'll see if Mikey won't do it.: Frankie headed toward the dressing room, pulling Harry by one hand. “That'd be brilliant. He's good, why doesn't he work in a barber or beauty shop?” “Don't know. I've never bothered to ask him. He works out so well in the back rooms, he's just great.” Frankie stuck his head into the room. “Mikey! Where are you, you slut?” Frankie's tone of voice belied the insult. “Here, what's the panic?” Mikey peeked over the top of a mirror. “Oh, hell no! Harry you are not leaving this room looking like that. Not if you're dancing this weekend. That hair has to be ... trimmed, at least. And feathered fringe would look great. Long in back?” Harry got the giggles and Frankie roared. Mikey gave them an exasperated look and demanded, “What? What's so funny?” “Frankie and I just said exactly the same thing just a second ago. Can you cut it. And I want to talk to you about some stage makeup. Frankie, go away, you've got something you're supposed to be doing. Shoo!” Harry flapped a hand at Frankie, who snickered a bit and went. He did have things he was supposed to be doing. Mikey dragged Harry to his barber chair and pushed him into it. “Ok, fringe, trim the ends. And  ... Makeup! Yes!” Harry laughed at Mikey's dramatics then settled back to let him cut. Mikey cut Harry's bangs into a fluffy, feathered look that partially tamed the messy look and trimmed the back even. It was now long enough to fit into a clip. Harry picked one from a box Mikey handed him and Mikey showed him how to get all the hair into it and fasten it properly. “thanks. Looks good, you think it'll stay while I'm dancing?” “Sure, pet, I'll show you a trick with a bit of gel and a pin. You couldn't lose it if you tried. Now. Show me your costume.” “Can't, it's a secret, all I'll say is it's black and sliver, but I don't want shiny on my face. Ok?” Mikey grinned, he'd been hearing about Harry's secrecy for the last week. He was as intrigued as everyone else, but he was going to get a peek, Colin was his best friend so he was sure of that. All he wanted was enough of a clue so that he didn't do Harry's makeup wrong. So he just patted Harry's shoulder and said, “Ok, I'll just go get my big case. Won't be but a sec. Relax a bit.” Mikey slipped out of the room, snickering as he saw Harry pull a paperback out of his pocket and begin to read. That would keep him occupied until Mikey had his little talk with Colin and saw the costume. He knocked on the door to Colin's domain and got his peek, and that's all he got. Colin just shook his head and opened the box enough that Mikey knew it was black leather and a lot of chain. Harry looked up from his book when Mikey came back into the room. “Did you get an idea what to do?” “Yeah. Colin is evil. He wouldn't do more than let me have a peek. Black leather and silver chain ... but you don't want shine on your face. I can deal. Hummm.” Harry just kept looking at Mikey, letting him think about what he wanted to do. Mikey finally reached out and wiped Harry's eyeliner off, Harry had worn it every day since he'd first tried it.  “Love, if you weren't such a nice guy, I'd hate you. You have the most beautiful eyes in the world. So green. Mmmmm. ... Forest green liner, a bit of leaf green shadow and ... you'll need lip gloss, dark apricot, I think. And, you'll hate this, but you have to wear some blusher. If you don't, you're face will look dead. The lights wash you out like nothing else. So ... I'll fuss, you approve or don't. If you really don't like it, we'll try until you do. But we'll move over to this mirror. The lights around it will give us a good idea what you'll look like on stage. Then, when we think we've got it, we'll go on stage and check it out.” Harry sat and let Mikey fuss until he thought he'd petrify. It seemed to take forever. Mikey wiped the whole thing off twice, muttering sourly. Finally, he turned Harry around and let him look. Harry almost didn't recognize himself. He looked almost fey, his eyeliner emphasized the slant of his eyes until they looked almost Oriental and the blusher made his cheekbones stand out. The eyeshadow made the green of his eyes blaze. Harry was more than satisfied. “Mikey, you're brilliant. This is great, I look ... wow! You're a prince among makeup artists. Or a princess.” Mikey just grinned. “I'll get you new containers of everything. And a little bag. You'll have to learn how to do it yourself, you know. Come on now, we'll go check it out on stage.” they went on stage and had one of the crewmen turn a spot on Harry. The cat calls and whistles from the cleaning crew and lounging dancers and back-room boys let them know that the makeup was more than successful. Harry had to grin a bit. Who'd ever have thought that someone would be whistling their approval of him. Frankie and Johnny, standing at the back of the room, smiled at each other, Harry was going to be the highest paid dancer ever. They hated to wait until Friday but Harry, and Mac, had insisted. . A huge black man walked onto the stage, glanced into a dark corner and nodded. Another man came out with a glittering silver chain and handed it to him. He pulled on it and a cloaked figure stepped into a small spot light. The figure stood for a moment then the music started. One hand emerged from the cloak, a chain attached to the steel bracelet around the wrist disappeared back into it. The other hand emerged and formed a cup. A quick shake made the chain jingle. The hands turned from left palm up, right palm down to the other way around, making the chain jingle even more.  This maneuver was repeated once more. A few steps took the cloaked figure to the big man, again, chains jingled. As the whole room stared, Harry Potter and Mac Gilford danced. Harry held out his hands in a pleading gesture and Mac folded his arms over his chest and shook his head. “We have such sights to show you!” The voice was deep and a bit creepy but it made an impression no one would forget. Mac eased behind Harry and reached around his neck to unfasten the cloak. He pulled it off and tossed it away.  Harry raised his arms over his head, rattling the chains. Mac touched the cuffs, releasing the chain to fall onto the floor and be kicked away with a flick of Harry's foot. The chain between his ankles followed as he stamped his feet in time to the music. The dance quickly became much more sensual as Harry moved across the stage in a series of hip kicks and quick steps. His arms move in a sinuous wave like motion as he appealed to his 'master'. Mac kept the leash loose but high, shining in a spot. Harry orbited around Mac once then stood in front of him, shimming to make his costume glitter, belly rolls made everything flash. The audience gasped in delight. Mac made a motion and Harry began a series of spins that proved his Chalwar, or trousers, weren't made of brocade, they were made of lengths of chains, attached to his belt and knee bands in such away they looked like 'harem' pants. His short vest was made of the same chain, attached to his collar and a band around his chest, cut to length to make the shape. The glittered in the spot light and cast sparkles all over the stage. Mac reeled Harry in and caught him by one arm, Harry pulled away and kicked backwards. His Rothrock kick didn't connect with anything, it wasn't intended to, but Mac caught that ankle and Harry used the leverage to spin in place in his grip. He flipped out of the hold and into a forward flip that sent him to the end of the chain. Mac pulled on the chain and Harry sent a wave from heels to head and on up his arms, ending with a hip kick. Mac moved to Harry stamping in time to the music. He reached out and stroked Harry's cheek, his huge black hand a vivid contrast against the whiteness of Harry's skin. The audience moaned. The beat of the music sent the crowd into a tumult, which Harry and Mac whipped into frenzy. Harry pressed his palms together in a pleading gesture, all the while continuing to stamp his feet in time to the music. Mac gathered Harry's hands in his and tugged gently, pulling Harry against his chest. Harry squirmed, wriggling from Mac's hold. He danced away then back again as Mac dropped the leash and held out one hand in a pleading gesture of his own. Harry tossed his head but glanced over his shoulder, eyes flashing. Mac jerked his head, his gesture unmistakable. Harry refused his command in gestures unmistakable and powerful. There was nothing weak or womanish in his movements. Mac's moves asked Harry to be calm, Harry's replies were unhappy refusals. Mac and Harry battled for compromise, all to the heavy techno beat. Mac pulled Harry to him one last time. He stroked his hands down Harry's arms, softly begging him to relax. Harry undulated against him in a reverse Camel roll that had everyone gasping softly. Finally the climax came with Harry leaning against Mac, softly content in his grasp. The contrast of Harry's slender body leaning against Mac's bulk was dramatic and the sudden drop of the curtains emphasized the last notes of the music. The applause was deafening. Harry and Mac stepped out from behind the curtain and took their bows. They picked up the money that was thrown onto the stage, bowed again and disappeared behind the curtain again. . “Man, I don't believe it. I thought they were going to climb right up on the stage with us.” Mac laughed, his deep voice rumbling gently. “Me too. And remind me to stay on the right side of you. I've never seen a Rothrock so well done. You'd have kicked me in the head, if you'd wanted to.” Harry laughed, wiped his face with a towel and shrugged it off. “It's easy. I'm just really flexible. How much money did we get?” Frankie was counting their tips on a nearby table and looked up to say, “Fifty pounds so far. Nothing smaller than a fiver, of course, no one in their right mind throws a pound coin. Not if they want to get noticed. Oh! Here's a twenty ... and two tens. And ... hmmm.” Frankie grumbled off happily as he continued to count. “We split even Steven, right?” Harry poked Mac in the side. Mac laughed again. “Don't see why. All I do is stamp my feet, posture a bit and let you lean on me.” “Yeah, and without that, the act wouldn't work at all. Um, help me get this collar off will you? The buckle is really stiff.” Mac obligingly unbuckled the strap and pulled the collar from around Harry's throat. “This thing is custom made, you should have had them make it softer.” Harry shook his head. “Colin explained that, because of all the spinning I do, he had it made double thickness, to protect my neck. One layer revolves inside the other. No friction.” Mac examined the rig, nodded then handed it to Colin. Colin also helped Harry out of the rest of his costume, handed him a kimono, took Mac's things and left. Mac picked up the robe laid out for him and shook his head. “They really treat you right here. I like it.” Frankie let out an exclamation. “Well, smack my ass and call me Myrtle.” Harry swatted him as near his ass as he could reach while Mac called out 'Myrtle!' Frankie gave them the required disgusted look, then waved a handful of bills. “Over a hundred pounds. You two are going to be the new top act within a week.” Harry grinned. “That's great.” Mac just smiled at Frankie. Harry's self-effacing ways had made him a favorite of the big man. “I'm bushed. Frankie? You think it would be ok if I snuck into the lounge and took a nap? I know I'm supposed to be in the bar, but I really am tired.” No one could figure out how Harry had gotten the idea that he was still going to tend bar, even Waldo himself had told him he wouldn't. But Harry insisted that he take second shift at the bar. Johnny had told Frankie that he'd nip that silliness in the bud, but hadn't succeeded. Harry flopped down on a couch in the lounge and tried to relax. He knew he should get to the bar and help Waldo, but all he really wanted to do was relax for a few minutes. The last few days had been hectic. Dobby had taught him several spells that he had practiced until he got them down pat. He'd also had classes with Liu-sifu that seemed to go on forever, leaving him wrung out like a rag. Then cleaning the dojo, coming home to clean some more, on to the club for more practicing, this time his dance routine. Now, all he wanted to do was rest a bit before he got up to rush around even more. He fell asleep instead. . Harry woke up about an hour later. Johnny grinned at him and announced, “I hate to wake you, but Philip called in sick. Can you take another set? That's the good news. The bad news is, Mac went home, his daughter is sick. So it'll have to be a solo.” Harry rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and shrugged. “That's one of the things Kalil told me to be ready for. Emergencies. I can do a solo. I just need music and not my techno. Something traditional. I can be ready in about ... fifteen minutes. That do?” Johnny nodded. “Great. You'll need a different costume too. Colin had an idea you might want a traditional costume so he has two. Go get into one. We'll be ready when you are. I'll give you a few bars of the music as soon as we get it. Just so you'll know what you have.” Harry didn't know it, but this was the beginning of the end to his stay with Frankie and Johnny. Colin had a nice traditional costume for Harry, two actually, one in purple with silver spangles and one in deep green with gold. Harry opted for the purple as it had a short vest. He pulled on the tight under trousers of solid purple then the flowing, gauze over skirt, with tiny gold tassels scattered over it. Then he tied the coin trimmed gold scarf around his hips. “My, my, don't you look great? You ought to get a piercing. Maybe your belly button?” Harry frowned at Colin. “Don't know as I'd like that. If I did though, I think I'll do a nipple. Get something very tasteful with a little teardrop jewel. “ Harry took the vest and let Colin help him slip it on. He never noticed Colin's wince. “Thanks. How do I look?” “I told you you look great. Silly boy. I know a guy who does piercing and tattoos. I don't think you want a tat do you?” Harry, thinking of the Dark Mark, shook his head. “Never. Ugh. Just not my style. And, speaking of tats. How did ... um ... Name won't come. You know. I gave him some stuff.” “Yeah. That kid that wanted to dance. The one working second show only. On the door first. He's gotten ride of it completely. He gave the rest of that cream to his friend but it didn't work on him. Wonder why?” Harry knew why but said, “Couldn't tell you. Stuff like that sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. Too bad for his friend.” Harry headed for the door. “I better get out there and see what noise they picked for me to dance to.” He grinned, waved and headed for the back stage to listen to his music and try to come up with something. Harry listened to the music that Frankie had picked. It was a traditional Egyptian tune and one that Kalil had used to demonstrate. He knew exactly what to do, each phrase of the tune had been used to practice a different move. He'd just adjust the changes a bit to smooth the transition from one movement to another, when they'd been practicing, Kalil had just stopped the music and gone on. Harry nodded his head a bit to the music as he thought out his performance. Frankie eyed him proudly, smiling at Johnny to let him know that everything would work out. Harry waited in the back stage area for his turn to dance. Other dancers ebbed and flowed around him, like waves on a beach, he felt just a bit disconnected for a moment then pulled his attention back to the moment. “And back for his second, and solo, performance of the evening, Aziz! Let's give the man a welcome hand.” Harry blinked, 'Aziz?' what the hell was that? He just shrugged and got down to business. He danced like Kalil had shown him, using the power of his body to entertain his audience. His spins, shimmies and hip kicks showed his sensuous masculinity. He smiled at the spectators, including them in his secret enjoyment of just moving his body. He ended with a power spin that kept his skirts horizontal to the floor for 8 bars. The audience went wild, money flew up onto the stage. Harry bowed, the curtain dropped. When the curtain went back up, Harry bowed again then collected his tips. No one tried to touch him after the first man got a laughing shake of Harry's head and a pointing finger, followed by a soft but carrying, 'Nah, nah, nah' in a singsong ages old. No one really noticed the man in the back, armed with a small video camera. . Draco settled in his favorite chair in the Library. It was in the back of the library, on the opposite side from his fathers desk, close enough that they felt together but far enough apart that they didn't bother each other. He could ask his father for help and Lucius could do his work. He could also over hear things. What he was hearing now was a bit on the creepy side. His father was speaking with a muggle detective about finding Harry. “I've looked everywhere, again. He's just not showing up on the radar. I've got flyers out and pictures. You really did a good job on that drawing.” “Draco did it. He's a decent sketch artist, when he applies himself.” Draco smirked to himself, it wasn't that often that Lucius praised him so directly. “Keep your ear to the ground. I'll pay whatever it takes.” “Ok, man, it's your dosh. Sooner or later I'll get a smell of him, then he's mine.” The detective got up and nodded to Lucius. “You might what to make sure that young Draco isn't in the room when you discuss some thing's, ya know?” Lucius stood to walk the man to the door. “I do. I'm always very aware of exactly where he is. Draco?” Draco stood, putting his book on the side table. “Yes, sir?” “Has Weasley had any contact with Harry? Or Granger?” “No, sir. And they would tell me. We're not exactly friends, but I've managed to assuage their suspicions. We actually get along rather well. And Longbottom ... he's a lot smarter than he looks, by the way. He hasn't heard from Harry either. I'm sorry.” Lucius just nodded. “That is alright, you just keep befriending them. That's all I can ask. And, good-night to you Mr. McGowan.” The detective knew a dismissal when he heard it. He left to go see his friend who was raving about the new dancer at his favorite club. ~<O>~ Yes, Harry wore a skirt to dance in. Many male dancers wear a 'skirt' for the dramatic flare of material when they do spins. Think of a Dervish style outfit. If you think all male belly dancers are female impersonators, you're very wrong. Some of them are very masculine and dance like it. Here's some links to videos of the real thing. Enjoy. http://www.fameorfamine.com/2007/09/10/tarik-sultan-male-belly-dancer-extraordinaire/ http://elektras-video-pic-of-the-week.blogspot.com/2007/07/egyptian-male-dance-king-tito.html I actually found these videos after I wrote my dance scene, but this is what I had in mind. (sort of) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wSeMkhlEe4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=620s1euSDMQ&feature=related https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9TVeXWqsAw&feature=related

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