Chapter 2
Samantha sat in a Caffee in London, her eyes scanning the crowd. Diego sat beside her. Samantha had left Harry with Olivia, trusting her to keep him safe while she dealt with this mysterious Albus Dumbledore. Diego, who had been visiting family on Terra, had insisted on joining her, claiming he couldn't let his honorary nephew and a future Ravager be in trouble.
The two Ravagers drew curious glances from the other patrons, their armor marking them as outsiders in this peaceful setting. Samantha's hand rested on her Stardust Revolver, her senses on high alert. Diego's eyes were sharp, scanning the room for any potential threats.
Their tension heightened when an old man with a long white beard approached their table. "Are you Samantha Collins, Harry's mother?" he asked, his voice calm and measured.
Samantha tensed, her eyes narrowing. "Are you Albus Dumbledore?" she demanded.
The man nodded. "I am."
Diego's eyes flicked to Samantha, silently asking if she wanted him to pull his shotgun out now. Samantha gave a slight shake of her head, signaling him to hold off. "What do you want with my ten-year-old son?" she demanded, her voice cold and hard.
Diego sneered, his hand hovering near his weapon. "An old man wanting to talk about a ten-year-old isn't a good look at all."
To their shock, the man took out a stick and muttered something under his breath. A buzzing sound filled their ears as he conjured a chair out of midair and sat down. "I am Albus Dumbledore, Supreme Mugwump of the Thaumarian Confederation."
"And what exactly is a Thaumarian? Never heard of them, and I've been all over Terran Territories," Diego growled.
"We are what you Terrans would call 'Witches and Wizards.' We come from a planet called Cillutera," Dumbledore explained.
"Are you claiming you're an alien? You look just like a Terran," Samantha scoffed, her hand tightening on her revolver. "Everyone knows that aliens aren't out there."
"The galaxy used to be full of alien species living together, until the Great War over 3000 years ago," Dumbledore continued. "No one knows how it started or which species started it. All we know is that it lasted over 1000 years and wiped out every spacefaring race in the galaxy, except for us."
Samantha's eyes narrowed further. "And what does this have to do with Harry?"
"Harry is half Terran and half Thaumarian. His mother was the result of an affair between a Thaumarian and a Terran, while his father was a full-blooded Thaumarian."
Samantha's eyes widened in shock. "Are you saying my son isn't fully human?"
Dumbledore nodded. "1500 years ago, the Thaumarians stumbled upon Earth, looking for any other races that had survived the Great War. Since we looked like your species we integrated into your society over the millennia, producing Terran-Thaumarian hybrids while silently boosting your species into the space age they are in now."
Diego scoffed, his skepticism evident. "Now you're pulling our leg. You want us to believe alien space wizards have been among us for millennia, and uplifted our species silently over time?"
"I understand your disbelief, but it is the truth. I am here to help him understand and control these abilities, to ensure he is safe and can fulfill his potential."
Samantha's protective instincts flared. "And why should I trust you?"
Dumbledore's expression softened. "Because I have no intention of harming Harry."
Diego's eyes never left Dumbledore; his hand still ready to draw his weapon. "If you try anything, old man, you'll regret it."
Dumbledore nodded. "I understand your caution. But I assure you, my intentions are only to help Harry."
Samantha took a deep breath, she had always known Harry was special, but this was beyond anything she had imagined. She glanced at Diego, who gave her a slight nod.
"Alright, Dumbledore," Samantha said, her voice firm. "We'll hear you out. But if I sense any threat to my son, you'll regret ever coming here."
Dumbledore nodded "Thank you, Samantha. I promise you, I only want what is best for your son."
Samantha and Diego sat in silence as Dumbledore began to explain "Around 25 years ago, a Dark Lord began terrorizing Thaumarian space," Dumbledore began, "He gathered an army of followers and began a campaign of genocide, wiping out anyone who had Terran DNA. He claimed that the Thaumarians should keep their genetics pure, free of any other alien species. He called himself 'Voldemort,' and his followers, the 'Death Eaters,' slaughtered millions of Thaumarians and razed hundreds of planets."
Samantha's grip on her revolver tightened, her eyes narrowing. "And what does this have to do with Harry?"
Dumbledore's expression grew even more grave. "A prophecy was made, stating that a boy born as the seventh month dies would rise up and defeat the Dark Lord once and for all. Voldemort believed that Harry was the child of the prophecy. He tracked down Lily and James Potter, Harry's birth parents, and murdered them. When he attempted to kill Harry, his spell backfired, destroying his body and the house."
Diego shook his head in disbelief. "You're saying that Harry survived an attack from this Voldemort? And that he's supposed to defeat him?"
Dumbledore nodded. "Yes. Harry is the only one who has ever survived an attack from Voldemort. The spell left him with that lightning bolt-shaped scar on his forehead."
Samantha's mind raced as she processed this information. "So, you're saying that Harry is destined to fight this Dark Lord? That he's not safe?"
"I wish it were not so, but yes. Harry has a great destiny ahead of him. But he does not have to face it alone. I am here to help him understand his abilities and prepare."
Dumbledore took a deep breath before continuing. "I am here to offer Harry a spot at Hogwarts, the greatest magical school in our galaxy. There, he can learn to control his magic."
Samantha's eyes narrowed. "And just how long is he supposed to go to this 'Hogwarts'?"
Dumbledore remained calm as he explained. "Students typically attend Hogwarts from ages 11 to 17. They are not at the school during what you Terrans would call 'summer time,' and they also have breaks during Thaumarian and Terran holidays."
Samantha's protective instincts flared again. "So you're saying my son will be away from me for most of the year?"
Dumbledore nodded "Yes, but he will be in a safe environment where he can learn and grow. He will also be with other children who share his abilities, and he will receive the best education possible."
Diego's skepticism was still evident. "And why are you here on Terra? Are there more kids like Harry?"
Dumbledore nodded. "Indeed. There are multiple children on this planet with Thaumarian-Terran DNA. My staff and I are going around revealing the truth to their parents and offering them a spot at Hogwarts."
Samantha took a deep breath, her mind racing with the implications of Dumbledore's offer. She glanced at Diego, who gave her a slight nod, indicating he would support her decision.
"Alright, Dumbledore," Samantha said, her voice firm. "We'll consider your offer. But I need to know more about this school and what it means for Harry's future."
Dumbledore nodded "Of course, Samantha."
Diego leaned forward, "Are we really the only two species left in the Milky Way?"
Dumbledore shook his head. "No, there are several dozen pre-space flight species within Thaumarian territory. Once they become space-capable, they will be welcomed into the fold. Additionally, there are some species just outside Terran space that are also non-space-faring. I believe that within the next thousand years, some of them will join us in space."
"So, there are still other intelligent species out there, just not space-faring yet?"
Dumbledore nodded. "Precisely. The galaxy is vast, and while the Great War wiped out many space-faring civilizations, it did not eliminate all intelligent life. These species are developing at their own pace, and in time, they will reach the stars as well."
Samantha leaned forward, her eyes narrowing "Alright, Dumbledore, how about we go over Thaumarian history. If Harry is part Thaumarian, I need to know everything about your people."
"We are an ancient race, with a history that spans thousands of years. We have always had a deep connection to magic. Our society is built around the study and practice of magic, and it has helped us develop our technology over the centuries."
Diego leaned in, his curiosity evident. "And how did you manage to survive when so many others didn't?"
“We used magic to hide our planets and territories as the war raged on, but sometimes that didn't work. Other races would stumble upon them and slaughter the inhabitants. By the time the war ended, we had lost 67% of our total population."
"And what about Hogwarts? What kind of school is it, and what will Harry learn there?"
Dumbledore's eyes brightened with a hint of pride. "Hogwarts is the greatest magical school in our galaxy. It was founded over a thousand years ago by four of the most powerful Thaumarian wizards and witches: Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Salazar Slytherin. The school is located on Cillutera."
He continued, "At Hogwarts, Harry will learn how to harness his magic, the curriculum includes subjects such as Transfiguration, Potions, Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and many others. He will also learn about Thaumarian history, culture, and the responsibilities that come with his abilities."
Samantha's protective instincts flared again. "And how do I know he will be safe there?"
Dumbledore's expression softened. "Hogwarts is one of the safest places in the galaxy for young Thaumarians. The school is protected by powerful enchantments and is staffed by some of the most skilled wizards and witches. There are few places safer than Hogwarts.”
Samantha scoffed, her eyes narrowing as she looked at Dumbledore. "I don't know if you realize who you're talking to, but I'm the deadliest bounty hunter in existence. And Diego here is second," she said, gesturing to the man beside her.
Diego rolled his eyes at that, but didn't argue. Samantha ignored his reaction and continued, "I could just find a Thaumarian and have them teach Harry on my ship. Why should I send him off to some school when I can keep him close and ensure his safety myself?"
Dumbledore's expression remained calm and understanding. "I understand your concerns, Samantha. But Hogwarts offers more than just magical education. It provides experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime there."
Samantha sighed, running her fingers through her brown hair. "Fine, but where would we even get the school supplies for this 'Magic' School?" She couldn't believe she was saying those words seriously.
"We will send coordinates to one of our space stations where Thaumarian and Terran children can get their supplies for school. If that will be all?" Dumbledore asked, glancing at a watch he pulled out.
Samantha nodded. "I agree to give this 'Hogwarts' a try, but if I decide I don't like it or Harry isn't safe there, then I'm pulling him out and hiring a Thaumarian tutor to teach him on my ship."
Dumbledore nodded in understanding before disappearing before their very eyes.
Diego groaned, putting his head in his hands. "I don't like this, Sam. Alien space wizards are way out of my paycheck."
Samantha couldn't help but chuckle at Diego's reaction. "I know, Diego. But I have to do what's best for Harry."
Diego lifted his head "You know I've got your back, Sam. Whatever you need, I'm here."
Samantha bid farewell to Diego, giving him a grateful nod. "Thanks for having my back, Diego. I'll keep you updated."
Diego patted her on the shoulder"You know where to find me if you need anything, Sam. Take care of yourself and Harry."
With a final nod, Samantha turned and made her way to the nearest teleportation pad. She input the coordinates for Olivia's workplace and felt the familiar sensation of being transported across the city. In an instant, she found herself standing outside the building where Olivia worked.
Samantha leaned against the wall, taking a deep breath as she tried to process the information she had been given over the last hour and a half. Alien space wizards, a magical school, and a prophecy about her son—it was almost too much to take in.
She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the cool air calm her racing thoughts. As she stood there, gathering her thoughts, she heard footsteps approaching. She opened her eyes to see Olivia walking towards her, a concerned look on her face.
"Samantha, are you okay?" Olivia asked, her voice filled with worry.
Samantha managed a small smile. "Yeah, just... a lot to process. I'll explain everything, but first, I need to see Harry."
Olivia nodded, understanding. "He's inside, safe and sound. Come on, let's go."
As soon as Samantha stepped inside, Harry hurried over to her, "Mom!" he called out, running towards her.
Samantha scooped him into her arms, hugging him tightly. She held him close, Olivia watched the scene with fondness but was slightly worried as she saw the intensity in Samantha's eyes.
Samantha gently sat Harry down and cupped his face, brushing his bangs aside to reveal the lightning bolt-shaped scar on his forehead. She studied it for a moment, her mind racing with the implications of what Dumbledore had told her.
"Mom, is something wrong?" Harry asked.
Samantha forced a smile, trying to reassure him. "No, sweetheart. Everything's fine. I just missed you."
Harry's eyes searched hers, sensing that there was more to it, but he didn't press further.
Olivia stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Samantha's shoulder. "Why don't we go and get something to eat, and you can tell us what happened."
Samantha nodded "Yeah, let's do that."
They made their way to a nearby restaurant, Samantha holding her son’s hand despite his protests. As the trio sat down with their food, Samantha began explaining everything.
She carefully left out the parts about Harry's parents being murdered and the 'Dark Lord,' focusing instead on the broader history and the revelations about the Thaumarians.
"So, I met this man named Albus Dumbledore," Samantha began, her voice steady. "He told me that Harry is part of a race called the Thaumarians. They're what we would call 'witches and wizards,' and they come from a planet called Cillutera."
Olivia's eyes widened with fascination. "Thaumarians? You mean actual aliens?."
Samantha nodded. "That's because they've been hiding for a long time. Thousands of years ago, there was supposedly a Great War that wiped out many space-faring civilizations. The Thaumarians used magic to hide their planets and territories until the war ended, and about 1500 years ago, they discovered Earth and saw potential in us. They integrated into our society and shared their knowledge discreetly, helping us advance without revealing their true nature."
Harry’s eyes were wide. "So, I'm part Thaumarian?"
Samantha smiled, brushing his hair back gently. "Yes, you are. And Dumbledore offered you a spot at a school called Hogwarts, where you can learn to control your magic."
Harry practically bounced in his seat. "That's so cool! I can't wait to go!"
The trio finished their meal and made their way to Olivia's house. As soon as they arrived, Harry excitedly raced to his room, eager to start imagining his new adventure.
Samantha and Olivia settled onto the couch, the weight of the day's revelations still heavy on Samantha's mind. She glanced at Olivia, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Did I ever tell you how I found Harry?" she asked.
Olivia shook her head, her curiosity piqued. "No, you haven't. I'd love to hear the story."
Samantha took a deep breath and began to share the tale of how Harry had come into her life. Olivia listened silently, frowning the whole time and asking what happened to the Dursleys.
Samantha scoffed, a hint of disdain in her voice. "We cornered the couple and the husband's sister in a spaceport. Vernon, the husband, tried to hijack a spaceship with his wife and sister. They were desperate and reckless."
Olivia's eyes widened. "What happened next?"
Samantha's scowl deepened "The spaceport security didn't take kindly to their actions. Before the ship could make it out of range, the security forces blew it to pieces. They didn't stand a chance."
Olivia nodded slowly, processing the information. "So, they’re dead."
"They paid the price for their crimes. And I adopted Harry as my son a few days later."
Olivia reached out, placing a hand on Samantha's arm. "You did the right thing, Samantha. Harry is lucky to have you."
Samantha smiled "Thanks, Olivia.”
As Samantha leaned forward, cupping Olivia’s face they suddenly heard a loud thud from Harry's room, followed by a sheepish "Oops."
Samantha sighed "What are we going to do with that boy?”