Edgedancer of Madness
By Enygma1920
Disclaimer: I own none of these characters; they are all from the mind of J.K. Rowling.
Chapter One: Deviated Paths
"That will be two pints of best, one banger and mash, two butterbeers, and one steak and kidney pie." The table nodded in unison. Shoving the quill in her bun, Ginny left the table to place the order. The usual pub banter of the Leaky Cauldron was replaced with the boisterous conversations of Wimbourne Wasps' fans celebrating their victory over fierce rivals, the Appleby Arrows.
Carrying a tray high above her head, she dodged in and out of crowd, serving her tables. She gracefully sat the drinks down with a smile. "Here you go, six pints of ale and one butterbeer. Will that be all?"
"Hey, Red," someone barked, from a nearby table. Excusing herself, she strode over to the table in question, wiping her hands off on her apron. "Yes?" she said.
"How much for a bottle of Firewhiskey?" he asked.
"Four Galleons," she answered.
The man looked around to his friends, nodding. His head turned, grinning, "Fine, we'll take three bottles. Before you leave, how much for some personal time with you?" His eyebrows waggled.
A chorus of low chuckles greeted her ears. Ginny pushed her fist onto her hip. "Well, let's see. Considering there are twelve of you, and you can only afford three bottles," she said, calculating an answer, "you can't even afford the time I'm giving you right now."
A chorus of laughter followed her as she swirled away from the table. A sharp slap on her bum stopped her retreat. "That's okay, I like my women feisty!" The table erupted in laughter. "Now, get us our drinks!"
Ginny huffed off, swerving through the crowd. Her face was growing hotter from embarrassment. "Insufferable git," she muttered, slamming her tray down on the bar. "I've had it with this lot; Tom, I'm going home."
Before Tom could protest, Ginny took out her wand and Apparated to the Burrow.
She stood just outside the door trying to control her breathing. A low sighed escaped as she rubbed her hands over her face. Don't let those prats get to you, she told herself. Ginny sat down on the steps. No need to go in there looking upset, everyone will just ask more questions I don't feel like answering. Instead, Ginny sat down and began counting. It took counting to five hundred and fifteen before she was able to safely open the door.
Ginny entered the house shrugging her shoulders; intensifying the dull ache from the additional mugs and trays she had carried that day. She would have to remember to let Tom know that Quidditch matches were permanently off her schedule. Ginny entered the kitchen and leaned against the doorframe. She watched her mother in her element, preparing dinner. She waved her wand in a systematic order that could only have been refined after years of cooking for the Weasley brood. Ginny mouth twisted into a wistful smirk while observing a potential future No no need to go there, she reminded herself while opting to clear her throat to announce her presence.
"Ahem, Mum?"
Molly looked away from her cooking and smiled at her daughter.
"Ginny, dear, I didn't expect you to be home so early?" She finished slicing the tomatoes for the salad with a flick of her wrist. "Could you please help me get the table set for supper? Your brother is de-gnoming the garden for me." Molly glanced out the window, trying to spot Ron.
"Of course, Mum." Rolling up her sleeves, Ginny began to gather the finished dishes. Opening the back door, her eyes squinted for relief from the intensity of the summer sun. Feeling the sun radiate down on her shoulders was a warm reception; she disliked that her job often kept her inside on beautiful days. Ginny smiled at the thought of relaxing, for once, and began to set the table. She heard a soft pop behind her, announcing she was not alone. "Hi, Hermione."
Hermione stepped up from behind. Ginny laughed; she looked imprisoned by her robes, trying desperately to claw her way out. Hermione eventually succeeded when Ginny offered her a hand.
Hermione threw her robes down on the table in a twisted clump and wiped her forehead. "I swear it wasn't this warm when I left for the office this morning. I was baking in those bloody robes." She turned to see Ginny still in her pub attire. "How are you still in those trousers?"
Hermione's face was flushed, her brown hair clipped haphazardly back from her face.
"I'm a little warm, but after spending a day running around the Leaky Cauldron... this is paradise," Ginny replied, waving her hand towards the yard.
"That's right, I forgot you had to work today, and there was a Quidditch match, too." Her eyebrows rose. "It must have been...chaotic."
Ginny grinned at her. "More like the tenth level of hell." She moved to finish setting the table.
"So, Gin, who won the-"
Hermione never finished her thought. Ginny glanced up to see if something was wrong. But from the grin and flush on her face, Ginny was all too familiar with the reason. Ron was walking up the hill, his hair was ablaze with the sun at his back; his hands went to his shirt to wipe the sweat off his brow.
Ginny glanced up at Hermione. Observing Hermione's eyes faltered, a sheepish grin spreading across her face. Ginny fought not to roll her eyes as Hermione leapt and ran towards Ron. When he finally looked up and saw his girlfriend sprinting towards him, he turned, swallowing her in his arms.
Must be nice, Ginny knew better than to stick around for the public display of their affections. She headed back towards the kitchen to help her mum with supper.
As she entered, her thoughts were drawn back to the happy couple outside. Of course, she was happy for Ron and Hermione; Hermione was like a sister to her. They both deserved each other. She didn't mind their display of affection, but it did get nauseating after a while. He was still 'Ronnikins' to her. To see their affection and love only made it more difficult for Ginny to face her own dead love life. If she got chatted up one more time by a pissed wizard that didn't understand the meaning of "No", she was going to pummel someone with a bottle of Ogden's Best.
"Dear?"
Ginny paused inside the doorway, "Yes, mum?"
Mrs. Weasley smiled softly at her daughter. "Rough shift?"
Ginny nodded as she headed towards the counter to begin peeling the potatoes. Mrs. Weasley hand stopped Ginny before she could cast the spell.
"I've got this, why don't you get yourself comfortable before your brothers arrive, today is the big day" she reminded her.
Ginny smiled gratefully at her mother and headed towards the stairs and to her room. After a lingering shower, Ginny found herself seated in front of her vanity, staring at her image. She began to brush through the damp, tangle mess of her hair as she glanced at old photos surrounding the vanity. The one that caught her attention was one from her six-year. It was a photo of Dumbledore's Army. The faces were different than the one from her fifth year. Their faces were worn and the smiles seemed forced but their body language told a different story. That year was the beginning of the end and one that she didn't like to think about. Ginny's gaze landed on Seamus first who was standing next to Dean with a supporting arm around his best mate. Dean had just made it to Hogwarts a few weeks before the photo was taken after months on the run from snatchers.
Neville was standing tall next to Luna with a protective arm around her, sporting a shiner from a recent detention with the Carrows. Luna had disappeared over the winter break, and after much persuasion from Luna, Alberforth had reluctantly brought her back a week before.
The Patil twins with Lavender were opposite of Neville all three smiling with their arms interlocked. Ginny's stomach knotted. Pavarati was never the same after her sister died during the battle; Lavender and Pavarati were inseparable after that. Michael Corner and Cho Chang were sitting in the front row with Roger Davies. A week after the photo was taken Cho found out her mother was killed. In front of Ginny were Hannah Abbott and the Creevey brothers. None had survived.
She heaved a heavy sigh as she looked away from the photo. The last couple of years had taken its toll; the war had left lasting scars on not just the British wizarding population but had a ripple affect across the entire wizarding world. The calm after Voldemort's defeat was short-lived. The damage was done and a politically and socially divided population was prime for opportunistic individuals and groups to use as a platform to rally their cause. Those were dark days that followed after Voldemort's defeat and the darkest were for its reluctant hero.
"NO" Ginny shook her head violently, attempting to stop her procession of negative thoughts. She wasn't going to let the past haunt her today. Today Fred was coming home and that was reason enough to celebrate the current and not dwell on the past.
Ginny stopped in front of window and looked down at the activity in the yard. All her brothers were home for the first time since Percy's funeral. Ginny could see the crowd of gingers huddled together, talking, sharing a few laughs as she smiled inwardly. Fred was finally coming home. The war hit him the hardest; he blamed himself for Percy's death. Percy had finally come around at the final battle and was with Fred and George fighting off Death Eaters when it happened. Two death eaters broke loose, running towards a group of second years huddle in an alcove at the end of the hallway. Percy and Fred gave chase; according to Fred, Fred yelled at his older brother "Get them hell Perce! Show them what a pencil pusher is made of!" Percy smiled briefly at Fred before yelling back "Just you wait Freddy, I'll show you I still got the Weasley in me", Percy went charging off, when both were caught off guard by an explosion that leveled the hallway they were in. Percy and the two death eaters perished in the explosion while Fred was severely injured. Fred blamed himself, that if he hadn't tried to joke during such a dangerous situation, Percy wouldn't have been distracted and would still be alive. The jovial soul that thrived in her brother ceased to exist after that day and a more serious reserve Fred took his place. It didn't help the situation that the injuries, while healed left him in chronic pain. In turn Fred began to seek other means to dull the constant physical pain.
Ginny heard the audible double "pop" of Fred and George. She could see them walking towards the house, she ran out of her room and headed outside to greet her brothers. When she arrived, her mother was holding Fred in a strong embrace while her father looked on. Mrs. Weasley released her son and wiped her tears away, Ginny patiently waited while Fred was bear hugged by each brother, Hermione gave him a tearful kiss, when the next person stepped in front of Fred.
"I didn't think you'd be here."
"I wouldn't miss this for the world mate, welcome home" Harry said, as he hugged Fred.
Ginny jaw tighten briefly before she shook her head 'No not today, today is Fred's day'
"Hey Freddy" she said as she stepped around Harry to hug her brother. She pulled back and got a good look at him. Fred had relapsed multiple times over the years and would disappear on binges for weeks at a time. It had nearly torn their family apart but thankfully Hermione called in a favor at a special facility that dealt with his issues and from the look of him, it had done him well.
"Ginnikins," he murmured. "You're looking like a right star"
"And you don't look like shite."
He laughed and hugged her, kissing on top of her head.
"Hermione, Ginny, I need some help bringing the food out."
Ginny nodded in her mother's direction, leaving Fred with his brothers and Harry. Hermione turned around and shot Ginny a look but said nothing as they followed Mrs. Weasley into the burrow. After several rounds of carrying out food, which Mrs. Weasley refused to let them use magic for reason that only seemed logical in her mother's mind. Ginny followed Hermione outside to the table carrying a salad, Hermione sat the chicken down and swatted Ron's hand away. "Patience."
Ron frowned sulking for a moment before Mr. Weasley stood at the end of the table with his glass held high. They all took their respective spots at the table and held their glasses high.
"Right" Mr. Weasley clapped his hands together. "Though careers, physical distance and personal endeavors may keep us apart, we are always there to support each other, Weasleys, friends and future Weasleys. Let the celebration begin," He nodded towards Fred. "Welcome home son."
"Fred" they all chorused and tucked into dinner spread in front of them. She watched as the twins sat down with Angelina and Lee. Bill sat down next to her with a very pregnant Fleur. Bill smiled as he took the seat next to Ginny, nudging her in the ribs. Ginny tucked in, turning to Bill. "Pass the rolls, please."
Dinner was an active one, which made it easier for Ginny to sit back to observe it all. She discovered since working at the tavern that one gained more insight of a situation by just sitting back and observing. It was a favorite activity of hers when conversation waned. She leaned back and began to take mental notes.
Alicia, Angelina, Fred, George and Lee sat in one corner, laughing raucously as George and Lee were retelling an incident that happened at the joke shop. Bill was leaning over her dad, discussing something in great detail from the constant tapping of his finger on the table. And Fleur, sitting on his left, was talking to her mum very excitedly while rubbing her pregnant belly. Charlie was sitting next to her, entertaining Lee and Alicia's son, Nathan with animated stories about the dragon reserve. Victorie was sitting not too far from her mother, in her own little world, ordering her dolls to do impressive dancing feats to her own amusement.
Ginny's attention shifted as she caught the end of a joke Ron was telling Harry, both bent over laughing; Hermione, sitting next to Ron, joined the cacophony of laughter. Harry glanced up; their eyes locked briefly before, she quickly looked away and nonchalantly rubbed her right eye.
"Are you okay, dear?" Ginny looked to meet her mother's concerned eyes.
"I'm fine. I'm just... going to go for a walk." Ginny stood up and left the table hopefully un-noticed.
As she left the fading conversations behind her, the feeling in the pit of her stomach worsened. She hated to let trivial things bother her, yet, they still did. As she continued to trudge toward the pond, Ginny's thoughts wandered back to the one person that never left; Harry. She remembered the short time they had dated in her fifth year. Those couple of months had been an innocent distraction from the weight of an impending war for the both of them. The night of the attack on Hogwarts and the death of Dumbledore had brought an end to the innocence and naivety that had been associated with Hogwarts for many of the students, but not them. Harry had taken Dumbledore's death the hardest and while Ginny wasn't surprised at the funeral when ended their relationship for her own safety. It still hurt but that's what she admired about him, always noble and self-sacrificing to no end.
Ginny's reflections drifted to the year leading up to the Battle at Hogwarts, the picture of the DA flashed through her thoughts. Snape had decided that enlisting The Carrows as professors would be a successful scare tactic to keep everyone in line. However, the physical punishments The Carrows dealt out, while barbaric barely hampered the rebel spirit that the DA kept alive. Neville, Luna and the remaining DA were often dealt the harshest punishments; Ginny specifically became fodder for abuse for just being a Weasley. When they weren't being punished or protecting other students from the rogue attacks by emboldened Slytherin's; the remaining DA members were heavily involved in underground war efforts inside Hogwarts. They organized self-defense sessions, a buddy system for the younger students, even a sanctuary city inside the Room of Requirement. When things got a little too hairy inside Hogwarts. They kept up the underground movement ready and prepare to fight once the signal was given. Lightening stuck one fateful day when the war arrived at their doorstep. The final battle occurred over several tumultuous days, more than half of the students were prepared for combat and fought valiantly for their freedom and rights under the threat of Voldemort's regime.
When the dust settled and the sun rose on the eighth day, the lasting image of Voldemort lying crumpled at Harry's feet signaled the end. The war was over, Harry had defeated Voldemort, but with any war there were repercussions and unlike the wizard tales Ginny read in her youth she learned that there is no such thing as a ' Happy ending'.
Even the farthest flung reaches of the wizarding world rejoiced the end of Voldemort and revered Harry as a liberator, protector of all free wizards, unfortunately not one of them considered the lasting ramifications of the war, both personal and public. Once one has experience battle they are never the same. Survivor's guilt wracked Harry; there had been numerous wizards and witches lost during the war, and being Harry, he took full brunt of the responsibility of those lost. That was the beginning of the dark descent for Harry.
In spite of his destructive behavior, Ginny's love for Harry made her want to be as supportive as possible. When he was having night terrors, episodes of paranoia and flashbacks, she was there. Ginny knew Harry needed someone; and in her mind, it was her. He had carried the weight of the wizarding world on his shoulders all his life; He was the Boy-Who-Lived, he had conquered the Dark Lord and adjusting to some semblance of normalcy was proving challenging. Yet Ginny was there for him, and deep down, Ginny knew she always would be.
Ginny found herself sitting on the edge of the pond throwing stones when her internal self-doubt spoke up, Maybe that's where you went wrong; you were ALWAYS there. It didn't seem plausible, but in retrospect, maybe she had made herself almost too readily available for Harry. It had been over two years since the end of the war and initially she could place the blame on that but in all honesty the root of their issues was more complicated than that. After Harry completed training at the Auror Academy, he was gone for months at a time on assignments while she finished her final year at Hogwarts. The Harpies had recruited her out of Hogwarts to their scrimmage team and that kept her away. She rarely saw her family let alone Harry except a few random times he called upon her or at family events. After a successful year of playing with the prospects of becoming a full-time Harpy on the horizon, an injury permanently derailed her Quidditch career. Ginny was released and sent home. Initially she had hoped that with both of them being local they could reconnect but the war had changed them too much and the damage was done. Ginny had dealt with her own demons but still found herself willing to be there when he needed her 'It's because you still love him' Ginny shook her head, as much as she would like to deny it, it was true. Even after things slightly improved once he was no longer a probationary Auror and his moods became more stable, she was there. Unfortunately, instead of them coming back together as Ginny had hoped, Harry started keeping his distance and became more involved in his work. She saw less and less of him and Ginny was left behind with the hollow sacrifices she made for Harry. How could I, have been so naïve, Ginny thought. He never needed me, I needed him to need me, She pursed her lips.
"Pathetic" she muttered and threw another rock into the pond.
A light snap broke the silence surrounding the pond. Ginny didn't even bother to look up.
"Hi, Hermione," she said.
Hermione looked over at her. "How did you know it was me? I barely made any noise."
Ginny turned to smile at her friend. "Easy. One: Ron makes too much noise when he moves around; two: Harry makes no noise, but it's his cologne that always gives him away; three: out of everyone at dinner tonight, I knew you would be the only person that would follow me." Ginny stood tossing another rock into the pond.
"Well you right, It's my curious nature that made me come find you." Hermione sat down next to Ginny, nudging her shoulder.
Ginny lightly laughed and nudged her back. "Hermione?"
"Hmm?"
"Can I ask you a question?" Ginny's hand reached up to rub her neck.
Hermione's eyes were trained on her friend; maybe Ginny was finally ready to talk. "Of course," she said.
Ginny turned to face her friend. "Do you-Do you think I'm an idiot?"
Hermione's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean, Ginny?"
Ginny sighed, her hands nervously pulling at the blades of grass. "Do you think I'm an idiot for-for revolving my life around Harry?"
Hermione was taken aback by this confession. She had observed it from afar, but was unsure if Ginny was aware of what she was doing.
Ginny looked off to her side before speaking, "I'm not happy, Hermione; actually, I'm disgusted with myself."
Hermione's mouth opened to protest, but Ginny shook her head to stop her. "I'm an idiot, Hermione; I've let myself regress, and I can only blame myself."
"What are you talking about?"
Their eyes met. "I mean, what happened to the confident, independent Ginny Weasley that could achieve anything she put her mind to, the girl that had plans and goals in life." Ginny sat down with her head in her hands. "To now being content at being a barmaid, slinging drinks at the Leaky Cauldron with no drive or ambition and achieving nothing in life," she confessed.
"Oh, Gin, there's nothing wrong with the Leaky Cauldron; it's a really nice place…" Hermione started.
"Yes, there is, Hermione," she snapped. "I've wasted all my hard work and for what? Nothing, I've settled, and I hate it. Everyone is going on to pursue their lives, while I'm running around the Cauldron six days a week."
Ginny got up abruptly, almost knocking Hermione over, and began to pace, "Everyone is going on with their life, while I have put my own on hold, because I can't get out of my thick head the idea Harry may need me again, someday."
Hermione's eyes widened. The truth was out. Ginny had long denied that Harry had any effect on her life decisions, but Hermione knew better; she just wanted Ginny to openly admit it.
"I can only blame myself, though, for my present shitshow. I was the one to push Harry to do what makes him happy. I just never thought…"
Hermione sighed and placed her hand on Ginny's shoulder.
Ginny laughed. "I even told my family it was okay, 'It's for Fred, don't worry about me…it's all in the past' I said," she shook her head.
"Does Harry know, Ginny?"
Hermione watched her friend's body tense briefly. She hesitated before questioning, "Why not?"
"It's a moot point, Hermione, besides he is happy. If anyone deserves some bit of happiness in this world it's Harry, I can at least be content with that," she answered.
Hermione wasn't surprised by the unselfish answer. "But, Gin, what would make you happy?"
"Change," she mumbled.
Hermione sat studying her face before speaking, "Ginny, I think I may have your answer."
Ginny eyes looked like they were attempting to register what Hermione could possibly be talking about. Hermione cleared her throat. "I have an opportunity, Ginny, which I think could be to your advantage, if you choose to take it."
Ginny eyed Hermione warily before she continued, "I've been working on new charm development for an endeavor in the States. The person in charge is forming a program that would incorporate Muggle science and Magic to help combat the latest advancements in the Dark Arts."
"Hermione, why do you think I would be eligible for this? I work at a pub, remember?"
Hermione shot a look at her. "That's utter rubbish, Gin, and you know it. You are more than qualified. If I remember correctly, you and I were both top of our classes in several subjects at Hogwarts. I remember how well you did in Transfiguration and Charms, beside you all but headed, taught and trained the DA members during the war," she quipped with her eyebrow raised.
"But why are there new developments? I thought they finally got the last guy, Arazi?"
"Honestly, Ginny," Hermione said, her head shaking in frustration. "Voldemort's destruction caused a power vacuum, there will always be some new upstart that will try to take over the others previous legion of followers. Didn't you hear what happened in Brazil?"
Over the years there were occasionally scattered attacks by radical wizards in an attempt to fill the void or capitalized on the prejudices of the magical society. The most recent and significant attack was in the Makuxi region of Brazil, where an entire wizard village was destroyed.
"That's why Ron and Harry have had to take that course in Japan, right?"
"Yes," Hermione answered her. "The Aurors are having a difficult time tracking down criminals when the use of Muggle technology is implicated. Never thought I'd see the day as a muggleborn, where 'purest' who hate everything about muggles, now have no qualms about using their advance technology to spread terror. "
"Welcome to the current shite state of the wizarding world," Ginny laughed humorlessly.
The timing couldn't be more perfect. Hermione recognized that this was the right time in Ginny's life for change. She only hoped that her friend realized she had more potential than slinging drinks for inebriated witches and wizards at the Leaky Cauldron and waiting for a wizard that seemed determined to keep his distance.
"When does this program start?" she asked.
Hermione's eyes brightened. "In four months." She watched as Ginny seemed to be mulling over the new information.
"How long and where?"
"Three and a half years in Washington DC."
"Three and a half years?"
"Well, yes, it is a long time but it would be worth it, in my opinion. You would be trained as an Auror, and then take additional training and courses in a specific field of interest."
"An American version of N.E.W.T.s?"
"Exactly. You would be trained as a licensed specialist in any science and technology field of your choice." Hermione smiled, hoping Ginny would say 'yes'.
Ginny looked at her with her brow furrowed. "Wait; why not Harry and Ron? They are just as qualified and are already Aurors."
"To be honest, Ginny, you were the first person I thought of when I got this information. Besides, why not you? Maybe you should sleep on it, Gin, before you give an answer. Besides," Hermione said looking at her watch, "you've been gone for over an hour, now. Better head back before your mum sends out the hounds."
Ginny laughed and got up from her position from the ground, and dusted off while both women headed back to the Burrow in silence.
It was an unusually large mid-week lunch hour crowd at the Leaky Cauldron, wizards and witches about enjoying the atmosphere of the Cauldron. To a spectator, it was nearly impossible to distinguish the blur of red moving around the Cauldron as heavily occupied as it was. Ginny maneuvered between the tables and the kitchen, bringing out a never-ending supply of butterbeer and pub grub. The length of the day was all too evident when she limped behind the bar. Ginny winced as she took one shoe off to let her toes be free.
"Tired?" Ginny looked up to see Ron sitting on a stool in front of her.
"Yes, always." she grinned. "The usual?"
"Of course, " Ron answered. He swiveled to survey the place. "Damn, it's busy in here. Giving anything away for free?"
Ginny set his pint of butterbeer down in front of him. "No. Guess word is getting around about the new cook."
"Ah!" Ron took a sip.
Even Ginny had to admit the food was a hundred times better with the new cook. It was no longer a risk to eat at the Cauldron.
"Seen Hermione?"
"Sorry, can't say I have. Meeting for lunch?" Ginny made herself look busy by cleaning off the bar top.
"Yeah, she has to work late tonight, and I'm knackered by the time I get done with my shift on top of the additional training. So, quality time is limited for us."
She frowned, knowing both of their schedules were un-yielding when it came to their relationship. Before Ginny could respond a slightly less bushy haired female stepped up next to Ron.
"Hello, Love," Hermione said, quickly kissing Ron on the cheek.
Ron returned the sign of affection, before catching the robe Hermione tossed off against his chest. "I swear, Ginny, it has to be two times hotter in here than it is outside. I don't know how you do it."
Ginny smiled as she wiped a damp piece of hair from her forehead. "The usual, Hermione?"
"Yes."
Ginny returned and sat the large pumpkin juice down in front of Hermione. She broke away from her conversation with Ron. "So Ginny, given it any thought to what we talked about?"
She hadn't spoken to anyone about her conversation with Hermione or the fact she was thinking about leaving. She couldn't deny that the idea had appealed to her, but it had even more so when Hermione dropped off the information packet the week before.
"Um, a little," Ginny said.
Ron looked back and forth between his girlfriend and sister. "What are you two going on about?" he asked.
Hermione turned to Ron, placing her hand on his shoulder. "I spoke to Ginny about the opportunity in the States." Ron looked even more confused, and Hermione sighed. "The Institute, Ronald – the one I've been working with for the past sixteen months?"
A look of comprehension crossed Ron's face. "Oh, I remember now. The Muggle science and Magic deal, right?" looking over at his sister, concerned. "But Ginny?"
Both Hermione and Ginny glared at him. "Ronald, I think your sister is more than qualified from experience during the war and while in school. Need I remind you about her O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s?"
Ron's face turned pink. Ginny felt a rush of pride as she saw her friend stick up for her. Ginny's euphoria wavered when she saw who entered the tavern. Two familiar heads bobbed through the crowd: one notorious for being unkempt, the other dark and sleek. Ginny glanced down at the table and began to clean the same spot on the bar top with greater fervor. Hermione and Ron looked at her questioningly before they looked over to see what had caused Ginny's reaction. Sitting at an adjacent table was Harry and his current 'friend', Danielle. Hermione pursed her lips before looking back at Ginny.
"Hermione?" she asked.
"Yes?"
"When would I leave?"
Hermione smiled and nudged Ron. "The twelfth of August."
Ginny glanced down at her hands and then back at the table, observing Harry and Danielle's hands clasped together; laughing.
The vise on her heart tightened. What do I have to lose?. She glanced at the two in front of her and nodded. "Okay, sign me up."
The next three months passed swiftly as Ginny prepared to leave for the Institute. After a rather grueling application process, she learned she was accepted and broke the news to her family. Following the initial shock of her leaving for a university in America wore off, she was bombarded with concerns and opinions on her hastily made decision. Each of the five Weasley brothers took the news in their own way. Charlie and Bill argued she was too young to leave; however, Ginny won the argument when she pointed out they were both younger than her when they left for Romania and Egypt. George was more accepting and wished her good luck in her educational pursuits, but he did ask if she wouldn't mind keeping an eye out for possible locations to expand Wheezes into the States.
Fred was a little taken aback that he had just gotten home and was starting to settle and now she was leaving him. The relationship she had with Fred differed from her other relationships with her brothers. When Fred hit his lowest point, not even George could pull him out of the cycle of destruction he raced headlong into; She had been the only one that could reach him and get him back on course. Instinct told her Fred was worried that while she was gone he would relapse or worse, he needed her to be there or as he put it "his anchor". After a tearful conversation with both Fred and George, she instilled in them the confidence that they could do it without her physically being there. She reminded them that she was only a few portkeys away and could be reach by the new muggle device Hermione had surprised them with, a mobile phone.
Ginny's Parents were proud that she was going to pursue something of interest in her life; even though it meant her leaving home, they supported her decision. Her mother's reaction was as Ginny expected. Denial at first and then tears for a day after her announcement but eventually she reluctantly accepted that her daughter was an adult and she didn't need her mollycoddling. It was her Father's reaction that was unexpected. While her father was always the counterbalance to her mother's emotional outburst. When she first made the announcement, her father told her he was proud and congratulated her. It wasn't until a week later that he pulled her aside and tearfully told her that no amount of preparation prepares a father to send their little girl out into the world. Ginny assured him that she will always be his little 'firefly' in the heartfelt exchange.
On a windy day, Ginny found herself sitting by Percy's grave. She had avoided going to Percy's grave after her decision, even after three years, his death was still raw. Though they weren't close after he left home, they had grew up sharing a bond over reading and she was the only sibling Percy had allowed unrestricted access to his collection of books. Especially the epic adventure books that Percy had a cache of. She settled down next to his headstone, gingerly picking at the blades of grass.
"I'm leaving Perce, I'm taking the grand adventure like Calder the Marked and Azula, except unlike Azula I won't be riding a gryphon into battle," She chuckled.
"I miss you Perce, I wish you were here and could give me some of that wisdom you would constantly bestow on me when we were kids, I need a good Percyism right now." She cleared a few wayward blades of grass from the bottom of his headstone.
"Freddy still blames himself, he was real low for a while there and I know he still comes here and talks to you." She had noticed a nearby cigarette butt of the brand that Fred only smoked.
"Watch over him Perce" she began to stand." I'll make sure to get back here as much as I can. Hopefully I'll have some good stories to share just like Calder and Azula. " She kissed her hand and placed it on his tombstone. "Goodbye Percy" she lingered for a moment before she started, walking towards the exit.
After the lunch at the Leaky Cauldron, Ron had been unusually distant. Even though he was known to be a bit thick at times, his behavior suggested that he was aware that there was an additional reason to her leaving besides career purposes. Ginny's thoughts weren't confirmed until Ron pulled her aside at Harry's birthday party a few weeks later. He told her that even though Harry was his best mate, she was his sister and she had his full support.
As much as Ginny hated to admit it, it was Harry's response to the news that caught her off guard. He found out at a family dinner and his only response was to congratulate her and wish her the best. A small part of her had held a lone hope that maybe the fact she was leaving the country would have stirred a more emotional response from him, but who was she kidding. Harry always had difficulty expressing his emotions and the thought he would break down and confess he was wrong for pushing her away and wanted her to stay was laughable but still painful. The few rare times Ginny did see Harry, he would somehow find a reason to be excused when the banter between friends brought up her relocating and that was the limit of his response.
Even after accepting the position, Ginny had to fight down the small fits of panic whenever she discussed her relocation or when she started slowing packing her life into boxes. She liked the idea of being an Auror and becoming a specialist in a field of her interest. It was a decision she made with her mind's intuition and not her heart and as the date of her departure neared Ginny's excitement grew and for once she looked forward to putting distance between herself and her old life.
Two days before Ginny was scheduled to leave, her brothers decided to throw her a going away party at the Leaky Cauldron. It seemed everyone from her year, from Ron's year, plus a few from Fred and George's era at Hogwarts were at the party. The twins surprised Ginny with a charmed banner that flashed encouraging words along with a few embarrassing anecdotes, which were quickly removed after a threat of a double Bat-Bogey Hex. Ginny spent most of the night going from table to table socializing, talking, and laughing with friends about their old days at Hogwarts.
Towards the end of the evening, Ginny sat, leaning against the bar's ledge, laughing as Dean Thomas whispered in her ear. Her face blushed; she took a swing at Dean's shoulder, laughing harder. They finished by exchanging quick words and a hug and kiss on the cheek. Dean waved goodbye to Ginny and headed towards the exit and left.
It's now or never. He moved in to talk to her, "Hey."
Ginny turned wiping tears out of her eyes. "Oh, hey, Harry, enjoying yourself?"
He noticed her speech was slightly slurred and looked down at her glass. " Yeah, having a great time. I see you've had enough to drink," he said, nodding his head towards her swaying stance.
Her eyes rolled as she tossed her hair back. "Oh, Harry, please!" She waved him off. "I'm only tipsy, not pissed." A mischievous grinned crossed her face. "Well, not yet, anyway," she snorted and began laughing loudly.
Harry joined in on the laughter and placed his drink down, grabbing hers, which was slipping out of her hands.
"So, Har-ry, how is life?" she poked him in his chest. "Where's Danielle?" she whipped her head back and forth looking for her.
Harry looked down at her hand on his chest and looked upon her face. "She left about an hour ago, she has an early shift tomorrow at St. Mungo's, but work is busy; Kingsley been keeping us busy, going after old death eaters and training, but nothing out of the ordinary," he habitually knocked on the wooden bar top. "But it won't be nearly as exciting as the adventure you're about to take."
She screwed her face up, contemplating his statement before answering. "Yes, I suppose you are right. I am heading off to a new frontier."
Harry stared at her as she became heavily engrossed with the confetti on the bar top. She looked away from the confetti, meeting his stare with her brilliant amber-gold eyes. Feeling his throat constrict, he coughed to speak. "We're all going to miss you here Ginny." I know I will.
Ginny's eyes seemed to sober instantly. "What?"
"I said, we're going to miss you, Ginny. Neville, Luna, Ron, Hermione, Dean…Me; this place won't be the same without you."
"That's because I always throw in free pints," she said with a smirk.
"No, it's not that. It won't be the same not seeing you on a daily basis."
She stared at him for a moment as if debating how to respond when her mouth tightened to a thin line.
"Right," she said and finished her drink.
Harry jammed his hands in his pockets. He could feel himself grow more edgy the longer their stilted conversation lasted. He had come to terms that they were just friends. It's for the best, it was what I wanted right? He just didn't understand why he was nervous and what made tonight different from any other night. Maybe it's because this could be the last time you see her.
"Um, promise me something, Ginny."
"What's that, Harry?"
"That you'll keep in touch while you're away."
There was a brief frown that crossed her features before she quickly looked away. "Sure, Harry." They stood there for a few seconds before she spoke again. "Harry, promise me something, too."
"Anything," he said.
She opened her mouth to say something but stopped instead leaned in to kiss him on the cheek. "Never mind, I have to finish packing. Goodbye, Harry."
He let out a low sigh as he watched the door close behind her. He mumbled, "See you later, Ginny."
"Good afternoon passengers, at this time we are beginning our descent into the Nation's Capital. The current time is 3:15 p.m. and the current temperature is ninety degrees."
Ginny stirred in her seat, removing the eye mask. She squinted, her eyes adjusting to the light. She reached her hands above her head, stretching. "Well, here I am." She smiled to herself thinking about her departure. She thought the arrival at the Muggle airport hadn't gone badly. It wasn't as notorious as their mad dashes to Platform 9 3/4 were, but if Hermione hadn't decided to come along, it could've been a lot worse. Ginny said her goodbyes, refusing to cry as her mother wept about her youngest baby leaving the nest. Making promises to periodically send letters and Floo, Ginny waved goodbye, leaving her family at the gate. After eight hours of sleeping, watching the in-flight movie, and reading, she longed to get off the claustrophobic plane. She buckled her seatbelt as the plane began its descent. After landing and spending an hour in Muggle Customs, she finally retrieved her luggage and headed towards the exit doors. As she got closer, she remembered she never did get the chance to asked Hermione how she was going to get to The Institute. She glanced at her Muggle watch, and it was too late to call Hermione; she was unfamiliar with how to use a Muggle pay phone and she hadn't set up her mobile device service yet. Cursing herself, she walked towards the taxis; at least she had the address, and her few trips into Muggle London had familiarized her with taxis.
"Um, excuse me, are you Ginevra Weasley?"
Ginny looked up to see a tall man with piercing blue eyes standing in front of her. He smiled.
"Um," she sputtered, biting her lip. "Yes, that would be me. I'm Ginevra Weasley, and you are…?"
The man shook his dark head and smiled. "Talon McPherson, at your service. I'm with The Institute. They sent me to pick you up."
Her eyes widened; she hadn't remembered seeing people who looked like him in The Institute handbook. "I hate to be rude, but how do I know you are really with The Institute?"
His eyebrows raised in surprise. "Smart." He unfolded and handed Ginny a copy of her acceptance letter. Along with her travel itinerary she had sent by Express Atlantic Warbler to the school the week before. He looked down at her and studied her closely. "Believe me, now?"
Ginny smiled, realizing how close he was to her. "Yes, I suppose so."
She went to reach for her bag but Talon beat her to it. "Don't; I know you've had a long day. It would be an inhumane for me to let you carry all your own bags." He checked to see that he had all her bags. "Are you ready to go?"
Ginny caught herself staring at him. "Yes."
"Okay, follow me."
Together, they left the airport, headed towards the rows of cars. Ginny had been caught up surveying her new surroundings; she didn't notice that Talon had stopped walking in front of her. The impact of walking into his back caused Ginny to bounce off him. Before she could catch her balance, his arm reached out to catch her.
"Careful, now; I can't have you hurting yourself in your first few hours here." He smiled, releasing her arm. He turned and motioned her towards a car. "Here we are. What's wrong?"
Ginny blushed. "It's just; I've never seen one of these, before. Well, I have, but they were Ministry cars."
Talon gave an amused smirk. "It's called a Jeep." He began loading her bags. "How do wizards near you get around?" he asked while opening the door.
"We Apparate, use brooms, Portkeys, and the Floo Network."
"Oh, okay, you're lucky. We can only use the national Floo Network around here and Muggle transportation. Even have to have a special clearance for apparition that not in a designated apparition point. Any other magical ways of travel have to be cleared and authorized. You can't even fly a broom on your own property without a risk of a citation," he grumbled, starting the car and backing out.
"Is that why I had to take the muggle airplane here and not an international portkey?"
"Yeah, it's because this is the center for both the muggle and magical governments. It's part of the agreement between the two governments which means a lot of red tape. Personally, I think It's a bunch of bureaucratic bull but you get used to it after living here for a while."
"How long have you lived here?" Ginny asked as they left the airport, turning onto a motorway.
"Ten years, I moved here with my family from Michigan."
Ginny nodded as though she had heard of this placed called Michigan.
"So, Ginny, tell me a little about yourself?"
"Well," Ginny started, "I'm the youngest of seven. I had six older brothers, but one died during the war. I use to work at a wizard tavern. I attended Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I was a Chaser and sometimes a Seeker for my House Quidditch team. I played chaser for the Holyhead Harpies scrimmage team but got injured. I guess that's it; oh, I hate pink."
Talon laughed at her last comment. " Holyhead Harpy eh? That's cool, I can't imagine having six older brothers. Bet it was hard for you to date, huh?"
"Um, I didn't do too much dating when I was in school; well, not really. No."
"Oh, yeah? No boyfriend at home?"
Her chest tightened with Talon's bold questions.
Talon seemed to notice her hesitancy. "Oh, I'm sorry," he said, throwing a hand up. "I didn't mean to be rude, its just-I have a tendency of being blatant at times"
"It's okay, Talon; I'm just not use to people asking those questions." Ginny bit her lip, looking for a reaction.
Talon sighed and looked at her. "No, it's my fault; it's an American thing, I guess. You're not the first to tell me so." He smiled.
His smile enhanced his handsome features. She shifted in her seat. "Well, if you're going to ask me uncomfortable questions, tell me about yourself, Talon." She crossed her arms across her chest, waiting for his response.
"Well, you already know I'm from Michigan. I'm the youngest of five: I have two brothers and two sisters. My mom is a Muggle; Dad is a wizard. I attended Salem Institute. I played many sports including Quidditch; I was a Beater on my team. After graduating, I began Auror training; I was promoted to a Special Ops Unit and eventually W.D.I.A.-Wizarding Defense Intelligence Agency-where I currently work."
Ginny was amazed. She had never heard of anyone besides much older Ministry officials who had accomplished so much. "How old are you?"
"How old do I look?" His eyebrow arched. "Come on, guess; I bet you will never guess right."
"Hmm, thirty?" It seemed like a reasonable guess, considering how much he had accomplished.
Talon shook his head. "I'm afraid you are wrong." He glanced in the rearview window at his reflection. "Do I really look like I'm thirty?"
Ginny didn't trust herself to answer. Her throat was extremely dry; instead, she opted to just shrug her shoulders in uncertainty.
"Well, I'm twenty-three, to be exact."
"But how were you able to achieve so much at such a young age?"
"I guess it's my drive; how old are you?"
"I just turned twenty."
Talon looked at her. "You don't appear to be that young. You must be mature for your age."
Ginny silently laughed to herself. If he only knew what her brothers knew. She noticed that trees appeared blurring by the windows. "Is this Washington, DC?"
"No, I'm taking the back roads. We're not far from the campus; we would be there if this idiot in front of us would drive," he said, throwing up a rude gesture.
Ginny's eyes adverted to the front and she noticed the car slowing down to turn. Talon stopped the car to talk to the gatekeeper before turning back to her. "Ms. Ginny, welcome The Institute of Sorcery and Technology."
As they drove the road narrowed, the trees along it growing closer and thicker. The further they drove, the more it seemed that the trees would swallow the car, until a clearing in the trees broke in front of them. Ginny couldn't believe the house she saw in front of her. It was nowhere near the size of Hogwarts, but instead, it reminded her of the huge southern mansions that she saw in a Muggle movie at Hermione's flat before she left. The house was reminiscent of the antebellum mansions from the old south. There were several Dorian columns that supported the two story red brick building with white porches that ran along the front on both levels. The two large wings that flanked the sides of the house were covered with a slow progress of ivy. The front doors opened to a brick walkway that encircled a fountain.
"Nice, isn't it?"
"I've never seen anything so-so..."
"Colossal, impressive, imposing?" he said.
Ginny laughed and shook her head. "No, I attended school in a castle; that's different. But I never have seen anything like this before."
Talon agreed with her. "Yeah, this is one of the few old southern mansions still around in this area. The original owner was a wealthy Muggle before the founder of The Institute took over and added his own touches. Doesn't look big from the outside but the expansion charms on it are ridiculous. All the classes are held there. Over there," he pointed to a cluster of small row houses, "are the dorms for students who live on campus."
"Do you live there?" she asked.
"No, I live in the city. Everyone commutes here, only a few live on the campus" He pulled his car into a space and cut it off. "Well, time to unload and move you in." After unloading, they headed off towards a set of row houses.
"This was a later addition; still new, I think." They stopped in front of a brownstone row house. "Here we are: number sixteen." He unlocked the door, stepping inside. "Hey, anybody home?" He dropped her bags off in the foyer. She heard a sound coming from the door adjacent to them. "Good; someone is here." He knocked on the door, opening it. Ginny peered over his shoulder to see a young woman sitting on her bed, reading; her eyes looked up as they entered.
"Ginny, I'd like you to meet Nadia, your housemate."
She stepped forward. From the outward appearance, Nadia was tall and lanky; her blond hair was tied in a loose knot. She stood up, adjusting her shirt; her brown eyes peered at Ginny from behind a pair of glasses.
"Hi, nice to meet you." Ginny shook her hand.
"Ginny, here, is a new recruit so be nice or else," he teased.
Nadia rolled her eyes at Talon before, returning her attention back to Ginny.
"Well, just to let you know, there are three of us including you in this house. Your room is down the hall, towards the back of the house. Upstairs," she said pointing towards the ceiling, "is Eva's room; she's up there because she snores."
Ginny stifled a laugh and began coughing.
Nadia continued, "But you'll hardly ever see her, because she has a boyfriend now and is only home once and a while. I'll let you unpack and get comfortable; nice meeting you." Nadia nodded her head at Talon and Ginny, spun, and closed her door. Ginny's brow furrowed in confusion. That seemed a little rude.
"Don't worry about her, Gin; she's a bit shy, it takes her a while to warm up to new people," he said, giving her a mischievous grin. He opened Ginny's door, dropping off her suitcases. "Did you want to freshen up? I was thinking I could take you around now or it can wait till later?"
She was still wearing travel clothes from home and it was a bit warmer outside. She bit her lip, contemplating. "Give me two minutes to change into something more breathable," she answered.
"Okay, I'll meet you on the steps."
After changing into a pair of jeans and tank top, she walked down the steps to see Talon talking to a tall black man wearing dark blue Auror training gear similar to Harry and Ron's. As Ginny approached she noticed a long, jagged scar that travel down the side of his face and disappeared into the collar of his shirt. The man laughed and looked up in time to see Ginny's approach.
Talon moved towards her, pulling her down the steps. "Gin, this is Kevin. He is one of our top Auror trainers and commander of the Special Ops Team."
The man slapped Talon's shoulder before extending his large hand. "Nice to meet you, Gin. Can't believe they trusted a new recruit to this knucklehead," he said, motioning towards Talon. "I look forward to training you this fall."
"Thank you," she nervously grinned at the huge man. Kevin nodded. "I'm on my way to another meeting to finalize the curriculum for your recruit class," he stepped away. "Ms. Weasley, Talon" Kevin excused himself, leaving Talon and Ginny alone in his wake.
"Bit scary, isn't he?" he said, noticing her fearful expression. "Don't worry; he's only scary when he's mad. You'll get exceptional defense training with him. Ready?"
She swallowed her nervous energy. "As ever," she answered.
Talon and Ginny walked and talked as he pointed out interesting anecdotes about the school. Ginny felt increasingly comfortable around him, as if she had known him for years. He had a witty personality and joked with her easily. Ginny even felt comfortable to retort to his funny remarks. He's flirting with me, she thought. She was pretty good at flirting with Talon; it seemed effortless. Ginny laughed at a comment he made about a professor when she noticed their walk had taken them behind the main house.
Her pulse quickened when she felt Talon's hand on her shoulder. "Hey, I want to show you something."
He led her down an earthen staircase. As they neared the bottom, the trees began to thin out; a soft rush filled their ears. At the last step, Talon pulled her along towards the right; the trees cleared. The view made Ginny's mouth slack open.
"Beautiful, isn't it?"
Ginny didn't say anything except stared off into the vista. "Where are we?" She inched toward the rocky edge.
"We are standing above the Potomac River and down there," he said, pointing towards the lone white pinnacle that stood against the skyline, "is the National Monument. That's Washington, DC, Ginny."
"This is beautiful, Talon."
"I thought you would appreciate it; you seem like the type that would appreciate nature at its finest." He smiled as the sun reflected off Ginny's hair.
Ginny turned back, smiling at Talon when she noticed he looked distressed.
"Talon?" Ginny asked, reaching out to touch his arm. "Are you okay?"
He quickly smiled and brushed away her question. "Yeah, I'm okay." His beeping wristwatch announced the time. "Shit, I've been running my mouth for forty-five minutes; let's head back up."
Ginny looked confused as he rushed towards the stairs. She wondered what had gotten to him. Ginny jogged to catch up to him; once she caught up, it turned into a race up the stairs. Talon reached the top first.
"I win," he gasped, his chest heaving from the exertion.
Ginny bent over, trying to breathe. "Don't worry, I have plenty of time to beat you." She winked.
Talon chuckled. "We'll see." His attention was drawn away as the sound of an engine entered the air. Talons eyes widened when he saw the source. He ruffled his short hair as the motorcycle pulled in and parked.
"Perfect timing," he muttered. "Ginny, I want you to meet someone."
Talon seized her arm, pulling her across the street towards the biker. Ginny stood back as he ran up, knocking the biker in the helmet and pointing in her direction. Ginny wished she knew what he was saying; a good pair of Extendable Ears would have been perfect for right now. He stopped talking and gestured for Ginny to join him. Ginny slowly walked over next to them.
Talon flashed an encouraging smile before speaking, "Ginny, I would like to introduce you to Nick."
Ginny wondered who was underneath the dark helmet. If he looked anything like Talon, this school had promise. Ginny stared as the biker removed his helmet; what she saw made her jaw drop. Standing in front of her was not a tattooed renegade biker that she had imagined. Instead, there stood a tall black girl with a honey complexion; she un-tucked a long brown ponytail from her jacket. She stood with her arms crossed, her brown eyes narrowed as she looked Ginny up and down before returning a glare at Talon.
"You were late today and did you do what I asked you to do?" she asked, her voice low and raspy.
Talon smiled, pushing her in the shoulder and laughing, "Take a tranquilizer, Nick; I said I would."
She looked down at her shoulder and back at him. "I'm not playing with you, Talon." She shifted her hips, poking her finger into his chest.
She began to open her mouth, but he swiftly covered it, stopping her tirade. "Nick, this is Gin, one of the new recruits," he said, putting extra emphasis on 'recruit'.
Her dark eyes darted back over to Ginny, before pushing his hand away. "Hi." She extended her hand to shake, finally acknowledging her.
Ginny shook her hand skeptically, keeping eye contact. "Nice to meet you, Nick."
"So, what program are you interested in?" she asked, her piercing glare not leaving Ginny's.
Ginny swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. "I'm interested in the Forensic/Auror program."
"I see. My program." She smirked.
Ginny's chest tightened. Great, now I have to deal with the female version of Snape. The two women stared at each other.
"Hey," Talon broke the silence. "Nick, here, is an assistant professor in that program; she was top of her class. She's real smart, if you ask..."
Nick put her hand up to him. "I hate to interrupt, especially when you're kissing up, Talon, but I need to finish the project that you didn't." Her attention returned to Ginny.
"It was nice meeting you, Ginny; I hope to be working with you soon." With one last sideways glance at Talon, she walked away.
Ginny stood, grimacing, as her figure receded into the distance.
"Don't let her get to you, Gin," he said, placing a hand on her shoulder. "She's only testing you. She is like that with all the recruits; she only wants the strong and the best in her program. Her bark is much worse than her bite, but then again, I've only been on the receiving end of her bark, so I could be wrong " Talon laughed. "You'll have to ask Xander when you meet him, he always seems to be on the receiving end of her bark and bite."
Ginny smiled; she needed to hear those reassuring words. It was nice to hear statements of confidence from someone who didn't have a similar hair color to her own. A churn and a gurgle escaped from her stomach, causing Talon's eyes to widen.
"Well, I guess that is my clue you're hungry, then?"
She couldn't remember the last time she ate, she nodded sheepishly
He stepped closer. "Well, since I beat you in the race, you have to let me take you for dinner, if that is okay with you?"
Ginny felt her stomach flip-flop. "So, all I have to do is let you win and I get a free dinner?" she questioned, her eyebrow arched. "I must remember that."
"Great! Well, I have some errands to run, plus I know you are a little jet-lagged, so I'll swing by here in an hour?"
Ginny nodded her head in agreement.
"Well, good, I'll see you in a bit, Gin." He left, jogging towards his car.
Ginny stared after him; a cool breeze initiated her walk to the house. Honestly, what is my problem? He's just like any other bloke! No need to get yourself worked up; you'd think he was Harry the way I'm – she stopped.
"Harry," she whispered. It was then the realization hit that not a single thought about Harry had crossed her mind since she got on the plane hours before. This was a first. There was always something that reminded her of Harry. Listening to a Quidditch match, serving his favorite drink at the tavern, watching a thunderstorm, or catching the scent of treacle tart; he had been a constant thought in her thinking process since she was eleven. When she dated Dean and Michael, he was still there, lurking in her mind. Well, Talon isn't exactly Harry, now, is he? No. Besides the physical differences, Talon treated her differently, too. He was open, he wasn't shy, he didn't falter on words, he was gregarious, and he held himself with confidence. All the qualities Talon possessed were the opposites of what made Harry special to her. But Talon has your stomach doing flip-flops the same way it did it for Harry. Ginny cursed under her breath and wished she didn't over analyze everything. To put a stop to the endless analysis of a nonexistent relationship, she picked up a bag and began to unpack.
Sixty minutes later, Ginny stepped back and looked at the progress of her room; it wasn't the Burrow, but it was home, for now. She lifted her hand to adjust a picture on the wall of all of them at her birthday dinner when she heard a voice behind her.
"Hey. Oh, wow, you work pretty fast," he said, stepping into her room and surveying her progress. "So, you ready, Gin? I know a great place to take you to that's a good introduction to the city."
She gave a slight smile, brushed her hands down her jeans, and said, "I think I'm ready."
"Okay, I'll wait outside," leaving Ginny alone in her room.
Ginny had grabbed her house keys off her desk when a glass frame diverted her attention. She had forgotten she packed the gift. Lifting it up off the table and smiling, her fingers ran along the words on the glass plate as she read the words, now understanding why Hermione had given it to her.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step Lao-Tzu
Ginny sighed as she placed the frame down. Giving her room a final inspection, she grabbed her jacket as she took the first step towards her new life.
A/N: Okay this is my first stab at a fanfic that isn't supernatural, horror related. A big thanks goes to ChaoticK and Phoenixlls for their wonderful beta-ing. Feel free to read/review.