Harry's Future, Part 10
Harry sat at the small table that had been placed for him and his deputy, Maxwell, on the dais normally occupied by the faculty table. It was the second Saturday in November and it was time for the tryouts to select candidates for the Patroller squads Harry was developing. The tryouts were scheduled to begin at nine in the morning and when Harry arrived at eight there were at least one hundred people lined up outside the Hogwarts main gate. As he walked past he was hailed with numerous greetings and he saw a number of familiar faces. It looked like half of the DA had showed up. Prominently situated near the head of the line was Ron Weasley. Harry stopped a moment and shook hands with his best friend.
"How long have you been waiting here, Ron?" Harry had asked.
"Been here since sunrise, Harry. I kipped at the store last night," he said with a grin.
Harry smiled and made his way up to the castle and the Great Hall. Breakfast had been moved up and the Hall had already been cleaned up and some tables rearranged. By mutual agreement Harry was present only as an observer as was Maxwell. All administrative and testing duties were assigned to the Testing Director and her staff. This was so no charges of any favoritism could be leveled at Harry after the selections were announced. He was expected to make a short welcome and introduction and then spend the rest of the day observing and taking care of some personal business. Leaning on the wall was a package wrapped in brown paper. It was approaching nine and Harry watched as several elderly witches finished placing application forms on the long house tables. He wondered why everyone associated with the testing efforts were always senior citizens but he guess it had something to do with experience.
Speaking, or thinking, of experiences, the last few weeks had some significant ones. Since the raid that shut down the smugglers he had received word that the Board of Governors of Hogwarts had consented to the use of the Great Hall for the wedding with the stipulation that they all be invited. Ginny had returned home a few days early from France, the Harpies having made it to the semi-finals before being eliminated by a strong team from Germany. That weekend the dinner that Harry had suggested to Fleur and Bill turned into a grand affair at the Burrow to include Angelina and Hermione. When the young ladies got to talking about wedding plans, Ginny let slip what Harry had proposed and it created quite a discussion. Angelina and Hermione both thought the idea was brilliant but Mrs. Weasley had some objections centering, just as Harry had surmised, about the Burrow being something of a tradition in the making. However, once Harry had the chance to explain his reasoning and Ginny sitting there with her pleading expression Mrs. Weasley began to soften. When the other girls, backed by Fleur, commented how fantastic it would be and what a social event it would make coupled with the interest that always was attached to anything involving Harry, she started to come around and by the end of the evening she was enthusiastically discussing the plans with her daughters, current and pending.
He had also taken delivery of the custom broom for Abagail which he intended to present to her today and Ginny was due to arrive around ten o'clock to give the diminutive witch some lessons. He was brought back to the here and now by the sound of the clock in the corridor chiming the hour of nine and shortly thereafter he could hear the sounds of voices as the prospective candidates filed up from the gates and through the main door. They were ushered in by the testing team with instructions to move toward the front of the Hall, find a seat and fill out the form they would find there. There was a significant buzz in the room as people filed down the aisles between the tables and found seats. Harry looked out over the crowd and saw Ron at the near end of the Gryffindor table.
He also saw Katie Bell and one of the Patil sisters, he couldn't figure out which one from where he sat. Terry Boot and Michael Corner were sitting together filling out forms and he spotted other former DA members Anthony Goldstein and Alicia Spinnet, one of Harry's former Quidditch teammates.
He also recognized some faces of students who had graduated some years ahead of Harry and not a few who were from last years seventh years and some sixth years who weren't going for their NEWTs. There were also a fair number of people who were obviously long gone from Hogwarts before Harry ever arrived. All in all he estimated there were over three hundred witches and wizards in the Hall.
"Looks like a pretty good turn out, sir," Maxwell said.
"Yes, it does. Better then I expected."
"Well, Harry," came a familiar voice from behind him. "I would imagine your success with the smugglers ring has something to do with the turn out," Professor McGonagall said from her place at the faculty table.
"Yes, ma'am. I suppose you're right. I just hope they're serious about it."
"Oh, I think based on what I've seen of the examiners test plan, anyone who isn't will be weeded out in short order," she said with a wry smile.
Harry smiled and nodded. It was going to be a tough day for sure. At twenty minutes past nine Harry stood up and walked over to the podium. He used the gavel to get everyone's attention.
"Good morning everyone. I'm Harry Potter, Chief of the Aurors office," at which point he had to stop as everyone began to applaud. "Thank you, but that's not necessary. I should be applauding all of you for coming out here today. The turn out is much better then I could have hoped for. As I trust you are aware from the advertisement, we are looking for new members for the expanded Aurors office. At the Minister's direction we have been reorganizing and expanding the scope of that office and those of you who are successful today will become the Patrollers Unit. You will be the face of the Department and for many, the Ministry, as you will be dealing on a daily basis with the public. Over time there will be opportunities for those that qualify to move into the more traditional rolls of the Aurors but as of today, anyone wishing to become a full Auror will first be spending time getting to know every nook and cranny of Diagon and Knockturn Alleys and Hogsmeade. That includes Azkaban as well. I can promise a lot of hard work, but I believe it will be a challenging and rewarding career," Harry smiled as he said this.
"I would like to take a moment to introduce the recently appointed Deputy Chief Maxwell. He and I will be taking a personal interest in the training of those who are selected so you'll get to know us well. Also, this is the last you will see or hear from either of us in an official capacity today. The Director of Testing and her staff will have charge of everything else that happens for the rest of the day. This is to make sure that absolute impartiality is the order of the day. For those of you who make it, things will be tough enough. You don't want the notion of favoritism hanging over your heads. Well, that's all I have for you today. Oh, I almost forgot. For those of you who are still in your six or seventh years and make the cut. You will not be called for training until the end of the school year. We want you to finish your year out, especially seventh years. So again, thank you for coming out here today and the best of luck to you."
Harry stepped away from the podium as a fresh wave of applause broke out. The testing staff soon had this quieted down and got on with the business of getting the forms filled out and collected. Harry went and sat back down with Maxwell. The older Auror looked over at Harry.
"There's a lot of good will out there as far as you're concerned, sir."
"We'll see how long that lasts after most find out they didn't make the grade," he said with a rueful smile.
It was about fifteen minutes latter when the announcement was made that everyone should make their way to the Quidditch pitch and to report to the station that had their last name initial displayed above it.
"Well, guess I'll go and take a look around and see what we have to work with," Maxwell said.
"I'll be along in a little while. I have some business here and I'd like them to get started without too many distractions."
"Good idea, see you later, sir."
"Well, Harry. It seems you're off to a good start," the Headmistress said from behind him.
Harry turned in his chair and replied,
"Yes, ma'am. So far so good. I saw more then a few familiar faces."
"Yes, I noticed that Ron Weasley was right down front."
"Yes, ma'am. I had heard that he was getting bored with becoming a rich business man. He'll be a good man to have on board if he makes it."
"You have doubts?"
"No, not doubts. I'm just trying to maintain my neutrality and not jinx anything," Harry said with a laugh.
The Headmistress chuckled and then said,
"Harry, when you have the opportunity, Professor Dumbledore would like to see you."
"Yes, ma'am. I'm expecting Ginny here at ten and we have a little something to attend to and then I'll come right up," he said.
"I'll let him know and we'll see you soon."
The Headmistress left and Harry followed soon after and stood out on the steps leading down from the main door. He could just make out the tail end of the hopefuls as they were making their way into the Stadium. He allowed his eyes to roam over the school grounds and the other views that he had come to know so well. How long he stood there he couldn't say but he was brought back to the here and now by a most welcome voice.
"Hello, handsome."
He looked down to see Ginny smiling up at him from the bottom of the staircase. He smiled back.
"Hello, beautiful, it's wonderful to see you."
She hurried up the stairs and they spent some time just holding on to each other. She then gave him one of her heartfelt kisses and then looked up at him.
"How did it go?" she asked.
"Pretty well, actually. Must have been over three hundred people. A bunch of former DA members too, including your brother, Ron."
"I'm not surprised after what you told me. Who else did you see?"
Harry described who was there as they walked back into the castle arm in arm.
"Wow, that's amazing Harry, but again I shouldn't be surprised. I don't think you appreciate how much we all looked up to you in those days. These days, too. I think Hermione was right, you were born to do this."
"When did she say that?" Harry asked.
"She told me right after she told you. We talk a lot, even if it's mostly by owl these days. She told me about the conversation she had with you one day in your office. She said you were a born leader. These people see that, too," she concluded looking at him in admiration.
"Thanks, but you better find my air valve pretty quick," he said with a laugh.
She laughed too, after smacking his arm. By now they were back in the Great Hall and Harry was picking up the wrapped package he had brought with him.
"This is it. I hope she likes it."
"Oh, Harry, how could she not. It's such a great idea, she'll love it."
"Now we just have to find her," Harry said.
"No problem, my love. I took care of that with an owl a couple of days ago. She'll be here in about five minutes. I just hope she didn't 'see' any of this and have her surprise spoiled," Ginny said thoughtfully.
They sat and talked for a bit until they heard footsteps in the corridor. They looked toward the door and saw the diminutive girl enter the Hall. When she caught sight of them she gave a little yell and then dashed down the aisle between two sets of tables right into the outstretched arms of Ginny.
"Hello, little sister, how are you?" Ginny asked as she hugged the girl whose feet were now off the floor.
"I'm really great, thanks. It's so good to see you," her voice muffled in Ginny's shoulder.
After another squeeze Ginny set Abagail down who immediately went to Harry and wrapped her arms around him.
"Hello, sir. I'm glad to see you, too."
Harry smiled down at her and said,
"And it's always good to see you, Abagail."
He then lifted her up and sat her on the top step to the dais so they were more or less eye to eye. She sat with her hands clasped in her lap and she was looking at Harry with those big dark eyes that he swore could look right into your soul.
"Abagail, do you know why we asked to see you today?"
"Because you missed me?" she said with an impish grin.
"Well, yes that is true, but we had something more specific in mind," Harry said with a laugh.
"No, sir," came her quiet, breathless reply. "I try not to look for you too much. Professor McGonagall and I had a talk about privacy and I've been practicing on only letting big things come through."
"Ok, well, I wanted to tell you that you were very helpful in our capturing those smugglers and I wanted to give you a reward."
"But you don't have to do that, sir. You've already given me so much," she said.
Harry looked at Ginny in what she came to know as his 'here we go again' look.
"That might be true, but since this was so important, I'm going to give it to you anyway. And here it is," he said as he laid the narrow package on her lap.
Abagail looked at it with eyes wide, or wider then usual. Then she looked up at Harry and Ginny.
"Go ahead, Abagail, open it up," Ginny urged.
Abagail's small, deft fingers made short work of the string and paper. What emerged was a two thirds scale broom similar in style to the Nimbus 2000 but with delicately styled footrests and the initials AW done in elegant script. The small girl sat there blinking and as she looked back at Harry and Ginny her eyes were near to overflowing.
"It's beautiful, sir, but I won't be able to use it very well," she said in a barely audible voice.
"I think otherwise, Abagail. That is a special broom made to just your size and with special spells to make it easier to fly and maneuver. Ginny is here to help you with that. Madame Hooch has permitted you two to use her training area to practice," Harry said.
"Right now, sir?"
"Right now, Abagail. Go get your cloak," Ginny said.
"Oh, wow," was all she said as she jumped up off the stair, wrapped Harry and Ginny in a shared hug and then tore up the aisle and out of the Hall.
"That was really terrific, Harry. You have a real knack for picking out presents for people," she said as she reached up and kissed his cheek.
Faster then either of them thought possible Abagail returned with her cloak and she picked up the new broom and held it close. She looked up at Harry and said,
"Will you be coming too, sir?"
"I have to go up to the Headmistress' office first, Abagail. It's probably best you have just one teacher and no spectators while you're trying out your new broom. I'll stop by when I'm done," Harry replied.
He did walk them to the main door, however. Ginny gave him a short kiss and with a smile walked with Abagail to the practice yard. Harry turned and made his way up the flights of stairs and was soon outside the entrance to the Heads office, which was already opened. He climbed the last flight of stairs and passed through the outer room to the office door. His knock was greeted by the Headmistress' voice.
"Come in, Potter."
Harry entered and took a seat in the chair indicated by Professor McGonagall.
"Good morning, Harry," offered Professor Dumbledore from his portrait.
"Good morning, sir."
"First of all, Harry, congratulations on your success with the smuggling ring. I understand that it went well."
"Thank you, sir," Harry replied. "It went fairly well, although it could have gone better."
"Ah, yes, the matter of Travers. I know you must feel badly about it, you wouldn't be who you are if you didn't, but try not to let it bother you too much. It was his choice after all."
"I suppose so, but it demonstrated that I shouldn't be out there. I get angry and it clouds my judgment so I've decided I'm not going on any more field missions. The Minister was going to forbid it anyway, but I saved him the trouble," Harry said.
"I understand, Harry. But what I really wanted to discuss with you is the status of the portals. Ms. Granger told me what she had found out, of course, but there is still a great deal we don't know, and I don't think we are in a position to ask Durmstrang about it," Dumbledore said. "Unfortunately, I'm not in any condition to investigate myself. Do you have any plans regarding it, Harry?"
"I have my investigators checking the entire contents of both buildings, sir. Right now the portal is off limits until we know what everything is in there and that it's safe to begin studying the portal. Its discovery has created quite a stir in the Ministry and there are several groups wanting to take charge but right now it's still a crime scene so I have control. I was thinking of asking Bill Weasley to take a look. He's had a lot of experience with strange things."
"Not a bad idea, Harry. And once things are safe enough, you might consider having Abagail Westwood see what she can 'see'. We have no idea what the extent of her talent is so I can't imagine what she might be able to discern."
"It's a thought, but not until we're absolutely certain that place is safe," Harry said firmly.
"Young man," Harry heard a voice call from higher up on the wall. "Up here, young man."
Harry craned his neck back until he could see who was calling down to him. It was an elderly looking wizard in archaic looking robes.
"Yes, sir?" Harry replied politely.
"My name is Philander Nimbus. I was the Headmaster of Hogwarts from 1534 to 1562. It was I that recognized that which you found in that farm building. Has anyone taken the time to copy down the symbols that were carved into the portals frame?"
"Um, not that I'm aware of, sir, but it would be easy enough to do if they haven't."
"I would strongly suggest that you do so and have a copy sent here. From what little I know of this device they could be very important," the old Headmaster said.
"I'll see to it as soon as I get back, sir, and have it sent here right away," Harry said. "And thank you."
"Not at all. I may just be an old canvas on a wall, but that doesn't mean I've lost my interest in the world."
Professor Dumbledore looked down at Harry with a small smile.
"You see, Harry. Having a bunch of cranky old witches and wizards hanging about the place does have its uses," he said with a chuckle.
This prompted a series of comments from around the office from laughs to harrumphs to outraged sputters. Harry tried hard not to laugh as he didn't want to insult anyone or cut off sources of future aid.
"Harry, I think this would be a good time for you to go see how things are progressing outside," Professor McGonagall said also trying hard to hide a smile.
"Yes, ma'am," he said as he got out of the chair and facing Professor Dumbledore he nodded his head and then left the room.
Once outside he couldn't help but laugh. There was something fundamentally comical about pillars of the magical world squabbling like crabby children. Harry made his way down to the main doors and out into the bright cold morning. He walked around to the walled-in expanse of grass that served as the practice and training area for Madame Hooch's flying classes. As Harry walked through the arched opening he saw a wonderful sight. Cruising around the field at around six feet off the ground was Abagail, her face one big smile and her airy voice drifting across the field with sounds of delight. Ginny was standing in the middle of the field calling out encouragement and instructions. Harry stood and watched as the small girl made a series of graceful turns followed by some tighter ones. Then she took several short, higher speed runs up and down the lawn. Finally she came to a stop and hovered in front of Ginny who was also grinning broadly.
Perhaps sensing his presence Abagail looked to where Harry was standing. She let out a whoop, or as close to one as her voice would allow, and urged the broom to take her to where he stood waiting. She came to a hover right in front of him.
"Oh, sir. Did you see me? I'm flying and the broom goes everywhere I want it to. It's the most wonderful thing in the world. Thank you, thank you," she spilled out in nearly a constant stream of words.
"You're very welcome, Abagail. I'm glad to see you're enjoying yourself," he said then smiled as Ginny approached them.
"Well, Harry. You were right, as usual," she added with an impish grin. "Once she had a broom that was the right size it all fell into place. She may not be flying seeker for the Ravenclaws but she'll be a very competent flyer on that little speedster."
"I'm sure she will with your expert coaching. What do you say we all head over to the Stadium and see how things are going? Then we can see about some lunch."
"Can I stay on my broom, sir?" Abagail asked excitedly.
"I think so. What do you say, coach?" Harry asked Ginny.
"I think that would be a good idea, but let's be careful she doesn't over do it. Otherwise she'll be sore in places she didn't know she had places."
With that warning Harry and Ginny began walking hand in hand toward the Quidditch stadium with Abagail gliding smoothly along side. She would occasionally make slow wide circles around them but she seemed content to cruise along most of the time. Apparently her quiet, reserved nature precluded the mad antics so common amongst young flyers. They made their way across the lawn in front of the castle and onto the path leading to the stadium. Harry could see that all the applicants had made their way in and so he figured they could enter without causing any distraction.
"Abagail. I think you should land now and walk in with us. I don't want to distract anyone from what they are doing, ok?" Harry said.
"Yes, sir. I wouldn't want to do that either," she said as she drifted to the ground and hopped off the broom.
Harry and Ginny walked on either side of Abagail as they made their way down the main entrance tunnel. As they approached the far end and could see the activity on the pitch they paused to see what was going on. In various areas on the browned grass, stations had been set up in a fashion similar to what Harry and Ginny had experienced with their OWLs and NEWTs . Harry was well aware of the kinds of tests being administered. There were the basics of course, charms, wand work, some DADA and Magical creatures, and for those that choose, more advanced testing that included potions and broom flying. Harry motioned for his two companions to follow him as he walked over to where he saw Maxwell standing observing the goings on.
"Sir," was all he said by way of greetings.
"Maxwell. So, what do you think?" Harry asked.
"Well, it's still early yet, but there are a few bright spots out there. That red headed fellow over there has shown some good wand work and knows his defensive charms," Maxwell said at the same time he glanced toward Ginny and her flowing crimson mane.
"My brother," she said with a grin.
"Oh, Maxwell, this is my fiancée, Ginny Weasley. That's her brother, Ron."
"You have a few friends and acquaintances out there, don't you, sir?" Maxwell said.
"Yes, that's why I insisted of staying out of the selection process. I need to make sure we avoid any kind of controversy."
"Yes, sir. If you don't mind I'd like to roam around. Check out the prospects."
"Go right ahead, I'll talk to you later," Harry said.
They watched as the older Auror walked off around the perimeter of the nearest station.
"Sir," Abagail said even more quietly then usual.
"Yes, Abagail, what is it?"
"That man. His voice. He's one of the one's I heard that time talking about how sorry you'd be becoming an Auror."
Abagail was looking up at Harry with her big dark eyes wide with concern. Harry looked at her and then at the retreating back of Maxwell.
"Are you sure, Abagail? This is very important," Harry said quietly as well.
"Yes, sir. I can recall everything I've ever seen that way. He was one of them."
Harry looked up at Ginny and saw her eyes blazing as she glared in the direction that Maxwell had taken, now lost in the crowd.
"Calm down, Ginny. That was a long time ago."
"Not really, Harry," she said, her voice vibrating with anger. "It may seem like it to you but it's been a pretty short time for people like him when you compare it to how long they've been Aurors. You better watch yourself."
"I always watch myself, love. I think I'll have a little talk with my new deputy when I get the chance," he said then looked down at Abagail. "Thank you, Abagail. Once again, you've been a big help to me. Looks like I'm going to have to find you a spot when you graduate," the last was said with a smile.
They stayed and watched for a little while longer and then began the walk back up to the castle and the Great Hall. Abagail needed to be back for lunch and Harry didn't want to be any kind of distraction to the applicants. When they got to the Great Hall Harry heard a familiar voice.
"Hello, Harry. Hello, Ginny," came the dreamy voice of Luna Lovegood.
"Luna," Ginny called running up to her friend and classmate. Harry walked over.
"Hi, Luna, how are you? Are you here for the try outs?" he asked a bit incredulously.
"No, Harry, not that it's not a brilliant idea of yours. I'm here to talk to Hagrid. I'm working on a plan to search for lost magical creatures," she said.
"Lost creatures?"
"Yes. There are more then a few magical creatures that were well known to witches and wizards down through the years that are considered extinct by the mainstream community. But every now and again there are sightings reported. I think there are still some out there and I'm going to look for them. My father is going to back the expeditions and I'll report my findings in his magazine, for starters. Hagrid is helping me figure out what would be the most likely to find and where to look. We're hoping a few early successes might stir interest at the Ministry."
"Sounds very interesting, Luna," Ginny said. "My older brother Charlie is up here in the highlands somewhere doing some kind of research of his own. It's all very hush hush, but from the various burns on him it probably has something to do with dragons."
"Well, I'll leave those things to him, Ginny. I prefer the smaller, less flammable kinds," she said with her usual dreamy smile.
She gave them a little wave and went out through the front doors leaving Harry and Ginny in the corridor. Abagail had already left to put her broom safely away in her room. Ginny looked up at Harry and said,
"Well, my love, as much as I want to stay and spend the rest of the day with you, tomorrow is a match day. Will you be there? We're at home," Ginny said.
"I'll try, Ginny. I don't think the results from today will be ready for a few days at least so unless something comes up I should be able to get free."
"I hope so. Until tomorrow then," she said as she pulled his head down and gave him a sound kiss and then with a soft caress of his cheek left through the main doors. Harry watched her leave and then sighed.
The rest of the day passed slowly as he maintained a low profile as far as the applicants were concerned. He did have a number of brief conversations with a number of the students and several faculty members. By four o'clock the activity on the Quidditch pitch was winding down and from the direction of the stadium he could see a number of people walking towards the town where they could head for home or get something to eat in Hogsmeade. He watched until the last of the applicants had left and a small knot of witches and wizards made their way up to the castle.
"Mr. Potter," the Test Director began, "as you can see we have concluded the days business. I believe it went rather well. The Deputy Director stated a certain satisfaction with what he saw and asked me to tell you he was going to head straight back to the Ministry. Processing the results of the tests and developing the list of acceptable candidates will likely take the full week coming up. You may expect the list by Friday afternoon. Is this acceptable?"
"That will be just fine, ma'am," Harry replied. "I appreciate your assistance in this, all of you. It couldn't have been done without you."
"It was our pleasure, Mr. Potter," the elderly witch replied. "It has been a very interesting and eminently worthwhile experience for all of us. Now if you'll excuse us, we wish to pay our respects to the Headmistress."
"Of course," Harry said.
He stepped aside and watched as the testers walked through the main doors. He figured that they would be some time talking with Professor McGonagall so he decided he would head home and send a note thanking her for all the help that Hogwarts had provided. Within ten minutes he was walking through his front door, Kreacher bowing him in.
As promised he was in the stands for the match and it was a grueling affair. The snitch proved to be in a particularly contrary mood that afternoon and simply refused to be caught. The seekers were kept in nearly constant motion as they battled each other and the nasty little golden orb. The rest of the flyers were pushed to their limits as they battled back and forth over the quaffle and trying to avoid the two bludgers. A number of substitutions had to be made during the course of the match. Harry felt a bit frustrated as there were several times when he was sure one or the other seeker should have been able to make a grab but missed their chances one way or another. Ginny was spending most of the match in the air and it was becoming clear to Harry that she was tiring rapidly.
The score see-sawed back and forth and as the sun was setting the Harpies held a slim twenty point lead when Harry noticed the other seeker make a fatal mistake, figuratively speaking. The snitch had all but disappeared for the last fifteen minutes when it suddenly swooped past the Harpies' keeper who shouted. Both seekers began diving on the snitch from opposite directions but Harry noticed that, probably due to fatigue, the opposing seeker was coming in too steep and too fast. It was over in the blink of an eye. The Harpies seeker made a desperate lunge and managed to grab the snitch just a few feet above the pitch as the opposing seeker flashed by. The victorious seeker managed a sloppy skidding sliding stop while the other crashed into the ground and bounced to a stop in a heap on the grass. Harry winced but saw that several team mates were already coming to his aid as well as the team trainer.
The Harpies flew a victory lap but it was obvious that they were exhausted. They came in for a landing and gathered around Betty Hapnafl who quickly directed them off the field. The stands were beginning to empty but Harry let them pass since he would be waiting until Ginny was finished in the locker room. He watched as the crashed seeker was tended to. It was obvious that he was conscious now but they did remove him on a stretcher, floating him off to their own sidelines. Once the stands were empty Harry made his way down and into the main tunnel. He waited for perhaps fifteen minutes when he saw the first of the Harpies exit the locker room. He gave them a smile and a nod and one called to him,
"She'll be a few minutes more, Mr. Potter. We're all moving a little slow at the moment."
"Thanks and congratulations. That was a tough match."
They smiled wearily and moved off down that tunnel. A few minutes later Ginny walked slowly through the locker room doorway. When she saw Harry she smiled and tried to hurry towards him. He met her halfway and as they hugged he could feel how tired she was from the way she was leaning into him.
"Ohhh, this feels good, Harry. I'm so tired," she said.
"I can imagine, love. What do you want to do about eating?"
"There's a Chinese take away place on the way home. Why don't we just grab something. I'm afraid I'm not going to be much company tonight," she said with a weary little grin.
"That's ok, we'll eat and then you get some sleep and I'll head for home," he replied quietly.
She looked up at him and smiled.
"You're always so understanding."
He just smiled and shrugged. They walked slowly out of the tunnel and with Harry offering what support he could they made their way home via the restaurant. Ginny was asleep by eight and Harry was home by half past.
Harry arrived at his office on Monday morning feeling satisfied that the tryouts had gone well and he was anxious to see who he would be working with on the new Patrollers squad. It was decided that training would begin the first week of January. But he had another issue to deal with first. He sent a message to Maxwell asking him to come to Harry's office. He arrived about fifteen minutes later.
"You wanted to see me, sir?"
"Yes, Maxwell, come on in and close the door," Harry replied.
The older Auror did so and he sat facing Harry across the old desk. Harry looked back with his hands folded on the desk in front of him.
"So what did you think of the tryouts?" Harry asked.
"I was a little dubious at first, but there was some real talent out there. For what you want them to do I think there will be plenty to choose from," Maxwell replied matter-of-factly.
"That brings me to my second question. Just how do you feel about what it is I'm trying to do? I probably should have asked this before I appointed you deputy but I was a little distracted that day."
"Honestly?"
"Of course."
"I didn't like it when you first announced it and I still don't think it's the best idea in the world. I'll admit we had problems but nothing that couldn't be solved without all this."
"It goes a little deeper then that doesn't it? It's my understanding you and others didn't want me here even as a trainee. Am I right?" Harry asked.
"You know about that, do you?" Maxwell asked, a touch of anxiety in his voice.
"I do."
After a slight hesitation Maxwell said,
"Most of us saw you as a jumped up amateur riding in here on the coattails of the new Minister and whatever you were able to pull off at Hogwarts," Maxwell said, and then he shrugged. "You were able to prove you were a tough and capable wizard and in the normal course of events you probably would have turned out to be a solid Auror. But here we are and you're in charge. So what's next, my resignation?"
"Not necessarily. If you can put the rest of it aside and concentrate on the task at hand, that's all I want. I'm not here to be friends or anything else. I have a job to do and I intend to do it. It's up to you if you want to stay. But remember what I said that first day. I won't tolerate any attempts to undermine what we're trying to do."
"I think I'll stick around. If this is the way it's going to be, I want to make sure it's done right," Maxwell said with a crooked smile.
"That's all I want. Let's get back to work then."
Maxwell nodded, stood up and left the room. Harry looked at the doorway for a moment longer then shook his head and started to review the outline of the training plan that he had been working on. It was getting close to noon when Milligan knocked on the doorframe of Harry's office. Harry looked up and said,
"Yes?"
"Got something here I thought you should know about, sir," Milligan said as he stepped into the office. "We finished going through all that stuff in the warehouse and most of it's been taken away by various offices. It'll be a couple of weeks before we have all the details. We started to look around the grounds of that old farm and we're seeing some odd things up there."
"Like what?"
"Strange animal tracks, little trails leading back into some woods, a couple of disguised cave entrances and what might be an underground structure or bunker or somesuch. We haven't done too much poking around at this point. No sign off anything or anyone alive though. Even the tracks look kind of old."
"Hmm, maybe I should come up and take a look. I might be able to tap into that help we got on the warehouse to begin with."
"I thought the same thing, but I know you're not supposed to be on any missions after the last time so…" the lanky wizard trailed off.
"I'll just be taking a look and I can do that from the air. You can have your squad on the ground to get a closer look. Can we use the portal?"
"Yes, sir. It's still functional and nobody's had any trouble with it so far," Milligan answered.
"Ok, let's say I'll meet you all at the entrance to Knockturn Alley at one o'clock. I'll head home and get my broom and a quick bite and then we'll see what's what."
"Yes, sir."
Harry put his paperwork away and headed for the lobby and the quick trip home. As usual Kreacher was waiting for him and as Harry walked in he saw his Firebolt propped against the wall by the hat and coat stand. Kreacher led him into the kitchen where a hot lunch was waiting on the small table. Harry could only smile as he shook his head a bit.
At the appointed hour he was standing at the entrance to the Alley with the assembled members of the MIU. He looked them over and then said,
"Ok, we are just going up there to have a look around. If anything untoward happens just Disapparate out of there and meet back at the Ministry and we'll figure out what to do from there. I don't want anyone getting hurt. Let's go."
They quickly made their way down to the now closed potions shop. In fact, all five of the shops that shared the common foundation were shuttered up. Very little activity was evident along this end of the Alley. They made their way down into the basement and one by one they went through the portal to emerge in the now vacant warehouse. Harry looked to his right and could see that the hole he had blasted through the wall had been roughly boarded over. Unhindered by the now removed crates and barrels they headed straight for the loading dock doorway and out into the brisk afternoon air. Harry was quickly airborne and as he gained altitude he could get an appreciation for how isolated this area was. For a relatively small country, England still had some pretty big sections of nowhere. He watched as the MIU team fanned out across the property moving away from the warehouse. From his vantage point he could see some of the features that Milligan had been talking about. In the foothills that began to rise up away from the old building he could see an opening that must have been one of the uncovered cave mouths. He could also see some trails through the grass and brush that looked odd from where he was. There were three of them that looked roughly parallel with the one in the middle looking as if it was worn down right to the soil. Near the end was the raised area that Harry figured was the bunker or whatever that Milligan had spoken about. He circled around it lazily as the investigators on the ground made their way up the trails.
They were perhaps fifty yards or so away when the afternoon exploded. A great geyser of soil, rock and gravel rocketed into the sky and then began to rain down on the surrounding area. It was followed by something Harry had hoped he would never see again, an enraged dragon. It happened so fast Harry wasn't sure afterwards but he guessed it was at least a quarter larger then the huge black dragon he had faced during the Triwizard Tournament. Unfortunately, this one wasn't tethered to the ground. As it bellowed its rage it rose into the air.
Harry peeled away in a plunging dive to gain airspeed and then pulled around to see where the thing was. He could see that several small red beams lanced out at the dragon from various places on the ground as those Aurors who were able tried to stupefy the great beast. All they managed was to attract its attention. As it began to focus on the ground Harry had his wand out and he shouted, "CONJUNCTIVITUS".
The beam of magical energy hit the dragon full in the face and the now blinded creature bellowed in pain and rage, letting loose with a blast of fire in Harry's general direction.
Several more Stupefy spells hit the dragon but it didn't seem to matter. Harry took a sweep along the flank of the thrashing monster and after taking a deep breath and visualizing a fire hose at full blast he shouted, "STUPEFY". He felt the energy drain out of him as a massive red beam struck the dragon along its shoulder. The enraged creature dropped half way to the ground before it could recover but whipped it's head around and let loose a blast of searing flame where it though Harry was. It was close, too close. Harry had to try to roll sideways and down but he still felt the agonizing pain of burns race up his left leg and arm and his broom bucked from the impact.
He managed to pull the broom back into a climb to get up and over the floundering reptile. Once more he gathered himself up and aiming the wand as best he could through the pain he unleashed another massive bolt of red energy that struck the beast fully at the base of the great neck. Again it was forced down toward the ground. For whatever reason it seemed to register on Harry that there was something wrong with this dragon. There was something that didn't look right about it. But he had no time to ponder it. The creature was still airborne, if barely, and the repeated hits by the other Aurors were taking a toll but not fast enough. While barely able to stay aloft Harry once more pulled what reserves he could together and took aim. Just as he released the spell the angry injured dragon whipped its head around towards Harry and the red bolt caught it square in the face. With a last roar that dwindled to a weak wail the creature's wings folded and it dropped the rest of the way to crash to the ground. Harry was also heading down in what could best be described as a controlled fall that took him through some low scrub where he rolled to a stop in a heap. Within moments several Aurors were crashing through the small bare bushes looking for Harry.
"Sir! Sir! Can you hear me, Mr. Potter?" the first to reach him called out.
"Weasley…Charlie Weasley," Harry barely whispered. "Needs…to see…dragon…not right…Charlie needs…to see…" he managed to get out before the blackness overwhelmed him.
Harry's first awareness after the encounter with the dragon was brief and disjointed. Tumbling swirls of black and gray played across his minds eye without forming any coherent pattern. Then the black rolled back over him.
After a time the black and gray swirled briefly and Harry found himself sitting on a bench looking out over the lake at Hogwarts. He could see the castle and the water but it didn't seem quite right. The edges lacked sharpness and there seemed to be some sort of undulations just beneath the surfaces. He continued to look around until he heard something.
"Hello, Harry," came the soft, low voice of Professor Dumbledore.
"Hello, Professor," Harry said, seeing his mentor standing to his left in a spot where he knew no one was standing a moment before.
"Why are you here, Harry?"
"I don't know, Professor. Is this the same place I came to after that last time with Voldemort?"
"Yes and no, Harry. This is a place between life and death. But it is not the same place as before. You should know that your life hangs by a thread, Harry. Your physical injuries are serious but you've nearly drained yourself, my boy."
"I didn't have any choice, Professor. That dragon was going after the Aurors on the ground."
"I didn't say you were wrong, Harry, but you are in very grave condition."
"I'm tired, Professor, really tired. I think I'll go back to sleep."
"Perhaps that would be best, dear boy. Save your strength. This is not the place for you, not yet."
Dumbledore and Hogwarts faded away and the blackness returned.
After a time the black and gray swirled briefly and Harry found himself looking out over the field he knew was on the other side of the garden wall at the Burrow. He was sitting in the old chaise lounge that he had used every day while he was recuperating that summer after the fall of Voldemort. He could hear the rustling of the garden gnomes in the hedges and then a more familiar sound.
"Hello, Harry," came the voice of Fred Weasley.
"Hello, Fred," Harry replied seeing his friend and 'brother' standing to his left in a spot where he knew no one was standing a moment before.
"Why are you here, Harry?"
"I'm not sure, Fred. Professor Dumbledore told me I needed to rest and this is where I come to do that, right?"
"No, Harry. You go to the Burrow to rest. This place just looks like the Burrow. You came here because you're dying, Harry."
"Really? I just feel really tired is all, Fred. I'd like to go someplace where I wouldn't be tired like this. Besides, is it so bad staying here, Fred?"
"If you stay here it's because you're dead, Harry. I guess I don't mind it too much because we won and how things turned out but there's lots of things I miss not doing and people I miss not seeing. It's not time for you yet, Harry."
"I'm just so tired, Fred. I think I'll go back to sleep."
"Good idea, Harry. Go to sleep. If you need to rest, go back to the Burrow. And tell everyone I said 'hi'," Fred said with a crooked smile.
Fred and the Burrow faded away and the blackness returned.
After a time the black and gray swirled briefly and Harry found himself standing in the town square of Godric's Hollow, the hometown of the Potters and Harry's birthplace. He was looking at the statue that to muggles was a war memorial but to witches or wizards was a monument to the Potters, his mum, dad and himself. He was looking at the stone faces of his parents when he heard a voice.
"Hello, Harry," came the voice of Sirius Black.
"Hello, Sirius," Harry replied seeing his godfather standing to his left in a spot where he knew no one was standing a moment before.
"Why are you here, Harry?"
"Well, I've seen Dumbledore and Fred Weasley so I thought maybe I could see, well, them," he said nodding to the statue.
"No, Harry," Sirius replied. "They will not come here. Not now."
"Why not, Sirius?" Harry asked.
"Because if they come here, you may decide to stay. It's not your time yet, Harry. There is too much left for you still to do."
"Maybe I'm tired of 'doing', Sirius. Seems like every time I do something I get more and more beat up. I'm tired, Sirius, really tired. Maybe it's time to stop."
"Harry," Sirius chided him. "You don't really mean that. You couldn't be who you are if you really felt that way. I know that you're tired and hurt but this isn't the answer, Harry. You have people who love you and need you to go back to them. As I said, Harry, it's not your time."
Sirius fell silent and Harry turned his attention back to the statue. After a moment he felt a breeze stirring, coming up the road that led from the edge of town to the square. It was the first he had felt on any of his visits to this place between life and death. He looked down the road and saw a small figure approaching. As it got closer it resolved itself into the figure of a small girl with long dark hair.
"Abagail? What are you doing here?" Harry asked incredulously.
"I've come to take you home, sir. They asked me to come and get you."
"They? Who's 'they'?"
"Them," she replied, pointing up to the statue. "They said they couldn't do it themselves so they asked me. Please, sir. Come home. We need you to come back. Ginny, the Weasleys, me, everyone really. Please, sir. Come home."
"She's right, Harry. Go with her, it's time to go home," Sirius said quietly as he faded from view.
Harry looked up into the unseeing stone eyes of his parents and felt the small hand take hold of his and give an insistent tug. He looked down into the large dark eyes that he always felt could look right down into your soul. He let out a sigh and nodded.
"Ok, Abagail. Take me home."
They began to walk down the road away from the statue and out to the edge of town and when they had walked past the last house, the town and its surroundings faded away and the blackness returned.
The first hint that Harry had that he was awake was the sound of a low groan intruding on his hearing. After a moment he realized he was the one doing the groaning. He put a stop to it and tried to do a bit of self damage assessment. His left leg and arm felt like they were still on fire, if only at a low flame. He was sure there was also some significant bruising because he ached just about everywhere. He also felt empty, not hungry, but empty as if most if not all of his being had been drained away. He dredged up what little strength he had to open his eyes just a bit. Through the barely parted lids he could make out he was in a smallish room with very subdued lighting. Directly across from where he was lying was a high backed chair and he thought he could make out the vague outline of a slightly slumped figure. Time to go for broke he figured.
"Hello," he was barely able to force out at a low whisper.
He got no reaction.
With an effort that felt to him like he was trying to push over a tree with his bare hands he tried again.
"Hello?" which came out a bit louder.
"What? Omigod, Mr. Potter, is that you?" replied an unfamiliar female voice.
"Yes," he managed to whisper.
The slumped figure, which had bolted upright at his second hello, jumped up out of the chair and raced out of Harry's narrow field of vision. He heard a door swing open and a babble of voices. Within moments he heard the door open again and someone approaching his bedside.
"Mr. Potter, my name is Dr. Stonebridge. Can you hear me?"
"Yes," Harry replied, his voice barely more then a breath.
"Alright. Please listen and don't try to respond. Your situation has been extremely critical since they brought you in. You've been here over two weeks so far. You have some serious burns on your left leg and arm, which we are treating and you were pretty bruised up from your landing, such as it was. The worse part is you expended an enormous amount of magical energy fighting that dragon, Mr. Potter. You came within a hair's breadth of killing yourself. The fact that you are awake is a good sign but it's the first one we've had so you are far from out of danger. You need to conserve your energy and make no attempts to move or talk. We can be a bit more aggressive with your medicines now but you are in for a very long recovery. If you understand what I've said please acknowledge by closing and then opening your eyes, slowly."
Harry managed to do so although it felt like moving bricks instead of eyelids.
"Very good. We've had someone observing you around the clock, Mr. Potter. That will continue for the time being. Get some rest, Mr. Potter and I'll tell you more when you're stronger."
Harry faded in and out of consciousness any number of times over an undetermined period of time, at least as far as Harry was concerned. He was aware that periodically he would be given potions to drink and then broths to eat. He had lost his glasses in the crash so he could only make out vague shapes of people and their voices were always kept low so he couldn't really tell who was in the room with him. He finally got to a point where he was able to stay awake for at least a little while and be aware of what was going on around him. During one of these periods Dr. Stonebridge came to see him.
"Good morning, Mr. Potter. I'd like to talk to you for a bit. At least I'll talk and I'd like you to just listen but still no talking if you would. First, you are making progress but its slow going. The burns on your arm and leg are healing but I'm afraid there will be some scarring. With your weakened condition we could only do so much magic healing. In addition, when you crashed there was some extensive bruising. They are also healing but again, at a slow pace. I understand that you were raised in a muggle household."
Harry nodded once.
"I'm muggle born, myself. But the reason I ask is that I want to use an analogy that you'll understand to explain your condition. You were much like a car running out of petrol, Mr. Potter. In essence, you were running on fumes. We are trying to fill that tank back up but it will be slow going. I'm afraid you'll be our guest for the holidays."
Harry nodded once to show his understanding.
"Now I'll try to answer some basic questions for you. It's been two weeks since we last spoke. We've kept you under sedation, those potions, for that time to allow your body to restore itself. Sleep and nourishment are the only cures for your condition. As to your family, you'll be allowed visitors in another week or so. You should know that they have been here though. While you were unconscious and then sleeping, they were helping with the round the clock observation and someone has been in the outer room the whole time as well. The one thing you won't have to worry about is support, Mr. Potter," the healer said with a smile. "Well, I think that's enough for now."
Doctor Stonebridge made a note to Harry's charts and with a last smile and nod, which Harry had trouble seeing without his glasses, he left the room. Harry lay there, vaguely aware of the nurse that sat in the high backed chair across from the foot of his bed. He closed his eyes and tried to form some coherent thoughts about what had happened. He knew that the encounter with the dragon bordered on the fantastic. The creature was unlike the four dragons that he had seen during the Triwizard Tournament and it didn't seem to match any description he had seen or heard during his advanced Creatures class with Hagrid. It all made him feel very uneasy but he couldn't say why. Somewhere along this line of thought he drifted off to sleep.
Dr. Stonebridge was true to his word one week after their second conversation, right after Harry had finished a breakfast of a more robust broth. As the nurse cleared away his tray the healer stepped inside the room, keeping the door open.
"Good morning, Mr. Potter. Are you ready for your first visitor?"
Harry nodded. The healer looked back out into the outer room and said,
"You can come in now if you'd like," he said.
Mrs. Weasley walked in past the doctor with a murmured 'thank you'. The nurse carried Harry's tray out as Mrs. Weasley took a seat in the chair near Harry's bedside. She looked at her 'adopted' son and smiled. Harry looked back and whispered.
"I'm sorry."
"Oh, Harry, dear. We aren't going to go down that road again are we? From what we've been told if you hadn't been there those Aurors on the ground wouldn't have had a chance. Several of them have been by and they said your Stupefying charms were like battering rams. So don't be sorry for saving peoples lives. Now, as your mother, I have to ask this. How are you feeling, dear?"
"Tired," Harry whispered.
"Well that's understandable, Harry. I can't imagine the amount of magical energy it took to kill a dragon that big."
"Dead?"
"I'm afraid so, dear. The Auror Milligan has been by a few times. He told us what had happened. They all came to help you first and by the time they got around to checking on the dragon it was dead."
"Charlie?"
"Yes, they called him in and he's been working on it ever since. He can't tell us much but what he has been able to say is that it's all very strange and hints at something much darker."
Harry nodded then took a deep breath or at least deeper then he had been.
"Ginny?"
"As you can imagine, dear, it's been particularly hard on her. She's been here nearly every day, one way or the other. The Harpies have been very understanding. She'll be here to visit you this afternoon," Mrs. Weasley said.
"You?"
"Oh, my dear. It hasn't been easy, I won't lie to you, but now that we see that you're improving, it will be better. You concern yourself with getting well. We'll all be just fine."
Harry reached out with his right hand slowly, agonizingly slowly. Mrs. Weasley reached out with both hands to take his. She felt a brief squeeze that she returned gently.
"Love you, Mum" he whispered.
"Oh, Harry," was all she could manage, her voice cracking around the tears.
They sat for a few moments longer and then the door opened a bit and a female voice called in,
"Mrs. Weasley?"
"Ah, well, Harry, dear. It's time for me to go. Ginny will be here this afternoon so you better get some sleep and save up your strength," she said with a teary smile.
She leaned forward and kissed Harry on his forehead. Then she stood up and brushing his unruly hair aside she turned and left the room. Harry closed his eyes and considered what had just passed. His 'adoptive' mother sounded worn and tired. It was obvious that this had all been very difficult for her and he shuddered, in his mind at least, at the thought of what shape Ginny must be in. He didn't have long to think on it though as just the short visit of Mrs. Weasley had exhausted him. He was soon fast asleep.
Sometime later something tugged at his awareness. A gentle fragrance tickled his nose and nudged him to awaken. He tilted his head to the side and found himself looking at what he thought was the most beautiful face ever.
"Hello, sweetheart," Ginny said quietly.
"Hello, love," he whispered back.
"Oh, Harry, what are we going to do with you?" Ginny said.
Harry held up his hand which she took gently in hers. He still got the same tingle that he always felt when they held hands and he smiled at her.
"How…are…you?"
"A lot better now that I can talk to you. It was bad at first. Very bad. It was a week before they could even say that they thought you would live. We've all been taking turns watching over you. Poor Fleur had to be given a sedative when she got here. She nearly went into hysterics when she first saw you. Mom has been a rock as usual but you probably noticed how tired she is."
Harry nodded.
"She's been here nearly the whole time. They gave her a room down the hall to sleep in but we finally convinced her to go home and get some decent sleep. I hope you don't mind but I've been staying at the Black house. Kreacher and I keep each other company. He's been spending a lot of time here too you know. Usually when one of the family is watching you."
Harry's raised eyebrows showed his surprise.
"Oh, yes, my love. He would curl up in a blanket on the floor next to your bed. If you stirred he'd pop up to watch you and then go back to sleep. I know house elves are supposed to be devoted to their master or I guess now, employer, but that one takes it to whole new levels. A lot of people feel much the same, Harry. You wouldn't believe the number of flowers, letters, and people who just come by to ask how you're doing. Not a week has gone by that the Prophet doesn't run some sort of article about you. The Ministry hasn't released the details but they had to say something after the uproar here at the hospital after you arrived. Officially you've been severely injured in the line of duty."
Harry rolled his eyes a little bit.
"We're all still amazed by it all, Harry. You actually killed a dragon with magic. That's unbelievable. But please don't ever do it again. I really don't care about the dragons but it's much too hard on you and it's not doing me much good either," she said with a small smile, kissing his hand as well.
"No more."
"No more what, Harry?"
"Field work…ever."
"Don't make promises you can't keep, Harry," she said with a chuckle. "I'm sure those other Aurors are bloody glad you went along that time. But I understand what you mean. I hope you're right."
"Quidditch?" Harry asked
"Don't worry about that, sweetheart. This is the slow part of the season. I've only missed three matches so far. Besides, all the girls are pretty worried about you, too. They're all pretty taken with you, you know," she said with an impish smile and wink.
Harry just gave a little head shake and smiled.
"Oh, I almost forgot. These are for you, Harry."
Ginny reached into her robe and pulled out a new pair of glasses. She used the hem of her robe to clean the lenses and very carefully put them on Harry. His smile got bigger now that he could see Ginny more clearly. It was a double edged sword since it also meant he could she how tired she was. Just then the door opened and the same voice as this morning called in,
"Miss Weasley?"
"Oh, hell, I just got here," she said with exasperation.
Harry smiled a little and said,
"Go home…sleep."
"Are you trying to get rid of me, Harry?"
"No…you need…to sleep. Get sick," he said haltingly.
"Worried about me, huh? Just like you," she said fondly. "Ok, sweetheart. I'll take Mum home and we'll see you tomorrow. I'm probably not supposed to do this but, what the heck."
She leaned down over Harry and kissed him briefly on the lips and then put her arms around him as best she could. Harry was able to put both his arm around her but couldn't give much of a hug. She still sighed deeply and let her head rest on his chest for a moment. When she stood up she smiled down at him, her eyes bright with tears.
"Good night, my hero. Until tomorrow."
She let her hand run down the side of his face and then she turned and walked towards the door. Just before she went out the door she turned and blew him a kiss.
Harry did indeed spend the holidays in the hospital. His strength was returning slowly but in was the middle of January before he was able to get out of bed. His visitors were still tightly regulated but by then he was able to have more than one at time. The routine settled in with Mrs. Weasley coming in the morning, usually with someone to accompany her and Ginny coming in the afternoon. However there were days when she didn't visit since Harry had been able to persuade her to go back to playing. When Ginny had a match Fleur would take her place. The first time or two was difficult because the volatile girl was in a near state of hysteria. Bill was finally able to get her to calm down by pointing out that it was counterproductive to Harry's recovery for him to see her so wound up.
It wasn't until mid February that a discussion about taking him home was begun. There were two alternatives to consider. It was either the Burrow or the Black house. Mrs. Weasley was adamant that Harry needed to be at the Burrow where he could be watched over by the Weasley clan. Harry felt he had been enough of a burden on his adopted family and was pushing to go to what he felt was his home now. Ginny said she was more the willing to move in, using a guest room of course, and could easily keep an eye on him in between matches. Kreacher would be there and of course Mrs. Weasley as well as the others were free to visit. It took about a week but Harry finally won out, convincing his 'parents' that he was old enough to make his own decisions and it's not like they weren't just a blink of the eye away.
So it was that on Tuesday of the last week of February, under cover of darkness, a Ministry sedan glided up to the spot where Number 12 Grimmauld Place should be, unseen by muggles. Harry walked slowly but steadily, using a cane, up the staircase with Ginny on one side and Mrs. Weasley on the other. As they reached the top the large wooden door opened and Kreacher bowed them in saying,
"Welcome home, Master Harry."