Ginny walked up the hill as she neared the Owlery, wanting to send a letter home to update everyone on everything that's happened since the start of the year.
Hogwart's was in a state of recovery since the war. Some of the structures and locations where the main fighting was at, were still being rebuilt. The Viaduct and the Quad were undergoing major repairs, and both the Viaduct and wooden bridge were still waiting to be fixed. Ginny had needed to go the long way around the grounds to make it there.
It was odd how much things had basically gone back to normal at Hogwarts. Some of the classes had to be relocated to the parts of the castle that were fine, or the old rooms that were never used, but it was all pretty much the same. There were a couple new classes to help the war survivors, and the Headmistress had all the teachers be more accessible to the grievers for counseling, but still.
Everybody is trying their hardest to make things normal, but I think we all know we're just faking it because we're trying to be okay. She wrote in the letter. It's difficult. I'll turn around to talk to someone before I realize they aren't here anymore.
The happier moments are starting to last longer though. Sometimes I actually feel normal. Ginny thought for a moment before writing on. Classes have been going okay. Harry's taking his studies pretty seriously, and I think Ron is starting to as well, which makes for a nice change.
As ever, Hermione is always busy and I hardly see her. But we all make due. She continued. How are things back home though? Is everyone all right? How's Dad and Mum? Are Bill and Charlie okay? Is Percy still bossing everyone around? I've missed George and everyone, tell them, won't you?
I love you Fred, take care. Don't push yourself too hard. Ginny signed her name, sealing the letter in an envelope and tying it to an owl's leg before it flew off, and she turned to make her way back to the castle.
She looked to the sky as she walked, judging the gray clouds and the chilliness of the air. Autumn was already beginning to end. It was strange how time moved so quickly.
She looked back to the ground to see a head of platinum hair come closer.
"Hello Luna."
Luna gave her a light smile. "Hello there Ginny."
"Headed to the Owlery?" Ginny asked as they reached each other, making Luna nod.
"Yes, I haven't been there in quite a while. I'd like to see the grounds and the castle from a different point of view, and the owls make good company."
Ginny smiled. "Are you planning on sending a letter to anyone?"
Luna thought for a moment before replying cheerily. "I suppose I could."
"I'll leave you to it then." Ginny told her. Luna started up to the Owlery again before Ginny thought of something. "Are we still on for Hogsmeade next weekend?"
"Oh yes, I wouldn't miss it." Luna answered without turning around or stopping.
"Okay. I'll make sure Neville comes with us!" She called to the Ravenclaw, receiving a slight wave of the hand in acknowledgment before continuing up to the castle with a small smile on her face.
She was happy that at least some things weren't difficult.