Harry's Future, Part 29

Harry, Ginny, Mrs. Weasley and Abagail sat around the kitchen table in the Black house finishing up a late lunch. They had come home directly after the trial of Pontificus Lestrange was finished. No one said much during the meal, perhaps feeling it was merely enough to be there together to offer Abagail whatever support she might need. Harry finally broke the silence as Kreacher was gathering up the plates and cutlery.

"How are you feeling, little one?" he asked.

Abagail looked at him, took a deep breath and let it out in a sigh before answering.

"I'm doing ok, I guess, Harry. The bad guy is going to prison so I guess that counts for something. And it looks like any questions that there might have been about how I got the job were cleared up."

"You noticed that, did you?" Harry asked.

"Harry, please, those questions were about as subtle as a slap in the face. Besides, I saw what was in some of those letters to the Prophet. It was pretty obvious that the Chief Warlock was looking for a way to settle the matter one way or the other."

Harry nodded, again having to remind himself that the girl's diminutive body hid a very grown up mind.

"Do you think you might have been just a little harsh with that despicable man at the end, Abagail?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"It might have seemed that way, Mrs. Weasley, but that's because you couldn't see what he was thinking. It wasn't what he was saying. He didn't feel bad about me, he thought I was just some simple child and all he was trying to do was make the Minister look bad."

Harry gave a small smile and said,

"So what now?"

"I go back to school, keep on with my studies and fit in as much drawing and painting as I can. That reminds me, I brought a few things with me when I went back to school but I'd like to pick up some more from my room to bring back. I might need some help."

"I'll go back with you, Abagail," Ginny offered. "I want to make sure you get back alright. We can pack a couple of small bags."

"Thanks, Ginny. We should probably get started on it then, I'd like to be back for dinner."

"Sure thing. Let's go," Ginny said as she stood up and the two left the kitchen.

"She seems to be holding up pretty well, Harry," Mrs. Weasley said.

"So far so good. But we'll keep an eye on her for a while. I don't want another unpleasant surprise," he said quietly.

Later that evening after Ginny had returned and they had eaten a light dinner, Harry was sitting in his study at his desk working on the outline for his course. Ginny was sitting in the cushioned chair working on some notes of her own.

"Harry, I was wondering about something," she said.

"What's that, love?"

"What was it like for you to find out you were a wizard?" she asked.

Harry put down his pen, which he had started using more and more rather than a quill, and sat back, looking at the wall in front of him, thinking. Then he turned to his wife and said,

"Confusing, a little frightening, but in a way very exciting and reassuring. I don't know if I ever told you but when I was growing up in the Dursley house and going to the muggle school some odd things happened every once in a while. The time I found myself on top of a school building when I was trying to get away from Dudley and his gang, or every time they cut my hair it was back like this the next day, and then that whole episode in the zoo with the snake. As unbelievable as the idea of wizardry was to me it answered the questions those incidents raised. I stopped feeling like an oddball and felt like I belonged someplace. Plus it gave me the opportunity to have friends and the first time I flew, that was amazing," he said with a gleam in his eye, but that faded when another thought crossed his mind.

"What's the matter, sweetheart?" Ginny said as she saw his change of mood.

"I don't know how best to say this, but after having spent ten years with the Dursleys, with the constant criticism and bullying and belittling, to find out that I was really good at something, maybe better than anyone else around me, it's hard to express that feeling. Then after having caught the snitch to win that first game, that sense of accomplishment," he said and then smiled a little.

"I've never told anyone this before, Gin, but during all those hard times, the time we lost all those house points or everyone thought I was the Heir of Slytherin or that whole twiwizard mess, what kept me going wasn't amazing courage or perseverance or any of that other stuff people have said. It was just thinking back to how I felt that first time standing on the pitch with that little golden ball in my hand and all those people cheering for me. Standing there and knowing that Harry Potter wasn't some pathetic little loser like he had been told all his life," he finished up, his voice having trailed off to barely a whisper.

Ginny was looking at him, her beautiful brown eyes filling with tears, silently cursing that trio of muggle fools for all the hurt they had caused him. She was also cursing herself for having brought up the issue; it wasn't like he didn't have enough to trouble him.

"I'm sorry, Harry, I didn't mean for you to dredge up all that old baggage," she said quietly, leaning forward to grip his forearm.

Harry looked over and smiled at her, a smile that didn't quite reach his bright green eyes.

"It's ok, love, I know you didn't mean anything. Sometimes it can't be helped. A word or a sight, even a smell brings up some unwanted memory."

"A smell, Harry?"

"Yeah, like the time that Aunt Petunia was dying some old clothes of Dudley's gray for me to wear to secondary school before I got my letter. It smelled awful. Sometimes if I get a whiff of something damp or moldy it reminds me of that," he said with a shudder.

"But in general, you'd say you're glad that you found out about being a wizard?" Ginny asked trying to steer the conversation back to the positive.

"I'd have to say so. I mean there were some pretty bad times there but it also meant there was you, and your family, our family, all the wonderful people and my being able to do things for them so yes, it certainly is way better then where I thought I would wind up before Hagrid found me," he said with a smile.

With the matter of the destroyed paintings having been resolved life fell into a bit of a routine for Harry and Ginny. During the week Harry was at work dealing with day to day issues as well as the ongoing matters that were precipitated by the smuggler conspiracy. Milligan was given the lead on their involvement in the effort to connect the different magical law enforcement agencies around Europe and Maxwell was working with Muntab to start the training of the Auror hopefuls. At night he and Ginny continued their separate projects, he his course and she her journal, as well as working on the design of the house.

On the weekends Harry would spend a good part of Saturday working up at Hogwarts on his course and Ginny would often go with him to visit with Abagail, primarily to work on the house design, but also to see how she was doing.

This routine was interrupted, happily for a change, by the arrival of an elegantly addressed envelope via a Hogwarts owl. Kreacher delivered it to Harry and Ginny while they were sitting in the study.

"This just arrived by owl, Master Harry, Mistress Ginny," Kreacher said as he offered it.

Ginny took it and said,

"Thanks, Kreacher," then she looked at the front and turned to Harry. "It's addressed to both of us but it's from Hogwarts. Maybe you should open it, Harry."

"Go ahead, Ginny, it's alright."

She shrugged a very Harry like shrug and carefully pulled open the heavy parchment envelope. Inside was a folded piece of parchment with scalloped edges and very elegant calligraphy. She read it aloud.

"The Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is pleased to extend an invitation to Mr. and Mrs. Harry James Potter to be her special guests at the upcoming Halloween Ball to be held in the Great Hall commencing at seven o'clock on the evening of 31 Oct. Dress is formal robes. RSVP requested," she concluded and looked over at Harry.

"Wow, Harry, that was kind of formal of Professor McGonagall, don't you think?"

"Yeah, it was, I wonder what she's up to. She's had any number of chances to invite us when we were up there."

"Spoken like a true policeman, Harry. Why does she have to be 'up' to something? Maybe it's just a sign of how much respect they have for you," Ginny said with a bit of exasperation in her voice.

"I dunno, Gin. She's been after me to commit to teaching full time. She even offered me the spot of Transfiguration Professor. I think she's trying to nudge me a bit."

"You didn't tell me that, Harry. That's quite a compliment to ask you to follow in her footsteps. What did you tell her?" Ginny asked.

"I told her I needed to concentrate on getting ready for next year and she let it go at that. Why do you ask?" Harry replied.

"Oh, nothing really," she said noncommittally.

"Come on, Ginny. Out with it, no secrets, remember?"

"Well, it's no secret that that your job to date has been pretty tough on you. I'm not so sure I wouldn't rather be the wife of an esteemed Professor then the Chief of Magical Law Enforcement," she said seriously.

"You know the reasoning behind that, Gin. Do you know how hard that would be on our kids?"

"Any harder than us having to deal with the likes of Snape, or Lockhart, or that absolutely detestable Umbridge person? Or any tougher then their father working what has turned out to be a rather dangerous job? Quite frankly I think you're being rather selfish about that whole thing," Ginny said.

"Selfish? How could you possibly think that, Ginny? You know how much I love the idea of teaching, but I'm staying away from it so our kids will have a chance at a normal school experience," Harry said with a bit of heat.

"Harry, you know as well as I do, much better in fact, that the magical community is desperate for leadership to take us in a new, better direction. The Minister is doing what he can but what we went through with Abagail just shows how much of the old thinking is out there. The only way it is going to really change is to teach it to the children. You could do that better than anyone, Harry. With your words in a classroom and just by being there, being you. Don't you think Professor McGonagall realizes that, or Bill, or any of the rest of them? Not to mention the fact that we are at least a dozen years away from having our first child attend. Think of all the good you could accomplish in that time," Ginny concluded.

Harry sat back in his chair, a bit overwhelmed by the vehemence of Ginny's argument. The idea was tempting but his thoughts came back to his job and what was going on with the Ministry.

"What about my job, Ginny? What about everything that we've been trying to accomplish there?"

"What about it? You've instituted the changes you and the Minister wanted and they are running well, aren't they? You'd have the year of sabbatical to test to see if they can go on without you there. Hermione is handling nearly all of the matters dealing with the magical races now. She'd still have your backing. It's not like you couldn't pop back and forth to talk to this group or that. You'd still be able to do lectures and speak at conferences. I'm not asking you to decide right now, sweetheart. I'm just asking that you not push something off for twenty or twenty five years because you think you'd be making it difficult on our children. I don't think it would be all that bad."

"Ok, I'll give it some thought. But back to this," he said after a moment, pointing to the invitation. "I assume you'd like to go."

"Too right I do. We haven't had a chance to dance in ages and since your knee seems to be behaving itself we should be able to do lots," Ginny said with a grin.

"Formal attire, though. I guess my good black robe should be adequate but I think you'd like something new, eh?"

"New for both of us, Harry. If Professor McGonagall went to the trouble to do this," she said waving the parchment meaningfully, "I think we owe it to her to turn out in our best."

"Not to mention the fact that it gives you a reason to go shopping?"

Ginny didn't answer but the look on her face spoke volumes. An RSVP card was included so Ginny signified that they would be attending and called for Kreacher and asked if he would use Harry's owl to send the reply. They spent the rest of the evening quietly at their work, although Harry accomplished little. His thoughts kept returning to what Ginny said. What were his reasons for resisting the allure of the job he truly loved to do and which would be of greater benefit to the community he felt he owed so much?

Early the following Saturday, before they took their trip to Hogwarts, Ginny and Harry paid a visit to the shop in Diagon Alley that sold robes. The same older witch was there and greeted them as they entered.

"Ah, Mr. and Mrs. Potter. How can I be of service today?" she asked.

"We need some new formal robes, Madam Malkin. We're going to the Halloween Ball up at Hogsmeade," Ginny replied.

"I'd assume that for the gentleman we'd be looking at basic black, perhaps with some small embellishments?"

"Very small," Harry said.

"Sweetheart, why don't you sit down and let me handle this," Ginny said in a tone of voice familiar to husbands since the dawn of time.

Harry shrugged his usual shrug and found a chair and sat down. He watched as Ginny and Madam Malkin combed through several racks of wizard's robes with many whispered comments and occasional glances back at Harry. He simply nodded and smiled back. A robe was taken down from a rack and the two witches examined it thoroughly. Ginny finally turned around and called Harry over.

"Take a look at this one, sweetheart."

Harry stood up and walked over. The robe Ginny was holding up was black, with piping in raised black stitching around the hem, the cuffs and collar. This piping was bordered with silver thread and the loop and button closure used silver buttons with a loop of black cord highlighted by silver thread. The lining was a shimmering black satin.

"Looks nice," he said.

Ginny rolled her eyes and said,

"Just try it on, Harry, and let's see how it looks."

Harry obliged and let the two witches look him up and down. Then Ginny directed him to the mirror so he could see for himself. He had to admit it looked very good on him, although his unruly hair and large round glasses did seem to detract from the overall dignity of the outfit. But he nodded and said as he turned around,

"I like it. If you think it's the right one, we'll take it, Gin."

"Ok, Madam Malkin, we'll take that one for Harry. I guess while he's being fitted I'll look around a bit for myself."

Madam Malkin insisted on doing the fitting herself. The famous Harry Potter shouldn't be attended to by mere assistants she said. Harry had a few thoughts about the idea of 'mere' but kept them to himself. So as she pinned and tucked Ginny worked her way through the more extensive racks of witches robes. By the time Harry had been attended to and reinstated to the 'waiting' chair Ginny had several selections. One was a medium blue with dark blue accenting similar to Harry's but without the silver. The second was a dark blue with embroidered patterns in the same color to produce a subtle raised effect. The last was a dark brown, devoid of any embellishment.

"What do you think, Harry?" she asked, as she held them up.

"It would help to see you in them but I'm not sure of the brown one. I think it would make you look like a muggle monk."

"A what?"

"A monk, a priest, holy man, that sort of thing," he explained.

"Oh, ok, well, I'll try on the others then."

With Madam Malkin's help she tried on first the lighter blue and then the darker one. She modeled each for Harry and as far as he was concerned it was no contest. The dark blue with the embroidered accenting looked much better on her and he said so.

"I was thinking the same thing, Harry. Ok, I'll go with this one."

Harry sat back as Madam Malkin took Ginny in hand and repeated the fitting process. When the fussy older witch was satisfied she sent Harry and Ginny on their way with promises that the robes would be ready for pick-up the following Monday. They made a stop at Angelina's to pick up a couple of dozen of the buttery biscuits that Harry had come to love so much. He wanted to leave some with Abagail.

"Hey, you two," Angelina said as they came through the door.

It was still early enough that the only customers were there for baked goods and not ice cream. Harry was glad that the new venture was working out for his 'sister' both for her sake and for his own selfish reasons.

"Hello, sister of mine," Harry said with a slight grin. "How are you doing?"

"I'm fine, Harry. As you can see business is pretty good. How are you guys doing? I mean with the painting thing."

"Abagail is doing pretty well. Her school work hasn't suffered and she's sticking with her artwork but she's lost a bit of her sparkle, I'd guess you say. What is it they call it, sadder but wiser," Harry replied. "That's kind of why we're here. We're going up to Hogwarts and we'll be seeing her so I thought we'd take some of those buttery biscuits along. She really likes those."

"Not that you wouldn't mind having a few yourself, huh Harry?" Ginny asked, her face a mask of innocence.

Harry took his place in line at the bakery counter where one of Angelina's assistants was waiting on the witch directly in front of him. When the young witch looked up and saw Harry standing there, her eyes went wide. Harry just nodded and smiled back. Angelina noticed the exchange and moved behind the counter to wait on Harry herself.

"So, Mr. Potter, what will it be? Like I didn't already know," she said with a smirk.

"Two dozen of the biscuits, please," he replied with a straight face.

Angelina took out a flattened box, popped it into shape and began placing the biscuits inside. The witch who had been in front of him buying bread completed her purchases and made her way out of the shop. The assistant now stood to one side and tried not to make it look like she was watching Harry which made it all the more obvious that she was. Harry could hear Ginny mumble something under her breath but he didn't let it show. When Angelina was finished she brought the biscuits out from behind the counter where Harry paid her. Both he and Ginny received hugs from Angelina with promises to meet soon for dinner at the Cauldron. As they left the shop with last waves Ginny said,

"Geez, you'd think with your wife standing right there with you that they wouldn't ogle you like that."

"Ogle? Who was ogling?" Harry asked with a bit of a laugh.

"That girl behind the counter. Please, Harry, don't tell me you didn't see the way she was looking at you."

"Ginny, calm down. She was just surprised to see me. I didn't recognize her so she must be someone new. Any of the others that Angelina has hired had the same reaction the first time they saw me," Harry said, trying to suppress a smile at his wife's outrage.

"Well, they just better behave themselves, especially when I'm around, that's all I'm saying," Ginny said with a snort.

"Yes, I would hope so. I'd hate to have to bring my own wife in on charges for roughing up a shop assistant," he replied deadpan.

Ginny looked up at him in shock, then narrowed her eyes and finally began to laugh. She took Harry's arm in hers as they moved up the alley to a spot where they could Disapparate up to Hogwarts. When they arrived they first made their way to Hagrid's hut since Abagail was usually to be found there when she had free time. Today was no different. She was standing in front of the corral where the Hippogriffs were often kept and it looked like she was working her magic on Buckbeak, who was standing stock still while Abagail's pencil flashed across the page of her sketch book. Norbie was laying in the grass not far away. He looked up as the pair approached but only wagged his tail but made no move to meet them.

As was usually the case when she was working she gave no indication that she was aware that anyone was nearby so Harry and Ginny quietly moved past to the front of Hagrid's hut. Hagrid was sitting on the bench in front, working on what looked like a piece of leather riding gear.

"Hullo, Harry, Ginny, good ta see yas again," Hagrid said with a smile.

"Hiya Hagrid. How's our girl doing?" Harry asked by way of reply.

"Seems ta be holdin' her own. Smilin' a bit more than before but still kinda quiet like. Summat interestin' bin happenin' lately though. A coupla times this past week I seen her standin' near ta the edge of the forest. Looks like she's talkin' ta someone. I think mebbe a younger Centaur or two have been comin' ta the edge and she's been talkin' with 'em."

"You don't think that will be a problem do you, Hagrid?" Ginny asked. "Might the young ones get in trouble that way?"

"I dunno, but I don't think so, Ginny. The elders know about our Abagail. If'n anything they'd jest be told ta stay clear of the edge," Hagrid said reassuringly. "Fer all I know she's probably askin' fer 'em ta pose fer her."

This got smiles all around. Harry was about to add something when they heard a little shout and turned to see Abagail hurrying over to meet them. She laid her sketch pad and pencils on the bench next to Hagrid and caught Harry up in a tight hug around the waist. It felt to Harry like she was trying to squeeze the breath out of him. Then she let go and since she was much closer in height to Ginny she threw her arms around Ginny's neck and held on just as tightly. Ginny looked at Harry with a questioning glance but he could only shake his head to indicate he had no idea what was going on.

When Abagail finally released her hold on Ginny she stepped back and they could see the tears in her eyes. Harry went down to one knee so he could look her more eye-to-eye.

"What's going on, little one? Is something wrong?"

"No, not really, Harry. It's just that I was sitting here on the bench the other day, thinking, and it occurred to me I was being just as silly as I thought I was before everything happened with the painting. Yes, all my hard work was destroyed, but a bunch of people did get to see it and what it was supposed to say. And I saw a side of life that wasn't so great and changed the way I could see the world but so what. Was that a reason to just go moping around like some moody artist? I mean, really, how many times has that been done? And look at you. Look at all the things you've seen and done and had to live through and yet you're always right there doing what needs to be done and you smile so much and give to us so much. You're a perfect example of how to get on with life no matter how hard you get knocked around. So I'm just glad to see you today and happy to be able to spend time with you and say thank you again for all you've done for me, both of you."

She then wrapped her arms around Harry's neck and hugged him perhaps not so desperately but with as much feeling. Harry looked up at Ginny and saw her misty eyed and smiling and she mouthed the words,

"I think she's going to be ok."

Harry nodded and when he looked over toward Hagrid he could see his big friend looking away so as not to be embarrassed by his own emotions. When Abagail let go and stepped back she gave Harry one of her impish grins, that he had not seen since he had to break the news about the painting to her, and said,

"So, what did you bring me?"

Harry couldn't help but start laughing and he pulled out the box of cookies and handed it to her. She looked at it all wide eyed and said,

"Are these what I think they are?"

"If you're thinking they are the most wonderful, fabulous biscuits ever made, then yes that's what they are," Harry said with a smile.

Abagail squealed and took hold of the box and opened the top. She took out one biscuit and bit it in half and her eyes closed as she savored the sweet, buttery taste. Quickly she popped the rest in her mouth and then took one and handed it to Harry, a second to Ginny and a third to Hagrid, who had to simply hold out his opened hand so she could place it on the huge palm. About this time Norbie strolled up and she took a last cookie and offered it to him. It disappeared with a quick move of his big tongue and then he slurped her hand to get the last bit of flavor that might have remained. The others ate theirs and Hagrid especially made a fuss over them. For someone who thought his rock cakes were an enjoyable treat the cookie was a revelation. Harry promised he would have some sent up when he got back. Saying their goodbyes for the time being to Hagrid and Norbie the family of three began the walk up to the castle. Harry was in the best mood he had been in for some time and it seemed to be felt by this wife and ward. Little comments sent them to laughing and on one occasion the two young ladies attacked him in a manner reminiscent of that morning in their bedroom at the Burrow.

As they walked up to the front door of the school they happened to meet Professor McGonagall coming out. She noticed the byplay between the three and smiled.

"Well, we do seem to be in a good mood this morning. Might I be able to share, Merlin knows I could use a dose," she said.

"It's a combination of Abagail overcoming her melancholy and a taste of some truly amazing baking from Angelina's shop. What's the problem, Professor?" Harry replied.

"I'll pass on the bakery treat, although I think I know the ones you're referring to. As to my problem, we have the first Quidditch match of the season beginning in less than an hour and Madame Hooch has come down ill. Madame Pomfrey has assured me it isn't life threatening but it's likely to be some weeks before she'll recover. I need a referee for today and a flying instructor until she's back on her feet."

Before Harry could say anything he heard Ginny say,

"Get me a broom and a robe and I'll take care of the match today. After that we can talk about the rest of it," she said firmly.

When she saw Harry looking at her she said,

"Harry, you're not the only one who can step up in an emergency. Besides, I've hardly flown at all since the camp and I've been getting a little restless."

"Come with me, young lady and we'll get you set up and I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate this. Harry, I'll see you after I get this taken care of."

"Yes, Ma'am, I'll be inside. See you later, Ginny. Have a good match," he offered.

"Thanks, sweetheart, see you later," Ginny said as she kissed his cheek and hurried off with the Head.

Harry watched them go and had to shake his head. He was about to offer to be the referee and he was a bit disappointed that his wife beat him to the punch. He shrugged and laughed and went inside with Abagail, who had watched the whole thing, but who had said nothing, only smiled a knowing smile. As they stood in the foyer Harry looked down at his ward who was looking back at him in a way that made his heart lighter.

"So, any plans for the day?" he asked.

"I thought I might take a walk into Hogsmeade. I want to visit the stationary shop and couple of other places."

Harry nodded and reached in to his pocket and handed her some sickles. She looked at him and smiled,

"Thanks, Harry, you're the best. And not just because of this," she said motioning with the hand full of silver.

Harry just smiled and winked and watched as she made her way to her dorm room. Harry wondered how long the biscuits were going to last. He laughed and went in search of Professor Flitwick, who was first on his list to meet that morning.

It was sometime after lunch when Harry heard the sounds of the returning fans from the Quidditch match. Harry figured the match had lasted somewhere around four to four and a half hours. Not too long by conventional standards but he knew how fatiguing that much flying could be. He had had his meetings with Professors Flitwick and McGonagall and he was now sitting with Bill, who had come from Shell Cottage to talk to him. From the sound of the students it must have been a very exciting match. It wasn't too long before Ginny came walking into the Great Hall. Her hair was somewhat disheveled and her cheeks red from flying in the cool autumn air but she had a very satisfied look on her face.

She came over and stood next to Harry and threw her arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek. She gave her brother similar treatment.

"So, love, how did the match go? You look like you had a good time," Harry said with a smile.

"It was a lot of fun, Harry. I haven't flown that much in a few months. It was Slytherin versus Hufflepuff and it was pretty rowdy at first. I don't know if it was because of me, or that it was the first match or what but they were playing like street brawlers. I finally had to call a halt to the game and pull both teams in together and dress them down. Most of them got the message but the Slytherin beaters have more muscle then brains so I had to use my secret weapon," Ginny said with a smug smile.

"What was that, Ginny?" Harry asked.

"Well, after I gave them the talking to, they roughed up a Hufflepuff chaser and I called a foul. And there they were, sitting on their brooms looking all pleased with themselves so I just casually mentioned that it really annoyed you when people were disrespectful to me and did they know that you happened to be right up in the castle," she said smiling.

Bill started to laugh and Harry rolled his eyes and said,

"Oh, well thank you very much."

"You should have seen them," she said with an evil little smirk. "They went white as a sheet and practically fell off their brooms trying to apologize. They were perfect little gentlemen the rest of the match. The stupid thing is they can play their positions quite well so the rough stuff wasn't even necessary."

A number of students had begun filtering into the Hall and the three looked up. As they did so two rather large students in Slytherin flying robes came in and Ginny said,

"Ah, there they are now."

Harry looked at the two and they looked at him. In less than a heartbeat they pulled up short, their eyes going wide and then they were backpedalling through the crowd of students behind them and finally turning and hurrying back out into the hallway. Ginny was giggling and Bill was laughing uproariously while Harry just shook his head then scowled at his wife.

Ginny gave him another kiss on the cheek and informed Harry that she needed to go up and see the Headmistress about substituting for Madam Hooch. Harry gave her a little smile and watched her walk out of the Hall. When he turned to face Bill he noticed his brother in law was regarding him with a wry smile.

"The old place just keeps pulling at you, doesn't it, Harry?"

"I'm not sure if it's this old place or a certain older witch that keeps pulling at me," Harry said, a touch sarcastically. "Do you know that Professor McGonagall offered me the position of Transfiguration Professor after I finish up next year?"

"I didn't know that, Harry, but it doesn't really surprise me. The Head has never made a secret of the fact that she thinks you should be here teaching. And she's not the only one. The discussions usually get pretty animated after you've done one of your special sessions. Speaking of which, will you be doing any this year?" Bill asked hopefully.

"I wasn't sure at first, Bill, but it might not be a bad idea to do that as a test of the new material we've been trying to put together. Maybe even a special session with your first and second years as a sort of a tune up for next year. What do you think?" Harry asked.

"Sounds like a good idea to me," Bill said and then he looked at Harry seriously. "You know, Harry, you should see your face when you talk about things for next year. Your whole face lights up."

"Well, I am kind of excited to be coming back, I have to admit," Harry said and then he looked up at the ceiling watching the image of the clouds floating by. "I'll be honest with you, Bill. It's difficult sometimes to not just chuck that whole Ministry thing and come back here. All that time I was recuperating after the fight with the dragon, I kept thinking about it. But what I'm doing there is so important to the future of our community. How could I be so selfish as to give that up?"

Bill looked at Harry and shook his head.

"I know that the healers have said that your mind works in different ways these days, but after hearing what you just said I can't help but wonder about what goes on behind those glasses of yours. Nothing you've ever done in your whole life has been selfish. If you were to come teach here, no matter how much you'd love it, you wouldn't be selfish. You have so much to share with these young witches and wizards you'd be giving of yourself every day. I'm not here to tell you what to do, Harry, but try not to just dismiss the whole idea out of hand."

Harry looked away again and thought how what Bill said sounded so much like what he and Ginny talked about a few days before. If he was given to paranoia he might think that they were working together but maybe it was just that they saw something that was so obvious to anyone but him. He laughed a bit and looked back at Bill.

"Ginny thinks I'm being selfish because I said I wouldn't teach until after our kids graduated and I'd be denying the world my services for all those years," he said then laughed again.

"Don't laugh, Harry. My little sis is a lot smarter then she lets on and she doesn't miss much. If you haven't already figured that out. You could do a lot worse than to let her give you advice," Bill said seriously.

It was perhaps an hour later when Ginny returned to the Hall, having returned the borrowed flying robes and other referees gear. She came over to sit by Harry and Bill and then they looked to her expectantly.

"Harry, unless you have any objections I'll be the stand-in flying instructor and Quidditch referee for at least the next six weeks. Madame Pomfrey figures it will be that long before Madame Hooch is fully recovered. I had a chance to talk to her for a bit up in the hospital wing. Poor dear is so weak right now. It's funny, with her being so feisty and all, she seemed a lot younger then she really is. Did you know that she was Mum and Dad's flying instructor?"

"I knew that," Bill said. "I remember them talking about it when I first came up. Did they say what the problem was?"

"No, and I thought it was impolite to ask. Whatever it is it hit her pretty hard. But she was very gracious and thought I would do a great job of it. She said my joining the Harpies was one of her proudest moments as a teacher. Turns out it's her favorite team," Ginny said with pride.

"I'm sure you'll do great too, love. I'm sure the kids will love having you out there. Just try not to swing me around as a club to often, ok," Harry said seriously.

Ginny laughed and poked him in the ribs but not too hard. They left Bill soon after and Disapparated home. They enjoyed a fine dinner and retired to the study. Ginny found a comfortable spot on Harry's lap and the two cuddled together in the big, well cushioned chair. Harry broke the warm silence after a while.

"You know it's funny that you were the one that was so intent on me becoming a teacher and you're the one who got the job," he said with a laugh.

"Don't laugh, Harry. I was serious the other day."

"I know you were, Gin. Bill said the same sorts of things to me this afternoon," Harry replied.

"Of course he would. We Weasleys are very intelligent and intuitive people," Ginny said in a slightly mocking, haughty tone.

The house rang to the sounds of Ginny's screams and laughter as Harry decided not argue but instead played the dirty trick of tickling her.

On Monday morning Harry was sitting in his office with Tom, going through the reports from last week. The one thing Harry never counted on was all the paper work. At one point he looked up at the family photograph and smiled a bit at all the faces looking back at him, including Abagail who was back in her spot directly behind him. After Harry skimmed and then initialed the last report he pushed the stack back across at Tom and leaned back in his chair.

"Anything else, Tom?" Harry asked.

"Just this travel request for Mr. Milligan for Paris for next week. The working group meeting, you know," Tom replied.

"Yes, I remember. Let's have it," Harry said, holding out his hand.

He read through the parchment and then signed his approval. He handed the sheet back across the desk and looked at his assistant. He noticed a strange look on his face.

"Is there something you wanted to say, Tom?"

After a moment's hesitation he spoke,

"I was just curious if you were up to Hogwarts this weekend, sir. And if you'd seen Ms. Westwood. A number of the staff has been asking after her. Some of us have sent notes but we haven't heard back."

"I think you'll see some answers shortly, Tom. She's had something of a breakthrough this past week and she was in much better spirits when we saw her on Saturday," Harry said with a small smile.

"Ah, that's wonderful to hear. I'll be sure to pass that on to the others," Tom said.

"Yes, I'd appreciate it. I'd forgotten that the others might be concerned," Harry said.

Tom nodded once and left the office. Harry got up and left the office himself, heading for Hermione's oversized closet. As usual the door was closed and Harry knocked. When he announced himself he heard the footsteps and waited a moment for the door to swing open.

"Harry, come in, please. Have you anything new about Abagail?" she asked.

"Yes, she's doing much better. She's coming to understand that people aren't always what they seem but that's not a reason to shut everyone out and live an unhappy life. She's even showing signs of her sense of humor again," Harry said.

"Oh, that's wonderful, Harry," Hermione said reaching out to grip his forearm. "So what do I owe the honor of your august presence?"

"August? Don't you think that's taking things a bit far?" Harry said with a laugh as they both sat down.

"Just teasing you, so what's up?"

"You know that I'm preparing for a year's sabbatical up at Hogwarts and I was hoping that you might be able to offer me some help," Harry said earnestly.

"Help you with teaching, Harry? Good grief, you're the most natural teacher I think I've ever seen, what possible help could you need from me?" Hermione said.

"Well, I think you're exaggerating more then just a bit, but I need your expertise in organizing and scheduling. I'm going to be juggling two different courses plus working with Professors Flitwick and McGonagall as an occasional guest in their classes. I'm going to need help getting and keeping it all straight."

"Hmm, I see what you mean, Harry. That could get to be a bit confusing. Sure, you know I'd be happy to help," she said and then smiled an odd smile. "You, my dear fellow, never do things half way do you?"

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"I'm sure that when Director Grimsson suggested that you take a sabbatical to teach at Hogwarts he was envisioning an extension of what you've done with your lectures. But here you are juggling two major courses and a couple of minor efforts."

"That's true, Hermione, but the new course is only for fifth through seventh years, and I only have the first years for DADA, although Bill and I have talked about doing second years as well, so that isn't even a full course. The other classes will only be now and again."

"I understand that, Harry," Hermione said, "but when you consider you'll be switching back and forth amongst several topics, that makes it harder. But anyway, why don't we get together one night this week and start sketching out a system for you."

"Your place or here in London?" Harry asked.

"Here, I think. Your house is roomier and I'd like to have Ron along. We don't get together as much as we should," she said.

"Too true, we've all gotten so busy so soon," Harry replied.

Hermione nodded and then looked at Harry with a tilt of her head and said,

"I understand that Professor McGonagall offered you the opportunity to take over the Transfiguration class after your sabbatical."

"How did you find that out? I only mentioned that to Bill on Saturday," Harry said incredulously.

"Weasley telegraph. I'm sure that Bill told Fleur who passed it on to Mum Weasley and then out it went. Ron told me last night when he got home. I probably shouldn't tell you this but your non committal response didn't go over well."

"For crying out loud, Hermione," Harry said with some heat. "Why is this becoming such a big deal all of a sudden?"

"First of all, it's not so sudden. You know as well as I do that some members of the family were never all that thrilled with your taking on your current job. As for the rest, your taking the sabbatical has just made it visible, that's all. Try not to get so excited about it, Harry."

"Hmmm, I try, but sometimes having so many people trying to nudge me gets a little annoying," he said.

"Well, remember they have your best interests at heart, Harry, even if they do get a little pushy about it. So how does Wednesday evening sound? Do you think Kreacher can handle four for dinner?"

"He'll be ecstatic. The only time he mumbles anymore is when he thinks it's time for us to have guests for dinner and we go too long without. I think he likes to show off his cooking skills," Harry said with a smile.

Harry left a few moments later, glad for Hermione's help but disturbed at the thought that he was up against the whole clan about this teaching business. He took a deep breath and let it out. Then a thought occurred to him and he detoured away from this office and headed down to the corridor outside the Wizengamot Chamber to see if his friend and mentor was available.

He was disappointed to see he was not. Perhaps he was having a conversation with Professor McGonagall. As he stood there a familiar voice called to him.

"Young man, Mr. Potter, if you would," called the portrait of the older witch with whom he had talked before.

Harry moved sideways a bit so he could see her.

"Yes, ma'am?"

"I believe if you wait, the Professor will be returning shortly," the witch said.

"Thank you, Ma'am, I'll do that. How have you been, if I may ask?" Harry said politely, remembering that she put great store in courtesy.

"As well as an old painting hanging on a wall in a damp corridor for two centuries can hope," she replied with a small smile.

"Harry, is that you, my boy?" a voice called out from beyond the side of the empty portrait.

"Yes, sir, it is."

"If you would wait just a bit, I'll be there momentarily," Professor Dumbledore.

"Yes, sir," Harry replied.

The witch nodded knowingly and then said,

"I understand that the trial of that detestable creature that destroyed those fine paintings went well, yes?" she asked.

"Yes, ma'am, he admitted to the crimes, claiming he was making a statement in support of the old ways. He got treble damages and a year in Azkaban," Harry informed her.

"Hmmm, well I can't say I agree entirely with the direction the Minister is taking us, but then again, I'm from a completely different day and age, but I most surely do not take the idea of destroying paintings lightly for reasons I'm sure you can appreciate," she said with a wry tone.

"Yes, ma'am, I can imagine it hits very close to home."

For the first time, he heard the old witch chuckle. At that time the image of Professor Dumbledore walked into view. He smiled at Harry and said,

"So good to see you, my boy. How may I be of service?" the old wizard asked.

"As usual, I'm in need of some advice, sir," Harry said as he moved a bit closer to the Professor's portrait.

"I will try and be of help if I can, of course, Harry. What is the nature of the advice you seek?"

"I'm pretty sure you know about my going up to teach at Hogwarts next year. It will be the first sabbatical that Director Grimsson thought would be a good idea. Well, sir, now I'm starting to get pressure from my family to make a permanent change. Ginny was pretty forceful in what she thought I should be doing. Apparently, she's never been completely comfortable being a policeman's wife, even if I do mostly administrative duties these days. Professor McGonagall even offered me the post of Transfiguration Professor. It's getting very confusing. I don't know why they are behaving this way," Harry said.

The smile was gone from Dumbledore's face. It was now wearing an expression of concern and a bit of sympathy.

"I am, of course, intimately familiar with the Headmistress' desire for you to be on the faculty, Harry. We've discussed it any number of times and yes, I'm aware she offered you the transfiguration post and I agree with her that you would do a magnificent job at it. When the details of your efforts with Dumbledore's Army became known we suspected that, among your many talents, you were a natural and very gifted teacher. The results of your term as Professor Weasley's assistant proved it beyond a doubt. So that explains the Head's attitude," Dumbledore said with a brief flash of a smile, but that faded as he continued.

"As to your family, Harry, I don't think there is any real difficulty in understanding that they are quietly and desperately terrified for your future."

"Excuse me, sir? I mean, I know I've had some hard knocks but I think I'm in good shape now, even my knee hasn't caused me any problems in a long while. I still occasionally stop in to see Dr. Parsons and I think my temper is under control. Why should they be so afraid for me?" Harry said, somewhat alarmed.

"Harry, you suffer the disadvantage of seeing your life from the inside. It can be a much different picture than what those who see it from the outside observe. The Weasleys have developed a fiercely protective attitude towards you, my boy."

"Don't I know it," Harry said.

"No, Harry, I don't think you do, not fully at any rate," Dumbledore countered. "When word got out that your parents had been killed and you were now 'the boy who lived' many families contacted me with the offer to take you in. You are aware of why that could not happen. Molly and Arthur Weasley were two of the most vehement. The Potters and the Weasleys, both of so called pure blood backgrounds, were known to each other for years before you were born, Harry. Your meeting with Ronald Weasley on the Hogwart's Express was not truly the first time you met. You were together as infants several times. The Weasleys' concern for your well being began almost from the moment of your birth, Harry, and has only grown stronger with the years. I was often the recipient of messages from Molly asking about how you were getting on while I was Headmaster. Now, after all you endured and accomplished as a student, you now place yourself at the front line so to speak, dedicated to protecting all those around you from a reoccurrence of the horrors you yourself have endured. From your family's point of view, it has nearly cost you your life once, and put you in the midst of mortal confrontations, what, three times and you've been at the job only a few short years. They must be wondering how long your luck can hold out."

Harry stood looking down at his feet. He wondered if this was how it was for everyone, your choices limited and constrained by obligations to others. He looked back up to Dumbledore and said in a quiet voice,

"What should I do, sir?"

"Ah, alas, Harry, that is not something I can tell you. I can only suggest that you give it careful consideration and let your instincts guide you. Trust in yourself to make the right decision," the Professor said, his voice full of empathy.

"Young man, if I may?" the voice of the usually stern witch called to him, uncharacteristically soft.

"Yes, ma'am, please."

"You are conflicted because your desire to follow in your mentor's footsteps clashes with your sense of duty that you believe constrains you to remain at your post here at the Ministry, yes?" she asked.

"I guess you could say that, ma'am."

"Allow me to offer this one observation. A witch or wizard who attempts to accomplish great things that they think they should be doing while inwardly desiring to be doing something else will ultimately fail at both. They will fail at the first because they will be distracted by the second and great things require great focus. And they will fail at the second because they never have the chance to do those things because of the first. Perhaps that is something to think on," she said, her stern visage softened by sympathetic eyes.

Harry looked at her and nodded, returning a tight, half smile.

"Thank you, ma'am."

He turned to face the Professor who was regarding him intently.

"Let me say this by way of closing, Harry, for I think we have talked enough and you need time to consider. I have made a pledge not to try and influence you in this matter. However, I will say, that if you do decide to make a career change in this direction, I believe whole heartedly that you will be very successful and the impact on the future generations will be as significant as anything you have or will do in your present career, if not more so. Now I suggest you take some time to consider the matter. I hope this has been helpful, my boy."

"Yes, sir, it has and thank you, and to you too, ma'am," he replied.

"It has been a privilege, young man," she replied.

As Harry turned and began walking back up the corridor, he heard the beginnings of a whispered conversation. He knew the best way to think about all of this was not to think about it at all. He understood that his subconscious mind seemed to do a better job of sorting through all the details of an issue and when it was satisfied that a resolution had been arrived at it would bubble it up to his conscious mind. So he went back to work. He hunted down Milligan to make sure he was satisfied with the plan proposals that his chief investigator would carry with him to Paris. Then he found Muntab and discussed the status of the training plan for the Auror hopefuls. He was glad to see that she was making use of the offered assistance of the Testing division to assure the Patrollers would be trained up to a proper level. Next came Maxwell and the two spent the remainder of the day working on the transition plan since Maxwell would be acting chief while Harry was at Hogwarts, although it was agreed that Harry could be summoned in the event of anything extraordinary.

And so it went until the thirty first of October and the Halloween Ball at Hogwarts. Ginny spent a fair amount of time desperately trying to get Harry's hair to behave. She was nearly ready to bring her wand to bear when Harry reminded her of the theory that the Healer at Beauxbaton came up with about Harry's innate defensive magic gifted to him by his dying mother. Trying to wrestle his hair into submission with magic might be construed as an attempt to alter him and she might suffer from the backlash. She settled for using some muggle hair gel but the effect was less than satisfactory so she sent him to wash it out and she would just have to resign herself to her husband's idiosyncratic appearance.

She on the other hand was groomed to perfection and Harry stood in silent admiration as she made a final check in the corridor mirror. She turned and looked at Harry with her eyebrows raised, inviting his assessment.

"Gorgeous as always, my love. How I ever attracted your attention I'll never know," he said, only half in jest.

"One of the great mysteries, that's for certain," she said, her face serious, then breaking into an impish grin as she saw the look on Harry's face. "It was fate, Harry. How else could I have known so early. But enough of that. Tonight is a night for fun and dancing and we can set aside all the serious matters for an evening, can't we?"

"Yes, I think that is an excellent idea, my dear. Shall we?" he said as he offered his arm to his wife.

They left through the front door held open by Kreacher who bowed them out with wishes for a pleasant evening. Once on the porch they Disapparated to Harry's usual spot outside the memorial park. It was a cool, mildly breezy evening.

"Hmm, perhaps we should have worn cloaks, Harry," Ginny said as they began walking toward the school gates.

"Maybe, but we'll be up there quickly and the warmth of the Hall will feel that much better."

They stepped along and soon they were at the front door and Harry swung it open and gestured for Ginny to precede him inside.

"Thank you, Mr. Potter. You are a true gentleman," she said with a glint in her eye.

"It is my pleasure to be of service to so beautiful a lady, Mrs. Potter," he replied with aplomb.

Ginny giggled a bit and once they were inside she took his arm and together they joined a small swarm of students flowing toward the entrance. There were a number of welcomes and greetings offered to them both. With Ginny filling in for Madam Hooch she was getting more well known among the general student population.

The Great Hall was arranged much as it had the first time the Halloween Ball was held, when Harry and Ginny were both seventh years. Many round tables were arranged about the central open expanse of the dance floor with a few similar tables placed on the dais for the faculty and staff.

As Harry and Ginny moved across the dance floor a familiar silver haired figure hurried to meet them. Despite being a recent mother, Fleur looked stunning in a pale lavender robe that looked more like a gown. Her hair shimmered and her smile was broad and bright.

"'arry, Geeny, eet ees wonderful to see you. You both look magnifique. Theese are new robes, yes?" she said as she swept Harry up in a hug which he returned with equal joy.

Ginny was next and the two 'sisters' held to each other tightly. Whispered words were spoken back and forth and then they turned their attention to Harry. Fleur's eyes narrowed a touch and she tilted her head to one side pursing her lips.

"I do not know, Geeny. A 'at per'aps but I theenk een the end eet weell just be what eet weell be," she said.

Ginny blew out a long breath and shrugged a bit and then hooked Harry's right arm while Fleur took hold of his left and they escorted him up to a table on the dais that was already occupied by Bill. He stood up to greet Harry with a handshake and his little sister with a hug. They all sat down and looked around and then Harry looked at his brother in law.

"I'm kind of curious, Bill. Do you have any idea why Ginny and I got such an elaborate invitation for tonight? I'd have thought that the Head could have just asked me any of the times I was up here," Harry said.

"My guess is it has to do with your upcoming assignment, Harry. I think she's looking to make some sort of announcement about it tonight and I wouldn't be a bit surprised if she's not trying to coax you a bit," Bill said with a small smile on his scarred face.

Harry just shook his head and avoided looking at either Ginny or Fleur. They watched as the students continued to file in and in a few moments more of the faculty arrived and there were many greetings exchanged around the table. Once it looked like the Hall had filled Professor McGonagall approached the podium and rapped on it with a gavel to get everyone's attention.

"Good evening everyone and welcome to the Halloween Ball. I hope you all have a very enjoyable evening. Before we begin the festivities I have an announcement I'd like to make. I am most pleased to be able to inform you that next year, Mr. Harry Potter will be returning to us to teach full time for the entire year."

The Professor was obliged to bang the gavel again to get the Hall back in order because of the outbreak of applause. Harry was doing his best to maintain his composure and he could feel squeezes on his arms from both sides. The Headmistress resumed her comments.

"Mr., or perhaps I should say, Professor Potter will be teaching a new course he has titled Applied Magic and it will be an elective available to fifth through seventh years. He will also be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts first and second years. In addition, Professor Flitwick and I will be inviting Professor Potter to participate in some of our classes as well. For those of you interested in the elective course please see your head of house for a copy of a brief synopsis so you may discuss it as part of your career plans. Now, enjoy your evening," she said and then gestured for the music to begin.

As the strains of a stately dance piece began Harry stood and offered his arm to his wife and they moved down to the dance floor followed by Bill and Fleur. As they began to move together on the floor Ginny looked up into Harry's green eyes, looking for a sense of what he was feeling. His look in response gave no clue so she said,

"The students seemed rather happy to have you coming back, Harry."

He nodded and said,

"Yes, we did seem to get along whenever I was up here. They really are a good lot. Speaking of students did you happen to see Abagail? I wasn't looking around too much," Harry said.

"Yes, I noticed and yes I saw her, she was back near the far wall with some of her Ravenclaw friends and stop trying to change the subject," she said firmly.

"Yes, dear, I know they would be happy to have me around the old place and yes, I admit I'd be happy to be here, but I'm not ready to make that choice," he said just as firmly.

"I understand that, my love, just so long as you acknowledge what you see," she said and let it drop.

Harry and Ginny completed the dance and then remained on the floor for a livelier tune that didn't leave much opportunity for further conversation. When it was done he was taken firmly in hand by Fleur and they danced to another slower tune. As they danced, her blue eyes firmly held his green as if she was trying to read what was going on behind them. Finally she spoke.

"Bill tells me that you 'ave been offered a teaching post after next year, yes?"

"Yes, that's right. As Transfiguration Professor."

"I beeleeve that both Geeny and Bill 'ave talked to you about eet?" she continued.

"Yes, they have. And I guess now it's your turn," Harry replied.

"'arry, I 'ave never 'idden from you thee fact that I 'ate that you do what you do. But eet ees not for me to make decisions for you. I weell only say thees. Whatever you do, do what your 'eart tells you to do. Then you weell not go wrong. You are wise beyond your years, I trust you weell choose wisely," and as if to finish the statement she leaned forward and kissed him on both cheeks and smiled at him.

When the dance came to an end he pulled her close and hugged her and he whispered a simple 'thank you' into her ear. When he stepped back he could see the shine in her eyes. He smiled and then began to walk her back to the dais but was intercepted by a number of students that were simultaneously offering their congratulations on his pending return and trying to winnow some details about the course from him. He spoke for a few moments with them and then Fleur interrupted and with a dazzling smile subdued the students and informed them that the 'Professor' was here to enjoy his evening and that details for the course were available from their heads of house. She then pulled him along back to the table. When they sat back down Harry looked at Fleur.

"Why did you do that, Fleur? They were interested in the course."

"'arry, eef you 'ad let them they would 'ave pestered you all night. 'alf of them 'ad no interest een anything other then being able to say they 'ad talked to you," she said in a knowing tone.

Harry just gave her a look and then let it go. He wondered if Fleur's determination to look out for him sometimes didn't get a little out of hand. However, food began to appear on the table and Harry realized that he was ravenously hungry. His assault on the offerings would proceed unabated throughout the evening. In between servings he would look out over the students. After sating his hunger for the time being he leaned over to whisper to his wife and she nodded and kissed his cheek. He walked down the steps and made his way across the dance floor towards the back wall. He approached the table where his ward sat and she looked at him with a smile.

"Hello, sir. How are you and Ginny doing tonight?"

"We're doing just fine, Abagail. How are you?" he replied.

"I'm doing ok. The music is very good and we're all having a good time," she said but she glanced out to the dance floor with a wistful look on her face.

Harry dropped down to one knee, being careful not to get anything on his robes, fearing the wrath of Ginny. He looked at Abagail and said softly,

"Hasn't anyone asked you to dance, little one?"

"No, Harry," she replied very quietly. "I think I've managed to scare them off with everything that has happened."

Harry stood up and offered her his hand.

"Would you do me the honor," he said with a smile.

"Yes, I would love to, thank you," she said with broad smile.

Together they walked out to the floor and he led her through a waltz step that then led into a faster tune that had her more breathless then usual when it ended. She was laughing a bit as she said,

"Oh, that was so much fun, thank you, Harry."

"You're welcome, little one, it was my pleasure," he replied as he walked her back to her seat.

As he walked away he saw a few boys looking in her direction and he thought she'd get at least one more dance before the night was over. He walked up to the dais and he gestured for Ginny to come down.

"Do you want to dance again, Harry?" Ginny asked.

"Not at the moment. Would you mind coming outside for a bit? I'd like to get a bit of fresh air."

"Certainly, Harry. Just a moment, I'd like to borrow Fleur's shawl. It's a bit chilly out there."

"Of course."

In a moment Ginny returned and taking Harry's hand they left by the side door and went down the corridor to the front door. The air that met them when he opened the door was indeed chill but Harry knew they wouldn't be out in it long and if he needed to he could bump up his internal thermostat. They moved along the path that ran near the castle and he stopped near a spot that gave him a clear view of the sky. He pulled Ginny into his arms to offer her some warmth and he looked up. The stars were bright and the air was clear. He wondered if he stared long enough would a road sign appear that would point him in the right direction. He continued to look for perhaps a quarter hour more and then he suggested they go back in. Ginny agreed readily and they walked back to the warmth of the Great Hall, a warmth that was more then just the fires burning.