Back at Hogwarts, under the beech tree by the Black Lake sat Harry & Ginny. They have been there since they left McGonagall's office that morning, and they've spent that time getting to know each other better. Harry didn't have near the amount of things to say or to talk about, but Ginny gladly filled in for what he lacked to share. She shared stories of Christmas' spent at the Burrow, some of the twins' finer at-home pranks, and her use of the Bat Bogey Hex on her older brothers. They had each other rolling around in fits of giggles and laughter.
"So is it true you set a snake on your cousin?" Ginny asked through her giggling
Harry steadied himself enough reply, "Not really. He pushed me out of the way, so I made the glass disappear, and he and his friend fell into the enclosure. Then the glass came back and they were stuck in there"
Ginny was laughing in full force, "Now that! I would've love to have seen", she finally managed to get out.
The laughter soon died out, and the pair of them were left sitting in happy silence. They had spent the entire day with each other, and it had been perfect for the most part. Harry decided to do something that he was growing use to doing, which was acting on his feelings. He couldn't help but to partially blame himself for not doing more to help Ginny throughout the year, but he had already decided that he wasn't going to make the same mistake twice. He also decided to do away with his fears of what Ron might say or do about him dating his little sister. Harry wouldn't let that effect anything. He was too attached and drawn to Ginny to let his feelings be bullied out of him. His feelings for Ginny had only been reinforced by spending this wonderful day together. He was brought out of his musing by the growling of his stomach.
Ginny started giggling again, "I suppose that means it's time for lunch"
Harry had gone a little pink in the cheeks and was smiling sheepishly, "I suppose it is"
"Well let's go", Ginny happily declared
Harry stood up and offered his hand, which she took, and they walked hand in hand back up into the castle. They made it into the Great Hall rather peacefully, and decided to go over and sit by the twins. They were a bit surprised with what they were witnessing at first, but their lips quickly curled into cheeky grins.
"Well look who it is", called out Fred
"It appears we have Prince Charming and his princess" Finished George
Harry and Ginny both went a little pink in the face, but they were happy and confident by the reactions they received from Fred & George. It was probably the best reactions they were going to get from the family, besides the reactions from Mr. & Mrs. Weasley.
"Hey guys", Harry and Ginny said in unison, then looked at each other and giggled
George and Fred looked at each other in disbelief, "Well you two sure seemed to have hit it off" said George
Ginny bore a cheeky grin of her own, "Well thank you for noticing"
Then big brothers seemed to do what big brothers always do, embarrass the little sister and threaten the boyfriend.
"You know Harry", began Freed quietly
"Ginny has been obsessed with you since she was little" finished George
Ginny blushed and smiled sheepishly, Harry squeezed her hand and sent to her, "It's okay. Now you got your wish" Ginny giggled and went to elbow him. The twins didn't think much of this but then George said, "If you think she's bad Harry"
"She has 4 other brothers that wouldn't mind given you a beaten" finished Fred with an evil grin of sorts.
Harry blushed a little but then a thought struck him, "What about Ron?"
The twins laughed at Harry's inquiry, "You could take Ron no problem."
"Bill and Charlie are twice your age", said George
"And Bill's her favorite", finished Fred
Ginny chuckled and rolled her eyes at the twins, but Harry went a bit tense
"Don't worry", Ginny sent Harry calmly, "Bill will love you"
Harry smiled appreciatively at her and squeezed her hand, "I hope so".
And Harry did hope so. He knew he was pretty well received by the Weasley's. He didn't think there was a single person Mrs. Weasley didn't love. Her dad had taken to him quite a bit when he first visited. The twin's seemed to have loved him, and he had always felt they were big brothers of his, especially on the quidditch pitch. Percy was Percy, but he had always been pleasant towards Harry. Ron was his best mate, but it worried him that Ron didn't take to well to their relationship initially. He would come around soon though, hopefully. Then that left her 2 older brothers whom Harry had never met. He only hoped that they wouldn't curse him into oblivion the first time they met.
"Speaking of ickle ronniekins", said Fred, nodding towards the entrance to the Great Hall. Harry was broken out of his reverie, and everyone turned their attention to the back of the hall. Ron and Hermione both appeared to be rather flustered, and just when he figured it was them arguing per usual, in walked
"Malfoy" Harry muttered in disgust
Harry glared at Malfoy as he entered the hall. He was followed by his cronies Crabbe and Goyle, but Pansy Parkinson was also on his side. There were all probably laughing at something Malfoy had said to Ron or Hermione, because had this sort of smug look on his face. That's when Malfoy looked up and noticed Harry glaring at him. Malfoy grinned mischievously, and turned to say something to Crabbe and Goyle as he got to his seat, then he yelled across the Great Hall at Harry.
"Hey Scar head! I see you finally let the Weasley girl in! I figure she owes you it after you rescued her.", Malfoy sneered across the hall. The Slytherin table erupted in laughter, the rest of the hall went quiet and turned expectantly towards Harry. Harry wasn't blushing in the slightest. In fact, he seemed rather confident at having a go with Malfoy.
"What's it to you Malfoy?" Harry yelled back "Jealous? Pansy not good enough for you?"
It was now the Gryffindor table's turn to laugh as Malfoy's face went red. The boy was so pale that the redness stood out even more than on a normal person. Malfoy quickly regained and shot back, "Your days are numbered here Potter! My father-"
"You're father?", Harry retorted mockingly while laughing, "He's been removed from the board. I tricked him into freeing your house elf. Your dad's a joke!"
Malfoy's face scrunched up in rage. He aggressively sought after his wand inside of his robes, but Harry was faster…
In the time Malfoy got his wand out of his robes, Harry practically jumped with his wand pointed directly at Malfoy's wand hand.
"EXPELLIARMUS!" Harry bellowed. A jet of red light flew past all the way across the hall striking Malfoy's wand. His wand flew the width of the hall in slow motion. Everyone watched in awe as it soared right into Harry's grasp.
"Just like in quidditch, yeah!" Harry yelled "I'm faster!"
The Gryffindor table erupted in applause and celebration as Harry clenched Malfoy's wand victoriously. George was slapping him on the back, he shook hands adamantly with Lee Jordan and Fred, and Ginny hugged him tightly and kissed him on the cheek. Harry could just see the stunned look on Malfoy's face before Ginny had turned him away. Harry couldn't help but to soak in the flee of glee that was flowing through him, mostly from Ginny. He denied his nemesis the satisfaction of getting away with whatever he wanted to say or do to him. For one thing, nobody was ever going to insult Ginny while he was around. Second, Harry wasn't going to be a pushover all of his life. Besides, Malfoy drew his wand first, and Harry simply outmatched him.
Unfortunately, it ended as soon as it had started.
"Mr. Potter!" Rang an exasperated voice from the entrance to the Great Hall. Harry turned to find Professor McGonagall briskly walking over to them. Harry's smile vanished immediately.
"I will be taking Mr. Malfoy's wand back" She said as she reached out an open palm for Malfoy's wand. "Now you know I hate to do this, but 10 points will be taken from Gryffindor." The lot of Gryffindors around her began to protest, but she held up her hand for silence.
"I saw it all from the entrance." McGonagall explained "20 will be taken from Mr. Malfoy. He started it, but that doesn't mean that you can just start dueling when there are other people in the way." She started to walk away, but turned around after a few steps, "Just like in quidditch and just like your father" McGonagall added with a smile and a wink.
Harry beamed at her and took his seat. He looked up to the Staff Table and Professor Flitwick raised his glass to him. A former professional dueler respects a good disarming spell.
When Harry took his seat, the praise began again.
"Merlin Harry! I can't believe you hit his wand from here!" praised Lee in awe
"Yeah, Im sure his daddy will love when he finds out about this." Snickered Fred
Harry then caught another hug from Ginny, "That was amazing Harry!"
Harry felt so much warmth and joy from Ginny, that it was hard not to smile foolishly. He just chuckled and shrugged while putting his wand away, "It was lucky, I guess"
Ginny rolled her eyes and slapped his arm. "Ow!" He exclaimed, even though it didn't hurt that bad, which made Ginny giggle.
Harry then looked over at Hermione who was wearing her normal disapproving look while adding things to her plate.
Harry chuckled, "What's the matter, Hermione?
She stopped what she was doing to glare at him, "Harry" she started and Harry knew immediately what was coming. Luckily Ron tried to save him, "Come on Hermione. That was brilliant!"
"That was idiotic!" Hermione said pointedly "Harry could've hurt someone!"
Ron went to retort, but it was Ginny who spoke, "Oh please. Harry knows what he's doing. He wouldn't hurt anyone."
Hermione was stunned. She had never been spoken to like that from Ginny. She just opened and closed her mouth a couple of times, but couldn't find the words to argue. Not that Ginny was paying her enough attention for her to argue. Defeated, Hermione turned back to filling her plate with food. Harry was kind of surprised himself, but smiled and turned to Ginny, "Thanks" He sent
"You're welcome" Ginny sent back smiling while fixing his plate, "Ive been listening to her talk to you like that all year. Now I can actually defend you."
Harry smiled at her, thanked her for his food, and they all started eating peacefully.
"So what have you guys done today?", Harry asked Ron and Hermione after a few mouthfuls.
"Nowmunch jushbee-", Ron started to answer without swallowing first.
"Could you please swallow?" Hermione interjected in disgust.
Ron glared at her and then somehow swallowed all that was in his mouth, "Better?" He asked sarcastically. Hermione just scoffed and turned back to her sandwich.
"Well, we've just been in the common room" Ron explained with a shrug, "She read and I played chess with a few of the guys."
"Thats nice." replied Harry truthfully, "Won every time I imagine?"
Ron's face lit up and then proceeded to tell Harry about how he gloriously dismantled Dean, Seamus, and Neville at chess. Ron was a remarkable chess player. He may not have had many strengths, but wizards chess was definitely one of them. This helped lighten his mood a lot and forget about hating Harry and Ginny's new found relationship.
"What about you two?" Ron asked Harry & Ginny
"We just hung out on the grounds by the lake" Harry responded with a shrug of his own, "Just got to know each other a little better"
"Is Hagrid back?" Ron asked suddenly
"No" Harry began but stopped to think, "I didn't see him at least" That was also truthful, though Harry didn't mind because he was spending his morning in the best of ways, but he missed Hagrid greatly.
Ginny seemed to notice his missing of Hagrid so she suggested, "Let's go see if he's back."
Harry turned and smiled at her, then turned to the other two with an asking look.
"One more bite." Ron said before stuffing his face with half of a sandwich.
"You know you can take it with you?" Hermione pointed out the obvious as she made to get up.
Ron shrugged his shoulder and got up. The four of them trooped out of the great Hall, Harry & Ginny hand in hand, and out onto the grounds in the hopes of seeing their half giant friend. All four faces lit up when they saw smoke billowing from his hut's chimney down on the edge of the Forbidden Forest.
As they approached Hagrid's hut, Harry felt Ginny tense up and become nervous. He slowed down behind the others and turned to her, "Are you okay", he sent.
Ginny turned to him and had a pained expression on her face, "We're not going to talk about what happened, are we?" She sent back
Harry stopped and was thoughtful for a moment. He figured Ginny wouldn't want to talk about what happened for sometime. What happened in the Chamber was terrible for the both of them, but especially for Ginny. The diary and what it did to her left her traumatized. He now realized that going to Hagrid's probably wasn't the best idea. He turned to her and sent, "Im sorry. I should've known. Yes, we're probably going to since Hagrid helped us."
Ginny got even more nervous and Harry felt bad, so he decided to wrap her into a tight hug. "We don't have to visit Hagrid if you don't want to", He sent.
Ginny felt the warmth from the hug as well as the calm that Harry was sending to her. She could hold Harry in that tight embrace for hours, feeling all of his warmth, his affection, and his calming. Ginny knew that Hagrid was important to him, and that getting to see him would be good for Harry. "It's okay Harry, honestly" she sent him.
Harry let go of the embrace and took her hand, then he looked at her as she was looking up at him. "I'll be okay. I have you with me", she sent with a reassuring smile.
"Are you sure?" He sent back smiling
"Yes", Ginny sent back, but then she went thoughtful for a moment before adding, "Let's just not talk about the diary, okay".
Harry smiled down at her and squeezed her hand, "Of course, and I'll try to keep them from bombarding you with questions".
Ginny giggled and squeezed his hand, then they continued on their journey to Hagrid's hut.
Ahead of them were Ron and Hermione. Hermione had turned her head to make sure they were still coming and was met with smiles from both Harry and Ginny. Hermione then smiled and turned back to face Hagrid's hut. She leaned over and whispered to Ron, "You know, Harry and Ginny are really good for each other".
Ron tensed up at Hermione's statement and got defensive, "Easy for you to say".
Hermione looked at him in bewilderment before asking, "Whats the matter with you? You were just fine during lunch."
"It's my sister" Ron hissed back at her
Hermione rolled her eyes and shook her head, "I just don't get why you can't be happy for them"
Ron frowned and shook his head. Maybe it isn't so bad that they're together, but only time will tell how well things go. It's not that he didn't trust Harry. In all honesty, Ron didn't quite know what it was either. They're just really young, and he knows how much Ginny already 'loves' him. He'll just have to see how it goes.
Ron and Hermione got to Hagrid's doorstep and Hermione knocked.
"Jus' a minute!" Rang the half giants voice from inside. Fang started barking and howling as loud as usual. A few short moments later, the door swung open to reveal a beaming Hagrid.
"I shoulda known you'd be down ter' see me". Said Hagrid with a laugh
"Hi Hagrid" Ron and Hermione said in unison
"Hagrid!" Called Harry a few feet from the hut
Hagrid looked up and if at all possible, his smile grew wider. "Jus' the man I wanted ter see" Hagrid then noticed him holding hands with Ginny and his eyes grew a little wide, "Merlin Harry! That's different" He added a little cheekily "Hello Ginny!"
"Hi Hagrid", smiled Ginny while giggling. Both her and Harry blushed a little at Hagrid's comment but were smiling all the same at the friendly half giant.
"I suppose you wouldn't mind telling me-" Hagrid began a little teasingly as Hermione and Ron made their way inside, but Harry interrupted as he got to the door. "Later Hagrid" he said with a chuckle, "Tell us about you first! How are you?"
Hagrid beamed and then wrapped Harry up in a hug that nearly crushed him. As Harry held his ribs and made his way inside with Ginny, Hagrid closed the door and made for the tea kettle.
Hagrid's hut hadn't changed much at all since the night that Hagrid was taken by Fudge to Azkaban. Harry felt right at home and couldn't be happier, there wasn't another seat in the cabin, so Ginny sat on his lap. Ron frowned at this, but after a threatening look from Hermione, he turned away and asked Hagrid, "Hagrid, how have you been?"
Hagrid put the tea kettle down and let out a sigh, "To tell yer' the truth" Hagrid began "I'm doing a lot better now" He ended with a soft smile, "I wouldn't wish Azkaban on me worst enemy. But I guess it wadnt too bad considering I knew I was innocent. Made all the difference to me." Hagrid elaborated
"It's so awful they even took you there in the first place!" Hermione said exasperatedly
"Yeah well, that why I'm so thankful fer you three," Hagrid said gratefully "How did you do it?"
Harry answered first, "Well we followed the spiders like you told us" Harry smiled teasingly at Ron
Hagrid beamed but Ron grimaced, "Follow the spiders?" Ron looked at Hagrid in disbelief. "That had to have been the most ridiculous advice I had ever heard!" Ron added exasperatedly. His voice cracking all the same in the fear of that night.
Hagrid laughed and said, "Come on Ron, Aragog's a friendly lad. Raised him meself".
"Ron's terrified of spiders" Harry told Hagrid while laughing. All of them were laughing except Ron. Hagrid was laughing at Ron, while the others were laughing at Hagrid's ability to think giant monsters are just friendly beasts. "And Aragog was not that friendly" Harry added
Ron took charge next, "Yeah! He's friendly to you, but he didn't stop his spawn from trying to kill us!"
"Codswallop", Chuckled Hagrid
"No Hagrid, he's serious" Harry backed up Ron "We literally would've died if Mr. Weasley's car hadn't saved us and fang."
"Ah well" Hagrid brushed off non chalantly "I'll have a talk with old Aragog tonight"
Ron put on a stupid face and shook his head, "You're mental" he breathed
"But you got what you needed for him?" Hagrid asked happily
"Yeah" Harry answered "He didn't tell us the name of it, but he told us about it and explained what really happened fifty year ago".
"Good spider that Aragog" Hagrid said appreciatively
Everyone laughed and Harry continued, "We kind of didn't know what to do after that, but I started putting some pieces together." Harry paused for a moments thought, "Aragog mentioned that it happened in a bathroom within the school, and that he never saw any other part of the castle"
Everyone was now hard listening to Harry recount the story. This was all their first time hearing it since everything had happened that night.
"I wanted to go back to the 2nd floor girls bathroom, because I deduced that Moaning Myrtle had been the girl who had died to the monster." Harry continued.
Hermione and Ginny gasped and Hagrid was shaking his head mournfully. "Yep" Hagrid replied heavily, "Poor Myrtle had been crying in the bathroom when Tom unleashed the beast from the Chamber".
Harry felt Ginny grimace and tense at the use of Tom's name, so Harry gently hugged her. "It's okay. He's gone. I'm here now" he sent to her with calmness
Ginny breathed deeply and sent, "Thank you."
Hagrid was watching them but before he could say much, Harry continued. "Before I could ask however, me and Ron got caught being out of our common room past 6 o'clock. Luckily it was McGonagall. I lied and told her that Ron and I were trying to go see Hermione".
"The best lie I've ever heard you tell" Ron chuckled
Harry smiled at the compliment, "She let us go see Hermione, and that's when I found that crumpled up paper in your hand."
Hermione beamed at him, but he continued, "The monster was a basilisk, which explained while I could hear it but nobody else"
"That explains what happened with all the school chickens", Hagrid said matter of factly. Everyone looked at him confused. "The only defense against them beasts are the crow of a rooster". He added grimly
Harry felt Ginny tense, but held her tightly "It wasn't your fault" he sent
Ginny relaxed a little and Harry was prompted to continue, "Hermione had wrote 'pipes' which explained how it moved throughout the school. Ron and I were hidden under our cloak because we weren't trying to get caught by teachers until we got to the staff room. That's when we found" Harrys words drifted off and he looked at Ginny. In that moment, he felt so much appreciation for the fact that she was okay and that he had saved her. He wrapped his arms around her and put his head on her shoulder before sending, "Im just so glad that you're okay". Ginny was getting overwhelmed by his emotions and started to tear up, "You're making me cry Harry" she sent with a small giggle.
Hagrid, Hermione, and Ron were looking at the two. Hermione was on the verge of tears herself, Ron was saddened and a bit uncomfortable at remembering just what they saw, but Hagrid didn't know what was going on.
"That's when we found the writing on the wall", Ron said softly in Hagrid's confusion. Hagrid looked at him in bewilderment so Ron continued, "Ginny had been taken"
Hagrid's jaw dropped to the floor, and he turned to look at Ginny who, to his surprise, was smiling softly and blushing through her tears.
"It was Harry", Ginny answered to his amazement. She then turned to Harry and stared into his eyes and continued softly, "Ron was with him, but it was Harry who saved me". Harry was blushing and smiling a little sheepishly.
"You know you did Harry", Ginny sent while smiling at him. It took Harry a moment before sending, "I know". He then held her tightly, "It's just, it's unbelievable".
The pair of them shared happy tears and a hug, while the rest of the Hut watched and shed appreciative tears as well. Who knows what would've happened had Harry not gone into the Chamber that night. Odds are, she would've died. It was hard to even fathom the loss of Ginny, but she was alive. Harry saved her. And there was a newfound appreciation for the both of them, and they couldn't help but admire how close they've become because of it.
Fang then strolled over to where Harry and Ginny were, and he rested his head on Harry's other leg where they giggled while petting them. Fang had always taken a liken to Harry, and despite his tendency to drool all over him, Harry still took to the large boar hound.
It was was Hagrid that finally broke the silence, "You know, you kind of have a habit of that Harry." The half giant spoke softly with a giant tear streaming down his face. Harry and Ginny looked at him while he tried to sniff them back, "You know Im proud of ya, yer parents would be too."
Everyone smiled softly at Hagrid's compliment, Harry looked down and felt a bit sad. He would like to think that they would've been very proud of him. If only he had his parents, then his life would be a whole lot different. But then a thought struck him, what would be different about his life that he wouldn't like. He looked from Ron to Hermione to Hagrid, then to Ginny. He knew he longed so much for his parents, but in that moment, he was more than content with what he had.
Ginny then turned to Hagrid, knowing the feelings that Harry had, and knowing how little he knew of his parents, she asked, "Did you know them?"
Hagrid sniffed greatly and chuckled, "Did I know them?" He paused in sentiment before continuing, "I watched them grow up in that castle. Your dad was a bit of a trouble maker. You lot think the twins were trouble, you shoulda met James and his friends. He was a good kid though. A talented wizard, a bloody good quidditch player, and he loved yer Mum." Hagrid added a soft smile at that last part, then he looked up and started staring at Harry.
Everyone else smiled and followed Hagrid's beady eyes as they looked at Harry. Harry was smiling, but he was tense with anticipation, eager to hear more about his parents.
Hagrid looked down and continued, "Yer Mum Harry", Hagrid had to stifle a sob before carrying on, "There wadn't a kinder person in the entire world than yer mum. The brightest witch of her age, Head Girl with yer Dad in their 7th year, I'm sure the teachers were thankful, cause she was the only one that could control yer dad, and she loved you Harry. Boy did she love you."
Hagrid finished with a great blow into his tablecloth handkerchief. The hut was filled with the sound of sniffling. Everyone was crying and looking at Harry. Harry didn't quite know what to say or how to feel. A single tear was streaming down his face, but there was great longing inside of him. He almost wished Hagrid could suck it up and keep going. The desire for Harry to know more about his parents had never been greater. Then he felt Ginny squeeze hand and chanced a look at her. She was smiling softly at him with tears streaming down her cheek. Ginny was sad for Harry and his parents, but she was happy at the kind of people they were. More importantly, she was happy that Harry was getting to know them better.
Harry smiled at her and raised her hand to his and kissed it softly. It was all he could do in that moment to show his appreciation to her.
Hagrid was eyeing them and had finally fought back the tears enough to keep talking, "Ya know Harry", he began softly, "A lot of the professors cried later that night after yer sorting. We were all up in the Dumbledore's office, and we were all happy for you, but seeing you just brought everything back after ten years. You have so much of the both of them Harry, ya don't even know it" Hagrid paused to take in a deep breath, "You looked so much like yer dad, but you had those eyes from yer mum. There's no mistaking whose kid you were… And again at yer first quidditch match, it was like seeing James flying again, but there was no mistaken those eyes of yers."
The hut sat in silence for a few minutes following Hagrid's recollection of Harry's mum and dad. Ron sat there kinda awkwardly, unsure of whether to cry or rather to try and comfort Harry or Hagrid. Hermione was wiping away tears from her face, wrought by the sadness of Harry's lost parents and the fact they he never knew them, but also happy for Harry. Ginny had her head on Harry's shoulder and her arms wrapped around him, sending all of her love and joy to him while letting her tears flow freely. Harry had finally started to relax a little and was smiling a genuine smile, especially after Hagrid's last statement. He had an arm around Ginny and met his other hand on her lap. Tears had already began streaming down his face. Usually he hated to cry in front of others, but he couldn't help it this time, nor did he much care. The grief of his parents not overwhelming him, but the longing to know them taking a toll. He knew he would learn about his parents, he knew every conversation would be difficult, but it was knowing the impact that his parents had on everyone that made him happy.
They finished up their afternoon reminiscing over the school year and listening to Hagrid tell funny stories about Harry's mum and dad. Once Hagrid's rock cakes were down and he shared him with everyone, Harry used his mind speak to warn Ginny to not actually eat them, and they shared a fit of giggles. By the time dinner came around, they left Hagrid's hut smiling and laughing, and with pockets full of rock cakes.
Deep in the depths of the ministry, Amelia Bones just exited the lift and is walking down the deserted corridor, alone. She walks down two flights of stairs and takes a left down a dark corridor with a black door at the end. The chill of the depths on her skin, but the determination to find that which she seeks. Through the door, she sees another door directly in front of her, another door down the corridor to her right, and another door down a third corridor. She turns and heads towards the door on her left. The door opens into another corridor. This corridor is long, narrow, and empty, but has multiple doors on each side and leads to a dead-end. The door she seeks is at the end, two doors from the last.
As she reaches the door, she look over her shoulder to make sure she is not being followed, then she turned back and opened the door. It opened up into an empty room with torches lining the walls and two everlasting candles floating above a book stand. On the book stand, an ancient book with a sewn leather backing lay closed . Amelia slowly approached the old book. On the front cover read:
If aught must be lost, 'twill be my honour for yours.
If one must be forsaken, 'twill be my soul for yours.
Should death come anon, 'twill be my life for yours.
I am given.
Amelia slowly reached her hand out to grab the book. At her touch, the words on the front began to grow bright and fill the room with its light. The book then began to vibrate lightly on the stand before flying open and turning page by page. Eventually, the book came to rest on what looked to be an empty page. Upon further inspection, Amelia found what looked to have been a written recording of names and dates, but there were only two on this page.
Brian Buro and Nuala O'Connor 17th September, 1283
Harry James Potter and Ginevra Molly Weasley 23rd of May, 1993
Amelia's eyes widened in surprise. 'Over 700 years' she thought to herself in admonishment. She didn't quite know how long she stood there and stared in amazement, but she shook herself out of her reverie and made for the door. As she approached the door to exit, the book vibrated softly once again, snapped shut, and the bright words on the cover dimmed. She carefully closed the door behind her and briskly walked back down the corridor. Her new destination, the floo back in her office.
She made it back to her office. Nearly everyone had already gone home for the day, but she still went through the motions of adding the extra wards on her door before taking a pinch of floo powder and stating, "Hogwarts, Professor McGonnagl's office"
Minerva McGonnagal was in her office looking over some old papers from her years past, reminiscing over a few that held the names 'James Potter' and 'Lily Evans' on the top. She started with a jump when her floo sprung to life.
"Minerva?" Called the voice from the floo "Minerva, are you there?
Minerva recognized the voice and the face of Amelia Bones coming from the floo.
"One moment", Minerva called out to her. She flicked her wand towards the door to create the added wards on the room. "You may come through now".
The woman's head smiled and backed out of the floo. Seconds later, she appeared with a whoosh of the green flames.
Amelia was beaming at the professor who was setting up a pot of water to boil.
"I assume you have made a discovery concerning my request?" Asked Minerva trying to remain stoic through her nervous excitement.
Amelia strolled over to her seat and smiled at Minerva, "As a matter of fact, I have, and I couldn't wait to inform you." Amelia accepted her tea then continued, "I hope this isn't an inconvenience"
Minerva took her seat with her tea and shook her head, "On the contrary, I was hoping you'd come."
Amelia smiled widened, "Your suspicion was true" she said without preamble
Minerva took a sip of her tea and sat back in her chair. The normally stoic witch couldn't help but to allow a smile to crease across her face.
"They're the first bond in seven centuries", Amelia continued breathlessly, "It's quite remarkable"
Minerva took another sip of her tea, "It is quite remarkable, and it has happened with Harry Potter no less"
Amelia smiled and took a sip of tea, "Yes, I hear that boy has a knack for these kinds of things"
Minerva chuckled at this comment. Harry certainly had a knack for doing extraordinary things, whether or not he actually had a choice to do them. Trouble just always seemed to find him. He conquered the Dark Lord, saved the Wizarding world, saved the philosophers stone, saved Ginny Weasley and countless others this year, and now he has bonded with Ginny. But still, they are both so young, and Harry hasn't even faced half of what may be coming for him according to Dumbledore's allusions. And what will Dumbledore say when he finds out, and more importantly, what will Molly and Arthur say?
Minerva let out a sigh and said, "This is definitely going to complicate things".
Amelia studied the witch and appeared to have read her mind, "Will you mention this to Albus?"
"Heavens no", Minerva answered "He won't find out until after he finds out the rest, WHEN he does".
Amelia smiled at Minerva's words, then followed with another question, "What about Molly and Arthur?"
Minerva took a deep breath before answering, "That is my only worry." She sat down her tea cup and put her hand to her head. "What will they say?" She asked exasperatedly
Amelia was quick to answer, "They should be thrilled".
"They have nothing to upset at", Amelia explained, "To my understanding, they shouldn't have to worry either".
"Amelia, their daughter is eleven. Bonded couples are known to act differently than the normal." Minerva said worriedly
"I know", Amelia agreed, "But Harry and Ginny haven't fully bonded, and they won't until Harry becomes of age."
Minerva's eyes shot up at the smiling witch in front of her. "Amelia, they're already married in the eyes of the Ministry."
"I know Minerva", Amelia said calmly, "But they are only a betrothed couple. They haven't fully bonded yet."
Minerva looked at her in bewilderment then after a couple of deep breaths to gain her bearings she asked, "Do you mind if I summon someone?"
"By all means," Amelia replied curiously
Minerva nodded, stood up, and walked over to the floo. With a pinch of floo powder she called, "Poppy Pomfrey, Infirmary", and threw it down. She stuck her head in the flames and called, "Poppy! Poppy, could you come through when you have a moment."
Minerva strolled back over to her chair, and before she sat, Madam Pomfrey came ushering out of the green flames.
"Good evening, Minerva", Poppy said with a nod, then she stopped dead when she saw the Head of the MLE sitting in front of Professor McGonagall's desk.
Amelia smiled at her but Minerva spoke, "Don't worry Poppy. We just need your help for a moment."
The healer looked curiously at Minerva for a moment, then nodded and smiled at Amelia before walking over to take the seat next to her, "Madam Bones", she greeted with a nod.
"Oh please, call me Amelia", the head of the MLE told her assuringly with a smile, "We just need your help with something."
Madam Pomfrey quite taken about being summoned for help by not only Minerva, but the Head of the MLE. At a loss for words, she turned from Amelia to Minerva and prompted one to explain.
Minerva was conjuring another tea cup when she asked, "If I understand it correctly, you studied briefly about soul bonds while studying to become a healer?"
Madam Pomfrey looked at her in bewilderment. Her eyes went wide and she turned from Minerva to Amelia, who smiled at her, then back to Minerva. "Yes', she responded softly
Minerva finished with pouring the hot water and steeping the tea bags, and she levitated it to Madam Pomfrey before continuing, "It appears that a new soul bond has formed, and we were wondering if you might be able to answer some questions."
Poppy's eyes widened dramatically and she looked thunderstruck by the request. Then it dawned on her, and she was finally able to find her words, "Does this concern what happened that night in the Chamber?" She asked quietly
Minerva bore a faint grin on her face, "Yes, it does."
"But a bonding hasn't occurred in centuries", Poppy stated hastily
"Bonded by Fate has the first names written in it in over seven hundred years," Amelia clarified for the distraught witch
Poppy turned to her with her mouth wide open, she then turned back to Minerva, but before she could say anything, Minerva explained the situation.
"Harry has been abused and neglected by his relatives", Minerva began, "So I took it upon myself to see to it that he lives with a proper and loving family." She gave a sigh and continued, "I also was able to ask Amelia about the possibility of a bond being formed between Harry and Ginny. Albus doesn't know of either, but I'm struggling to find a way of bring the bond up to Arthur and Molly." Minerva finished and took a sip of her tea.
"Well, there shouldn't be any concern on their part." Poppy said hesitantly "They're not of age, so the full bonding hasn't taken place".
Minerva and Amelia looked a Poppy expectantly. This was information they were already aware of, so they were looking to her to explain in more detail.
"What I learned was very limited," Poppy stated clearly, "But if the question is surrounding their level of intimacy, neither will be able to explore further than just cuddling."
Minerva's eyes widened at this statement, "You mean that neither will be tempted no matter how much physical contact they have?"
Poppy chuckled softly, "No. There is powerful magic that surrounds the bond which prevents such a thing until they are of age. There are also varying levels of protective enchantments for the both of them.. As far as I know, there will be no temptation due to their age, but the full bonding will take place when Harry becomes of age, whether some people may like it or not" She finished in a matter of fact tone.
Amelia was smiling at this and Minerva was breathing some sighs of relief. She still didn't know how best to explain this to Molly and Arthur. She had just asked them to become Harry's legal guardians, so what might they think if she reveals this to them only days after doing that. Hopefully, Minerva wouldn't have to explain it alone.
"Do you mind accompanying me for dinner with the Weasley's tomorrow night?" Minerva asked hesitantly
Poppy smiled, "I would love to. As long as Potter doesn't somehow find a way to end up in the infirmary while I'm gone."
The three witches chuckled and finished with the rest of their tea while discussing plans to various levels. Minerva was filling Poppy in on her plan to keep Albus out of the loop, and Amelia helped to explain more of what she knew about bonds. She also ensured Minerva that there was nothing Albus could legally do to acquire information on Harry's guardianship, other than speaking to Harry's guardians.
Not too long later, Amelia was the first to rise and leave. Being tremendously thanked by Minerva, and wishing the witch good luck in her endeavors. Then Madam Pomfrey rose and left with a satisfied smirk on her face.
Minerva breathed a sign of relief and fancied herself with a smile. Tomorrow night was going to be tricky, but she had reinforcements in the form of Madam Pomfrey. She didn't have to worry about keeping the secret from Albus too much longer. Soon she would be on holiday at her family manor, and Albus wouldn't think to trouble her while there. Tomorrow her task is simple, confirm with Harry & Ginny that they have bonded, then explain this to Arthur and Molly with the help of Poppy Pomfrey. It won't be easy, but as long as there is a trust, nothing can't be accomplished.