Summer of Redemption

- Chapter 8 -

Willow's POV

I have to say that Hermione statement made me very proud. I would have never guessed she would have thought of something like this, but here we are. Remus, Hermione, Giles and I all in the midst of a cast circle of lighted candles, hands clasped with one another. Giles was reluctant at first, saying it was dangerous for me. But he doesn't know that this is the way it has to be. It's time for me to face my fears... to face reality. And if, in the process, it helps Hermione... then all for the good, I say.

It was time to begin the Spectral Unity spell, so we bowed our heads.
Hermione started the chant then, her voice starting out soft, then rising in volume and intensity as the spell got more involved.

"Hail, Guardians of the Watchtowers of the East, Powers of Air.
Here stands one in need of unity of the mind.
Let the light of dawn surround me in safety,
Let the Aspen tree ground me to Mother Earth,
Let the eastern wind hold me in the palm of its hand,
That I may grow in goodness and light, in the service of the Mother."

Although the windows are closed, a gush of wind envelops us in its gentle touch. Hermione's long, thick hair is fanning lightly about her face. She's nervous, I can feel it. So are Remus and Giles for that matter. Hermione and Remus confessed that they had never cast a spell without the use of a wand. But I have such faith in their strength, that I just know they can do it. I center myself now and pick up my part of the chant.

"Hail, Guardians of the Watchtowers of the South, Powers of Fire.
Here stands one in need of unity of the spirit.
Let the noon light surround her in safety,
Let the Almond tree ground her to Mother Earth,
Let the southern wind flow around her to protect her,
That she may grow in goodness and light, in the service of the Mother."

I feel Hermione's hand tighten its grip on mine as the low hum begins to fill the room. Even with my eyes closed, I can almost see the soft glow that I know is emanating from within the circle of our bodies. Remus takes a deep breath before beginning his part.

"Hail, Guardians of the Watchtowers of the West, Powers of Water.
Here stands one in need of unity of her emotions.
Let the dusk of twilight shroud her in protection,
Let the Willow tree ground her to Mother Earth,
Let the western wind shroud her from all evil,
That she may grow in goodness and light, in the service of the Mother,"

A silvery mist makes its way from somewhere out of the darkness to pool itself in our inner circle. Good, it's working. Now it's your turn, Giles.

"Hail, Guardians of the Watchtowers of the North, Powers of Earth.
Here stands one in need of unity of her body.
Let the dark of midnight shroud her in protection,
Let the Oak tree ground her to Mother Earth,
Let the northern wind keep her from all harm,
That she may grow in goodness and light, in the service of the Mother."

Great guys, now, all together. One... two... three.

"Hear us, oh Guardians of the Elements and Quarters.
we stand as children of the universe
We call on you to reunite spirit with form.
We ask not that you change them,
for their will is their own,
But grant us sight and speech,
that we may share our thoughts with the light
With good intent and in the service of Mankind and Mother Earth."

Ookay, now if anybody is listening, we should get a response. Oh, here we go.

[Will?]

*It's okay, 'Mione. Everything is going fine.*

The mist is taking form now, rising and folding in on itself. Stretching out and taking shape of the forms we seek to communicate with. Before long two figures, a man and a woman, stand in the midst of our circle. They're looking at us in confusion, before Hermione's small voice catches their attention.

"Hello mum...dad."

"Hermione? Honey, is that you?"

"Yes, mum, it's me."

"Oh my baby. Please, what's going on? Why are we here?"

"We summoned you for just a moment. We'll allow you to go back, but... I just wanted to tell you something first."

"Go ahead sweetheart. You've always known you could tell us anything."

"I know, dad, and I have. But...that night. I didn't get to tell you what I always tell you before I leave the house. After our fight, I was so mad at you both that I never said the words that I always say before I walk out the door. "

"Oh, baby, is that why you did this? We know you were upset, honey. It's okay, we understand. We know in our heart of hearts that you love us. Never doubt our love for you. You are our daughter and we will always love you, even though we can't be with you physically, know that we will be in your heart. Be happy, Hermione. Finish your studies and become the great witch that we know you to be. Make us proud, sweetheart!"

*Say it, 'Mione. Now's the time.*

"I love you, mum and dad."

"We love you too, Hermione."

The misty forms of the Grangers began to dissipate then, creeping back across the floor and into the night. Leaving us here, two very happy and emotionally complete women and two very handsome guys. This was shaping up to be very interesting indeed.

*~*~*~*~*~*

tbc...

A/N: Forgive me if this chapter is too short, but it seems to be coming to a close pretty quickly. And I just wanted to drag it out a couple more chapters. Thanks to all who reviewed. You've been wonderful!

One question... Who would like to see a romance brew between Hermione and Giles? Hmm, this is Hermione's last year at Hogwarts coming up and I am thinking of finding a place on staff for Remus, Giles and Willow. So there might be a sequel coming soon, not really sure yet. Anyway, thanks for all the support guys!

Rose