Disclaimer: The characters and their world are the property of J.K. Rowling, various publishers and Warner Bros. No money is being made and no copyright infringement is intended.
Author's Note: My special thanks to John Adams for her friendship and help in beta reading this story, and for keeping me on character with Harry and the gang. Also for her many suggestions that made this story better than it would have been.
Chapter Note: Several reviewers have expressed the hope that this story will include Harry and Luna's life after Hogwarts. I had not intended to carry the story that far, but as they have been so generous with their reviews that I'm including this chapter as a sort of compromise. I hope they like it.
CHAPTER 15: WHEN DREAMS ARE ALL YOU HAVE
Harry and Luna didn't see much of Freda once they boarded the Hogwarts Express; she had gone off with some third- and fourth-year students that she had met at her birthday party. Luna and Harry loved the young girl, but were glad to see that she was making friends among children her own age. From what they could see, Andrew McDonnell was destined to be a particularly close friend. That left the six of them, who had been through so much together, sharing a compartment on this last train ride to Hogwarts. They had a brief meeting with the prefects from the other houses, discussing their duties and responsibilities, and then they were left to themselves.
This journey to Hogwarts was a good deal different from previous years. All six teens were rather quiet and lost within their own thoughts. It was a bitter-sweet time for all of them, and especially for Harry. This was his seventh train ride to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and he knew it would be his last. For Harry, his life really began at Hogwarts. It was there he learned who he truly was, met his true friends, and most important, it was at Hogwarts that he met the girl that he would love until the end of time.
Now he could see that very soon his school days would be coming to an end, and he felt sadness deep within him. Things were certain to change from here. They were all destined to go out on their own, and seek their own futures in life. The six of them would always remain close friends, of that he was certain, but it would never be the same as it was now. He would miss waking up late at night to the sound of Neville snoring, or watching Ron wolf down his breakfast as Hermione scolded him, or the way Ginny would tease her older brother unmercifully.
But as he reflected on his changing world, he felt a gentle squeeze on his hand. He looked down into Luna's trusting silver eyes, and realized that the most important thing in his life would never change. She understood him so well, understood the sadness he was feeling at that moment; and she wanted him to know that no matter what happened, her feelings would never change. Harry gently squeezed her hand in return, saying without words that he understood and felt the same way.
But it wasn't all sadness, there was happiness as well. The previous night Harry and the Lovegood family had gone to the Weasley home for supper. After a wonderful meal, with all their friends and family present, Ron pledged himself to Hermione and she pledged herself to him. Ron had been slow to make the decision, but when he realized how happy his friends were, he wanted the same thing for himself and Hermione.
It turned out that finding the Weasley family Pledge Rings was the hardest part. The Weasleys had always considered themselves very progressive in the wizarding world, and had long abandoned the custom of pledging their mates. In fact, both Arthur and Molly Weasley were quite concerned when their daughter Ginny had bound her soul to Neville Longbottom. But Neville was such a sweet boy, and so deeply loved their daughter, that they decided that it was alright. Besides, if it was good enough for Harry Potter, then it was good enough for them.
But when Ron asked his Father about the family Pledge Rings, Arthur Weasley was frankly at a complete loss; he honestly didn't even know if they still existed. After an exhaustive search, during which the family ghoul was thoroughly inconvenienced, the rings were found in a dust covered trunk in a dark corner of the attic. The pledging itself went off perfectly, and everyone present felt certain that it was right for the two of them.
Seeing how quiet the others in the compartment were, Neville looked into Ginny's eyes with a question. She understood it without him saying a word andnodded her head, giving him a warm smile.
"Ginny and I have an announcement to make," Neville began, as he put his arm around Ginny's shoulders. "My Grandmother and I had a talk this summer, and I've purchased a piece of land in Ottery St. Catchpole. Ginny and I want to build our home there, so we can raise our children around family." And by "family," Harry knew that he meant all of them. That feeling that they were all part of one family made them feel much better.
The clickity-clack sound of the rails of the Hogwarts Express gradually put Luna to sleep, and she nestled into Harry's chest. He laid his head on the top of her soft hair and breathed in the delicate scent of the Lavender perfume that she had received so many months ago at the Hogsmead Autumn Faire. He smiled at the memory, closed his eyes, and dozed off himself; the sound of the rails lulling him to sleep.
The gentle clacking of the rails seemed to transform themselves into the crackling of logs burning in a fireplace. Harry opened his eyes and found himself in Edward Lovegood's study back at The Meadows. A cheerful fire was burning in the hearth and he found he had several scrolls in his hands.
"Daddy, Daddy." He heard a girl call out from the hallway, and then a little girl of about nine years old ran into the room and jumped up onto Harry's lap. She had long blond hair and bright silver eyes, just like her mother, and Harry knew instinctively that he loved her very much. He found himself hugging her tightly, and rocking her back and forth in his arms.
"I missed you so much today, Lizzie." He said, kissing the girl on the cheek. "What has my little girl been up to?"
At that moment a little boy of about seven, with emerald green eyes and unkempt black hair, ran into the room and up to his Father. Harry pulled the child up onto his lap as well, and held the two children close.
"We missed you too, Daddy." The little girl responded sincerely. "It's not as much fun when you're at work. Can we go over and play with Ronnie? Mummy said we could go if you said it was okay."
Lizzie shared her Mother's ability to change subjects without warning, but Harry was used to it by then. "Do you want to go too, Jamie?" Harry found himself asking.
"Yes, Daddy," the little boy said excitedly, a wide smile on his face.
Harry looked up and saw Luna standing in the doorway, wearing pale blue robes and smiling mischievously.
"Did you put them up to this?" he asked, smiling.
"Well I may have, just a bit. But Hermione did invite us over for dinner. She said that Ron just bought the new broom that he was planning on, and she thought you might want to try it out."
"Well I guess that makes the vote unanimous," Harry responded, helping his children down to the floor. "Let's fly over."
The little girl squealed happily, and ran to get her broom. A few minutes later they were all in the air on their way to The Burrow. Little Jamie was riding with his Mother, but Lizzie was riding on her own broom; an ancient orange Clean Sweep that her Mother had ridden years before at Hogwarts. Lizzie had only started riding on her own about six months previously, but was already quite accomplished; and she eagerly looked forward to the day when the grown-ups would let her play Quidditch with them.
As they came in for a landing in the Weasley back yard, they saw little Ronnie Weasley running out the back door carrying his Father's wand. His Father, a dark scowl on his face, came charging out right behind him. Ron's hair had suddenly turned a shocking, florescent pink color; and Harry was quite certain little Ronnie had some involvement with. Ronnie ducked under the dinner table and around a tree, leaving Ron dragging behind and out of breath. The minute he saw the new arrivals, the young boy ran over to greet them.
"Hi, Lizzie," the boy said excitedly, completely ignoring the two adults. "Would you like to go for a fly?"
"Sure!" She replied to her best friend.
But just as the two children were about to run off to play, Ron Sr. came up behind the boy and snatched the wand out of his hand. "I'll just take that, young man" he said good-naturedly.
"Your hair pretty," Jamie said with a grin.
"Yeah, pretty," Ron responded sarcastically, and scowling at his mischievous son he added, "I was going to let him play Quidditch with us today, but now I'm not sure he deserves it."
"Oh, please let him play, Uncle Ron." Lizzie begged. "If he plays maybe Daddy will let me play too," she added, casting a sly glance at her Father.
"Well, 'Uncle Ron,' what do you say?" Harry asked.
"Well, I guess so," Ron said reluctantly.
The two nine-year-olds screamed with glee, and Ronnie grabbed Lizzie's hand and they ran off to get his broom.
"Nice shade of pink, Ron." Harry said with a snicker. "But don't you think it's a bit undignified for the star Keeper of the Chudley Cannons?"
"Stow it, mate," Ron responded with a grin, "That kid gets more like Fred and George every day." Then he tapped himself on the head and turned his hair back to its normal red color. "Do you want to try out my new Firebolt 6000 or just make cute remarks about my hair?"
"Well, riding your new broom was the main reason I came, but pink hair was just too good to pass up" Harry answered snickering, as the three adults started to walk towards the house. Little Jamie had already run off looking for Ron's six-year-old daughter Molly, his favorite playmate. As they approached the door Harry began to hear a strange clacking sound and the scene before him began to blur and he found himself back in the compartment of the Hogwarts Express, Luna in his arms. She was just waking up too.
"I had the nicest dream," she said contentedly, nuzzling her head against his shoulder.
"Me too." Harry responded, still a bit sleepy. "Lizzie looks just like you."
"And Jamie looks just like you," Luna responded in a sleepy voice. And then sat bolt upright when she realized that they had both shared the same dream.
"Nice dream, Mum," Harry said slyly, and pulled her into a tight hug.
"Very nice….But actually, I think it was more of a vision" Luna said mysteriously, and snuggled back into Harry's chest. "Let's go back to sleep, I want to see Lizzie play her first Quidditch game."
Harry was shocked by Luna's description of their dream. "A vision! Do you mean of the future?" He replied, but then after the initial shock had worn off he asked. "But you can't just pick up a vision where you left off; can you?"
"Have you ever tried?" She responded with a smile.
"Well, no. My visions in the past have been the kind that I wouldn't exactly want to resume."
She frowned slightly, and then smiled up at him sweetly. "Well try this time." And with that she closed her eyes and hugged him tightly. Harry closed his eyes and laid his head on top of hers.
"Now where was I?" He mumbled to himself. "Oh yeah…" And with that he drifted off into a peaceful sleep. A short time later the others were surprised to hear both Harry and Luna laughing in their sleep, and they both had wide smiles on their faces.
"What do you think they are dreaming about?" Ron asked in wonder.
"I have no idea." Hermione replied, equally astonished.
A few minutes later the two teens awoke from their dream refreshed and happy. But the minute they looked at Ron Weasley they both broke into uncontrollable laughter.
"What's going on?" Ron asked, more than a little confused.
"Oh, nothing Ron," Harry managed to choke out. "We were just thinking that you would look rather interesting with pink hair." With that remark Luna broke into an uncontrollable fit of giggles. The rest of the trip Harry and Luna kept mostly to themselves, talking happily in low voices about something their friends couldn't quite hear. Ron and Hermione wondered about that and about the strange and rather dreamy attitude that both of them seemed to have developed. Ron was concerned enough that he whispered into Hermione's ear, asking if she thought that Voldemort could have taken possession of them in their dreams.
She very much doubted it, but couldn't explain their odd change in behavior either. When asked, the two teens said they couldn't talk about it right then, but they would tell the others later.
- o -
Harry and his friends were among the last students to enter the Great Hall before the Sorting Feast began. In their new positions, it was their responsibilities to see that the other students were properly directed to the Great Hall for the feast, and that none lagged behind. So when they finally entered, all of the tables were already filled. They were a bit embarrassed by the applause that erupted around the room, but rather pleased that space had been left for them at the head of Gryffindor table.
As they seated themselves, Professor Dumbledore stood and spread his arms to welcome them back to another year at Hogwarts. He told the returning students that this was going to be an exciting year for them, but not quite as exciting as the previous one had been. This remark elicited a murmuring of agreement from the students, because no one really desired that kind of excitement again. Professor Dumbledore didn't elaborate on exactly what he was referring to, but he did wink at Harry and his friends as he made his remarks.
Then the Sorting Hat and stool were brought forward and placed in front of the Teacher's Table. Professor McGonagall led the shy first-years into the Great Hall and up to the front of the room. Harry heard Ron refer to them as "midgets," which earned him an elbow in the side from Hermione, but she had to admit they did look extremely small.
After the sorting was completed the Sorting Hat began its song. But this time it was much more upbeat than in previous years. The Hat congratulated the four houses on coming together as one to defeat the forces of darkness. But it went on to warn that the threat, though weakened, still existed; and they must remain vigilant. Harry generally found the song to be reassuring this year, and the fact that Luna sat close beside him only added to his confidence.
Ron was all set for the feast to appear when Professor Dumbledore stood once again. "Before we begin our meal we have two further sortings to accomplish, these of older students who are transferring to our school."
Professor McGonagall led Freda Shaw into the Great Hall, and between the long rows of tables up to the front. The young girl felt a bit self conscious, and perhaps a little afraid as well, but she was reassured by the applause she received from her family and all her new friends.
She sat on the stool and the Sorting Hat was placed on her head. Harry could see her lips moving, and he knew she was discussing the matter of her placement with the Hat. And then in a loud, clear voice the Hat called out "Gryffindor!" There was loud applause from the Gryffindor table as Freda hopped down off the stool, and took her seat with the other third-years. Ron Weasley, who was cheering louder than most, was now anticipating the greatest Quidditch team in the history of Gryffindor House.
Then Professor McGonagall led an older student into the hall; a boy of about seventeen with auburn hair and hazel eyes. The name of Eric Van Meer was called, and he walked confidently forward. The boy smirked as he heard one Hufflepuff girl exclaim a little too loudly, "Oh isn't he handsome!" The Hat was placed on his head and immediately called out "Gryffindor!" He walked over to the table and took the seat that was provided for him. Harry had been watching closely, and felt that there was something not quite right about the boy; although he couldn't quite put his finger on it. He noticed that the Headmaster was also watching the new boy, but then he said in a clear voice, "Tuck in!"
- o -
After dinner the Prefects and Head Boy and Girls led the new first-years up to their common rooms. As Head Boy, it was decided that Harry would have the honor of setting the first password for Gryffindor Tower. Thinking fondly about Luna, Harry announced to The Fat Lady that the password for Gryffindor Tower would be "Crumple Horned Snorkack." The portrait gave him a strange look, and then accepted it. Luna, for her part, gave him a warm smile and a hug. After all, it was that little creature that had helped to bring the two of them together.
As they entered the common room one little first-year boy pointed at Harry's scar and whispered in awe, "Is that really Harry Potter?" Harry heard the boy and just smiled, the notoriety not bothering him anymore.
Luna Lovegood, who was standing right next to Harry, turned to the little boy and answered dreamily, "Yes, that's Harry….My best friend."
The little boy's mouth dropped open in shock as he saw the Head Girl's badge on her robes. He knew that this must be Luna Lovegood, the girl that had gone to Avalon with Harry Potter, and had faced the Dark Lord. On the Hogwarts Express the little boy had heard as much about her as he had about Harry.
Seeing the expression of awe on the boy's face, Harry gave Luna's hand a squeeze and with a wide grin said, "Welcome to the club."
When Mallick reached the seventh-year boy's dorm, he was rather disappointed to learn that Harry Potter, as Head Boy, would no longer be sharing a room with the other boys in his year. This meant that he would not be able to observe his subject quite so closely, but he could still learn much from Harry's best friends Ron Weasley and Neville Longbottom. In the coming weeks, Mallick was to loose no opportunity in trying to swing the conversation over to the subject of Harry Potter. Ron and Neville continually resisted his attempts; both knowing full well that Harry hated his hero image. But Mallick was used to difficult assignments, and he never shied away from a challenge.
- o -
It was something of a tradition in Gryffindor House that after the Sorting Feast, on their first night back, the older students would gather in the common room to get reacquainted and talk about what they had done during the summer. The word had somehow leaked out that Harry and Luna had spent part of their summer in the Orkneys, and now everyone wanted to know the details. But to everyone's surprise, the two teens said they were rather tired, and that they were going to bed early.
Ron cast Hermione a significant look as the two got up to leave, and she looked a little concerned herself. "Something is going on with them," Ron began. "How can they be tired, they slept most of the way?"
"They've been acting strangely ever since they woke up on the train," Neville added, concern evident in his voice.
"I know, it's almost like they're dreaming," Ginny said.
"We need to find out what's going on," Hermione declared with determination. She stood and led the other three up the stairs to the top floor of Gryffindor Tower. When she received no response knocking on Harry's door, she tried again on Luna's. Harry answered the door, a strange smile on his face.
"What's going on, Harry?" Hermione asked directly.
He motioned them into Luna's study and invited them all to sit down. Harry sat next to Luna on the sofa, holding her hand. For a moment there was no sound in the room save for the crackling of the fire in the hearth.
"We were just discussing our children," Harry said in a calm voice.
"Your children?!" Hermione gasped, and the others were equally shocked.
"That's right." Harry replied, amused by the looks of confusion on the faces of his friends. "Luna thinks that our daughter Lizzie would be perfect in a Chaser position, but I think she would be a natural at Seeker."
He could see that their level of confusion was growing, and decided that he would have mercy on them. "The dream we had on the train, well it was actually a vision that both Luna and I shared. We saw our children a dozen years from now."
"And we saw your children, too." Luna added with a smile.
"Our children!" Neville said with a gasp.
"Yes," Luna continued in a dreamy way. "You and Ginny will have the most adorable nine-year-old twin daughters, Holly and Heather, and a five-year-old son named Andrew. The little boy looks just like you, Neville."
On hearing this both Ginny and Neville turned bright red, and looked rather shocked and pleased at the same time; but Luna didn't seem to notice.
Ron took hold of Hermione's hand and asked the question for both of them. "And us?"
"You'll have a nine-year-old son named Ronnie and a five-year-old daughter named Molly." Luna explained.
"Ronnie will be so much like Fred and George that it's scary, and Molly will have a crush on our son Jamie." Harry added with a smirk.
In the hour that followed, Harry and Luna told the others every detail of their vision, their children, and the Quidditch game they had played. When they came to the part about the florescent pink hair, Ron didn't even seem to notice; he was too busy grinning at the thought of having a son and daughter of his own. Later, when the four teens returned to the common room, other students wondered about the strangely dreamy expressions they wore.
- o -
That night, after their friends had left, Harry and Luna got ready for bed; each lost in their own thoughts of what a perfect day it had been. The two had decided to share Luna's room; it had a lovely view of the lake and the green forest beyond, and the sunset was beautiful from the small balcony off the bedroom. Harry kept the key to his own rooms to pass on to Neville; after all, Neville and Ginny needed a place where they could have a little privacy. It had been a very long day; but as the two teens got into bed their thoughts were of the dream they had shared on the train, and their hopes that it would become a reality. Luna laid her head on Harry's chest, and he held her close in his arms, and they gently fell off to sleep.
The next thing Harry knew, he was down on his knees in a bed of thick, soft moss. Looking around, he realized that he was in the Rain Cave. Luna was lying on the moss in front of him, and he was holding her hand tenderly as she smiled up at him. But the two of them weren't alone; looking around the cave Harry saw Hermione, Ginny, Minerva McGonagall, and most surprising of all, Madam Pomfrey. Looking down at Luna, Harry realized what was going on: she was having their baby.
Professor McGonagall had asked Madam Pomfrey, as a special favor to her, to come down and help with the delivery. At first, Madam Pomfrey was appalled at the idea of a child being born in a damp cave out in the woods; but when Minerva explained that it was a Shaw family tradition the medi-witch reluctantly agreed to assist. However, once she entered the cave her whole attitude changed. The cave was warm and nurturing; and all who entered it felt the gentle, benevolent spirit that existed within. The witch said she wished that all babies could be born in such a nurturing environment.
Harry leaned down close to Luna's ear and whispered, "Not long now." She smiled back up at him and answered, "No, not long."
Others might not see it, but in Harry's eyes Luna had always been lovely; he could see her true beauty, and that was in the purity of her heart. But in the sparkling light of the cave, as she gave birth to their child, he realized how really beautiful she was, and how blessed he was to have her.
Then he heard the slightest cry of a baby, announcing the arrival of their infant daughter. The sparkling light and murmuring voices of the cave intensified for a moment; and Harry somehow knew that the spirits of the Wood Nymphs were sharing some of their magic with the little girl, and he was happy for her.
The baby was wrapped in a soft blanket, and was laid in her Mother's arms. She had wisps of fine blond hair and clear bluish-silver eyes; which Harry somehow knew would turn to pure-silver in a few months. He fell hopelessly in love with her from the moment he first saw her. "She's so beautiful." He managed to whisper to Luna, afraid of breaking the spell should he speak too loud. "You're both so beautiful."
Luna smiled lovingly up at Harry; he couldn't have said anything to please her more. They had talked about names, but the right one had always eluded them. Now Luna asked, "Well, Daddy, what shall we call her?"
Without hesitation Harry answered, "I want to call her Elizabeth, after the wonderful woman who brought you into the world, and sent you to me."
Luna gave him a beautiful smile. "Elizabeth. I like that."
Madam Pomfrey suggested that baby and mother be transported back to the house to rest; but Luna said no, she wanted to spend the night with her baby in the Rain Cave. Harry immediately said that he wanted to stay as well, and that the three of them would return in the morning. Their friends wished them a good night, and departed. The young wizard lay down next to his wife, their baby between them, and looked deep into her eyes. Neither of them needed to say a word, their smiles saying everything that was in their hearts. They closed their eyes and drifted off into a blissful sleep.
When Harry woke up he was back in his bed at Hogwarts, Luna lying next to him smiling contentedly. "Good morning, Daddy," she said, kissing him lightly on the lips.
He returned her smile. "Good morning Mum. That dream was even better than the one we had on the train," he said, taking her in his arms.
"Much better," she said dreamily, and snuggled into his chest.
They stayed in bed and talked about their baby until breakfast was almost over, and a most embarrassed Hermione Grainger knocked on their door to remind them that they had classes starting soon.
At lunch they sat with their friends and took turns telling them about their dream from the previous night. Frankly, Harry was a little embarrassed by the subject, and so he let Luna do most of the talking. The girls all thought it a lovely dream, but Ron was less than enthusiastic.
"Well, Mr. Ronald Weasley, when I have our son I expect you to be there," Hermione said indignantly.
"Hermione, you know I'm going to be there with you," he said tenderly, regretting his words. "I wouldn't miss a second of it."
Each night, during the days that followed, brought a new dream vision to the young couple. Soon the members of Gryffindor House began to notice that Harry and Luna were going to bed earlier each evening; and there were a number of smiles and winks as the two left the common room together. But their closest friends knew that the real reason for this was that the two teens were eager for yet another vision of their future.
Each morning, at breakfast, they would tell their friends of the previous night's dream, which frequently involved their friends, and their friend's children. Neville and Ginny learned that the old fortune teller of the previous year had been right; they would have six children, the first two of which would be twin daughters. Ron and Hermione learned that their son Ronnie was a real prankster, who could give both Fred and George a run for their money; and that he was the first of five children they would have. Harry and Luna learned that they were also destined to have five children; and that their youngest daughter, Lilly, would one day be the Head Mistress of Hogwarts.
Hermione was in a real quandary about the visions. She understood that after all the loneliness that Harry and Luna had experienced in their lives; they had a real need to see a happy future together. But she was afraid that with them going to bed earlier each evening they might be neglecting their school work. She gently reminded them that this was their final year, and that their N.E.W.T.s were coming up in the spring.
But then one morning, when they came down to breakfast, Harry told her about their latest dream. It was their Lizzie's sixteenth Christmas, and as usual they were spending it with the Weasley and Longbottom families at The Burrow. There, in front of their friends and families, Ron Weasley Jr. pledged Lizzie Potter; and she, blushing like a beet, returned the pledge.
Hermione was so overwhelmed by the thought that her son and Harry's daughter would pledge each other, that she made Harry retell the story over and over again; until she knew every detail. That was the day when Hermione Granger learned what was really important in life.
Harry knew that he should tell Professor Dumbledore about the dreams, because all of his visions were important; but they were of such a personal nature that he just wanted to keep them private a bit longer.
But Luna and Minerva had become good friends, and she had happily told the older woman of the wonderful visions that she had of their future. Minerva was thoroughly confused, but she went along with her young friend and told her how beautiful the visions were. At the same time she knew that the visions were simply not possible, and she feared that Voldemort might somehow be involved. The prophesies of Rowena Ravenclaw were legendary in the wizarding world, and were never wrong. The old woman felt compelled to talk to the Headmaster about the matter.
"What can they possibly mean," she asked him, after she had finished telling the story.
The Headmaster was quiet for a long time, deep in thought; finally he answered her in slow, measured tones. "I believe that they are being sent these visions."
"By Voldemort!?" Minerva gasped.
"No….No, Voldemort would have no reason to send them such happy visions. Besides, Harry has become quite skilled in the art of Occlumency. I doubt that Voldemort could break into his mind."
"By who then?"
"I don't know." He said, almost to himself. "But it must be a source of great power. I believe that these may possibly be visions of what they might have been, had fate did not decreed otherwise."
"But why?" Minerva McGonagall asked, grief evident in her voice.
"Perhaps simply to make them happy. Perhaps so that they might enjoy the life that they might have had. But I can see no harm in them, let them have their dreams."
The old woman knew the Headmaster was right, but she still left his office troubled.
- o -
One of the first things that Harry and Ron did, as co-captains of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, was schedule tryouts for the positions of Chaser and Beater. Flyers were posted and a great deal of attention was paid to them. But it would be unfair to suggest that the Gryffindor team had two captains, because in reality it had three. During the last game of the previous season, and the numerous scratch games played during the summer, Luna Lovegood had effectively become the leader of that critical group. She had a natural ability for Chaser tactics, far better than either Harry or Ron; and a remarkable gift for designing new and effective plays. So Harry was delighted to turn responsibility for the Chasers over to her.
Freda signed up for Chaser, of course; and those who had seen her fly thought that she definitely had the inside track. But the team captains were absolutely determined that all the applicants would be given a fair chance to show what they could do. Of the students to sign up for the Beater position, one was the new transfer student: Eric Van Meer. On the appointed day they all showed up at the Quidditch Pitch, which Harry had booked for afternoon tryouts.
The tryout for the Chaser position came first, as each applicant was given the Quaffle and told to make a run at the goal, where Ron Weasley was waiting. Luna was rather uncomfortable about being put in the position of selecting her cousin over the other applicants, so she asked Harry and Ron to please make the decision. As it turned out, no decision had to be made. Freda flew towards the goal, Quaffle in hand, and executed a series of dazzling maneuvers that even impressed Ron and Harry. Andrew McDonnell, the new Slytherin Prefect, was in the stands cheering her on. She failed to score a goal, but Ron had to really move fast to stop the Quaffle. The other applicants, seeing that the young girl was far better than they, graciously bowed out of the competition in her favor.
And then it was the tryout for the Beater, for which there were three applicants. Harry had set up a number of wooden targets around the pitch. The applicants were instructed to fly around the pitch and deflect the Blodgers that would be directed at them, hitting the targets if possible. The first two candidates managed to deflect all the Blodgers, but could only hit the targets twice. But the new boy, Eric Van Meer, deflected all ten Blodgers directed at him, and hit the targets dead center every time. Then three Blodgers were hit at him simultaneously from different directions. He succeeded in redirecting all three at the same target with pin-point accuracy. There was no question on the best candidate, and Eric was welcomed to the team.
- o -
A week after the start of school Professor McGonagall came over to the Gryffindor table to talk to Harry and his friends. They were all rather surprised to see their usually severe Transfigurations teacher displaying a rare smile.
"Good morning." She started, in a greeting that Harry might almost describe as chipper. "Are you enjoying your classes this year?"
"Yes, Professor we are." Harry responded, glancing at the others. "But we seem to have quite a bit of unscheduled time."
"Very observant of you, Mr. Potter." Professor McGonagall said with a slight smile. "Professor Dumbledore would like to speak to all of you about that very matter after you finish breakfast. If you will all come to the Headmaster's office at 8:00 he will make all the explanations necessary."
"But what about our first class?" Hermione asked with some concern.
"You are all excused from your first class this morning; I will see that you receive all of your assignments. Are there any more questions? No? Then I'll see all of you in the Headmaster's office at eight." And with that she briskly turned and walked up to the Teacher's table, where Professor Dumbledore was waiting for her. They exchanged a few quick words, and then sat down to their own breakfasts.
"Well what do you make of all that?" Ron asked.
"I guess we'll find out after breakfast," Luna replied, nibbling on a piece of toast.
An hour later all of them were seated in Professor Dumbledore's office. In addition to the Headmaster, Professor McGonagall was also present.
"I'm glad you could all join me this morning. Some things have occurred over the last few days that have crystallized ideas that I have had for some time now. I'm sure Harry doesn't mind missing Potions class this morning." Professor Dumbledore said with a smile.
Harry looked a bit sheepish and then answered, "No, not terribly."
"Have any of you given any thought to what you want to do when you leave Hogwarts?" Professor Dumbledore asked with no prologue.
There was silence for a moment, and then because no one else seemed willing to volunteer, Hermione took the initiative and spoke up. "I had thought I might want to be a teacher. I felt that I was really accomplishing a lot with our tutoring last term, and I really enjoyed the experience." To this statement Professor Dumbledore nodded in understanding.
"I want to try for a career in professional Quidditch." Ron said with determination. "Sean Merkin, the Keeper for the Chudley Cannons, is going to be retiring next year." And then, as he glanced slyly at Harry and Luna, he added, "People that I trust have suggested that I have a good chance of becoming their new Keeper." None of the teachers failed to notice the smiles that the six teens exchanged at that remark.
"I just want to have babies and stay at home and raise them," Ginny Weasley said with a bit of a blush. Harry and Neville confessed that they really didn't know what they wanted to do with their lives.
"Weren't you interested in becoming an Auror, Harry?" Professor McGonagall asked tentatively.
"Yes, I was considering it. But that was before I realized how I felt about Luna. Now I just want to settle down and have a family of my own. I want to be the kind of father mine would have been, if he had been given the chance. I don't think a career as an Auror would fit in with that."
Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore exchanged glances. "I think you would make a very good father, Harry." Minerva said somberly.
"I hope so." Harry answered, a little uncertain about the tone of her voice.
"Well, perhaps I can make some career suggestions that might interest you." Professor Dumbledore said, trying to lift the suddenly somber mood. "Last week Arthur Weasley, as the Minister of Magic, offered our own Professor Lupin the post of Ambassador to Non-Human Races. In our world that is a very important position, because the Ambassador coordinates our relations with the Goblins, Elves and a number of other important races. It's a wonderful opportunity for Professor Lupin, and after some consideration he agreed to accept it. But he has requested the Ministry to allow him to complete this term of teaching, and train his replacement.
Harry, have you ever given any thought to teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts? You proved last term that you have a natural gift for teaching."
Harry was caught completely by surprise. This was the very last thing he expected the Headmaster to say when he entered his office.
"I myself am planning to retire at the end of this term to pursue a number of projects of my own." The Headmaster continued. "Professor McGonagall will be taking over my position, and will become Headmistress of the school. She informs me, Miss Granger, that you are the finest student that she has ever taught, and possess a special gift for the art of Transfiguration. We would be honored if you would consider taking over as instructor once the term ends."
Hermione was now just as shocked as Harry was, and for once in her life was completely at a loss for words.
"Mr. Longbottom, Madam Sprout is getting along in years, and is also planning on retirement at the end of this term. She has recommended you as a perfect replacement for her, and I hope you will consider it."
And finally, Miss Lovegood. I understand about the special family trust that you have at home, but I thought perhaps you might consider a part time position teaching ancient Runes. Considering the importance of the subject, and great number of Rune dialects that must be covered, I feel that we are in need of a second teacher to help with the workload. It would be a part-time position that would allow you the time needed for your special responsibilities at home.
Harry was the first to speak, a note of sadness evident in his voice. "I'm sorry, Professor, but I will have to decline your offer. Luna and I want to raise a family. I need to find a career which will allow me to return home each day to help raise our children. I can't teach at Hogwarts full time and still be a good parent." Luna reached over and gave Harry's hand a gentle squeeze; she knew he wanted to teach, but she also knew that he wanted to be a good father even more.
"Thank you, Harry. Your words do you great credit. However you may not know that Hogwarts teachers are not required to stay at the school overnight. Only Head of Houses are required to live in the castle; most other teachers floo in before their morning class and floo home in the afternoon."
"But I thought…"
"But that's wonderful, Harry." Luna interrupted. "That means you can teach during the day and return home to me and our children in the afternoon."
"Generally, we select professors with more years of experience to be the head of the various houses. All three of you will be free to floo home when your classes are finished for the day." Professor Dumbledore said.
A smile broke out on Harry's face. "Then I accept, Professor. And thank you." Neville and Hermione then accepted as well.
"Excellent! I'll make arrangement for you to meet with your mentor teachers as soon as possible to discuss the details. Initially, you'll be spending your free periods assisting them with their classes, and they will gradually turn over more of the teaching responsibilities to you as you are ready to handle them. We want you to get as much teaching experience as possible. By the end of the term, if not sooner, we want each of you to be doing all of the teaching during your free periods."
As they left the office they all talked excitedly about their new and exciting futures; none of them seeing the looks of sadness on the faces of the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall.
After the teens had left, Professor McGonagall sagged down into her chair in tears. "Did you hear him, Albus? Harry wants to be a father. He wants the chance to give his children the love that he never had; and you and I know he'll never have the chance."
"We don't know that, Minerva. We don't know how much time they have. They may have time to bring children of their own into the world….I hope they do." The old man said sadly.
"And what becomes of their children? What kind of a world will they have?" Minerva McGonagall asked bitterly. "Will we give them to the Durseys to be raised like Harry was, to be beaten and kicked like a dog?"
"NO!" The old man answered fiercely. "I swear by everything I hold sacred that their children will never experience what their parents had to suffer. I'll see to it that they are raised with care and compassion, by people who will love them as their own. And when those children are old enough, I'll see to it that they know who their parents were, and the sacrifice that they made for them."
"But don't we owe them the truth, Albus?" She asked sadly.
"No, Minerva, we owe them their dreams. Sometimes a dream is all you can have. I want them to have their dream; I want it to be real for them."
- o -
In the days and weeks that followed, Harry and Luna shared many dreams. Dreams of their future and dreams of their family. Were they true visions, who could say? The two teens really didn't know; but they chose to believe, because they wanted to believe.
In their dreams, Harry and Luna saw their children born, grow into happy boys and girls, become teenagers, and finally to marry and have children of their own. They were present that happy Christmas Eve when 6-year old Ronnie Weasley kissed Lizzie Potter on the cheek, and she had turned beet red, but had smiled happily. They saw their son Jamie fly a broom for the first time at 9-years old; and would always remember the look of pure joy on his face. Luna's favorite dream was sitting in the stands watching 12-year old Lizzie catch her first Snitch for the win against a tough Ravenclaw team; and to see the Gryffindor Keeper, Ron Weasley Jr. fly across the pitch and kiss her in front of the whole crowd. For Harry, the best dream took place in the Rain Cave, when his new-born granddaughter was first placed in his arms, and she had the same silver eyes and blond hair as her grandmother.
Luna always shared her dreams with her friend Minerva. And the older woman would always encourage the young girl in her belief that they were true visions of a happy future; but secretly the old woman's heart was breaking. But Professor Dumbledore was right; she would let these two children steal what happiness they could from their dreams. And so the old woman smiled and laughed with the young girl, and then she went to her rooms and cried.