Disclaimer : This is a recording : I do not own Harry Potter...I do not own Harry Potter...
Chapter 22
Ministry of Foes
Enjoy!
The day after the wedding Harry rolled out of bed to find the house almost completely silent. Hermione and Ginny seemed to be thee only one's up. Ron was sleeping in and finally made an appearance around mid-day. Where as Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, hid in there room all day. Harry had to laugh as he remembered their action's at the reception yesterday, though Ginny would rather forget it ever happened.
As the afternoon continued Harry sat with his three best friends in the living room. Hermione and Ginny sat on one of the couches while they both poured themselves over the notes Ginny had taken from Dumbledore's book of spells. Harry glanced over Hermione's notes from ' Hogwarts Four and their Prized Possession's ' Hermione had scribbled everything that might be a potential Horcrux. Though Harry thought better on some thing's. Ravenclaw's wand was one. ' Don't they bury you with your wand? thought Harry.
' I think so, but try arguing that with Hermione ' said Ginny not even glancing up at him. Harry gave a snicker, knowing any argument with Hermione futile. Ron leaned his head up and looked up at him strangely. Harry quickly turned his laugh into a cough and shuffled his parchment around.
' Nice try Harry ' said Ginny sending him a smile
' What? ' asked Harry meeting her eye's.
' They are catching on quick, even by Hermione's standard's ' said Ginny. Harry sighed as he realized Hermione was once again starring at him like he was a school project that was not done yet, and she intended to finish it!
' We'll wait till they corner us about it ' said Harry shifting his eye's down at his parchment again.
' Knowing Hermione it'll be within a week, or right before Hogwarts ' said Ginny a small smile playing on her lip's. Harry couldn't help but smile to.
"What are you two smiling about?" asked Ron looking suspicious.
"Nothing Ron, go back to you nap" snapped Ginny.
"No, but I am a little hungry" said Ron looking hopefully at the girls. Harry's smile grew wider.
"Fine, I'll make something light" said Ginny getting up. Hermione followed a few minuets later, after she marked her spot and stacked the paper's properly together.
"Hope she make's that potato soup again, it was rather good" said Ron
' Ron's hoping for potato soup ' thought Harry who was hoping for some of that sweet bread .
' Okay, okay ' said Ginny though Harry knew she was smiling. Harry glanced at Hermione's notes again.
"No, no that's not right either!" said Harry heaving a deep sigh.
"What's that Harry?" asked Ron sitting up on the couch. Harry shuffled to the edge of his seat in the chair he'd been occupying for more than a few hour's. "Well, I don't think the remaining Horcrux is Rowena's spectacles, or her wand, or this mirror thingy - thing" said Harry sighing again. Ron laughed as he joined Harry in laughing at several of the odd thing's that Hermione looked at.
Harry and Ron did both think one thing was looking into. A golden quill pendant that Godric gave Rowena one Christmas. It was labeled to be in the hands of an avid collector. Harry and Ron both wondered who.
' Maybe Dumbledore would know ' sent Ginny hearing Harry's thought's.
' Maybe, I'll ask ' said Harry, digging into his pocket and pulled out Dumbledore's silver frame.
"Nice Harry. Dumbledore knew a lot. Good thinking mate!" said Ron clapping him on his back. Harry almost was about to say it had been Ginny's idea, but instead muttered a thanks. Then sent the compliment to Ginny.
' Yeah and if he'd known it had been me, he wouldn't have agreed ' said Ginny. Harry gave a laugh which he turned into a cough when another weird look came his way from Ron. Harry quickly opened the frame.
"Professor Dumbledore, sir?" said Harry
"Harry, oh and Mr. Weasley. How does this lovely day find you. You know lemon drops are particularly good on day's like this. I mean with the wind blowing and the smell of flower's waffling through the air. It is also a good day to ride a broomstick, I should think." Dumbledore stopped there as his blue eye's became glazed and he absentmindedly played with the end of his long silvery white beard. Harry and Ron exchanged a look.
"Err...Professor?" Harry began and was slightly startled when Dumbledore snapped his attention back to Harry and Ron.
"Oh pardon me, Harry. Even in a picture frame my mind wonder's. It is only natural though, but please what can I do for you today?" Dumbledore sat back in his chair and laced his fingers together and looked expectantly over his spectacles, at Harry and Ron, who exchanged another look before Harry started to speak again.
"Err ..yeah, Hermione got me this book about the Hogwarts four and their must prized possessions.-"
"An excellent choice, though if she wanted to do research on someone I would suggest Merlin" said Dumbledore "I'm sorry Harry, I did it again, I'm afraid"
"Err ..right, anyway" Harry was confused and perplexed but he needed to know about this pendant. "Hermione made a list of possibilities and Ron and I found a golden pendant that Godric gave Rowena. Could this be a hopeful of what it is we're looking for?" asked Harry
"Could be, I myself read that book and took much into consideration. Her wand, spectacle's, and books among several other thing's." Harry and Ron sent another look at each other.
"Well, I thought that those thing's might be a little too obvious, sir" said Harry
"Never under or over estimate anything or anyone Harry. Especially were Voldemort is concerned"
"Yes, sir" said Harry
"Now, I found most of her books, her spectacles and even checked her grave to make sure her wand was still with her" said Dumbledore.
"And was it?" asked Ron.
"Yes, I'm afraid, and more than a bit glad it was" said Dumbledore sighing, and Harry leaned forward.
"But what about the golden pendant?"
"I'm afraid I never found it. I tried it all. Even muggle collector's, and posted ads asking for it's where bout's, but still nothing showed up. I just assumed she must have been laid to rest in it, or Godric placed it somewhere" said Dumbledore.
"So it's still a possibility" concluded Harry
"Something to look into" said Ron
"Indeed" said Dumbledore "Oh I must go Minerva's about to hex Mundungus. If you need anything Harry don't hesitate to ask" said Dumbledore who bowed, smiled before falling gracefully out of the frame and to where Harry assumed his other frame at Hogwarts. Harry closed the trinket and placed it back into his pocket.
' Lunch is ready ' said Ginny
' Coming sweetheart ' said Harry and Ginny gave a small giggle. "Come on I think lunch is ready" said Harry getting up and walking towards the kitchen. Ron a step behind him.
"Good guess Harry" said Ron sitting down and finding lunch was indeed ready, fancy that! "Oh and it's potato soup" exclaimed Ron as Ginny and Harry exchanged an amused glances. Hermione looked thoughtfully at Ron seemingly disgusting his word's. Harry noticing this quickly changed the subject to the one with Dumbledore moment's before.
"So he reckons it's a possibility" said Ginny.
"Yeah, and I guess because Godric gave it to Rowena don't you see? It would cover both Ravenclaw and Gryffindor" said Harry
"Never would have thought that" said Ron helping himself to a third helping of soup and another piece of bread.
"What?" said Hermione
"Well, I mean we were thinking something of Ravenclaw's or Gryffindor's, not something that passed by both of them" explained Ron from around his spoon.
"Yeah, I hadn't really thought about that idea myself" admitted Harry
"Neither did I" said Ginny.
"Nor I, until I found it in the book" said Hermione.
"So from now on we keep an eye out from anything that might have been from both houses, or any of the four" said Harry and receiving three nods in agreement back.
"Okay, oh the spells" said Hermione jumping from her chair and running into the living room. Before Ron could swallow his bite of potato, and start complaining. She sat back down with excited eye's, her cheek's flushed in her adrenaline.
"What spells?" asked Harry taking his fourth piece of bread, which happened to be the last piece. Ron looked crest fallen, but Harry pretended not to notice as he started eating on it starring at Hermione, hearing Ginny snicker in his mind.
"Ginny and I talked a while before Harry came down mid morning and-" began Hermione but Ginny interrupted
"So we searched the finer point's of Dumbledore's book and came up with three spells. Kind of like unforgivable's" Ginny finished and Hermione had her eye's cut at her, looking like Ginny just denied her a treat.
"What kind of spells?" asked Harry before Hermione could respond.
"Well one we already know ' The Wrath of Merlin' and another one Ginny found a few week's back. Point your wand at there chest, over there heart and say Loveabundius Engorgio and all the love the caster feels at the time goes straight into the enemy your using it against. And it obviously takes love, and a really powerful wizard, or witch." said Hermione her face glowing again.
"Sounds good" said Ron finally pushing his bowel away from him, only after he had done finished his fourth helping.
"What's the last one?" asked Harry "You mentioned unforgivable's, there are only three unforgivable's"
"Oh well, the last one is really good, but it also need's a lot of love" said Hermione
"The incantation is Tatalum lighteum Imperium, and what it does is it literally makes the recipient's heart implode with so much love that after a fair amount of it, the hearts explodes, and it warns that the body may to, or it could just be the heart" said Ginny. Harry screwed his face up even though he and Ginny both mentally agreed that Voldemort deserved no less.
"Cool" said Ron "I can name a few Death Eater's that I would like to try that on!"
""Yes, if we can handle it. It does take a lot of love and magical ability" said Hermione attentively.
"Maybe, we could get some of the order out here again, and try those two out" suggested Harry.
"That would be cool" agreed Ginny.
The window in the kitchen opened up as a handsome brown owl of gray and yellow eye's flew in and landed in front of Harry. Noticing his name, Harry untied the letter and the owl flew off at once. Opening the letter Harry screwed his eye's up in concentration.
"Whose it from?" asked Hermione, as Ron looked curiously at him. Ginny who already was hearing the thought's coursing through his mind. Harry sat back.
"Hang on" Harry's eye's scanned the letter again reading it more carefully.
Harry Potter,
It's an honor to be writing you. I hope this owl find's you and yours in good health.
I am writing in concern to a letter from the current Headmistress of Hogwarts,
Minerva McGonagall, about Miss Ginevra Weasley being allowed a certain
privilege one year below the legal age. I know of your connection to Miss. Weasley,
as anyone has since last year I'm afraid.
I'm willing to grant a pardon to Miss. Weasley in exchange for one, just one public
speech and you appearing at the ministry of magic, twice.
I know this sounds like black mail Harry, but I assure you it is not! You can do
something I want you to do, and I can give you something that both of you want
me do! A fair exchange you see.
Take your time Harry. The owl that delivered this will return tomorrow, please
have your answer then. If you agree, Miss. Weasley will have her pardon by
tomorrow afternoon. As it is currently sitting on my desk, awaiting my
signature. Please take care Harry Potter.
Sincerely,
Rufus Scrimgeour
Minister of Magic
A bold black and red stamp proclaiming the letter's authenticity, sat stamped beside the minister's name. Harry felt a surge of hatred for the man, and scowled at the letter.
"What is Harry?" asked Hermione
"Better yet, who's it from?" asked Ron.
'Don't do it Harry! You know it's black mail, and besides we go back to school in a few week's now. It's not worth lying down your integrity for my being able to use magic' said Ginny
' That's the point Gin. Tomorrow you could be pardoned and be able to use magic at anytime, and not just in self defense. ' replied Harry. He knew it was black mail, but there was no other way. He needed to talk to Mr. Weasley, who had taken the day off, and was still hiding upstairs with Mrs. Weasley.
"Hello Harry?" said Ron. Hermione was on the edge of her seat looking suspiciously between Harry and Ginny. Harry handed her the letter, as Ron read over her shoulder. Then she handed it back over the table to Ginny who glanced at it before handing back to Harry, having already heard it through his mind.
"But that's black mail!" cried Hermione outraged. Harry nodded his head.
"What are you going to do mate?" asked Ron. Harry looked at Ron and Harry knew that they were indeed on the same page if he did it Ginny would be able to use magic tomorrow, If not.
"Don't do it Harry, I know what you're thinking! Just don't!" said Hermione. Harry starred amusedly at her. She had no idea what he was thinking. Only one women knew that and unfortunately for Harry was echoing Hermione's word's.
"Look, alright if I don't Scrimgeour will be all over Ginny. Watching, waiting for her to step out of line, by just a hair. The meal's, the silencing and locking charms...everything she does with magic" said Harry
"Hang on, why would Ginny be using silencing and locking charms?" asked Ron looking thoroughly confused, but as Hermione, Ginny, and Harry all starred back thunderstruck, he quickly cottoned on. "Oh never mind, don't want to know about that!" Ron mumbled his ear's going pink.
"Not only that" continued Harry, he was in no mood for Ron's today, Ginny agreed mentally. "But accidental magic too! He'll be all over her, anywhere we go, don't you see? If I don't he might even go as far as to make up something about Ginny and force me to do it anyway!"
"Oh Harry he wouldn't!" said Hermione her eye's going wide as her mouth gasped and she covered it with her hand.
"Wouldn't he?" asked Ron looking doubtful. "He already used Percy as a leverage to get to Harry"
"Listen I'll just make sure I don't do magic on purpose or accident" said Ginny stubbornly.
"That's a big chance to though isn't?" said Hermione showing her signs of defeat.
"Yep" said Harry. Knowing full well the effect of accidental magic, and Ron shook his head, knowing all to well too!
"No! I won't have Harry making sacrifices like this for me" said Ginny as she crossed her arm's over her chest.
"Gin-" Harry began
"No Harry" she snapped and Harry flinched, but then smiled as he felt her guilt at snapping at him.
"Have I kissed you this afternoon yet?" asked Harry invading her space and placing his finger's under her chin. and trailing kisses along her jaw line, before finally landing one on her lip's. Harry inwardly smiled as he felt Ginny start to melt, her arm's dropped into her lap loosely. Harry tore his lip's away to whisper "Or told you how beautiful you look when the sun hit's your red hair, making it look golden" Harry smiled her his best smile, and claimed her lip's again. Ginny finally melted totally under him and slid her arms around his neck and into the back of his hair. When Ginny deepened it, he indulged her for a few moment's before breaking away gently and smiling again. Her lip's red from his kiss, and her cheek's a rosy flare, her eye's though remained closed.
"You know I hate it when you do that, Mr. Potter" Ginny whispered. Harry brushed her lip's with his again, and smiled as Ginny opened her eye's halfway.
"Yeah I know, but it makes it easier to see thing's from my perspective doesn't?" asked Harry nonchalantly. Harry smiled again as she cut her eye's playfully at him, and he leaned back into his own chair, but taking Ginny's hand with him. Harry saw Hermione and Ron looking on at them amusedly, but Ron looked a little disgusted. Harry smiled.
"Well, that sort's that out" said Hermione, her own cheeks blushing slightly.
"Yeah, but I want to talk it over with Mr. Weasley first, and if he agrees then I'll do it, but if not well..." Harry left the sentence hanging as he met all three set's of eyes around the table.
Neither Mr. or Mrs. Weasley had showed a hide or hair all day and when Harry had climbed into bed his mind playing over Scrimgeour letter.
' Oh Harry, what are we going to dream tonight? ' came Ginny's voice
' You din't- ' began Harry
' I did, and I'm very intrigued. ' said Ginny laughing
' Yeah? ' said Harry his face growing hot.
' Oh yeah! '
' Goodnight wildfire'
' Goodnight my prince, lover you'
' Love you'
Harry slept through the night as no dreams came to either him or Ginny, but when Harry awoke the next morning, it was to feel slightly restless, and nervous. What was to say to Scrimgeour? I f he really did agree, what was he going to say to the whole wizardry world?
' Harry don't worry. Dad's down here in the kitchen, come eat some breakfast and talk to him. He'll know what's best '
' Thanks Gin ' said Harry getting up and dressed. He left the lump in the bed next to his known as Ron sleeping and walked downstairs. Upon entering the kitchen Harry met Mrs. Weasley's eye's who immediately blushed and dropped her head and went and to hide in front of the stove. Harry shared an amused look with Ginny, and Hermione before turning to were Mr. Weasley sat behind the daily prophet.
"Mr. Weasley?"
"Morning Harry" came Mr. Weasley's voice from behind the paper.
"Wonder if I might have a talk with you privately"
"What about?" asked Mr. Weasley sounding as if he was a little boy who was caught playing out in the rain wearing his new dress robes.
"Err ..something private" said Harry sharing a glance with Ginny and Hermione again, both girls shrugged their shoulder's making Harry grin.
"What?" Mr. Weasley's head suddenly appeared from behind the paper and although his ear's were indeed red, his face was starting to comprehend Harry's serious tone of voice. "Oh right, let's go in the living room shall we?" Harry nodded and sent a wink at Ginny who smiled back. Harry turned and followed Mr. Weasley into the living room. Mr. Weasley turned to him just before the fireplace and Harry silently handed him Scrimgeour's letter. Mr. Weasley's eye's scanned the letter's word's and his face began scowling.
"That's blackmail, that is!" exclaimed Mr. Weasley
"I know but if Ginny is to be able to get any practice in, she'll be needing the pardon" said Harry
"True, but it's just not fair is it?" said Mr. Weasley as Harry nodded his head agreeing whole heartedly "What are you going to do?" Harry heaved a deep sigh and ran a nervous hand through his already messy hair, ruffling it some more, from the lack of running a comb through it earlier.
"The way, and only way I see it" began Harry but stopped short as Mr. Weasley held up his hand as he waved his wand with the other. Sending silencing charms over the room. Then waved for him to continue. "Right well, the way I see it is, if I don't do this then he will literally dog Ginny's steps. If she even did accidental magic, he would more than likely bring her up on some charge and try to send her to Azkaban, or snap her wand or something"
"Right Scrimgeour like's to play dirty, actually thought he was a Death Eater for a few week's" said Mr. Weasley
"Are you sure he's not?" questioned Harry
"We, I mean the order, checked him out. He turned up as clean as can be. Messy bloke though. His house look's a fright, but no law against that" said Mr. Weasley. Harry allowed himself to smile.
"Okay, there's no other way, I'll have to write a letter to Scrimgeour then" said Harry as he was already prepared to do this last night.
"Are you sure Harry? Ginny I'm sure could control her temper for at least a few more week's" said Mr. Weasley.
"I know she could, but there's two more spells that we all should learn, all four of us. They could be detrimental to the success of our mission" said Harry " So, I see no other way"
"Neither do I, maybe you should talk with Dumbledore?"
"Yeah maybe?"
"I'll leave you to it then Harry, just remember the Weasley's have your back always" said Mr. Weasley laying a hand on his shoulder and Harry smiled and muttered his thinks. Mr. Weasley left and Harry sat down to talk to Dumbledore.
Minister Scrimgeour,
I will accept your offer with a few more condition's of my own. For one, this pardon
is to be until Ginevra Weasley turns seventeen at which she'll fall under normal
coming of age law's and tradition's. Second I will finalize the speech two day's
before I am to do it!
I will bring Ginevra Weasley with her father, Mr. Arthur Weasley, and a few close
friends tomorrow to collect this pardon. As this will also count as one of the two
visit's to the ministry of magic. I will await your response to tell me the specific
time.
Harry Potter
Harry sealed this with the Potter stamp, he had found in the Potter vault and waited for the handsome gray owl to come. When it arrived at precisely at ten o'clock. Harry tied it on it's leg and it flew out the window which closed behind it automatically.
' You didn't have to do that ' said Ginny coming up to stand beside him
' No, but I want you to learn what we all learn. Give you more practice, besides Dumbledore agrees with me ' said Harry wrapping his arm's around her from behind as they both stood still and silent for a time watching the gray owl disappear in the sky. Ginny gave a mental sigh and Harry tightened his hold on her and kissed her cheek. Knowing full well that what he was doing was right, even though the path was hard to take.
Harry sat with Ginny, Ron and Hermione in Ginny's room. Hermione sat sorting out books she wanted to take to Hogwarts with her, as she was fighting with herself over ever one! So far she had eight book's to take and none to leave.
"Hermione, you do realize that we will be coming home for Christmas break right?" asked Ron who was currently sitting on Hermione's bed.
"Of course Ronald, but that will still leave three months to get through" Hermione snapped defensively.
Harry was tired of the talking. Tired of being around everyone. Everyone except Ginny. Only she seemed to understand him, anymore. Sure Ron and Hermione were willing to stand up beside him and fight along the side of him, but Harry felt oddly disconnected from them. Every since the letter from Scrimgeour came, Harry felt tired.
' Just lie down and rest ' said Ginny smiling at him. She was currently going through her closet searching which clothes she intended to take to school.
' Only if you take that black skirt and blue top you were wearing the other day ' teased Harry. It was one of his favorite outfit's on her, and when she wore it! Merlin help him. She showed enough leg to taunt, enough curves to tease and the top showed her modesty enough, but yet seductive, plus it left her neck free for easier access. Ginny laughed out loud at his thought's and when Hermione looked at her Ginny said she was just remembering her Animagus form.
Harry knew Hermione definitely did not believe that. Ginny stuck her tongue out at him for this thought, but all she succeeded in doing was making Harry mind fill suddenly with memory's of her tongue, which made Ginny blush and turn to her closet to hide. Harry smiled as he snuggled against her pillow. They smelled like her, and he loved it.
' You like the way I smell? '
' Mmm- mm '
' Why? '
' I don't know, but I definitely like it ' said Harry. Ginny mentally laughed. Harry smiled as she laid the black skirt and blue top in the pile to pack.' Why are you and Hermione getting now for? '
' Because, us girls need a little more time than two day's to get packed. We have to decide what outfits to take, our rouge, personal things like jewelry and shoes to match the outfit's ' said Ginny
' And you fit it all in your trunk? ' Harry asked incredulously
' Harry surly by now you know magic has hardly any boundaries ' Ginny turned to look at him, he shrugged his shoulder smiled and snuggled the pillow again. ' Would you like it if I cleared the room and left you alone with my pillow ' Ginny teased
' Actually, I like if you and I were alone. So you would lie down with me, and I could hold you ' said Harry
' I cans till do that ' said Ginny and moved over to her bed were Harry was laying. Harry snuggled her tightly against him. His mind finally giving a mental sigh of relief.
"Okay Ron, would you be happy if I took only three?" asked Hermione her and Ron were having another row. Harry and Ginny had simply tuned them out. But as they fell silent, Ron and Hermione's conversation filled the room as well as there mind's.
"All I'm saying is that there's a library there that has all the book's you've got there, so why don't you leave them and get them from the library when you want them?" Harry thought Ron asked a good question and Ginny silently agreed.
"Because the library's not guaranteed to have them when I want them" said Hermione back on the defensive.
"Hermione they've got like twenty copies of everything except what's in the restricted section" said Ron his tone of udder disbelieve.
' Should I bother to tell Hermione that Dumbledore's secret personal library is open to us too! ' thought Harry
' No! Never get in the middle of a girlfriend, boyfriend argument, not even to kick them out of the room, Oh so tempting! ' said Ginny
' Why what would it matter if you stepped in? ' asked Harry as he nuzzled her neck.
' Because it never turns out good. You are either going to make her mad or make him mad at you, and neither one turns out good ' said Ginny tilting her head to give him more room.
' Oh ' said Harry his mind moving to other thing's, as he began to trail kisses along her neck and jaw line.
' Mmm I like that ' sighed Ginny so Harry repeated the trail of hot kisses until Mrs. Weasley's voice boomed up the stairs. Interrupting the argument between Ron and Hermione as well. Harry and Ginny were up and out of bed and half way downstairs before they even heard Ron and Hermione in the hallway upstairs.
"Here's a letter for you dear, but I'm afraid the owl wouldn't let me remove it" said Mrs. Weasley when Harry and Ginny had entered the kitchen.
"Thanks, Mrs. Weasley" said Harry as he recognized the gray owl, as it held Scrimgeour response. Untying it quickly, the owl immediately took flight again. Ron and Hermione entered the kitchen looking flushed and a little out of breath. Harry paid them no mind as he opened the letter.
Harry Potter,
It's good to see we finally make a way of communication. I am pleased to
hear you will help your fellow witch's and wizard's.
I have no objection's to your conditions and think that tomorrow would be
an excellent time for you to make your first appearance. I am giving the
Daily Prophet an interview, so why don't we say about ten-fifteen in the
morning then. Your friends are welcomed of course. Looking forward to
tomorrow.
Rufus Scrimgeour
Minister of Magic.
"Well?" asked Hermione
"It's on" said Harry simply
"What's on?" asked Mrs. Weasley
"Oh it's just a letter from Neville" lied Ginny smoothly, but Harry sensed her guilt automatically. ' Sorry Harry it's thee only way ' Harry nodded. He too hated to lie to Mrs. Weasley, but it was to insure the mission's success.
"What's for lunch?" asked Ron breaking the odd silence that had formed, but it worked as Mrs. Weasley lead them all to the table and had food on all their plates in a matter of minutes.
"Wonder what he'll have to say" asked Ron
"I don't know, nothing tomorrow thank Merlin. After then though who knows. He could want me to give a speech an anytime, or place really" said Harry feeling queasy at the prospective set before him. He tied the letter he had written to Mr. Weasley to Hedwig's leg as it had been a time since she had any real work. She pecked his finger lovingly and flew out Ron's bedroom window gracefully.
"Harry, look I know the real reason why you're doing this" said Ron
"I just know that if I don't, Scrimgeour will have it out for Ginny. He might even go as far as to do Priori Incantatem on her wand" said Harry
"Yeah, so I was right, you are strictly doing it for Ginny" said Ron looking at him with awe.
"Of course when have you known me to make a public appearance for show and give out ministry speeches Ron?" asked Harry as Ron shrugged "Listen, Ginny is everything to me. I've told you. If I have to give a stupid speech or two appearances, that what I have to do" said Harry and Ron shook his head Harry walked over to the Poppyworth and started petting it. "Ron, this will the last time we have this talk, I'm not going to keep reassuring you that I love your sister. She's a women with a strong mind, and point blank probably more powerfully inclined than you or I, so please just accept that if anything goes any further than it will be strictly on her wishes. Alright?"
Harry received a nod and a small grin from Ron and he turned his back his mind going over past conversation's with Scrimgeour. They sure didn't have a friendship, and Harry doubt they ever would. The recent capture of Death Eater's that they had caught in France and the one's that Scrimgeour's lot managed to snag and on England soil was a good sign. Right?
' Of course silly, it was an excellent sign. ' replied Ginny having been listening to his musing's.
' And we are on the same page technically ' thought Harry
' Too right you are '
' He's just going about it with a different strategy, right? '
' If I was to hazard a guess it would be yes ' said Ginny
Dumbledore never wanted him to give a public speech, or to become a public image, but he did have a damned good reason for this. He would fight three Voldemort's at once if it meant the safety of his Ginny. He felt Ginny's warm thought's and knew she was still listening. Damn it's hard having a girl inside your head thought Harry. Ginny laughed.
' Try being the object of those thought and images half the time ' said Ginny in an amused tone.
' Are you complaining? ' asked Harry
' Nope '
' Are you sure? Maybe I could start thinking of other girls, like Gabriella! ' teased Harry
"HARRY JAMES POTTER!"
Harry jumped as the voice came yelling up the stirs from the floor below them and not in his mind. Followed by a great thundering sound of stomps on the stairs. As Ginny slammed open the door looking lived. Her cheeks red and rosy, her eye's flashing.
"Gin I was just teasing-" Harry began, but Ginny's temper already flying, came at him.
"I don't share, and If I hear that scarlet vela ever enters your mind, so help me Merlin" This time Harry interrupted her by grabbing her waist and pulling her against him, hard.
' Not a chance, wildfire, there's no one but you ' said Harry mentally as he kissed her unmercifully His kiss designed to torment her for her lack of faith in him. Ginny wiggled into the kiss as he deepened it and she whimpered as he stroked her tongue with his before ending it. ' No one but you, in my mind ' Harry kissed her softly in between his mind's thought's ' In my soul ' he kissed her softly again though making sure it lasted a bit longer, but was ever as soft. ' Or in my heart ' He kissed her again just as gently but longer than the second kiss. ' And never anyone else's body around my own, but yours ' finished Harry as he kissed Ginny passionately and making her see that she was the only one he desired. Harry pulled away from her slowly as she blushed.
"A bit protective are we?" asked Harry smiling.
"Well, a bit. Especially when your in witch weekly every other issue"
"Ohm Gin you should really know that by now, I don-"
"I know. I'm sorry, Harry" said Ginny
"It's okay. I have a feeling I'll be the one being protective at Hogwarts, so we'll soon be on even terms again." said Harry giving her another light kiss. As her lips were slightly swollen from his roughness.
"What the bloody hell is this all about?" intervened Ron looking stunned.
"Oh ...er ...well" Harry stammered ' Any of your great ideas? '
' Not yet '
' You know what this mean's don't you? '
' Maybe not ' said Ginny. " Ron can't we get slightly over protective of each other too! You and Hermione do!"
"What? I do not get over protective of Hermione. The girls a free spirit, who just happens to be my girlfriend" said Ron
"Oh why did you get over worked when someone mentioned Victor Krum" asked Ginny
' Turning the tables now are? '
' If it work's ' said Ginny
' Yeah but mentioning Krum. I'm not sure if that's such a good idea Gin ' thought Harry
' Good point ' agreed Ginny " Just like she got over protective of you when you started going out with Lavender last year, and she started pulling those trick's on her"
"She did? What trick's?" asked Ron his eye's getting excited
' Nice recover ' complimented Harry
' Thanks ' Ginny winked at him and Harry gave a small smile. "Sorry can't tell, said to much as it is" said Ginny now turning her back on Ron. "If you want to know you'll just have to ask Hermione about it"
"Oh well.. maybe I will. .Sometime ..you know later in life" said Ron and Harry's smile grew.
' That was brilliant Gin '
' Yeah it was wasn't it. Stick with me and I'll teach you how to get out of almost any situation without a wand ' teased Ginny
' Stick with me and I'll teach you how to get out of one with a wand ' Harry teased back. Ginny flashed him a smile before flinging her arms around his neck and kissing him again, before disappearing back down to her room, where no doubt Hermione was waiting with a lot of questions.
"The girls mental" said Ron
"Yeah, but I love her" said Harry
"So I've noticed" Harry smiled and Ron met his grin
"I could say the same for you mate" said Harry as Ron's ear's turned pink.
"Think I heard Charlie come back, we should probably head downstairs." Harry grinned at the sudden topic change, but allowed it as he followed Ron down through the Burrow.
"Molly dear, I'll be taking Ron, Hermione, Ginny Harry, and Charlie to work with me tomorrow" said Mr. Weasley as they all started to sit at the table. Dinner having just being served.
"Why, what for?" asked Mrs. Weasley
"Well, it seems that Ginny's been given a pardon for her magic by the minister himself" said Mr. Weasley making this out to be a great honor and that it was coming from some unknown source.
"Why would he do that?" asked Mrs. Weasley narrowing her eye's in suspicion.
"Who knows Molly dear" said Mr. Weasley. Harry could tell that he was hoping to look and sound nonchalant.
"Arthur? What did you ...Harry?" Mrs. Weasley's eye's turned on him and Harry swallowed the hard lump in his throat.
"Yes?"
"What's going on?"
"Oh ..err...well" Harry shifted his gaze around the table, all didn't know what to say, as Hermione shrugged her shoulder.
' Ginny? '
' Still thinking '
' Great ' Harry met Mrs. Weasley's stern face and shrugged his own shoulder's " Well, the minister wanted me to make a speech and wondered if there was anything he could do for me in return. And well, I sort of asked for Ginny to be granted permission to be able to use magic legally outside Hogwarts. It was all I could think of " finished Harry lamely.
"Really you shouldn't have dear. Ginny gets along fine with out her magic already she doesn't need for you to do that Harry" said Mrs. Weasley. As everyone, but Harry, Ginny and Mr. Weasley gave a deep sigh of relief.
"It's already been done. We pick the pardon up tomorrow" said Harry quietly. The explosion that Harry, Ginny and Mr. Weasley had been waiting on erupted.
"WHAT! When did you do this?" snapped Mrs. Weasley
"It all happened very fast. I'm sorry Mrs. Weasley, but it really make's no difference. Ginny was going to be able to use magic next year anyhow." said Harry
"I'm well aware of that Harry. Arthur?"
"Yes, Molly darling" said Mr. Weasley nervously as Harry saw Hermione and Ron exchange looks. Each clearly hoping they were anywhere but here.
"Do you agree with this?" asked Mrs. Weasley in a forced calm tone.
"Normally no, I wouldn't, but in today's time Molly it might be good for her to be taught some of these powerful spells that Harry here knows"
"I do not argue Harry's ability, but Arthur" Mrs. Weasley began
"Molly, would you rather want two hormonal teenagers in a bedroom together, or out in the field learning powerful defense, that they have no hope in learning at Hogwarts?" said Mr. Weasley playing on the fear Harry knew Mrs. Weasley already had. Harry wished he hadn't. He felt his face blush and grow hot. Ron snickered a laugh.
"I think that he mean's you two too!" snapped Ginny, venom in her every word.
"What?" said Ron, not being able to conceal his red face showing his guilt.
"That's right" snapped Mrs. Weasley catching Ron's face and Hermione's blush and adverted eye's. "We mean all four of you! Now go to bed. Go! All of you! NOW!"
Harry didn't need telling twice. He quickly stood from the table took Ginny's offered hand as she to stood. As they all but ran out of the kitchen. Dinner lay forgotten.
"Bloody hell!" said Ron "I haven't seen Mum that mad since Fred and George set fire to their room."
"Yeah I know" said Ginny
"Was she mad at me, because of you are getting a pardon?" asked Harry
"I don't think so" said Hermione "I think it's something else. Maybe something to do with her mission for the order? Stress you know."
"Yeah, I bet that's it. You don't really suppose that she won't let us have dinner do you?" asked Ron clearly dreading the answer he already knew.
"I wouldn't count on any dinner tonight Ron" said Ginny as she slide her arm's around Harry's waist. Harry responded to her touch by draping his own arms over her shoulder's and gently massaged her back. Bringing her that much closer.
"Maybe we should just call it a night" said Hermione "I mean we all have to be up tomorrow morning for the ministry of magic."
"Yeah I suppose" said Ron deflating "We'll just let you two...err ...say goodnight" as he disapparated to his room and Hermione followed seconds later.
"I'm sorry Gin" whispered Harry
"For what?"
"Your mum's mad at all of us because of me and this stupid mission"
"No I don't think so Harry, and the mission is not stupid if it help's in the end" said Ginny
"Yeah, I guess, but your mum's still mad at me"
"No, you heard Hermione"
"And you agree?" asked Harry
"Absolutely, mum never gets that angry over simple thing's. I think Hermione's right, it's has to do with her mission" said Ginny hugging him tightly.
"Yeah maybe" said Harry rubbing his hands over her back in a circular motion. She stood on her tip toes to meet his height and planted a small sweet reassuring kiss on his lip's.
' You know with mum being upset, we should make the best out of tonight. '
' Why? '
' Because she probably won't let us be alone after tonight ' said Ginny grudgingly. Harry smiled and hugged her again before Ginny tilted her head back and he claimed her lip's. He forgot everything in her kiss. Her touch was captivating and alluring. Promises of sheer pleasure held in every finger feather like touch.
' I love you ' thought Harry as he deepened the kiss and she responded hungrily. Fate found them in a lover's embrace when a knock came at the door. Harry disentangled himself as Ginny did the same. Each straightening their own clothes before Ginny opened the door to reveal a flushed looking Hermione.
"Goodnight Gin" said Harry turning to apparate.
"Goodnight, oh Harry?" said Ginny
"Yeah" said Harry turning back to face her again
"Love you too!" Harry smiled and apparated up to Ron's room, and fell into bed fully clothed.
After a shower, Harry stepped into the kitchen to find Mr. and Mrs. Weasley alone. He knew Ginny was staying upstairs for now, and he had passed Hermione when he came out of he bathroom. Ron was naturally still asleep.
"Err...hi" said Harry nervously
"Morning Harry" said Mr. Weasley cheerfully. Harry gave a weak smile and went to sit down across from him, but Mrs. Weasley turned from the stove and threw herself at him hugging him tightly.
"Oh Harry forgive me, for being rubbish. That was so terrible of me. What you must think"
"It's okay Mrs. Weasley-"
"No! No, Harry no it's not. Not after what you already lived through with those muggle's" cried Mrs. Weasley
"Really it's alright" said Harry as he started to pat Mrs. Weasley on her back as she was still hugging him and crying on his shoulder. Harry sent a look at Mr. Weasley who he found smiling back. Harry gently pushed her away from him and sat down at the table. Mrs. Weasley set a plate filled with eggs, bacon, sausages, toast, and potato's in front of him. Harry gave her a grateful smile.
Ginny arrived a few moment's later after Harry had reassured her that all was good and safe.. She got the same greeting from Mrs. Weasley and was finally sitting down next to Harry with a plate almost as high as his. Harry greeted her with a soft small sweet kiss on her lip's. When Ron and Hermione made their appearance, each getting hugged then shoved into a chair with a plateful of food. Hermione looked flabbergasted at the pile high of food and Harry shared an amused smile with her before tucking back into his plate. Charlie arrived and he got served breakfast and after a while they were all back to stuffed status and strangely happy.
It was soon after that Harry found himself holding Ginny's hand tightly in his. As they both, along with Ron, Hermione, Mr. Weasley, Moony, Charlie, and Moody made there way into the mass of ministry employee's. Almost all turned to give Harry, and now Ginny curious glances some just plan out stared and a soft mummer of whispers echoed around them as they walked. Mr. Weasley got them through the wand check shortly without to much trouble, and they all supported silver badges. A crowd by then had formed at the second security check and Harry and Ginny both found this rather irritating.
"Forget this" growled Moody, limping forward "We are escorting Harry Potter to see our dear beloved minister, and if everyone don't step aside. I'm going to curse you all!" Harry was mildly surprised, as they had already discussed this possibility, but Harry glancing around noted that clearly most had heard of the famous Alastor 'Mad-eye' Moody.
After Mr. Weasley, Ron, and Hermione had already gone through, it was Ginny's turn. Harry let go of her hand reluctantly. The young wizard stepped up and started waving the secrecy sensor over her and when Harry saw he was lingering in certain spot's a little to long. Harry stepped up beside her and placed a protective, and possessive arm around her waist as he glared at the young wizard. The griffin inside roaring, and his mind went through the curses that he knew, trying to find the worst, and best one to use on him.
"Err ..sorry ...Miss. Weasley, Mr. Potter" said the young wizard through gritted teeth. Harry simply nodded his head slightly just once, not trusting himself to speak. His desire to curse him growing stronger, maybe he could have Moody do it for him, but his thought's were interrupted and calmed as a set of warm lip's met his cheek. Some witches awed as Harry turned and smiled sheepishly down at Ginny.
Harry waited while the young wizard checked him and quickly pushed through the rest of his guard. Harry smiled slightly as the young wizard kept sending him jealous stares. Harry kept his arm on Ginny, who hearing his thought's must have found this slightly amusing as she kept smiling at him. Before Harry knew it they were standing outside big dark brown wooden door's with brass handles. Harry took a calming breath.
' Are you sure you want to do this Harry, I don't need this ' asked Ginny
' Yeah ' said Harry as he nodded at Mr. Weasley to say he was ready, and Mr. Weasley, and Charlie entered then Hermione, Ron, Ginny and Harry, followed by Moody and Moony. Harry saw a big secretary's office with two smaller square desk in front of two more double door's.
A wizard whom Harry assumed was a guard, an Aura placed here, asked there name's and when Mr. Weasley said Harry Potter the guard checked around and finally laid eye's on him did the eye flick up to his scar and crossed there name off a scrolled parchment that was floating in the air behind him, and stepping aside allowing them entry. There were two witches sitting behind the desk's and Harry noticed that when Mr. Weasley had said Harry Potter both witches looked up expectantly.
"Welcome Mr. Potter, Miss. Weasley. The minister is expecting you" Harry looked at the witch that spoke. She was slightly over weight with sandy-straw colored hair, and hazel eyes. She wore bright yellow robes. Her face was sallow and hauntingly so. Her eye's half-closed as she noticed him looking at her and smiled. Harry felt a shiver over his body, like the feeling of death, and Ginny squeezed his hand reassuringly.
"You may enter through these door's" said the other witch and Harry gladly glanced at her instead. She was elderly and held a kind smile. Her hair long was black on it's end's with gray at it's root's. Her face was also kind and held lines from several years of laughing. Harry smiled back and muttered a thanks. Moony and Charlie took the lead and opened the door's hands on their wands as Mr. Weasley announced himself.
"Minister, good to see you again" Mr. Weasley held out his hand
"Yes, Arthur long time. How are thing's? I hear great thing's from your department. I might be sending a pay raise your way sometime soon." said Scrimgeour shaking his hand.
"Oh thanks, that's terrific news's. Thing's are fine, thanks. This is Remus Lupin, my son Charlie, my other son Ron, his girlfriend Hermione, my only daughter Ginny and of course you remember Harry, and Alastor Moody of course." Scrimgeour shook hands with all as they were mentioned and introduced. Moody looked as if he would have like to loose another chunk of nose than rather shake his hand, and did it grudgingly so.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley" said Scrimgeour looking at them and their linked hands as a small smile played on his lips and Harry briefly wondered what it meant. "Refreshments anyone?" asked Scrimgeour politely as the sallow looking witch entered behind them, and Ginny sent her a death glare as she was appraising Harry openly. Harry turned his back on her and declined the offer along with everyone else. "Okay then, something less intense, a seat perhaps?" said Scrimgeour waving his hand at eight chairs in front and around his desk. "The Daily Prophet reporter should be here in about fifteen minuets, Harry just in time to get things settled here and for them to glance you leaving this office. So best not delay any longer" said Scrimgeour taking his seat behind the massive desk.
Harry and the rest situated themselves in the seat's offered, Charlie and Moony sat behind him and Ginny while Moody chose to stand.
"Excellent, the pardon for Miss. Ginevra Molly Weasley is right here, A guardian signature first thing" said Scrimgeour pushing the important looking parchment at Mr. Weasley who signed his signature "Miss Weasley's next" said Scrimgeour and once Mr. Weasley had finished he pushed it at Ginny who hastily signed her full name. "Right then mine" Scrimgeour said leaning up in his seat and taking the parchment back and adding his signature. "Right and a copy I should think" Scrimgeour reached into his black robes and withdrew his wand Harry tensed immediately and had his hand on his own wand before Scrimgeour could fully withdrew his. The minister didn't seem to notice this as he waved his wand over the pardon, stowed his wand away. Harry relaxed a little bit, as Scrimgeour started pulling a second piece of parchment off the original. Harry was slightly impressed, but he refused to allow it to show. He handed Ginny the copy with a hearty "There you go congratulations, Miss Weasley"
"Thank you minister" said Ginny accepting the pardon and placing it in her travel cloak. Her tone was one of indifference. Suddenly Harry and Ginny were both on there feet pointing there wands at the double door's behind them. Scrimgeour looked shocked. There union rings a pale blue.
"Harry what-" but Charlie was cut off as Moody withdrew his own wand and was beside Ginny in a matter of seconds before the door opened revealing Percy.
"Ah Percy, What can I do for you?" asked Scrimgeour sounding slightly irritated and annoyed.
"Harry Potter" said Percy. Harry, and Ginny lowered there wands as one, but kept them at there sides. Moody looked bewildered, as he lowered his own wand.
"Hello Percy" said Harry trying to be cordial to his girlfriends brother. It was hard not to voice the current thoughts rolling through him, though he had to smirk as Ginny agreed with him.
"Harry Potter" said Percy again stepping fully into the office and walked halfway in.
"Percy?" but Harry was on sudden alert when Percy raised his wand that had been in his left hand hidden in his cloak. Harry's mind was immediate on the upbringing and he responded, that by the time Percy had it raised properly Ginny and Harry had both shouted Expelliarmus in unison. Percy being thrown back by the curse.
Harry felt a lightening volt tingle in his arm, when he realized that he was still holding Ginny's hand. There union rings now a bright glowing white. Everyone sat shocked. Starring between Harry, and Ginny to Percy who was now lying completely still. Moony moved first to Percy, but Harry stopped him.
"Don't touch him, he's been bewitched" said Harry
"How?" asked Scrimgeour shock evident in his tone. His face one of disbelieving.
"Imperious, by the look's of it, good job Potter Weasley" Moody said as he nodded at Harry and Ginny.
"He need's a quiet room, I should think" said Moony as Harry flicked his wand and ropes tied Percy up, another flick and Percy's wand flew toward Harry's outstretched hand. He laid this on the minister's desk for safe keeping. Mr. Weasley, Charlie, and Ron's face held the same mixed emotional faces. While Hermione looked shocked and her mouth was covered by her hand. Her eyes wide.
"Goodness me! What happened here?" came a voice from behind the unconscious form of Percy. A flash of light made Harry looked up and saw Rita Skeeter with her photographer. Rita wore violet purple robes and her long nails were hot pink, and she made a swishing noise when she walked.
"Harry, good to see you again. Oh you must be the new love interest Ginny Weasley! Tell me, how do you truly feel about Harry? How does he kiss? Is he truly a miracle to the wizarding community or just to the witches? Have you two been intimate yet?"
"I believe that would be none of your business" yelled Charlie coming up to stand by Harry who was still holding Ginny's hand tightly.
"Oh the protective brother. Tell me, what do you think of your only sister, from what I hear, dating the most notorious Harry Potter?" Charlie's face claimed up and looked at Harry giving him a reassuring look of support.
"I do believe that your interview is with the minister of magic and not with me or my own!" sneered Harry. He knew that she already forming way's in her mind that was sure to give him a headache.
"Oh don't worry Harry" said Rita "Can't print to much about you thanks to Miss-know-it-all over there" she said pointing to Hermione, who's face changed to pride as she gave Rita a gloating smile. Rita tuted and clicked her tongue before turning to the minister. "Minister shall we proceed?"
"Yes Rita, of course, but first" said Scrimgeour waving his wand again sending green sparks out into the secretary's office and the Aura appeared in matter of seconds. "Please take Percy Weasley to a quiet room at St. Mungo's, thank you." Scrimgeour turned to Harry then as the bloke moved Percy out of the room. Mr. Weasley still sitting looking torn. "Thank you Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley for stopping by. It truly gives the ministry great pride to know we see eye to eye, so until our next meeting. Do take care of yourselves" said Scrimgeour in a fake smooth voice.
Harry's skin wanted to crawl in the sickness of it all. He wished he hadn't ate so much breakfast as he now felt nauseated as he noticed Rita's Quick Quotes Quill out and zooming back and fourth on her parchment. Harry nodded curtly and gave a small forced smile that most certainly did not meet his eye's.
"Minister" said Harry as Scrimgeour held out his hand and Harry shook it.
"Good luck Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley"
"Thanks again minister" said Ginny in a false sweet voice. Mr. Weasley lead the way out of the office and made it back into the Atrium. Harry said His thanks and goodbye's to Moody who nodded and stepped back. Moony smiled at him.
"Thanks Moony" said Harry
"Back to that are we?" asked Moony smiling. Harry shrugged.
"Hey, you still need to answer my question" teased Harry
"I don't know what you are on about Harry" said Moony adverting his eye to lock onto something down the way from where they stood. Harry laughed.
"Yeah sure, but I'll be expecting one fairly soon"
"Yes, you and a few other's" muttered Moony. Harry grinned at him again.
"Thanks mate" said Harry as Moony smiled and the two hugged each other.
"Anytime Harry, Ginny, Ron, Hermione, Charlie. I shall see you all soon I expect. Molly's done asked if Tonks and I will pick up your school supplies. She doesn't want you all out of the house any more than necessary. So we'll see you when you get your book list, okay?" said Moony and the four teenagers gave him nods and hugs goodbye's. Ginny kissed his cheek and Harry and Moony shared a knowing glance.
"Come on get going already" growled Moody. They all said goodbye to Mr. Weasley who still had to go to work. Harry took Ginny's hand in the crook of his arm and waited for Ron, Hermione and Charlie to disappear, and then with a turn Harry and Ginny arrived at Weasley Wizard Wheezes.
"Hello Fred, George, well, bye then" said Ron stepping into the fireplace with Hermione as she to gave hurried hello's and goodbye's. Ron shouted the Burrow and they were gone.
"So good to know-"
"That we're kept-"
"In such-"
"High regard's" said Fred and George sighing and laying their head's in their hands over the counter simultaneously. Harry laughed as Charlie pushed them toward the fireplace.
"Come on, no time" said Charlie
"How's it working Harry?" asked Fred
"Excellent thanks again" said Harry as Charlie threw floo powder in the orange flames which turned green and pushed Ginny and him into them.
"Anytime Harry, just ask" said George as shopper's started crowding around the counter to pay for their merchandise. Harry grinned as he welcomed Ginny's arm's around his waist and he draped his arm's over her shoulder's and down her back holding her close and tight to him, as he shouted the Burrow.
AN:
Oh my famous AN! Lol, okay I got this out a bit sooner than I think even you all expected. I know it went fast for me, One day I was starting then I was proof reading, and now posting, but it's cool as long as everyone like's it, Do you? I love reading review's so don't be shy, I also accept unsigned review's so if you feel more comfortable with doing that, it's cool. I still love reading them!
Thanks and until next chapter take care!
HogwartsAngel101