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Chapter 89

Beginnings

31 August 2000

"The session is closed," Kingsley said. "They've already started the deliberation process."

"I know," Hermione said. "If you tell me you don't think this would matter, I won't bother. But Kingsley, I think it's an alternative they might agree to." Kingsley sighed and sat back in his chair.

"Are you abandoning the St. Mungo's plan, then?"

"No," Hermione said. "But if they can't accept that right now or if it's just Delia they don't want to keep there, then this is the next best thing. I still want the committee to go ahead with the ward at St. Mungo's. My hope is that as the mind healing program is implemented and gains more recognition, the Wizengamot might still approve the program."

"I told you before that the Wizengamot would never approve of a Muggle going to Azkaban," Kingsley reminded her. "I believe I told you it was impossible."

"That was before the same Muggle worked at St. Mungo's and spoke in front of the Wizengamot. Besides, he's a Squib, remember?" Hermione smirked at him and Kingsley shook his head but couldn't hide his smile. "What about logistics?"

"What about them?" Kingsley asked.

"I jokingly asked Aaron if he got seasick, but is the boat the only way he can get in?"

"There is an Apparition point at the dock," Kingsley said. "But only if your magical signature is keyed into the wards."

"So, no side-along," Hermione said.

"No," Kingsley replied. "And he doesn't have a magical signature, Hermione." Hermione nodded. After explaining it to Aaron he had agreed to go by boat, but it was a long trip and not at all enjoyable as she'd heard from Harry and Ron.

"There's a possibility that we could open the Floo in the warden's office for him." Hermione looked up at that.

"The Floo is connected?"

"Yes, but it's warded at all times. It's only an emergency escape if it's ever needed."

"What are the odds of that getting approved?"

"I have no idea," Kingsley said. He tapped his fingers on his desk for a few moments. "We might be able to add an addendum onto the original proposal, but only if the Chief Warlock agrees to call an emergency session to hear it." Hermione bit her lip.

"And the chances?"

"Fifty-fifty," Kingsley replied. They weren't great odds, but it was better than nothing. "Are you ready to present?"

"As soon as you need me," she said. There wasn't much to what she was going to say.

"Let me contact Wallace," Kingsley said. "I'll send you a memo as soon as I know anything."

"Thank you, Kingsley," Hermione said. He nodded and she left his office, hurrying to her office to talk to Margaret.

"This is highly irregular, Wallace." The same wizard who had objected to Delia's treatment spoke to the Chief Warlock.

"Irregular, yes, but not unprecedented."

"Just because things did not go Miss Granger's way this morning doesn't mean she can add onto her proposal whenever she likes," another witch said.

"As far as I am aware, you haven't voted yet," Kingsley said. "How do we know which way things are going to go?" The witch scowled at the Minister. Hermione forced herself not to smile.

"All right, let us get started," the Chief Warlock said and the Wizengamot settled into their seats. "Miss Granger."

"Thank you, sir. I apologize for the last-minute addition, but I would like to propose an alternative to my pilot program. I would hope that the Wizengamot would still debate both and approve my original proposal, but I thought this might be a compromise that everyone would feel more comfortable with." Hermione proceeded to explain her idea to have Aaron continue to see Delia once she was sent back to Azkaban.

"You want a Muggle to go to Azkaban?" someone snorted. "Preposterous."

"Dr. Chadwick is a Squib," Hermione said. "He has a daughter that's a witch."

"Could he even get onto the island?" a witch asked. "I thought your magical signature had to be keyed into the wards."

"For Apparition," Hermione said. "He can go by boat, however."

"We are also looking into other alternatives that will not compromise the security of the prison," Kingsley said. "I have a meeting with the warden later today." Hermione was surprised to hear that, but grateful that Kingsley was working quickly.

There were a few more questions and by looking around the room, Hermione could tell there were those that had already made up their minds not to approve either proposal. She wasn't surprised by who they were. They hadn't voted for her House-elf or Werewolf proposals either. Still, it was a small faction, so she wasn't completely discouraged.

"Thank you, Miss Granger," the Chief Warlock said after the last question had been asked. "We will let you know when we have reached a decision."

"Thank you, sir. I appreciate all of you taking time out of your schedule to hear this addition." She smiled warmly at the group and was encouraged by the number of people that returned her smile. Gathering up her notes, Hermione left the chamber. Now all she could do was wait.

Hermione landed in the front garden and went up the walk to the front door. She was awfully glad the day was over; it had been a bit of a whirlwind. She opened the door of the cottage and stepped inside, the smell of dinner wafting through the room. Her stomach growled and she realized she had never eaten the salad she had taken with her from the café.

"My-nee," Teddy called as he ran into the room.

"Hey, you," she said, picking him up and kissing his cheek. Teddy grinned and her, his hair turning to brown curls. Hermione grinned at him.

"Hello, love," Remus said as he walked into the room from the kitchen. She smiled and set Teddy down when he squirmed. Walking towards Remus, she allowed herself to be pulled into his arms. She sighed in contentment against his chest.

"Long day?" he asked, running a hand through her curls.

"You could say that," she said. She looked up at him and he kissed her softly. "It smells wonderful in here."

"Thank Andromeda," he said. "I'm just finishing cooking it." He led her into the kitchen and handed her a glass of wine. She smiled gratefully and took a sip. "Tell me about the proposal."

"Which one?" she asked with a smirk and he quirked a brow. Hermione explained all that had happened over the course of the day. Teddy ran in and out of the kitchen, chasing the dragons Remus had charmed for him with his Quidditch players and once, a car. Hermione watched him fondly as she continued her conversation with Remus.

"I just hope they approve it," she finished.

"Which one?" he asked.

"Well, of course I'd like the initial proposal, but I'll take either one at this point. Although, there was a lot of grumbling about Aaron going to Azkaban. And I will feel badly if he has to go in by boat every time. Harry and Ron said it's not the most pleasant experience."

"No, I don't imagine it is," Remus said. "It's possible that your second proposal may help the first pass."

"How so?" Hermione asked.

"Those that may have thought the idea had merit but were on the fence about keeping Delia at St. Mungo's, may decide that it's a better alternative than sending Aaron to Azkaban."

"Hm, I didn't think about that," she said. "I'd guess that would be a small number though."

"You might be surprised," Remus said. "Most everyone at least knows of someone who was affected by the war."

"I hope you're right," she said. "Are you ready for tomorrow?"

"As much as I can be," he replied. "I spoke to Minerva this morning." He paused looking at Hermione.

"What is it?"

"She would like me to stay at the school tomorrow night."

"Oh, well, that makes sense. It is the first night and there are always homesick first years. Second and third years too, sometimes."

"Andromeda offered to keep Teddy if you like."

"Because of what happened at the moon?" Hermione asked. Remus nodded. "He's been much better since then. And I'm sure Andromeda is trying to finish up her packing." She was moving to Hogsmeade that weekend. "Besides, tomorrow is Friday. I don't have to be up for work the next day."

"Are you sure?" Remus asked, tucking a curl behind her ear.

"Of course, I am," she said. "We'll be fine. Maybe we'll have Harry and Ginny over for dinner. That should distract him from you not being here." He leaned down and kissed her.

"Andromeda is going to watch him here tomorrow, since most everything is packed up at her house." Hermione nodded. She leaned into him, putting a hand on the back of his neck and curling her fingers into the hair at the nape. He grasped her hip and pulled her to him, kissing her again, this time with a bit more force. Teddy running into the kitchen a few moments later separated them. Hermione rested her forehead against Remus' chest for a second before she stepped back. The look in his eyes was a promise for later. She squeezed his hand and turned her attention to Teddy.

1 September 2000

Remus sat at the staff table watching as the students filed into the Great Hall. He had been noticed first by a Hufflepuff that he'd tutored last year and the boy immediately turned to his friends and pointed Remus out. Word spread quickly throughout the Hall and it wasn't long before almost every student that entered was looking at him curiously. Neville, a few seats down from Remus, received the same treatment.

Remus ignored the looks and began scanning the crowd for Paul, Claire, David, and Annie. The last two came in together and Annie waved to him. Remus returned the wave as he looked over their heads for Claire. She walked in a few moments later talking with Paul. They both seemed reluctant to part and when Paul finally left to sit at the Ravenclaw table, he made sure to position himself so he could still look at Claire. Remus hid a smile. He would have to keep an eye on that budding romance.

Minerva walked into the Hall and took her seat as Filius opened the door from the antechamber and led in the new first years. The rest of the students quieted as the younger students came in looking nervous. Remus immediately saw Will, taller and broader than all the other boys, not surprising given he was a year older. He still looked just as nervous, however, glancing towards his brother for reassurance. Paul gave him an encouraging smile and then Will looked up at the staff table and saw Remus. Remus could see his shoulders relax as he winked at the boy.

The sorting began and Remus clapped politely as each student was sent to their respective houses. Will was the fourth child sorted. The hat hesitated for a few minutes, but in the end, Hermione's suspicions were confirmed and Will was sent to Gryffindor. Remus saw the disappointed look on Paul's face, but he brightened a bit when he saw David motion for Will to sit next to him. Will would be fine.

When the sorting was finished, Minerva made her announcements and then introduced Remus and Neville as the new teachers. The students clapped for both of them and Remus was glad to see the smiles and grins for both he and Neville. There weren't any students still in school that Remus had had when he first taught here, but he did know a fair few from tutoring. And many of them seemed to be in awe that Neville was going to be assisting Pomona. Of course, the story of Neville killing Nagini had been told and retold for the last two years. He wondered how many questions Neville would get about that very topic during the first week of classes.

Finally, the feast began. The food was wonderful, of course, but Remus found his thoughts drifting to Teddy and Hermione. She had indeed invited Harry and Ginny to dinner, Andromeda as well, although his mother-in-law had declined. She did have a bit of packing to finish up and Remus suspected that Kingsley was coming to help her with it.

Remus had been to the house this week to assist Andromeda when he could. It had been odd walking into the room that had been his and seeing it empty. It was silly, as all of his personal possessions had gone to his cottage when he and Hermione moved, but seeing the room completely devoid of anything had been more difficult that he'd imagined. Memories had flooded him the moment he stepped across the threshold and he had stood there for quite some time lost in them. He was glad that he was going to have work to distract him. As happy as he was that they were all getting a new start, not going back to the house he had spent almost the last three years in was going to be strange.

Minerva made a few more announcements after they had finished eating and then dismissed the students to their houses. Remus watched as the Prefects gathered up the first years to show them how to get to the common rooms. The teachers began to rise in order to retire to their own quarters. Remus glanced down the table and saw that although Neville had stood, he was still behind his chair watching the students leave.

"Feel a bit strange?" Remus asked as he walked up next to the younger man.

"Just a bit," Neville said with a wry smile. Remus clapped him on the shoulder. "Probably only going to get stranger."

"How so?" Remus asked.

"Minerva's asked me to be co-head of Gryffindor with Professor Blanchard," Neville said. "Wants me to take over the position completely in a year or two." Colette Blanchard was the current Transfiguration professor. She wasn't a Gryffindor, however, having attended Beauxbatons. Angus Higgins had been the Head the last two years, but with his retirement, Minerva had to appoint someone else. Professor Blanchard had agreed with the understanding that it was only temporary and Minerva would replace her as soon as possible.

"Congratulations, Neville," Remus said. Though young, Remus thought Neville would make an excellent Head of House.

"Oh, but," Neville's cheeks turned pink. "She should have asked you. I mean you've got more experience than I do." But Remus shook his head.

"I'm not living in the castle, remember? There's no way I could do it unless I was."

"Right," Neville said. Remus gave him a reassuring smile and Neville seemed to relax. "Well, I suppose I'd better go. Colette wants us to introduce ourselves to the Gryffindors tonight." Remus nodded and the two began to walk from the Hall. "It's going to be odd, though. I was in school with some of the older students."

"That could be something that works in your favor," Remus said. "They might be more inclined to confide in you, thinking you would understand better than an older adult would."

"I suppose," Neville said.

"Just make sure they understand that you're still a teacher," Remus said. "You don't want them thinking they can take advantage of your age." Neville nodded.

"If you need anything, let me know," Remus said when they reached the Entrance Hall. "I'll be staying tonight."

"Thanks, Remus." Remus watched him go and then made his way to his own quarters near his office.

Andromeda stood in the doorway of Teddy's empty room, the same room that had been Nymphadora's when she was small. When she had come back from Hogwarts after her first year, she had insisted on moving into the guest room which she said was bigger and more grown-up. Ted had indulged her, of course, even though the rooms were almost exactly the same size. They had dutifully swapped the furniture and let Dora decorate her new bedroom as she liked. Her old room had been the guest room until she fell pregnant with Teddy.

"All right?" Kingsley asked, slipping his arms around Andromeda from behind. She leaned back against his chest and he kissed her temple.

"Just remembering," she said.

"Good memories, I hope." Andromeda smiled softly.

"Yes," she said. Kingsley tightened his arms around her. They stood in silence for a few minutes before she turned in his arms. "Thank you for being here tonight." He smiled down at her, kissing her softly.

"I finished in the kitchen," he said. "What do you have left?"

"Just my bedroom," she replied. She had packed up most things in the past week. It had been difficult going through Ted's, but Remus had helped. She had decided to replace the bedroom furniture. Her current set she was donating to a second-hand store. All she had left to pack were her clothes and some photographs and mementos.

"Are you sure you want to stay here tonight? We can still go back to my flat." Kingsley ran a hand up and down her back. She smiled at him and shook her head.

"I need to say one last good-bye," she said. He nodded and hugged her to him.

"Do you want me to stay?" he asked in her ear. "I can easily enlarge the couch and sleep there." She pulled back slightly and put a hand to his cheek. He grasped it in his own and kissed her palm. She didn't know what she had done to deserve this man.

"That is a wonderful offer, but this is something I need to do on my own." He studied her for a moment before he nodded. She leaned up to kiss him.

"I love you," he said when they'd parted.

"And I love you," she replied before he kissed her once more.

"I'll be back in the morning." She nodded and they walked down the stairs to the Floo. Before he picked up the powder, he turned back to her. "If you need anything or you change your mind, Floo."

"I will," she said. Kingsley kissed her one last time, a searing kiss that nearly did make her change her mind. And then he quickly threw in the Floo powder and stepped in, as if he wouldn't be able to leave if he lingered. Andromeda understood. She almost called him back herself.

When he had gone, she looked around the empty living room. The entire main floor was devoid of anything that had made this house hers and Ted's. She supposed it was better that way. It would make it easier to leave tomorrow. At least, that's what she told herself. In reality, the memories flooded her regardless of the contents of the room.

Their first Christmas in the house Andromeda had felt so huge and cumbersome being nearly eight months pregnant, she hadn't even wanted to think about a tree or decorating. She had come downstairs after taking a nap to find that Ted had done everything on his own. She had burst into tears and he had been afraid she was upset with him for doing it without talking to her. When he finally realized they were tears of happiness, he had led her to the couch and they had sat snuggled together admiring the fairy lights on the tree while they drank hot chocolate.

There were so many memories like that, so much joy and laughter that they had shared together. Her last night with Ted had been in this room as well. She should have known what he was planning by the strange way he was acting. They had sat on the couch in front of the fireplace and reminisced about so many different things. And when they had finally retired to their bedroom, he had made love to her almost desperately. She should have suspected that he would be gone the next morning. He had left a letter, one that she had read and reread a hundred times since, apologizing and explaining his reasons. She had understood, of course she had, but that had not made it any easier.

Andromeda took one last look around and left the living room. She climbed the stairs to her bedroom, the same onslaught of memories assaulting her as she stepped inside. She walked to the framed photographs that sat on the side table and picked up the one of Ted and Nymphadora, just after she'd gotten her Hogwarts letter. Ted had an arm around their daughter as she held up her letter. He smiled and then kissed the top of Dora's head, turning to wink at the camera. Andromeda drew a finger down the side of his face and smiled, tears gathering in her eyes. They'd had an amazing life together. Despite being disowned, Andromeda would not have done anything differently. She set the photograph back in its place before kissing her fingertips and pressing them to the edge of the frame. Casting one last glance around the room, she went into the loo to ready herself for bed and the last night in this chapter of her life.

2 September 2000

Remus stepped from the Floo, glad that Hermione had remembered to take the wards down this morning. He could hear sounds coming from the kitchen and stepped around the corner to see Hermione and Teddy sitting at the table eating breakfast.

"Daddy!" Teddy called. Hermione turned and smiled at him, rising from the table to kiss him.

"Good morning," she said.

"Morning," he replied. "Hello, Teddy." Teddy grinned at him and took another bite of his eggs.

"Are you hungry?" Hermione asked. "I could make you something."

"I ate at the castle," Remus said putting an arm around her waist and kissing her temple. They both looked rested, so Remus hoped that Teddy hadn't put up too much of a fuss.

"How was the sorting?" she asked, clearly wondering about Will.

"Gryffindor, just as you thought. Paul looked a bit disappointed, but David, Annie and Claire welcomed Will right away."

"I'm so glad," she said. "How was the rest of your night?"

"Two seventh-years out after curfew and a few crying first-years," he said. "They've got the weekend to acclimate though, with no classes."

"My fifth-year was like that," Hermione said. "It was nice." Remus released her and she sat back down to finish her breakfast.

"And how were things here?" he asked.

"Harry was a wonderful distraction."

"Me pay Ha-wy, Daddy," Teddy said with a grin. Hermione laughed at the jam smeared across his face. Remus chuckled.

"He asked for you and Andromeda a couple of times, but he was all right when we put him to bed," Hermione said quietly.

"Did he wake in the night?"

"Once, but he went right back to sleep when I came in," she said. "I didn't even have to take him out of his cot." Hermione reached over and squeezed Remus' hand. "We were fine." He smiled at her and picked up her hand, kissing her fingertips.

"Thank you."

"You don't have to thank me, Remus," she said. "I love you both." He squeezed her fingers again and she smiled. "What time do we need to be at Andromeda's?"

"Me see Nanna, Daddy?" Teddy asked.

"Yes, we're seeing your nanna today. She's moving right next door." Teddy clearly had no idea what Remus was talking about, but happily went back to his breakfast knowing he was going to see his grandmother. Remus turned to Hermione.

"Around nine, she said."

"I'd better take a shower then," Hermione said. Remus had already showered and shaved at the castle. He'd been up early, eager to get back home and make sure things had gone all right. Before Hermione could leave the room, he tugged on her hand and she bent down to kiss him. She gave him a brilliant smile before she left the room. Remus watched her go and then turned back to his son.

"I done," Teddy said. Remus laughed, wondering how his son had gotten jam on his eyebrow. Teddy grinned as his father cast a cleansing charm on his face and hands, then picked him up out of his highchair.

"Let's go get you dressed for Nanna's."

They stepped from the Floo into Andromeda's empty living room. Teddy looked around in confusion at the missing furniture.

"Where cowts go?" Teddy asked.

"Remember when we moved into the cottage?" Remus asked. Teddy nodded. "Nanna is moving too." Hermione stepped out of the fireplace.

"Where cowts go, My-nee?" Teddy asked, pointing to the room in front of him.

"Your nanna is moving," Hermione said. She glanced at Remus. He was regretting not taking Molly up on her offer to watch Teddy while they helped move Andromeda. Kingsley walked into the room from the kitchen.

"Ting!" Teddy said.

"Hello, Teddy," Kingsley said with a smile. Teddy reached for him and Remus passed the boy over.

"Where go, Ting?" Teddy asked again. Kingsley glanced at Remus who mouthed 'furniture' to him.

"Shall I show you?" Kingsley asked. Teddy nodded. He took the little boy to the corner of the room where there was a stack of boxes. He opened the top one and took out a shrunken armchair, showing it to Teddy.

"Make big!" Teddy said throwing his arms up. Kingsley chuckled.

"We will make it big again, when we get to your nanna's new house." Teddy's brow furrowed in confusion as Andromeda walked into the room, drying her hands on a towel.

"I have packed up the breakfast dishes," she said, taking her grandson from Kingsley's arms. "That is the last of it." She kissed Teddy's cheek.

"Nanna?" Teddy said.

"Yes, darling?"

"My room, Nanna?" Andromeda saw Kingsley putting the chair back into the box and glanced at Remus.

"Your room is in that box right there," Andromeda said, pointing to one in the stack. "And we are going to take it to Nanna's new house."

"No," Teddy said with a pout. "No new house."

"Nanna is going to live right behind you," she said. "You can see my new house from your bedroom window." Teddy crossed his arms in front of him and shook his head again, still pouting.

"You can run from your back garden to mine," Andromeda coaxed. "Shall I show you?"

"No," Teddy said stubbornly. He wrapped his arms around his grandmother's neck. "No new house." She rubbed his back and began to sway back and forth, looking at Remus in concern. Remus sighed. There wasn't really going to be any way to explain things to Teddy. He was only two after all. The best they could do was show him.

"Why don't you and I go back to our house," Remus said to Andromeda. "We can show him from there." He looked at Kingsley and Hermione. "Do you mind?"

"Of course, not," Hermione said. "We'll start bringing the boxes through the Floo." Kingsley nodded in agreement. Hermione kissed Remus' cheek and moved across the room to the stack of boxes. Kingsley did the same to Andromeda, then patted Teddy's back.

"Come on, darling," Andromeda said to her grandson. "Nanna wants to show you something." She stepped into the Floo and Remus followed closely behind.

They stepped out into the cottage. Teddy squirmed to get down to play with his toys, but Andromeda reminded him that she wanted to show him something. They climbed the stairs to Teddy's bedroom and Andromeda walked to the window.

"Do you see that house right over there?" she asked. Teddy nodded. "That is where Nanna is going to live now."

"Me too?" Teddy asked.

"No, you are going to stay here with your daddy and Hermione," Andromeda said. "But you can come to my house every day while they are at work."

"My room, Nanna?"

"Yes, darling, you will have your room at my new house just as you did at the old one." Teddy looked back to the new house and then at his grandmother.

"Me see." She smiled and kissed his forehead.

"Of course, you can see. Shall we walk there?" Teddy nodded enthusiastically. Andromeda carried him back downstairs and they went to the back door. She set him down and then opened the door, taking his hand as they walked into the garden. Remus took his hand on the other side and together, the three of them walked to the edge of Remus' garden and into Andromeda's, pointing out things to Teddy along the way.

"There it is," Andromeda said. They walked to the back door and Andromeda unlocked it with her wand. When they stepped inside, they could hear movement upstairs and Remus guessed that Hermione and Kingsley were already here, setting up Teddy's bedroom. He hoped they had gotten the furniture enlarged at least. It would make it much more real for Teddy that way.

"Let's go upstairs," Andromeda said and they walked through the empty living room to the stairs. Teddy was looking around but didn't say anything as they climbed the stairs to the second floor. They passed the master bedroom and Teddy looked inside.

"My room, Nanna?"

"No, love, that's Nanna's room. Your room is just down here." The walked to the end of the corridor, passing the loo to a closed door.

"Are you ready?" Remus asked in a louder voice than necessary, hoping that Kingsley and Hermione would hear him. They must have as there was a scrape and a shuffling and then silence.

"Yes!" Teddy said, grin on his face. Remus slowly turned the knob and then opened the door. Hermione and Kingsley stood near the window with smiles on their faces.

"Look, it's your room," Remus said and Teddy stepped inside. The room was set up just as it had been at Andromeda's. Teddy ran to the toy basket in the corner where Andromeda kept an identical set of his dragons and Quidditch players, as well as more Muggle toy cars.

"My room," Teddy said excitedly.

"And look at this," Hermione said as she picked him up and moved to the window. "What's that over there?"

"My house!" Teddy said. Hermione smiled.

"That's right, that's our house." Remus stepped up next to them.

"Do you like your nanna's new house?" he asked. Teddy nodded. He looked over Hermione's shoulder to where Andromeda stood. Kingsley stood next to her, with his arm around her shoulders.

"Like you new house, Nanna," Teddy said with a grin. She laughed.

"I am glad you approve." Teddy squirmed to be set down and he ran to his toys. Kingsley squeezed Andromeda's shoulder and kissed her temple. Hermione wrapped her arms around Remus' waist as they all watched Teddy play contentedly.

Andromeda finished emptying the last box. Hermione and Remus had gone home after the five of them had dinner at the Three Broomsticks. Kingsley had come back with her to help finish unpacking. She had just placed the last of her books on the bookshelves in the small study when Kingsley walked into the room, two glasses of wine in his hands.

"All finished then?" he asked as he handed her a glass. She smiled at him gratefully, then took a sip.

"Yes, just," she said. "Thank you for staying to help me."

"You don't have to thank me, love." He took her hand and led her to the couch. She leaned into his side and they sat in companionable silence, sipping their wine.

"How do you feel?" he asked after a few minutes. She contemplated his question.

"Tired," she said and he chuckled. "A bit sad, but excited about a new start too." She tilted her head to look up at him and he leaned down to kiss her.

"To new beginnings," he said, raising his glass. She clinked her glass against his and then kissed him again. She rested her head against his shoulder when they parted.

"I hope Teddy is all right," Andromeda said. "They have been having a bit of hard time with his sleeping. I hope that my move does not set him back."

"He seemed all right when they left the pub," Kingsley said, fingers drawing random patterns on her shoulder and upper arm. Andromeda tried not to shiver.

"He will adjust," she said. "I just hope it doesn't take too long."

"I'm sure he'll be fine," Kingsley said. "It will probably be even easier now that he can see your house from his." Andromeda made a noise of agreement. They lapsed into silence again, Kingsley still tracing his fingers idly over her arm. She relaxed further into his side, sighing in contentment.

"You're tired," he said a while later and she realized that she had nearly fallen asleep. "Do you want me to go?" She looked up at him.

"No," she said. "I don't." Kingsley stared at her for a few moments.

"Is that you wishing I didn't have to leave or an invitation?"

"What if I said it was an invitation?" she asked. Kingsley had never stayed the night at her house before, although she had spent a few nights at his flat. This, though, was a different house and a completely different bed.

"I would say that you and I had exactly the same idea," Kingsley replied with a grin as he leaned down to kiss her. She laughed against his lips and then kissed him back, standing from the couch a few minutes later and holding out a hand to him. He took it and rose, following her up the stairs as she waved her wand to lock the doors and the Floo.

6 September 2000

"Miss Granger?" Hermione looked up to see Cecily standing her doorway.

"Yes?"

"Ms. Fawcett would like to see you in her office."

"Thank you, Cecily." The other woman went back to her desk as Hermione stood. She wondered if the Wizengamot had come back with a decision about Delia. Tomorrow was the last day of the pilot program and Delia would be sent back to Azkaban unless Hermione's proposal was approved. She had spoken to Aaron two days ago and he was preparing Delia for the move back to prison.

"You wanted to see me," Hermione said as she stepped into Margaret's office.

"The Chief Warlock would like to see us in thirty minutes." Hermione's heart began to pound.

"They've made a decision?"

"He didn't say exactly, but that is what I suspect, yes." Hermione blew out a breath. Margaret stood and came around her desk to stand in front of Hermione.

"No matter the decision is, your mind healing program is still going to be implemented. I don't want you to forget that if the pilot program doesn't go the way you wish." Hermione nodded. "The work you have done on this has been outstanding. There are few people who could build a program from the ground up like this, especially one that wasn't in their background of study." Hermione felt her cheeks heat.

"Thank you," she said quietly, a bit embarrassed by the praise. Margaret squeezed her arm and then sat down at her desk again.

"Since we have a few minutes, why don't we go over the research you've been doing the last few days."

"My notes are in my office," Hermione said.

"I'm sure you can give me an overview without the notes," Margaret said. Hermione sat down in one of the chairs in front of the desk, knowing that her boss was trying to distract her. She was grateful for it.

"It's time to go," Margaret said about twenty minutes later. "We're meeting in the Minister's office." Hermione's nerves immediately returned.

"I should get my notes," she said, but Margaret shook her head.

"You know this proposal inside and out, Hermione. If he has any questions, I have no doubt you will be able to answer." Hermione nodded.

"All right," she said. Cecily handed something to Margaret as they left the department, but Hermione was too distracted to notice what it was. As they waited for the lift, Hermione wished she had something to occupy her hands. She might not have needed her notes, but they would have been something to stop her fidgeting at least. Wordlessly, Margaret passed Hermione the folder that she held.

"I think you need to hold this more than I do," Margaret said. Hermione looked at her sheepishly and Margaret gave her a wink. The folder held a synopsis of the proposal as well as the paperwork that Margaret would have to fill out once they knew the proposal's fate.

They made their way to Kingsley's office, Hermione getting more nervous with each step she took. Margaret was right, St. Mungo's was going to continue to implement the mind healing program regardless of the Wizengamot's decision and that's what she should be focusing on. But she couldn't help wanting things to work for Delia as well.

"Go right in," Miss Stebbins said as they arrived in the office. "They're waiting for you." Hermione took one more deep breath and followed Margaret into Kingsley's office.

Both men rose at their entrance, Kingsley ushering everyone into the small seating area near the fireplace. Once they had settled themselves, Hermione looked up at the Chief Warlock expectantly. She couldn't tell by the look on his face which way the Wizengamot had decided.

"Miss Granger, I would like to thank you for your very thorough proposal and explanations to us last week. Your presentation was very well put together and I commend you for the work you have been doing with St. Mungo's to get this mind healing project started."

"Thank you, sir." Hermione's stomach began to twist in knots. Wasn't there some saying about being sure to compliment someone before letting them know all the ways they'd failed?

"The debate about your pilot program was likely one of the most, shall we say, spirited, that we have had in quite some time." Hermione didn't think that was necessarily a good thing. "Very strong opinions on both sides." He cleared his throat and looked up at her. Hermione held her breath. "Unfortunately, at this time, we cannot approve extending the pilot program the Minister authorized." Hermione's heart sunk. She knew that it hadn't been likely, but she had still hoped.

"As to the matter of your addendum to the proposal," the Chief Warlock continued. "The Wizengamot is hesitant to allow a Muggle to travel to Azkaban. Especially to administer healing that many on our panel either do not understand, or do not feel has any authenticity." Hermione bristled. She was not going to allow her last hope to go without a fight.

"With all due respect, sir, he is not a Muggle. Nor is the therapy that he practices not authentic."

"I know that the Minister classified him as a Squib so he could participate in the hearing, however, there is disagreement amongst our members. He is the second generation not to carry magic in his family, which classifies him as a Muggle."

"He has a daughter that is a witch," Hermione argued.

"Yes, a daughter that is not yet Hogwarts age, meaning her father should not have been informed about magic yet."

"Dr. Chadwick's grandmother is a witch," Hermione said. "Surely, you can't expect that if his daughter began showing signs of magic, his grandmother wouldn't have explained it to him." The Chief Warlock looked uncomfortable. Hermione wondered how he would label Aaron.

"Wallace," Kingsley said. "You and I both know that this is a unique situation. The magic skipped only two generations and the magical ancestor is still alive and well, not to mention the uncles and cousins that also have magic. It is a bit far-fetched to think that Queenie Kowalski wouldn't have informed her grandson of his daughter's status as soon as she knew of it. You are also aware that you, as Chief Warlock, have the ability to determine Dr. Chadwick's status as Muggle or Squib in this situation." Hermione's eyes widened. She hadn't known that and wondered just where the Chief Warlock stood on her proposal.

"Yes, well, that doesn't preclude the skepticism about his profession," the Chief Warlock said. "And there was quite a bit of skepticism."

"I'm sorry, sir, but just because someone isn't familiar with something doesn't mean that it doesn't exist or that it doesn't work," Hermione said. "How many members of the Wizengamot are familiar with how airplanes work? Or guns? Or bombs?" The Chief Warlock remained silent. "Not knowing how or why things work doesn't mean that they don't."

"This therapy you are proposing is hardly a Muggle vehicle or gun," The Chief Warlock said.

"I realize it isn't tangible in the way those other things are, but there are many things in the Muggle world that wizards and witches don't understand. Not all of them should be ignored or discounted," Hermione said. There was silence in the room for a few moments. "May I ask what the vote on my addition was, sir?"

"As it stands now, your addendum has failed by one vote." Hermione's heart clenched in her chest. One vote. She would have only had to have convinced one more person and there would have been a tie. Then Kingsley could have cast the deciding vote. Wait. The vote as it stands now? What did that mean? Margaret seemed to catch it as well because she asked the question before Hermione could.

"What do you mean 'as it stands now'?"

"I have not cast my vote," the Chief Warlock said. Hermione sat up straighter in her seat. Surely, then, he had called this meeting because he wasn't sure how he wanted to vote.

"How can I convince you to vote yes, sir?" Hermione asked. The Chief Warlock studied her.

"I do wonder, Miss Granger, why you are so concerned with this particular prisoner. By all accounts, you should be the one insisting Miss Wilkes remain in Azkaban." Hermione met his gaze.

"This war was fought by children," Hermione said. "You can argue that all of us that stayed to fight were of age, and you would be right, but many of us had been dealing with Voldemort and his Death Eaters in some capacity for years before that. There were plenty of opportunities for the Ministry to step in, for the adults of our society to take over and fight in our place. But they didn't. We all went through things, we all suffered, we all have scars, both visible and not. Some of us dealt with these things better than others. Whether that was because we had a better support system or were mentally stronger or found ways to cope, I don't know. Delia Wilkes, for whatever reason, did not recover well from the trauma of the war. And instead of trying to figure out why she did the things she did, instead of trying to help her, we've locked her away for the rest of her life. A child who fought in a war she didn't ask for, simply because she thought that it was the right thing to do. And this is how we've repaid her for that decision. She could have been any of us." Hermione stopped a took a breath. Kingsley was looking at her with pride and she colored slightly. Before the Chief Warlock could say anything, Hermione continued.

"I'm not saying that Delia Wilkes should be absolved of her crimes. She did hurt people, she broke laws, and she deserves punishment for that. But she doesn't deserve to be thrown into Azkaban to never again see the light of day. She is nineteen years old, sir." The Chief Warlock was still staring at her.

"That was quite an impassioned speech, Miss Granger."

"I'm very passionate about this project, sir." A hint of a smile played across his lips. Hermione refused to read anything into it, although the temptation to do so was strong.

"I hope that I am not going to regret this, but I am going to vote yes on your addendum," the Chief Warlock said. Hermione was too shocked to speak.

"I believe that means we are tied," Kingsley said, trying to hide the smile that Hermione could see forming on his lips.

"It does," the Chief Warlock replied.

"Then I vote yes as well," Kingsley said. Hermione felt like she couldn't breathe.

"Congratulations, Miss Granger," the Chief Warlock said.

"Thank you, sir," she managed. The man turned to Kingsley.

"We will have to reconvene the Wizengamot for an official vote. This afternoon at two o'clock?"

"Absolutely," Kingsley said.

"I will see you then." The Chief Warlock stood and at a nudge from Margaret, Hermione did as well. Margaret shook the man's hand and Hermione followed suit.

"Thank you again, sir." He nodded once and left the office. Hermione sunk back down the couch after he'd left. Her hands were shaking, she noticed.

"Hermione?" Margaret said in concern.

"I can't believe it," Hermione mumbled. She looked up at Kingsley. He was smiling at her. "I, it's, really?"

"Really," he said, grinning wider. Margaret smiled as well and patted her arm.

"What if someone changes their vote before this afternoon?"

"They're not going to do that," Kingsley said.

"How do you know?" Hermione said. "What if-"

"Hermione," Kingsley said, not seeming to care that he was addressing her informally in front of Margaret. He put a hand on her shoulder and she looked up at him. "That's not going to happen. Trust me." She stared at him for a few moments before she nodded.

"It's going to pass," she whispered, as a smile formed on her face. She'd done it.