Happy Saturday. Here we are, our little Luna is all grown up and getting married. Who's excited? General disclaimer, I own nothing, we all know this. I make no money from this. And I also appreciate each and every one of you for the continued support. Enjoy.
Chapter 39 Traditional Weddings
Back at the hall, Peregrine notified Narcissa of Hermione's rescue. Ian MacLellan arrived shortly thereafter. He examined her asking a few questions about the experience. "You'll need to drink this potion twice daily for five days."
"Better than after the Department of Mysteries," she muttered.
"The tremors will continue for several days. And you'll tire easily. Be patient with yourself. I advise against hot water, lukewarm baths, or showers. Limit your magic as much as possible until you don't. You exerted a lot this evening in a weakened state."
Hermione frowned, "Luna's wedding is tomorrow, I'm her witness."
"That will be fine. But if someone attacks let the others conduct the defense. That goes for Mr. Potter as well. And I will have to report something of this to my superiors. Elemental magic is quite complicated, that the two of you used it so well over an extended time is incredible."
"So long as everything remains somewhat classified, please. We are not guinea pigs."
"As you wish," he handed her a few vials of clear liquid. "Dreamless Sleep should you need it. And the tremors may get worse before they get better."
"Anymore other bad news?" she sulked.
"No, but we could have been having a much worse conversation, so let's not complain too much."
"Tsk, fine," she grumbled.
Ian looked around the room, "We should clear out and let Miss Lestrange clean up and get some rest."
Hermione smiled at everyone from her place on her bed as they wished her a good night on their way out, until only Marcus remained, "Do you want me to go, little dove?" He knelt next to the bed.
"No, please stay. Will you help me get cleaned up?"
"Bath or shower?" he asked quietly.
"With tepid water both sound horrible, so bath, then only one of us is miserable."
Marcus called for Maisie, asking her to collect him a change of clothes and run a lukewarm bath. He collected his old jersey and a pair of her sleeping shorts, then assisted Hermione to disrobe. A few scratches and bruises covered her skin. She groaned, "Remind me to have Fred and George send me some of their bruise paste."
"That good?"
"You'll never know I was ever bruised. I might be able to heal the scratches," she gave him a little smile. He supported her weight as she stepped down into the sunken marble tub.
He pulled off his shirt and trousers, leaving himself in his pants. "Scoot forward a bit, please."
"What? Marcus, no, you don't have to get in."
He ignored her protests and sat behind her. He wet and held up a flannel, "Do you want to wash yourself, or would you like me to do it?"
"Would you, please? You don't mind?"
"Of course not." Gently, he ran the flannel over her skin. He conjured a large basin to pour over her to wet her hair and rinse it. Out of the bath, he toweled her off with delicate strokes and helped her slip into the clothes. He carried her back to bed as her strength gave out on the way back.
He laid her down, she kept her arms locked around his neck so he ended up flopping on the bed, "You didn't want me to stay, by any chance, did you?"
"Yes, please."
She settled with her head on his bare chest., his arm wrapped around her. He kissed her temple, "You were a badass tonight."
"Thanks. It felt good to rid the world of something monstrous. Unknown numbers of children will grow up not werewolves because those bastards are gone."
No regrets?"
"I probably should, but we put down feral beasts that were attacking us and saved people from them. I'm done apologizing for protecting myself. Pavel repeatedly stalked and harassed me. Then he abducted me with the intent of forcing me to have his children. When I refused, he tortured me. This was clearly self-defense. I know Albus Dumbledore would have wanted me to submit so I could try and redeem him. Second, third, fourth, unlimited chances for the dark and damn the cost to others. My love could have saved him. Fuck that. More like I would have been his abused captive until I died in childbirth after seven kids."
"Calm down, little dove. Rodolphus will have both my heads if you make yourself worse. Well, if there's anything left after Luna destroys me for ruining her wedding."
"I might need some dreamless sleep just to get my brain to shut off properly," she admitted in a quiet voice. He handed her the vial. "Thanks, bottoms up." She snuggled back into his chest. "Good night."
"Good night, Hermione."
True to MacLellan's warning, the tremors increased by the morning. She couldn't even feed herself finger foods. Rodolphus discreetly fed her breakfast, sparing her the embarrassment of having to ask. She thanked him with a soft smile. He tossed in the floo powder for her departure to the Rookery.
She found a beaming Luna surrounded by flowers and Weasley twins. Fred frowned at the sight of her bruising. He held up the jar, "Let's get you fixed up, shall we?"
"Please." Both twins helped her remove the bruising on her face and arms.
"Anywhere else?" asked George with a playful leer.
"I can get my legs, thank you." She took the jar. The twins laughed, kissed both girls, and left, promising to see them at the reception. "I, uh, can't get my legs or anywhere else, but," she trailed off lamely.
"You don't want Marcus or Rodolphus to kill them when they make jokes later?"
"Exactly." Luna helped her remove the last of the possible to remove markings. "Now, let's get those daisy chains finished."
The act of trying to get her hands to obey made the tremors worse. Tears of frustration filled her eyes, "I'm so sorry, Luna, I can't."
Luna hugged her best friend, "It's okay, Mione, It isn't your fault."
"But you shouldn't have to make your own ropes and crown," cried Hermione.
A subtle rap came at the door. Narcissa poked her head in, "May we join you?"
"Of course," Luna stood in greeting. Narcissa opened the door, and she, Bellatrix, Andromeda, and Tonks entered. "What can you help you, ladies, with?"
Narcissa smiled, "We're here to help you, dear. Hermione could barely dress herself this morning, she certainly won't be able to help weave flowers."
And Andromeda began sorting the flowers, "As the women of her family, our sympathetic family magic will help us stand in her stead."
Luna's eyes filled with tears, "Really?"
"Yes, really," laughed Tonks, elbowing her, "you can't weave your own crown."
Narcissa looked over the robes. "I'm going to steam out these wrinkles." Luna looked surprised, "I'm taking the mother of the bride role if you don't mind." Luna flung herself at the older woman, hugging her tightly. "This will be my only chance, so thank you for letting me."
"Thank you," Luna whispered, Narcissa silently patted her on the back.
The women worked quickly to finish the work. Narcissa went to begin the ritual baths. "Traditionally you would share, but Hermione should avoid hot water, so two tubs."
Luna shook her head, "My best friend needs a cooler bath, so the cooler bath it will be."
"Lu, you don't have to, I can."
Luna held up a hand, silencing Hermione, "Nope, not listening. Get in."
"What?" Hermione looked confused.
"The only things you have worried about since getting home last night have been: ruining the stag party and the hen do, your injuries stealing focus today, and not being able to help me properly. Most women would have backed out after being tortured and magically depleted. A few might have stayed on for the attention they could milk. Ten to fifteen minutes in tepid water doesn't even come close to doing the same, but you don't keep score so you wouldn't consider that. Now, get in." Luna climbed into the tub.
"Yes, ma'am," Hermione got in with Tonk's assistance. The bubblegum colored auror helped her bathe, while Narcissa assisted Luna.
"Any questions?" the older blonde asked the younger.
She shrugged, "I don't know what I don't know. I've never been married."
"Communication is important, listen to what he isn't saying," Tonks told her.
"If you choose to share a room don't sleep apart because of anger or miscommunication," added Andromeda.
"Let him feel like he's winning sometimes," Narcissa offered. "Make sure he feels supported, but never at the expense of yourself."
"Thank you," Luna whispered, feeling the loss of her mother at the moment.
Andromeda smiled, "Anytime you have questions or need support, you are most welcome to call upon myself or Narcissa."
"Not me," chimed in Bellatrix, "I have no good advice here." Luna giggled. "There's a girl."
"Can I ask what you did to Greyback?"
The older woman laughed, a cold hard sound, "He was barely hanging on. Had I used a different spell ending his life would have been a mercy. Since I used a spell to slowly skin him, it didn't like it."
"He deserved to suffer," Luna said solemnly.
Dressed in the white linen robes with yellow embroidered edges, crowns of white roses, tiger lilies, and delicate daisies upon their heads, the girls exited the Rookery and made their way towards the trees in the opposite way from the Burrow. In a semi-circle around a ring of stones, the guests waited for the arrival of the bride and her attendant. Harry gave the girls a small wave as they passed him.
Graham grinned foolishly, his face transfigured as joy radiated off of him at the sight of Luna. His brother looked uncomfortable like he was rethinking his offer of nudity. The officiant nodded to them as Luna and Hermione reached the edges. "Do all consent to be here in their prescribed roles?"
"I do," all four answered in unpracticed unison.
"Then remove your worldliness and enter the circle in perfect love and perfect trust," he instructed. Hermione helped Luna with her robes then slipped off her own. She handed them to Narcissa. Skyclad they entered the circle. Luna and Graham clasped hands. "You may make your vows."
Graham kissed Luna's hand, "With this hand, I will lift your sorrows."
Luna beamed up at the groom, "Your cup will never be empty, for I will be your wine," she promised. "With this candle, I will light your darkness."
"With this ring, I ask you to be mine," he finished.
"As in this life, so the next," intoned their attendants.
"So mote it be," declared the officiant. A shower of silver and gold sparks fell on them as the gathered assembly cheered. Narcissa handed Hermione the robes. She assisted her into hers before her aunt helped her with her own.
Grinning like a madman, Xeno stepped forward, "While the bridal party changes into their reception outfits, please join us for cocktails at the reception hall."
Mrs. Montague's hired hairdresser, Michel, met them inside the Rookery with the gowns she had chosen. He clapped his hands in delight, "Such lovely canvases. Let's get you ready."
Luna's gown reminded Hermione of a fancier version of her mother's Bohemian dresses from her youth. Long billowing lace sleeves met the square neckline and flowed into a shell over the tiered layers of silk. The soft ivory color complimented her skin beautifully. With a mischievous smirk, Luna hid the high heels Mrs. Montague had selected. Michel styled her hair in a complicated updo that looked effortless and incorporated her flower crown. Admiring the final result, Luna fingered the single strand of pearls she wore, the matching earrings and bracelet complimenting the simplicity of her dress. The looks were simple, but so perfectly Luna.
Hermione's butter yellow dress had three-quarter sleeves and a flowing skirt that fluttered every time she moved. Rather than lace, tulle formed her overskirt. Her jewelry was small gold hoop earrings and a braided gold chain. Michel created a cascade of curls entwined with white roses. With a wink to Luna, Hermione also hid her shoes.
Hermione gratefully sank into her reserved seat. Crossing the room the large room took her forever. Well wishers stopped her every few steps, each one sapping her already depleted stamina. She sighed and wiggled her toes. Hiding those torture heels had been the right call. She noticed Marcus's concerned expression and gave him a reassuring look. She hoped the meal and a chance to sit would recharge her batteries. Though she did worry slightly about how she would consume said meal. Also concerned, Luna watched her out of the corner of her eye as the hall staff served the salad course. Hermione picked up the thick fork, delighted to discover the heavy weight calmed the tremors enough for her to be able to eat. When Graham slyly sliced her steak with slicing hex. Luna thanked him properly.
By the time the newlyweds opened the dancing, Hermione felt rested. While it would still be an early night, she would at least make it through a good portion without difficulties. She and the best man joined on the dance floor for a song. Rodolphus stole her to sit out for a bit before Marcus collected her.
"Heads up, the guys have created a scheme to help you sit dances out without drawing too much attention," he kissed her forehead. "And I may have threatened the Weasley twins against any hi-jinks."
"I will overlook any Neanderthal overprotective behaviors this one time."
"Huh?"
"I'll let it go this one time given the events of last night."
"I appreciate it."
Every couple of songs someone collected her demanding she come and sit and talk with them, or try some dessert. The twins conducted an elaborate presentation about why she should come and work with them. Adrian had pouted that Greyback had ruined all the fun of a traditional wedding, "Right now I should be taking the mick out of your boyfriend because I've seen your bits. But since said skin has scratches and such from the attack, can't really get much fun out of it."
"My deepest sympathies to be sure," she snarked back, rolling her eyes.
"Thank you."
"You know when he gets you for these antics there will be no sympathy from me, right?"
"Certainly, I dished it out, I'll take my lumps."
"Just checking."
Thanks to everyone's assistance she made it to midnight before the beginnings of unshakable lethargy set in. With impeccable Luna timing, the bride appeared in front of her just as she started to wilt. "Thank you for everything you did to make today not only perfection but possible. I love you," she hugged her best friend.
Hermione hugged her back, "You are most welcome Promise to let me know the moment you get back from the honeymoon."
"We'll be back two days before the first match, coach's orders," Graham told her. He also hugged her, "And I agree with everything
Luna said, thank you."
"You're both welcome, now go have fun."
"I would tell you to do the same, but I think Daddy Death Eater and the Teddy Bear of Quidditch are coming to tuck you in," he pointed over her shoulder. She looked behind herself to see Marcus and Rodolphus in conversation, both looking serious.
"Be nice or I will tell the Inner Circle member and Human Bludger you're speaking ill of them."
He swallowed nervously, "Who? Me? Never. And on that note, good night." He escorted Luna on to their next farewell.
Marcus approached her, "Where are they off to in such a hurry?"
"The sooner they finish saying goodbye the sooner they can be alone."
"I suppose that's true. So, is there any way to express concern over your physical condition without getting in trouble?"
"Would it stop you if I said no?" she barely stifled her yawn.
"No, but if there was an out I wanted to use it."
She swatted him playfully, "Lucky for you I am exhausted and desperate for sleep. Which Lu could sense, which is why they are saying their farewells to distract from my departure."
"Good people that Luna."
"The best," she agreed.
"Can you walk?" She shrugged. "Do you want a funny exit or mushy?"
"Did Mrs. Montague keep the reporters out?"
"I think so."
"You know what? Who cares? Surprise me."
He gave her an impish smirk, "As you wish." He scooped her up and tossed her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Laughing she propped herself up on her elbows so she could wave farewell. She blew both Rodolphus and Harry a kiss. He placed her on her feet at the floo bank. "Where are we going?" he asked.
"Hmmm, home," she answered sleepy, the effort of the last few minutes overwhelming her.
He rolled his eyes, "Which home, Hermione?"
"Wherever you are," she leaned against him, "is home enough."
"Come on, little dove, where do you want to go?"
"Home," she closed her eyes and snuggled into his chest. Sensing she was falling asleep on her feet, he scooped her up and apparated to the house he knew best.