CHAPTER SIX: BURROWING
Harry found himself standing in the dark, surrounded by a faint, moldy odor. Pressure at each shoulder told him he was still with Lupin and Kingsley. Wand light finally illuminated their way, and Harry could see the others just ahead of them, in what was revealed to be a narrow passageway.
"Where are we?" asked Harry, Ron and Hermione in near unison.
"You're in a tunnel under the Burrow," answered a familiar voice from up ahead. It was Mr. Weasley. "I'm glad you lot are all okay. Come along; move quickly. Molly is just finishing dinner. Alastor," he continued, "Bill and I have already reactivated the other barriers. You'll just need to take care of this last one once we clear the staircase."
"Good," replied Moody.
Five minutes later, the group was reassembled in the Weasleys' family room. Mrs. Weasley, Bill, Fleur, Charlie, Fred and George were all assembled to greet them. While Mrs. Weasley hugged Ron, Hermione and Harry, Moody waved his wand and the door in the floor completely vanished. It wasn't just hidden; it simply didn't exist.
"Cool," whispered Harry.
"I'm glad you approve, Potter," Moody said with a lopsided grin.
"Where's Ginny?" Hermione asked.
Harry noticed she wasn't in the family room, but hadn't wanted to be the one to point it out.
"Oh, she's in the kitchen. They'll be out in a minute," answered Mrs. Weasley.
"Whose they?" asked Ron.
As if on cue, Ginny walked into the family room talking animatedly with a woman Ron, Hermione and Harry had never seen. The stranger took the sting out of Harry's expected reaction at seeing Ginny for the first time since their breakup. There was no getting around it. The woman was stunningly beautiful. Harry didn't think he'd ever say it, but Fleur nearly paled in comparison. Judging by Ron's dropped jaw, he concurred.
It was hard to tell how old she was. On surface, she appeared to be in her mid twenties, but something about her eyes told you she was probably older, wiser. She was a little above average height, with a slightly curvy, yet athletically toned figure. She had a flawless caramel hued and cinnamon dusted complexion. Shoulder length, silky and marginally wavy black hair with chestnut highlights framed her face. Her eyes however, lured you in. They resembled pools of melted chocolate, with battling shades of brown and hints of golden flecks. They were large and almond shaped, very much like Harry's. She had high cheekbones, naturally arched brows, a regally angled nose and lips that looked like they'd been kissed by honeydew. When she smiled, Harry could hear Ron's breath catch. Truth be told, he could hear his own breath catch, as well. The deepest set dimple in her left cheek accentuated a brilliant smile.
Harry came out of his slight daze long enough to notice Kingsley had walked up to the woman in question and placed an arm lightly on her shoulder. He kissed her on the cheek, steered her towards them and said proudly, "Ron, Hermione and Harry, I'd like to introduce you to Jillian, my kid sister."
She slapped him lightly on the arm and laughed.
"I hardly think I qualify as a kid anymore, seeing as I'm only four years younger than you. So please knock it off, my darling big brother," she said teasingly. With that she turned her radiant smile on the trio and said, "It's so nice to finally meet you all. I've heard so much about you already."
Funny, they hadn't heard anything about her. Who knew Kingsley had a sister? Better yet, who knew he had a smile as vibrant as his sister's? It was like looking at an alternate version of Kingsley. He looked completely at ease, almost harmless -- well, as harmless as you could look at well over six feet tall with a stare that could stop people in their tracks. His eyes danced though, as he beamed at his younger sister.
"Wow, my brothers never seem so happy to be around me," Ginny commented from somewhere behind Kingsley and Jillian.
"Don't worry," Jillian said in a voice as smooth as her brother's, although far more melodic. "It gets better as you get older. When we were younger, he couldn't stand having me tag along. I drove him batty," she finished with a wink at Kingsley.
"Whatever," he said laughingly. "As you have probably picked up from her mingled accent, Jillian has been educated and living in the U.S. Her inherited, sharp British wit is well intact though, I can assure you."
"Jillian, it's a pleasure meeting you, too," Hermione added on behalf of the trio, as Harry and Ron were still staring from Kingsley to Jillian. "If you don't mind me asking, how is it you came to be raised in America?"
With a nod from her brother, Jillian plopped down on the floor and indicated the friends should do the same. Kingsley walked back to talk with Lupin, Tonks and Bill. Ginny came to join the group on the floor, and smiled briefly at Harry before sitting next to Ron. Harry could feel her eyes on him for a moment before she returned her attention to Jillian.
"Our father, Xavier Shacklebolt, is a British born wizard. He married a wonderful witch named Madeline. Together they had Kingsley and by all accounts, were very happy living in the English countryside. Our father is an exceptionally talented and well regarded wizard."
"Oh no, how could I have missed it," Hermione said suddenly, looking across the room at Kingsley and then directly at Jillian. "I've come across your father's name in a couple of books in the Hogwarts library. He's made all sorts of contributions and discoveries, and is credited with inventing a number of Dark Arts detection devices. The last thing I remember reading is that he was heading the Auror's Office in the U.S."
"You have an excellent memory," Jillian said. "Yes, that is our father. He's recently been asked to take over as U.S. Secretary of Magic. He'd actually been looking forward to some sort of semi retirement and possibly taking up partial residence in Britain again," she added, with her brow creasing ever so slightly. "But now that the offer has been made, we really don't know what he'll decide. Anyway, back to our little story."
"At the beginning of Voldemort's pursuit of power, he and his cronies were infamous for luring other wizards to join their cause and ranks. Our father attended Hogwarts at the same time as young Tom Riddle, but he was in Ravenclaw and in a different year. Dad was bright, talented and at the top of his class. He joined the Ministry right out of Hogwarts and began climbing the ranks rather quickly. Eventually, Voldemort decided our father would be a valuable ally and dispatched two of his henchmen to approach Dad. They apparently underestimated him, or maybe they thought being of pure blood descent would make him empathetic to their beliefs. Our father despises any such thoughts; so as you can imagine, he had no interest in entertaining their offer and wasted no time in disarming the two dolts who'd approached him."
Harry couldn't help but note that Jillian seemed to have no fear of speaking Voldemort's name. "Is that when your father decided to become an Auror?" asked Harry.
"Indeed," she continued. "It was following that very incident that Dad's career path veered to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Years passed and life went on. He'd been an Auror for several years when he met and married Madeline, and they had Kingsley. Voldemort was stealthily gathering more followers, a handful reputed to have been blackmailed or threatened into joining, but many others just itching to jump on the pure blood bandwagon or gain favor with an increasingly more powerful Voldemort. These early Death Eaters always seemed eager to test their influence and power."
"One day, a half dozen of them wandered into a Muggle owned establishment and started causing havoc. Most of the patrons had no idea what was truly happening. However, among those seated were several of our kind, including Madeline with an infant Kingsley, and her younger sister, Caitlin. When a Death Eater decided to cast one of the Unforgivable Curses on an unsuspecting Muggle, Madeline stepped in front of him and a duel ensued. Caitlin could do nothing to help because another had cornered her before she could draw her wand. All she could do was clutch and shield her infant nephew and watch in horror as her sister fought not one, but two Death Eaters. One other wizard jumped to Madeline's aid, but they were outnumbered as the remaining Death Eaters also joined the fray. Madeline was severely injured and died at St. Mungo's Hospital the next evening."
"Oh, no," said Ginny. "How awful."
"Yes, it was awful," replied Jillian. She glanced ever so briefly at Harry before adding, "As you've undoubtedly learned by now, life's ironies can sometimes be cruel."
Harry agreed wholeheartedly and stole a quick look at Kingsley, who met his gaze and tipped his head slightly. He'd had no idea of any of this. Voldemort had destroyed so many lives. Jillian's voice brought Harry out of his own thoughts.
"Dad was devastated. Had he not had Kingsley to look after, I'm sure he would have gone mad trying to avenge Madeline's death. Instead, he took Kingsley and relocated in America. For a few years, he kept a very low profile. They moved into an all Muggle neighborhood and lived rather quietly. When Kingsley was about three, our father met a woman at a children's clothing store. Hours later, young Kingsley had a completely new wardrobe and our father had a date for the first time in years."
"Long story short, that Muggle woman is our mother, Lauren. She couldn't love Kingsley any more if she'd given birth to him. Dad claims he knew he'd found home a second time when he told her what he was. She was understandably stunned and in disbelief for quite a while. When she finally believed what he told her, she said it had to have been heaven and a bit of magic to bring two such wonderful men into her life. They were married and I was born a little over a year later."
"We had no idea," said Ron. "We just assumed Kingsley had always lived here."
"Aunt Caitlin stayed very active in Kingsley's life," explained Jillian. "When it was time for his formal training, our father wanted him educated at Hogwarts, as he'd been. So, Kingsley came back to Britain and lived with Aunt Caitlin at Easter and Christmas. Dad, Mom and I would visit them both at Christmas break and Kingsley spent most of his summer holidays in America with us. I had the same option of going to Hogwarts, but I didn't want to leave home. I was educated in America and when I was old enough, began traveling alone to Britain to spend a month or so with Kingsley each year. My last extended visit here was when I was about nineteen years old."
Harry noticed she looked a little sad when she said this, but didn't comment as he was enraptured by her story.
"Since then, I've managed to pop over every other few years for a day or two to torment Kingsley. We usually meet somewhere exotic for our extended holidays, and he almost always spends Christmas with us. That's really about it. Nothing special," she added with a dimpled grin.
"What do you do, Jillian? Are you an Auror like your Dad and Kingsley?" asked Ron excitedly.
"I'm…" but she didn't get to finish as a voice rang out from the kitchen doorway.
"Dinner's ready," called Mrs. Weasley. "We're setting up in here and the kitchen. You lot give me a hand," she said pleasantly.
Ginny and Hermione hurried off to the kitchen to help Mrs. Weasley. Ron went to help Fred, George and Charlie set up an extra table near the fireplace.
"That's an incredible story," Harry said quietly as he stood from the floor and extended his hand to help Jillian up, too.
She looked up and took his offered hand. Harry felt his blood tingle for the second time that evening.
Thanks," she said simply and smiled. She looked directly into Harry's eyes for what seemed like a long moment, and added, "Let's go eat" before turning gracefully on her heels and heading into the kitchen.
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The Weasley home had been ripe with activity. The wedding was set for Saturday evening, July 26th. Fleur's parents and younger sister, Gabrielle, had already arrived. Needless to say, Mrs. Weasley had her hands full, but she was enjoying every minute of it. She was so busy fussing about, that she hadn't had much time to panic or fret over Harry. After feeding him double helpings of every meal for the last week, she seemed to consider him sufficiently whole and set about doing hundreds of other things. Harry was thankful for the distraction.
The Burrow was well hidden behind rolling hills, but it wouldn't be impossible for other wizards to find it if they went searching. So, aside from the cleverly concealed tunnel, Moody also made the Burrow Unplottable and impenetrable by apparition from anywhere, except the new tunnel. This was no small undertaking, but it was tremendously beneficial. Only Moody, Mr. Weasley, Bill, Lupin and Kingsley could lift those spells. Harry could now roam about the yard and fields with the rest of the Weasleys and Order members without drawing any undo attention, or having to worry much about a sneak attack. He was most grateful. Harry had been increasingly concerned that his presence might put undo strain and worry around the festivities; but that had been alleviated, at least for the time being.
As had become the norm, Harry was always one of the first ones awake. When he came downstairs this morning however, Mrs. Weasley was already busy in the kitchen.
"Good morning, Harry," she said as he joined her.
She had juice and a small stack of toast and marmalade ready for him.
"I figured you'd be the first one down, dear. There's really no need to make you wait for the others to crawl out of bed for breakfast. Besides, I haven't had much time to talk to you since you arrived."
"Yeah, I noticed you've been really busy. Do you need me to do anything?"
"Not just yet. I'm sure I'll be ordering everyone about at week's end, but for now, things are well in hand. So, how are you doing, really?" she asked with her brow knitting into her customary look of concern.
Normally, Harry would have insisted he was fine and left it at that. He knew that wouldn't be a good enough answer for her this morning.
"I'm okay, Mrs. Weasley," he began. "Honestly," he added when he saw the doubt cross her face. "Things have never been exactly normal for me, have they? I can't say I don't have a care in the world, but I've definitely been feeling better since coming here."
"Well, I'm glad of that and you are always welcome here, no matter what," she said gently and reached across the table to grasp Harry's hand in her own for a moment. "Now then, eat up."
The sun was shining brightly when Harry made his way across the large backyard, towards the closest grove. He was itching to go flying, but had promised Moody he wouldn't. Instead, Harry was contenting himself with a walk around the grounds.
"Harry, I was hoping to catch up to you out here," called a familiar voice. It was Lupin.
"Good morning, Lupin. I didn't realize anyone else was out here."
"I was out on Order business and am actually just getting here. Molly said you'd gone outside and I wanted a chance to talk with you in private. Let's go have a seat under that tree, shall we?" he added and pointed to a nearby oak.
"Sure," replied Harry.
"I'm sorry we have not really talked much before now. Order business has kept me away for longer periods than I had anticipated. I also needed to be sure I could get to you alone; but with so many people around, it's been a bit difficult. Thank you for being patient."
"Well, I don't know that I've been exactly patient, more like preoccupied. I'm glad you found me this morning, though," said Harry as he and Lupin sat beneath the huge, old tree.
"Harry, I know you've been anxious to talk about the incident at Mrs. Figg and probably have countless other questions," began Lupin.
"That's an understatement," replied Harry. "I've been trying to put it out of my mind; but Lupin, that was unlike anything I've ever done. You said nothing was wrong, but sometimes I feel like I am crawling out of my skin."
"I understand; and I hate to add to your dismay, but you will need to be patient a while longer until that can be fully explained."
Lupin could see the disappointment in Harry's eyes as he continued. "I did tell you the truth. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you. You also needn't worry about Mundungus telling tales. Suffice it to say, he is the secured houseguest of a most reliable Order member. As for the rest of it, I am afraid I only have limited information at the moment. Someone else will explain the rest."
"Who?" asked Harry.
"I do not know."
"What?" Harry's disappointed gaze was quickly turning irritated. "How can you not know? You said Dumbledore left instruction and what have you. Lupin, I've got too much…"
"Harry," Lupin interjected as gently as possible, "please hear me out. McGonagall received a letter from Dumbledore within hours of his funeral. It directed her to a concealed room in the headmaster's quarters to retrieve a small trunk. A short note simply asked that she deliver it to me as quickly and as discreetly as possible. It took me a day to figure out how to open it. I was surprised to realize it contained only a single letter, and more surprised after I read it. As I've said, it left instructions concerning your training, but these were no ordinary instructions. It seems that Dumbledore, in his infinite wisdom, decided to divulge only certain information to individual Order members and supporters. It ensures that no one person, other than you, will know everything."
"Are you serious?" asked Harry.
"Quite so," answered Lupin. "In reading the instructions he left to each of us, we are in essence, entering into a binding, magical agreement. Think of it as an enhanced Fidelius Charm. We can only reveal what's been entrusted to us, directly to you. You of course, can do as you like with the information, but no one else can without serious consequences. We are not purposely holding anything back. Instead, we are trying to make sure information is unfolded in the order and method Dumbledore wished."
Harry seemed to be at a complete loss for words.
Lupin explained further, "Obviously, I am the first of this information chain. McGonagall will be arriving here for the wedding and will be the next to seek you out. I do not know the names of the others involved. Per Dumbledore's letter, at least the part I'm allowed to reveal, I will only receive that information after the last person has made contact with you. He apparently made other arrangements for dispatching information to the others he selected to aid you. He did caution that time was of the essence, so I can only assume things will begin to move more quickly."
"Harry," finished Lupin, "I know this does not immediately answer all your questions; but you must admit, it is indeed a brilliant plan."
Harry looked a lot less annoyed, but extremely perplexed. It took him several seconds to respond.
Finally, "Yeah, it is. I don't think anyone else would have thought of it, not even Hermione. But Lupin, there's something I don't understand. How did Dumbledore know he'd have to do all of this? This can't be just about extra spells and charms. This had to have taken an awful lot of planning. It doesn't make sense."
"You are right. I have similar concerns. Although the plan is exceptional, it does not make sense that Dumbledore would have seen the need for it and been able to execute it in short order. I really do not know, Harry; no one does. Maybe it will make sense once everything is revealed to you. For now, we just have to trust he knew what was best. Can you do that?"
"Sure, it's not like I have any choice," answered Harry, a bit deflated.
"You always have choices, Harry. Never forget that," Lupin said simply. "So, let us move to another important matter. Ron and Hermione tell me you wish to visit Godric's Hollow."
"Yes, I do," answered Harry. "I've never visited my parents' graves or know anything about where they lived. I know it probably seems like a risky thing to do and …"
"No, not at all," interjected Lupin. "I think you should go to Godric's Hollow. I certainly understand why you wish to do so. I only ask that you allow Kingsley and me to accompany you, as well. I do not expect Voldemort will be out and about, but any of his new Death Eaters could be anywhere. I promise, we will be as discreet and as unobtrusive as possible."
"Actually, I was going to ask you to come with me, anyway," said Harry a bit hesitantly.
Lupin smiled kindly and said, "How does Wednesday morning sound?"
"I'll have to check my schedule," joked Harry, "but I think I can manage it."
"Perfect, then," said Lupin as he stood and stretched. I'm going to go find Moody and then get a few hours sleep. I shall see you later."
"Okay, thanks."
Harry leaned back against the huge trunk and closed his eyes in thought. An hour passed and he only had more questions than before. Footfalls in the crisp grass roused him and he looked up to see Ginny walking towards him. They'd seen each other everyday since his arrival, but always in a room full of other people. There'd been no opportunity for the conversation he knew she wanted to have. Harry had done nothing to hasten it; he wasn't anxious to revisit their breakup.
"Hi, Harry," she said quietly. "Do you mind if I join you?"
"Hi, Ginny," he replied. "Of course not, please sit down."
They sat in awkward silence for a minute before turning to look at each other. There was a slight breeze in the air and tendrils were whipping softly across Ginny's forehead. Her face was lightly flushed and her eyes were bright with emotion.
"I was beginning to think you were avoiding me," she finally said.
"Funny, I was beginning to think I was avoiding you, too" he added.
They both laughed and relaxed a little.
"Listen, Harry," she began again. "You know I'm not happy about your decision. I won't ever agree with it, but I do understand why you think you needed to do it. It took me a while to get there, but Ron helped me see it from your point of view. I'm not here to convince you otherwise or cry my eyes out until you change your mind. The first wouldn't do any good and I've never had much patience for senseless tears."
She hesitated slightly before continuing. "Besides, judging by all that's going on around here and the whispers, you have more than enough to worry about. I just wanted to remind you that I was your friend first, before I was your girlfriend. No matter what else does or doesn't happen between us, that will never change. So, you go do whatever it is you have to and come back safely, please. I've kind of gotten used to seeing you around here," she finished with a warm smile.
Harry was touched. He knew Ginny wanted to shake him until he came to his senses and her determination not to do so only made him care for her that much more. "I'll do my best," he said, his voice a little heavier than normal.
He took both her hands in his own and leaned towards her. Harry brushed her lips with the gentlest kiss possible and looked deeply into her eyes, his resolve nearly breaking.
"Thank you," he whispered softly before letting go and pushing himself from the ground and walking back towards the house.