Chapter 8 – Ball and Quaffle
The following three weeks passed in a blur. There wasn't much time for fun and frivolity, what with Auror training paperwork, duelling practice with the DA, teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts, and Quidditch training. They'd hardly seen Hermione at all, but when they did, she either had her nose buried in a book, or a quill in her hand writing desperate teary love letters to Ron or lengthy essays for her Professors. Ginny's schedule was just as full with Quidditch training and a pile of homework of her own. When Harry wasn't just working out to get in shape, he was grooming Dennis Creevey to become the next star Seeker for Gryffindor.
Dennis had a bad habit of wanting to be everything to everyone on the team. He wanted to make Ginny proud that she had chosen him as the Seeker. He wanted to make Harry proud that he had trained him. He wanted to warn the Beaters if he thought they'd missed a Bludger and tell the Chasers how to pass the Quaffle. He wanted the Gryffindors to win the Cup. He wanted Colin to be proud of him.
Harry, on the other had, wanted Dennis to pay attention and focus on the Snitch. He blew his coach's whistle and play stopped. "Sorry Gin, but I need to coach my Seeker," he said to his scowling fiancée.
"Take five, team," Ginny called. The rest of the team descended to the grassy floor of the pitch while Harry hovered aloft to rein Dennis in.
"Dennis, you're too easily distracted," Harry coached. "Don't worry about what the Chasers are doing. The only thing you need to concern yourself is finding and catching the Snitch."
"But Harry," Dennis argued, "shouldn't I want to warn the Chasers if a Bludger is coming at them?"
"No. The Beaters'll defend the Chasers. That's their job," Harry explained.
"But..."
"Dennis, the Beaters will cover you when you spot the Snitch and go after it! Trusting your Beaters will give you those extra feet you need to beat the other Seeker. Now, let's try again," Harry insisted. He signalled to the ground for Ginny to send everyone up for another go.
Harry led Dennis to his own favourite spot to Snitch-hunt. "This is an excellent vantage point, Dennis. You can see the whole pitch from here, and at this height, you stay well clear of the Bludgers... mostly..." Harry said, pointing to the action below. "Now watch for the Snitch."
Dennis watched carefully. "Um...when I watched you play, sometimes you'd fly around," Dennis said. "What were you doing?
"Any number of things," Harry replied. "Usually just looking around or hoping to fake-out the opposing Seeker."
"How do you do that," Dennis asked.
"Pretend to spot the Snitch and then act on it. Perhaps we can get in some private practise—just you and me—and I'll teach you a few of my trade secrets," Harry said. "Now, watch the field. Pay attention." Ginny had released the Snitch and it was flitting around Jessica's middle hoop.
"There it is," Dennis cried. "By our middle hoop!"
"Now go get it," Harry called.
Dennis crouched down low against his broom handle and took off like a shot toward the middle hoop, weaving to avoid Bludgers and Chasers. Harry gave him a head start and then raced after him. It was a merry chase for Harry on his Firebolt. Dennis' Cleansweep was really no match, but he still managed a right head of steam. It helped that Dennis was relatively small for a fifth-year, so Harry's greater size provided Dennis a slight advantage. The Snitch still flitted around the middle hoop where he had first spied it. He reached out his hand and was about to close his fingers over the Snitch when Harry edged by and snatched it first.
"You have to remember, Dennis, that the opposing Seeker will follow you if he or she notices you've seen it," Harry warned him. "But that was some excellent flying. You're learning to pay attention and that's half the battle."
Ginny's whistle blew, signalling the end of practice. "Showers, Gryffindors!"
The team descended in a spiralling pattern to avoid slamming into each other in the air. Each player landed safely and out of one another's path. Harry and Ginny landed last and met in a quick kiss before they walked arm-in-arm to the locker room. "How did Dennis do up there today," Ginny asked.
"His flying skills are adequate and his broom is sufficient, compared to what the other Seekers are flying. The real battle for him is focus. It's like he wants to be everything to everyone," Harry said.
"Hmm. Sounds like someone else I know...and love," Ginny said with a smirk.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah," Harry teased. "Anyway, with a little more work and maybe a private session or two, I can mould our young Seeker into mine own image."
"Right. Harry, when you popped out of the mould, they shattered it. You're one of a kind," she growled as she kissed then end of his nose. "Now shower, you!" She gave him a little pinch on his side.
"Ouch! Why dost thou abuse me, fair lady?"
"Because thou art a prat. Showers, Potter!" Care to join me?
Showered and dressed in their school uniforms and robes, the Gryffindor team trudged back toward the castle, followed by Harry and Ginny, Firebolts on their shoulders.
"I've got loads of homework to do," Ginny lamented. "I maybe be buried in it for life."
"I know what you mean, love," Harry agreed. "I've got a stack of Auror evaluations to study. Ministry paperwork is... much..."
"It's almost lunchtime. What say you we stow this gear and get some food in us before we think about tackling all of that," Ginny suggested.
"I'm all for that," Harry agreed. "Tell you what. I'll take this stuff up to our room and you go on in and save me a seat. Deal," Harry asked.
"Deal," she replied. "Hurry back."
She watched as Harry took the stairs two at a time carrying both their brooms and Ginny's sports bag. He calls that out of shape? Her eyes followed his retreating behind until he disappeared into the shadows above, then turned and entered the Great Hall.
"Damn, Creevey! Potter's training you personally," Ginny heard another fifth-year say to Dennis as she passed. She didn't slow down to hear the rest. Coach Potter. She just smiled to herself and kept on walking until she found their usual places at the head end of the table. Hermione wasn't there yet, so she decided she would wait for Harry.
Soon, he came bounding up the aisle and slid in next to her. "Hey, Captain Weasley," he said, putting his arm around her shoulders and giving her a squeeze.
"Hey, Coach Potter," she replied. "Let's eat. I'm famished and we have work to do." They tucked in to a lunch of hot chicken noodle soup with crusty bread and salad, with mulled cider to wash it all down. When they finished, they retired to their room to try and get a little work done.
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Harry had been anxiously awaiting delivery of their formal attire for the Convention Ball since they ordered them the previous week. It was to be held on Friday night, two days hence, and the robes and gown hadn't arrived yet. By lunchtime, Ginny was at the end of her rope with worry and Harry was fit to be tied with it. "If they're not here by supper tonight, I'm going to raise some hell," Harry promised her.
Just then, four owls swooped into the Great Hall with two large packages slung between them. They landed on the table in front of Harry and Ginny."They're here," Ginny squealed excitedly. "Harry, they're here!"
"Thank bloody Merlin," Harry breathed with a sigh of relief. "That's a load off!"
Ginny rummaged around in her robes for her ever-present packet of owl treats. She handed them to Harry as he poured some cider into a dish for them to drink. "Here you go, mates," Harry said, feeding them some treats. The owls hooted their appreciation and flew back out of the Hall. "We'd better take these upstairs so they don't get messy."
Harry grabbed the packages and Ginny her satchel and they made for the stairs leading to the Defence Against the Dark Arts corridor and their living quarters. As soon as they were inside, they began to unwrap their packages. "They're magnificent," Ginny said as she inspected Harry's new dress robes. They were coal black with deep green detailing that brought out the emerald of Harry's eyes and set off Ginny's flaming red hair. "You'll turn all the witches' heads." But I get to bring you home.
"Let's see that dress then," Harry said, eyebrows raised. Ginny lifted it out of the box and held up the emerald-green taffeta gown in front of her body for his approval. "Wow, Gin! It's beautiful," he said, his breath almost taken away. "I can't wait to see you in it." And out of it.
By the end of classes Friday afternoon, Ginny's excitement had built to fever pitch. She couldn't wait to get into that gorgeous gown for Harry. She arrived back at their room before him and took a quick shower. She removed her gown from the wardrobe and laid it out across the bed. Then she went to the bureau and took out another package she had hidden under her clean underclothes.
She opened it, revealing a delicate cream-coloured lace camisole and matching panties. She put them on and then pulled a pair of jeans and a shirt over them. She picked up her dress, carefully draping it over her arm and held her shoes in her hand underneath. She grabbed her kit with her free hand and left to meet Hermione in Gryffindor Tower for the mutual beautification ritual before Harry returned.
"Gin? Ginny, are you in here," Harry asked as he closed the door behind him. He guessed she must be with Hermione getting ready, because there was a wet towel hung over the chair at the table and Ginny's satchel lay next to the bed where she left it. "I'll just shower then, shall I," he asked the room.
When he was finished, he tried to beat his unruly raven locks into submission using his brush and a drying charm, but it still came out the same as always. He shook his head violently, hoping that might help, but it really didn't. He pulled on his fresh underclothes, chose an appropriate pair of black trousers and laid his new dress robes out on the bed. "Not bad, Potter. Not bad at all."
He felt her presence before she even came into the room. He felt her love and her nervousness through their bond. As she crossed the room, her taffeta gown rustled as she moved. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and turned around. He felt as though he'd been hit with a Bludger. His Light Goddess stood before him.
Her gown hugged every perfect curve as it gathered at her slender waist and hung luxuriously to the floor. Harry suspected that Hermione had applied a few modification spells to achieve this perfect fit. Its emerald green matched her engagement ring, the matching emerald earrings, and the delicate tiara she wore in her gracefully upswept hair. Around her neck, she wore the locket he'd given her for her birthday. She looked perfectly enchanting—exquisite in every way. He felt dizzy for a moment and even wavered a little, but caught himself on the bedpost. "Sorry. You've taken my breath away, you are so beautiful," he said.
Ginny stared at the young man who stood before her in his robes of black and green. His eyes glowed bright green as they conveyed the love she felt radiating toward her in waves. Her hero, her prince, her eternal love. She approached him and took his hands. "No, I felt it too. You look so very handsome. I won't be able to take my eyes off you the entire evening. And when we get back here, I'm going to make love to you," Ginny said with a smile as she momentarily lost herself in his soft eyes "Well, I'll make love to you after I've shagged you silly."
Harry leaned in to kiss this vision of loveliness. Her scent was intoxicating and it was all he could do to restrain himself from ravishing her on the spot. "Milady, thy beauty surpasses none other. Take thou mine arm and I shall escort thee safely to the ball," he said offering his arm.
"Sir Knight, thou art most gallant," she smiled and took it. They left for Professor McGonagall's office. Several younger students stopped and gaped at them. They could have been royalty. When they entered the office, they found Hermione there waiting anxiously for them. She looked stunning in a warm brown strapless gown that set off her hair beautifully. The entire effect would match Ron's ginger hair and fair complexion perfectly.
"I can't wait to get there," Hermione said excitedly. "I haven't seen Ron in three weeks!"
They Flooed to the Ministry and were immediate escorted to one of its many banquet halls where the ball was to be held. They met up with Neville, who had Hannah on his arm. "We're making it official today," he told them, gazing lovingly at Hannah.
"As in..." Harry urged.
Hannah stretched out her left hand and the ring she wore.
"Neville, Hannah," Harry said "Congratulations."
The other three joined in the mini-celebration consisting of hugs and the girls admiring the ring.
Arthur and Molly had already arrived with Percy, who had asked Fleur to be his date. Smart choice Perce, a stunning beauty by your side, but no risk for nasty rumours in the newspapers since she's your sister-in-law. The hall had been magically enlarged as most of the Ministry staff and international guests were there. A number of reporters were also in attendance, both from the Prophet and international press such as the French Magie Aujourd'hui, the Danish Troldmand og Hekse, and a leading American paper called The Wisconsin Witchcraft Herald. As they entered the hall, a Ministry herald announced their arrival.
"Mr Neville Longbottom OMSC and Miss Hannah Abbott!" The crowd went silent as a page ushered them to their table.
"Mr Ronald Weasley OMFC and Miss Hermione Granger OMFC!" The crowd began to murmur as another page ushered them to their table.
By this time, every reporter had shifted his or her attention toward the entrance. They all knew who would enter next. "Lord Harry Potter OMFC and Miss Ginevra Weasley OMSC!" The room fell silent as they crossed the floor. Everyone in the hall seemed stunned for a moment by Ginny's beauty and the glowing love beaming from her and Harry.
Immediately cameras began to flash again as the crowd resumed its buzz of conversation. Kingsley approached them and escorted them to a table where the prominent international guests were seated and introduced them to several other Heads of Wizarding communities from abroad.
"I'm so happy you're here with me," Harry whispered to Ginny "I wouldn't be able to do this without you."
"Whatever do you mean," Ginny asked.
"Ever since I returned to the Wizarding world, I had to get used to everyone staring at me. Tonight, you are the centre of attention." Ginny held tighter to Harry and sent a short burst of her love through their bond. Harry breathed deeply as he felt her love embrace him.
The ball started with a dinner, after which Kingsley declared the convention opened and expressed his hopes for increased co-operation in the Wizarding world. After a while, Neville asked for everyone's attention. The once shy and clumsy boy had grown into a confident young man.
"I have an announcement to make. In the spirit of co-operation, as a student I witnessed the Triwizard Tournament between Hogwarts, Durmstrang and Beauxbatons in 1994," Neville said. "In the same spirit, I earlier today accepted an invitation to become the new Assistant Professor of Herbology at Beauxbatons Academy this coming year. This lovely lady here with me," Hannah stood, "is Miss Hannah Abbott. Before we came here tonight, I asked her to accompany me to France as Mrs Longbottom. We are happy to announce our engagement."
Applause broke out all around the hall as the French representative shook their hands, welcoming them to France.
The American Secretary of Magic, Arlan Listenbee, stood to address the assembly. He gave a passionate speech about the importance of Magical cooperation. In closing, he asked Harry to come forward. Harry got up and with Ginny by his side, approached the American wizard. "Mr Potter, sir. Your deeds here in Britain echo throughout America. I'd like take this opportunity to express the gratitude of the American Wizarding community for freeing the world from a great evil. Without your steadfastness and diligent work, this convention could never have been possible. On a personal note, I also wish to congratulate you and Miss Weasley. The news of your engagement has also reached America. Therefore, I wish to propose a toast to this lovely couple, and to Mr Longbottom and Miss Abbott. Congratulations! Cheers!" The American wizard raised his glass and the crowd answered in kind. He stepped back and applauded and with a nod from Kingsley Harry understood he was expected to speak.
"It's a great honour to be here tonight and my thanks to you, sir," Harry said nodding to Mr Listenbee. "If there is anything I learned from fighting Tom Riddle, it's the value of friendship and of love." Harry couldn't help taking Ginny's hand and looking at her. "During the Battle of Hogwarts, it wasn't skill in duel, mastery of magic, or powerful spells that won the battle; It was friendship and love. I think that's what this convention is really about too—building friendships and strengthening relationships between the great Wizarding communities around the world. I believe in this wholeheartedly and place my I trust in the wise leaders gathered here and that they will strengthen their friendships and create a strong foundation for peace."
Harry and Ginny returned to their seats under a round of applause. Following the programme of speeches, an orchestra began to play. Harry turned to Ginny and took her hand."May I have this dance," he asked her.
"Of course," she said and he helped her to stand. She took his arm and he led her to the floor. Harry had never enjoyed dancing, but this time it felt like floating. Harry had eyes only for Ginny and her scent once again intoxicated him. He took her in his arms and they began to move in time with the music.
"Are you sure you didn't spike your perfume with a love potion, Ginny," Harry asked coyly. "This is all so new tonight. It's a new closeness—a new...something...but I love you more tonight than ever before." Temptation, thy name is Ginevra.
"No, but I feel it too. It's incredible," she smiled dreamily.
Despite his wishes, he couldn't dance all evening with only Ginny. He had to dance with several international witches, among them Mrs Listenbee, America's First Witch. Ginny, in her turn, danced with the several high-ranking wizards. When the two sat down to rest, Kingsley approached them accompanied by a middle-aged wizard holding a clipboard and a quill.
"Harry, Ginny. Let me introduce Mr Douglas Sheldon of the Wisconsin Witchcraft Herald. He's here all the way from a small town in the states covering the convention," Kingsley said.
"Mr Sheldon," Harry said a little stiffly. Ginny gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. She knew Harry didn't like to do interviews.
"Mr Potter, Miss Weasley. Pleased to met you," Sheldon said, shaking both their hands.
"Mr Sheldon has asked if you would give him a short interview, ten minutes at the most," Kingsley said with a look that said, please do it.
Harry sought Ginny's opinion with his eyes and she gave him a slight nod indicating that he should.
"All right, but Ginny stays," Harry agreed.
"No problem, Mr Potter," Sheldon replied. "That's quite all right."
"Please," Ginny said gesturing to an empty chair. "Sit down." Sheldon sat down and pulled out his list of questions. It was indeed a short one. He looks honest enough and he's been very polite. She could see that Harry was still uncomfortable. Sheldon seemed to notice.
"Mr Sheldon," Harry began.
"Doug, please. We Cheeseheads don't hold with a lot of formalities," he grinned.
"Cheeseheads? What does that mean," Ginny asked, slightly amused.
"Wisconsin is known as America's Dairyland. There are several hundred cheese factories all over the state, most of which are family-owned. We just love our cheese, Wizardkind and Mundanes... um... Muggles alike," he chuckled. Harry couldn't help but laugh as he got a mental picture of the people of Wisconsin wandering about with cheese on their heads.
"So Mr Potter," Doug began.
"Harry, please," he said.
"Okay, Harry then. This is going to be a human interest piece. We've heard all the hype and legend about your life, but I think you're just a regular guy in an irregular situation. Is that right?"
"Right in one, Doug," Harry said letting out a sigh of relief. "Right in one."
"Well, let's get this show on the road so you can get back to the party," Doug said, taking out his quill. He asked his questions, taking notes as Harry and Ginny spoke. The interview felt so comfortable, it went on for a good half hour before Douglas Sheldon took his leave.
"Harry," he said, extending his hand, "it's been a real pleasure. Ginny, thanks."
"Sure, no problem," Harry said. "Enjoy the ball." Doug rose and headed back toward the press table amid looks of shock and awe from his colleagues.
"He seemed nice enough," Ginny said. "No embarrassing personal questions, no digging for dirt."
"Yeah, that's a nice change of pace, isn't it," Harry smiled. "And he even took his own notes, with the quill in his hand and everything!" The two of them laughed a little, but found themselves caught up in one another's gaze. They arose together and returned to the dance floor and held each other as they danced, stealing kisses as the cameras flashed once more.
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While Harry and Ginny talked with the reporter, Ron and Hermione slipped away from the ball and found an unlocked room just off the main corridor. Ron pulled her into the room and cast Colloportus and Impervious charms on it. He'd no sooner than turned back toward Hermione that she leapt into his arms and claimed his lips in a scorching kiss.
At first, Ron had been taken by surprise, but a split-second later, he had her in a crushing embrace and his tongue dancing around her mouth. "'Mione," he mumbled into her mouth. "How I've missed you." He felt his stomach flip over as a warmth began to course through his body, filling him with that familiar primal need that invaded every fibre of his being. "I love you."
Hermione had wrapped herself around her man the best she could in a formal gown. She just couldn't get close enough to him. She longed for him every minute of every day, and after three weeks, her desire for him had once again reached fever pitch. "I want you now, Ronald Weasley. Right here, right now!" She began to unfasten his robes.
"But 'Mione," Ron said, not really protesting. "Your hair, your makeup."
"What about it," she growled as she tore open his shirt and began unfastening his trousers. "I'm a witch. I can fix it."
"It'll...they'll..." Ron stammered. "You..."
"Ronald, shut up and help me out of this damned dress," Hermione snarled as she continued to undress him.
"You don't have to tell me twice," he mumbled as he reached around and began to slowly lower the zip that held her gown on her body. He buried his face into her neck and took in her lavender and vanilla scent. It drove him wild. Her dress dropped to the floor. She was stark naked having worn no knickers. "You are quite the little temptress tonight, aren't you, Love," he whispered as he ran his hands down her body and latched on to her hips.
Hermione didn't answer. She simply picked up her wand and conjured a huge fluffy pouffe. Ron's robes had long since fallen to the floor with his trousers. She had only to get him out of the rest. She let go of him and climbed seductively onto them. "Coming," she asked.
Not yet. Ron stared at the beauty sitting the pouffe before him, one leg drawn up with her arms wrapped around it. Her hair had been pinned up exposing her elegant neck and soft shoulders. Ron blinked as his head began to spin. He kicked off his shoes and socks, then slipped off his boxers and crawled onto the pouffe with Hermione. He took her in his arms and cradled her against his chest. He gazed into her cinnamon brown eyes and leaned in, claiming her lips with his own.
Hermione reached up her free arm and ran it across his broad chest and around his neck. She buried her fingers in his thick ginger hair and began to moan under his kiss and hot caresses. Her body shuddered under the touch she'd dreamed about those three lonely work-filled weeks and she began to whimper. "Ron, please," she cried softly.
"Please what, Love," Ron answered, teasing her as he placed tiny kisses down her neck and across her throat.
"Please take me. I need you to take me now," she moaned arching in to him the best she could in her current position. "It's been too long. Take me!"
His brain exploded with desire as he tore his lips from her neck lifted her out of his lap onto the pouffe. She adjusted her body to receive his. He positioned himself above her and locked his mesmerising blue eyes on hers. They had gone cobalt with his passion. "Ron," she cried as he filled her. They became lost in their own world. No Ministry. No ball. No crowd. Just them—Ron and Hermione. Their rhythm, at first frantic like a Baroque symphony, settled into a romantic concerto of kisses, caresses, loving words of encouragement, and sensation. "Ron I love you so much."
"'Mione, love," he breathed into her neck. "I can't hold out much longer." He began to pick up the pace. "I love you so much. You're so beautiful. I can't..." His body stiffened as she cried out on the edge of the abyss. "Oh gods," he groaned in release as a wave of ecstasy rolled over them, drowning them in the glow of their intense love for one another. The abyss welcomed them home.
They lay there in a gentle embrace for only a little while, gazing contentedly into one another's eyes. Ron kissed Hermione's flushed face over and over, stroking her hair. She's just so beautiful—I can't get enough of her.
"Ron," whispered Hermione. "We should get back."
"Yeah, I know," he replied, his voice reluctant. "They'll miss us if they haven't already."
They shared one last passionate kiss and then arose to dress. Hermione conjured a mirror and with a flick of her wand, her hair redressed itself. With another flick, her make-up returned to order. Ron helped her back into her gown. As he finished fastening his robes, she banished the pouf, leaving no evidence of their tryst. Ron released the charms on the door and they returned to the ball just in time to join Harry and Ginny in the last dance of the evening.
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The next morning Harry and Ginny awoke in their room at the Burrow. Professor McGonagall had granted permission for Ginny to stay at the Burrow for the weekend. Following a brief morning snog, the two descended the stairs to breakfast. Molly sat at the table, the Daily Prophet spread out on the table before her.
"You two..." Molly said, pointing at the paper. "There's a convention to promote international Wizarding cooperation, but you make the headlines."
"What? We didn't do anything," Harry protested. "It was Neville who announced his engagement."
"You didn't do anything? Look for yourselves," Molly said and turned the paper so they could read it. There was a big picture of him and Ginny dancing. Ginny looked absolutely stunning in the picture. Below it, the accompanying article:
The Brightest Star At the Convention Ball
The convention for International Wizarding Cooperation, hosted by the Ministry of Magic, opened with a ball last evening. Those in attendance all agree that all activity in the hall came to a halt at the presentation of Mr Harry Potter and Miss Ginevra Weasley. As they entered, we finally understood the meaning of Albus Dumbledore's never-ending talk about love. The couple stunned the hall as love radiated from them. Miss Weasley's beauty can only be compared in grandeur with Mr Potter's courage. Following a truly enchanted evening, there are high hopes for the negotiations today.
Next, Molly showed the front page of a special issue of Witch Weekly emblazoned with a picture of Ginny at the ball. The headline said The Most Beautiful Witch In the Country.
"Well there's something," Harry grinned his Harry grin. "This is the first time I agree with Witch Weekly on anything." He put his arm around Ginny's waist and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
Ginny smiled. "Thank you, Harry. But don't those reporters have any news to report?"
"They did. You are the news to them," Molly said. "Here, have some breakfast. What's happening at school?" Molly Weasley could change direction faster than the Golden Snitch at the Quidditch World Cup.
"Dumbledore's Army have been interviewed, so I'll keep working with them, while I try to schedule someone from the Ministry to work with us on theory. And Ginny's first Quidditch match is coming up in a couple of weeks."
"Well then dears, focus on that and don't mind the press. Lee Jordan will take care of that," she advised. "Tea?"
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On Monday afternoon, Harry met with the Auror trainees from the DA again. "I have the evaluations from everyone's interviews and tests here," Harry said, waving a packet of parchment. "As you are aware by now, they put us through the actual Auror exam. Overall, we scored high on the practical tests, but our scores were weak on the theory. However, both Head Auror Robards and Minister Shacklebolt are impressed with our work and report that we have exceeded their expectations." There was a satisfied buzz among the trainees.
Since we are so lacking in the theoretical aspects of Ministry structure and Auror Office mandate—and when I say we, I include myself—I've petitioned Head Auror Robards and Minister Shacklebolt to send us an instructor from the Ministry to teach us. But until I get an answer, we'll just continue drilling and duelling. Today, though, we're going to try something new—Occlumency and Legilimency.
"What is Occlu...Legi...what are those exactly," Susan asked.
"Legilimency is the act of entering the mind of another person to gain information. Occlumency is defence against attempted Legilimency. Now, I must tell you I have never taught any of this, personally, but my teacher for these disciplines was Professor Snape, and he was a master of both. So was Tom Riddle—Voldemort." The group winced slightly at the mention of that name.
"I had to practise these disciplines in order to keep Riddle out of my head, but also to find out about his own plans and movements. For this exercise, you'll team up. One of you must attempt to enter the other's mind. The other must try to discipline his or her mind, clearing it and closing it to keep the partner out." Fifteen minutes later, Harry realized this wasn't working. No one was able to use Legilimency, and for that reason, it was impossible to practice Occlumency. He decided he'd have to do this himself, at least until the others caught on.
"All right. You have made a great effort for the first time, and this takes time to learn and even longer to master. I will perform Legilimency on each one of you and you will shut me out." Harry said. "While you wait your turn, practise duelling with those new spells we learned last week."
Harry worked them one by one until finally, it was Cho's turn. He went into it with some trepidation because of his failed relationship with her. He could tell she was feeling a bit awkward herself, so he encouraged her to control her emotions and close her mind.
"Legilimens" Harry said and pointed his wand at her. He met no resistance as he entered her mind. "Cho, fight me. Shut me out. Control your emotions," Harry told her.
As he drew images and feelings from her about their crush, it embarrassed him. Cho completely lost control as images of Cedric lying dead emerged. When Harry's and Cho's first kiss played in her mind, Harry stopped.
"I'm sorry, Cho, but the only way to learn this is the hard way. If I had been your enemy, you would have been putty in my hands at this point. I'm really sorry."
"No Harry, don't be sorry. You're right. I need to control this if I'm ever going to pass the test. It's just..." She started to cry. "I thought I was over the loss of Cedric and don't misunderstand me, but I thought I was over you, too. I don't have those feelings for you anymore, but I think you just remind me of Cedric," she sobbed.
"Cho, do you know what happened to Cedric," Harry asked her sympathetically.
"I know that he was murdered with the Killing curse on Voldemort's orders," she replied shakily, wiping her eyes.
"I think I can help you, but I have to do something first," Harry said. "I'll try to let you know at supper." At the end of class, Harry dismissed the DA and made a bee-line for Professor McGonagall's office. "Professor," Harry said as he stepped into her office. "Could I have a word?"
"Certainly, Mr Potter. What can I do for you," she replied over her square frames.
He explained what had happened during the Auror training class with Cho and asked her permission to use her office for about an hour. Professor McGonagall considered Harry's request and could think of no reason not to allow it. Having secured permission, he hurried off to his and Ginny's room.
"Hi, you look troubled," Ginny said, as she rose to give him a kiss."You okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine, but I started practice in Legilimency and Occlumency today. It's going to take time, and in order to have them trained, I had used Legilimency all afternoon on all of them. It was exhausting," He told her as he ran his hands through his hair.
"I can imagine," she nodded, "but what's the problem?"
"It's necessary to master both disciplines to become an Auror. Ginny, there's something I need to do...for Cho."
Ginny glared at him. "What," she asked sharply "You've been in Cho Chang's mind?"
"And in Seamus', and Lavender's, and Susan's—the lot. But listen," he said, sending his love through their connection, calming Ginny down.
"Cho has mourned Cedric, but working with me is a daily reminder of his death. She needs to let go and move on."
Ginny's breathing evened as she calmed down. "So what are you going to do to help her?"
"I want to take her into the Pensieve and show her what happened the night Cedric died. She needs to see, and I need you there by my side to face it again. Professor McGonagall has already approved it, so will you please," he asked her hopefully. "I can't do this without you there."
Ginny nodded and took Harry's hand. "Of course I will. I'm sorry I overreacted."
"There's nothing to forgive, love. Neither the Pensieve nor Legilimency are anything like our connection. You'll understand when the time comes...and this really has nothing to do with the crush I once had on Cho. I'd do the same for any one of the others."
"I know you would," she replied softly, reaching up to place a warm hand on his face. He drew her into a tight embrace and buried his face in her hair, breathing in her intoxicating scent.
"I love you, my sweet Ginny," he whispered as he took her face in his hands and kissed her tenderly, pouring all of his love into it. She responded and a warm tidal wave broke over them as they stood there holding one another sending their deep love for one another through their bond. I can't live without you.
They didn't know how long they had stood there like that, but when they came to themselves again, they realized it was time for supper. When they entered the Great Hall, they stopped by the Ravenclaw table to have a word with Cho. She still looked weepy and shaken from the events of the afternoon.
"Cho, I need you to come to Professor McGonagall's office after dinner," Harry said, holding fast to Ginny's hand.
Ginny gave his hand a gentle squeeze as she sent a shot of her love and support to him. He's afraid. I can feel his doubt. He doesn't want to revisit that awful night. Be strong for him, Gin. He's counting on you.
"Of course, Harry," Cho replied a bit raggedly. "Just let me know when you're ready." She turned sad eyes to the plate in front of her. It looked as though she hadn't touched a bite of food, instead just moving it around on her plate until it was all jumbled together like a casserole.
"We'll signal you as soon as we've finished eating," Ginny said. "Just watch for us to get up and leave, then follow a minute or two later. We'll be by the gargoyle waiting for you. Is that okay, Harry?"
"Works for me, and it won't arouse suspicion or even curiosity," Harry agreed.
"All right then," Cho said, staring back down at her plate.
Harry and Ginny turned back to the Gryffindor table just as the Munchkins arrived with their new friend, Joseph, in tow. "Harry! Ginny," Emma, Erica, and Patricia cried as they ran to greet their friends. Joseph brought up the rear. "'Ello 'Arry, 'ello Miss Ginny," he said in his signature Cockney.
"Hey, Munchkins! Hey, Joseph," Harry replied brightly, tousling his hair. "What's new in Firstieland?"
The girls began to giggle while Joseph blushed. Erica spoke up. "We saw your pictures in the Daily Prophet and on the cover of Witch Weekly," Erica said with a big smile. "You looked so beautiful, Ginny, and Harry, you looked so handsome!"
"Just like Cinderella and Prince Charming," Patricia added. "Um...were Hermione and Ron at the ball too?"
"Yes, they were," Ginny answered. "She looked stunning. She had her hair all pinned up and everything. Ron looked quite dashing in his dress robes."
Emma leaned in to Ginny's ear as if to tell her a secret. "Joseph is carrying your picture from Witch Weekly in his robes. He thinks you're beautiful."
"We mustn't tell Harry, then," Ginny said conspiratorially as she stole a glance at Joseph. "He might be jealous." Emma's face fell a little. "What is it, love? What's wrong," Ginny asked her little friend.
Emma's eyes began to water and her bottom lip began to tremble. Harry happened to notice and took her little hand and pulled her to him. "What's the matter, princess? Tell us."
Emma kept her eyes firmly on her feet. "It's just that...that..." she couldn't finish because she began to cry. Harry looked at Ginny as if to ask if she knew what Emma could be crying about.
Ginny helped Harry comfort a sobbing Emma. "Joseph's carrying the picture of me from Witch Weekly in his robes," Ginny whispered.
"He has fine taste in women, then," Harry smiled. Emma sobbed harder. "Don't cry, Em." It can't be that...can it?
"Emma, do you fancy Joseph," Ginny asked only loud enough for her and Harry to hear. She looked up at the other three. They were busy eating and chattering away about their Potions homework. Emma nodded into Harry's chest and began to sob again.
"Does he know you fancy him," Harry asked. "Did you tell him?"
Emma shook her head, her face still hidden in Harry's chest.
"Then you should tell him."
Emma looked up at Harry, eyes wide with horror. "I…I couldn't!"
"Why not? He'll never know if you don't tell him," Harry countered. The voice of experience.
"But he might laugh at me. I'd die," she whimpered.
"Then write him a note to slip into his book bag when he isn't looking," Ginny suggested.
"Or she could take a leaf out of your book and..." Harry began, but Ginny cut across him.
"Don't you dare, Harry James Potter," Ginny said in mock horror, a grin spreading across her face. "She'd be mortified," she added in a whisper.
"Do you think it'll work," Emma asked, wiping her eyes.
"It's better than nothing at all. Then he'll know how you feel and you'll know how he feels," Ginny assured her. If the little git mans up and reads it.
"Thanks, Ginny. Thanks, Harry. I'll try that," Emma said, still a little weepy.
"Now, Miss Emma Prewett. Chin up and give us a smile," Harry said, wiping the last of her tears away. Emma smiled weakly. "That's more like it!" Emma went around the table to sit with her sister and her two friends to eat.
Harry and Ginny sat at the table gazing into each other's eyes. Harry held her hand to his lips and kept kissing it as he admired her radiance. She gazed transfixed at the way his face shined as he watched her. His gorgeous green eyes glittered like gems in the light from the floating candles above. The world had once again melted away and there was only the two of them under the artificial night sky portrayed on the ceiling.
Finally, Ginny broke the reverie. "We really should get this over with, Harry. It's getting late."
"I know. I'm just a little...I don't know...worried," he said sadly.
"I know you are. I can feel it—I can feel how much just thinking about that night hurts you," she said, sending calm feelings through their bond. "I'll be right there, I promise."
"I couldn't do this without you, Gin. You're my lifeline." They stood up to leave. Ginny caught Cho's eye and gave her a slight nod. Harry took Ginny's hand and they began to walk back down the aisle toward the Entrance Hall. Just as they turned to climb the great stone staircase, Cho rose to follow.
Harry and Ginny were waiting at the gargoyle when Cho arrived. Harry gave the password, "Tartan," and the gargoyle jumped aside allowing them to pass. The Pensieve was already prepared and waiting for them on the headmistress' desk.
"Cho," Harry began, "this might be difficult—this will be difficult, but I want you to see the events leading up to Cedric's death." He put his wand to his temple, extracting a fine silvery thread and then dropped it into the stone vessel on the desk. It shimmered and swirled inside it. "We'll go into this Pensieve together into my memory."
"Does that hurt," Cho asked with wide eyes.
"No, it doesn't hurt, at least not physically." Harry replied trying to keep his courage up. This is harder than I thought.
"Go on then," Cho said as her hands began to shake.
"I think you need to see this. I have also asked Ginny to join us, simply because I need her to help me face this again. We will see Tom Riddle return to life—it's one of my worse memories—but I think it will give you what you need to finally get on with your life," Harry told her.
Cho nodded and followed him into the Pensieve. They landed on their feet as they watched the horrors of that night in the graveyard unfold. They watched as Harry and Cedric approached the Triwizard cup and decided to grab it together at Harry's suggestion after Cedric had offered it to Harry. They watched the two champions appear in the cemetery with the Triwizard Cup clutched between them. They heard the snakelike voice of Voldemort give Wormtail the order to kill the spare, followed by a flash of green light. Cho began to shake and sob as Cedric's lifeless body fell to the ground with a dull thud, his soft eyes staring, but seeing nothing.
The scene shifted. A bleeding Harry sat pinned to Tom Riddle Sr's gravestone as Wormtail severed his own hand and dropped it into a giant cauldron. The liquid in the cauldron changed colour until it became blinding white. A formless hominid mass erupted from it and began to take on the shape of a man—a man with a snake's face and glowering red snake's eyes. Watching this felt almost like facing a powerful Dementor for Harry.
The scene shifted again. Harry and Cho watched as Harry and Voldemort were locked in a battle of wills. A ball of light travelled between their wands, moving slowly toward Voldemort. All at once, ghostly figures seemed to climb out of Voldemort's wand—Cedric, an old man, a red-haired woman, and finally a man with messy hair and glasses who bore an uncanny resemblance to Harry. Cho thought they must be his parents. They stood beside the memory Harry and appeared to be talking to him. Each of the ghostly figures seemed to be talking to him as Harry held off Voldemort while his Death Eaters hung back.
The scene shifted yet again. They watched as Harry pelted through the graveyard, dodging spell after spell, Voldemort screaming for his Death Eaters to leave Harry to him. Cho watched in horror as the memory Harry desperately threw himself onto Cedric's body and summoned the Triwizard Cup and they reappeared outside the maze. The memory dissipated and Cho found herself back in McGonagall's office.
Harry lay on the floor, shivering in a cold sweat, his face grey as death. Ginny could feel Harry's pain and anguish. Her heart broke for him as her tears flowed like tiny rivers down her face. "Ginny," Harry moaned, anguish clouding his handsome features. "Please ho-hold me. S-so co-cold. C-can't feel. I...I need your lo-love." She pulled his upper body into her lap and cradled him in her arms as a mother would a sick or frightened child. She held his icy hand in hers and willed him all her love in great bursts and waves, placing comforting kisses on his tormented brow until the colour returned to his pallid skin, while Cho looked on in wonder. The air around them crackled, charged with some unknown power. As soon as strength returned to his body, Harry sat up and took Ginny in a loving embrace, further comforted by her scent. "I couldn't have faced that without you."
"He didn't stand a chance, did he," Cho sobbed.
"No. He was just murdered in cold blood," Harry replied regretfully. "All I could do was bringing him back with me."
"In my mind, I've asked myself over and over if he could have made it, but there was no escape for him. I see that now," Cho said as if explaining it to herself. "Thank you, Harry. I can only imagine what this must have been like for you. Now that I understand what happened that night, I can let go of Cedric and let him rest," she said, brightening a little."In class, I can focus on the good times we've had Harry. The Quidditch games, training with the DA, and, excuse me for saying this Ginny, but...our first kiss. I'll be able to concentrate." Harry felt gratified that this exercise in terror had been worth it, at least for Cho.
"It's all right," Ginny said. "You should remember all of that, including your first kiss, as one of those good times. If you both decide to become Aurors, you'll work in the same office. I wouldn't want an old crush to make that awkward for either of you, since you'd have to depend on each other and possibly trust each other with your lives."
"Thanks again, Harry," Cho said as she stepped toward the door. "And Ginny...look after him, okay?" She opened the door and was gone.
Harry extracted his memory from the Pensieve with his wand and placed it back into his mind, leaving the Pensieve on the desk where he found it. Hand-in-hand, he and Ginny left the office quietly. They strolled to their quarters in silence, both too tired to speak another word. Harry gave the password and the door clicked open. They stepped inside, Harry started a fire with a wave of him hand, and they made ready for bed. They nestled wearily under the covers, falling asleep in one another's arms.
At breakfast on Monday, Kreacher Apparated with a letter for Harry. "Master's Muggle cousin wanted you to have this. As Kreacher is commanded by Master, he delivers it." Kreacher turned to Ginny and bowed "I am most pleased to meet Mistress Ginny."
"Kreacher, we have met before."
"Certainly, Mistress. Kreacher wouldn't forget, but Mistress Ginny is Master's fiancée and Kreacher's new Mistress."
"Kreacher, could you please call me Ginny?"
"Kreacher, I would rather like you to call us Harry and Ginny instead of Master and Mistress."
"As you wish, Mast... Harry." Kreacher had a hard time not using the title. Harry glanced at Hermione, who gave him an approving smile.
"I'm not ordering you Kreacher, but it would please us," Harry said.
"Yes Harry...and Ginny" Kreacher said, bowing. He Disapparated with a loud crack!
Harry opened the letter and read:
Harry,
I can't believe it's almost two months ago we met. A lot has happened. First I must tell you I have moved out from Dad and Mum. My new address is last in this letter. It's been a long time coming, ever after that day we were attacked, but when I returned from your birthday, Dad freaked out. I told him I wished Hermione had turned him into a toad and moved out that night. Mum has of course visited me, but not Dad. He's becoming more and more paranoid and blames everything bad in the world on your kind, at least that's what Mum tells me. He is totally unfair but he doesn't care. Enough about my Dad, as you probably don't care anyway.
Happier news is that I have met a girl. We met the day after your birthday. Her name is Penny and we met at the local W H Smith, near my new place. Pathetic, isn't it? I was there to get the latest boxing magazines, and this cute girl was there browsing them. I asked if she was interested in boxing. She said the liked a lot of sports, but her Dad was particularly interested in boxing. Anyway we started to talk about sports and then we went to Costa next door for a cup of coffee and continued talking about almost everything. Before I knew it, it was three hours later.
We've been dating ever since. I've met some of her friends and she has asked me about mine. Come to think of it, I don't really have any friends. I told her I used to be this complete prat. In fact the only time I've felt halfway decent lately, except for being with Penny, was at your party. I would really like to see you again, and you could meet Penny. It would be great to introduce her to someone I know for once. Of course, she doesn't know about your kind. She's a year younger than me and studying to become a sports reporter. I have weekends off, so I'll leave it up to you to set a date if you would like to meet me and Penny.
Dudley
"A girlfriend? I've got to meet her." Harry said. "Do you think it would be possible to invite them to the Quidditch game?"
Ginny looked at him."They don't usually invite Muggles, do they?"
"No, but Dudley already knows about us, and maybe it's all right for his girlfriend to know about us too. After all, he agreed to stay in hiding last year. Maybe we can pull some strings."
"You really care about Dudley, don't you?"
"I didn't used to, but he has changed and he's the only family I have. Well, I don't really count Uncle Vernon or Aunt Petunia. We will probably never be close, but it would be nice to see him from time to time. I think I'll write Kingsley and find out if we can figure something out." Harry scribbled out a quick answer and called for Kreacher once again. When the old house elf appeared, Harry handed him the reply to take to Dudley.
Kingsley owled Harry the next day saying that arrangements would be made for his cousin and his girlfriend to attend the Quidditch match at Hogwarts. Harry scratched out the invitation to Dudley and sent it by school owl, then hurried off to class with the DA.
Cho had gained a new confidence as she continued to train. Her duelling skills sharpened and she was the first in the class to actually enter another's mind. Kingsley sent Percy Weasley to teach Ministry Organization. Percy's lectures were only slightly less-boring than Professor Binns' History of Magic class, but they all paid attention and took notes because they had to learn it to pass the Auror exam.
Ginny drilled the team five times per week, co-coordinating the Chasers with the Beaters and giving Jessica a real workout. Harry worried that she would wear herself out between the gruelling training sessions and piles of homework.
"Gin, you're going to kill yourself. You're working five sessions a week with the team. On top of that, your homework load is staggering. I'm worried about you, love," Harry said one evening in their room.
'Harry, I'm fine. I'm keeping up..."
"Only just. You're not getting enough rest..."
"I want that Cup, Harry, and it'll take an act of Nature to stop me," she said determinedly.
"That's what I'm afraid of," Harry replied darkly.
Ginny would not relent and Harry gave up arguing with her. He just kept sending her bursts of love and positive energy through their bond when she looked as though she might falter. He continued to work with Dennis, releasing a Snitch and then racing Dennis to catch it. Finally, during the last practice before their first game, Dennis beat Harry to it fair and square. Harry decided it was time to teach Dennis the Wronski Feint.
"Well done, Dennis! You finally beat me to it," Harry called in congratulations.
"Only once, though, and you have been using one of the school's Cleansweeps," Dennis said.
"That's beside the point. No one else will be flying a Firebolt, but even then, you nearly outstripped me. You'll make an excellent Seeker."
"Thanks, Harry. Say, could you teach me that diving thing you do—where you nearly crash and then pull up really quickly," Dennis asked hopefully.
"That's called the Wronski Feint. Now, when you see the Snitch..." Harry went on to explain how the Wronski Feint worked and then demonstrated. "The trick is all in knowing when to pull up. We'll start with you pulling up at twenty-five feet and then go from there. Deal?"
Dennis would have to gain some upper body strength to master this manoeuvre, so he wouldn't be using it in the first game, but Harry assured him he'd do well without it. "Don't worry. Ravenclaw has a new Seeker, too, but you've got nothing to worry about. You'll be brilliant!"
The rest of the practice, Harry watched Ginny and the rest of the team co-ordinate their flying and create a list of plays. They looked strong and Ginny flew so fast. She was a brilliant Chaser, but with her flying skills, she could be a great Seeker too.
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On the day of the match, Harry gave Ginny a firm kiss for luck as she left the breakfast table to gather the team. Harry checked the clock. It was still two hours until the match and half an hour before Penny would arrive. They agreed it was better that Harry arrived before Penny as it might come as a bit of a shock to her if he just popped in out of thin air. Harry left the grounds to Apparate to Dudley's flat. When he arrived, Dudley was lying in his bed watching telly. He jumped when Harry Apparated in front of him.
"Hey there Harry! You scared me! Anyway, it's good to see you again."
"Good to see you too, Dud." Harry said "I don't usually apparate right into someone's home, but I wasn't sure if there was a good apparation spot in this neighbourhood."
"No worries Harry. So, what's going on? You sounded rather shady when you said you had a great plan. And where's Ginny," Dudley asked.
"You'll see. I'll tell you all about it when that girlfriend of yours arrives," Harry smiled.
"What have you've been up to so far," Dudley asked.
"I'm leading a training programme for future Aurors," Harry said. "Dark wizard catchers. And of course the best of all. I proposed to Ginny. What about you?"
"Really? You're getting married? Congratulations, Harry! Me, I didn't get around to study last year, so I'm working on getting my grades up so I might get into police training. Muggle bad guys catchers," Dudley grinned. They continued talking, mostly about their related choices of education. Soon there was a knock at the door. "Wait here, Harry."
Dudley answered the door. Harry heard Dudley telling Penny he had a surprise for her. "I want you to meet my cousin. He made the plans for today but he said he didn't want to say anything before you got here," Harry heard him say. Dudley brought Penny into his only room from the small hallway. She was, as Dudley had written, quite cute.
Harry stretched out his hand. "Hello. I'm Harry Potter," he greeted her, enjoying not being recognized or eyes darting towards his forehead.
"Hello, I'm Penny Taylor. It's nice to finally meet the only person Dudley ever really talks about."
Harry shot a surprised look at Dudley. "Really?"
"Yes, the two of you must be close, but he told me you attend a school in another part of the country."
"Scotland, actually. I was raised by Dudley's parents after mine were killed."
"Oh no," Penny said sympathetically. "I'm so sorry."
Harry found it very strange and a bit refreshing to talk with someone who didn't knew everything about his past. "It's all right."
Penny changed the subject. "Dudley tells me you have a surprise for us today."
"Yeah, you could say that." Harry grinned. A bigger surprise than you'd imagine. "He told me you want to be a sports reporter. I was planning on taking you to a match and after that, dinner."
"Lovely," Penny said. "Are we waiting for someone else?"
"No, we'll be meeting my friends at the match," Harry said "And my fiancée is captain of the team we are cheering for..." Harry paused and thought about how he would go on. "... and I can guarantee it will be the first time you've ever seen this sport."
"Now I'm curious," Penny said.
"We're going to a Quidditch match."
Penny looked at Harry and then at Dudley. "Never heard of it." she said thoughtfully.
"It's the greatest sport there is. Imagine a seven-person team: One Keeper, three Chasers, two Beaters and a Seeker. Chasers try to score, the Keeper protects the goal, and Beaters protect their team. The Seeker tries to catch the Snitch." Both Dudley and Penny listened, trying to memorize.
"I'll tell you all you need to know, because it's really fast and intense. " Harry said getting really excited about the match. "You know, the fastest brooms accelerate from 0 to 100 in less than..."
"Whatdidyousay? Brooms," Penny asked incredulously.
Harry looked at Dudley and they seemed to think the same thing. No going back now. "Yes, didn't I mention? Every team member flies on a broom. To score goals, the Chasers pass the Quaffle and throw it through any of three rings. It's sort of like football or rugby, but the rules are as complex as those for cricket. The Beaters mind the Bludgers by whacking them out of the way with small clubs. Bludgers are really nasty charmed iron balls about the size of Cricket balls."
"All right. Flying on brooms, charmed balls," Penny laughed "Dudley, one of the things I fell for was your sense of humour. I already like Harry too, trying to pull a prank right away."
"Penny," Dudley said seriously. "He's not joking. Well, I've never seen Quidditch, but he's not joking, right Harry?"
Penny was still convinced it was a prank and mounted a broom she found in a corner of the room.
"So you mean this will fly? Then show me," she teased.
"You could make it fly all right, but compared to my Firebolt, I wouldn't really call it flying." Harry drew his wand. "Wingardium Leviosa!"
The broom lifted off the ground and hovered. Penny screamed as Harry moved her carefully around the room and then gently set her back down. She was speechless."Wha-wha-what," she said.
"Penny, it's all right," Dudley assured her.
"I'm a wizard Penny. And Quidditch is the most popular sport among wizards and witches. Trust me, you'll love it! I have a special permit from the Minister for Magic himself to bring you along. We are wearing yellow and red and will cheer for Gryffindor," Harry said, waving his wand to conjure two Gryffindor mufflers.
"A wizard," Penny asked draping her muffler around her neck.
"Yes, I'll tell you all about it, but we need to go. Dudley, you know the drill. Hang on tight and relax."
"Hold on? What..." Penny said.
Harry held Dudley and Penny and spun. They emerged outside Hogwarts where Professor McGonagall stood waiting for them. "Welcome to Hogwarts," she said cheerfully.
"Dudley, Penny, this is Professor Minerva McGonagall. She's the Headmistress here at Hogwarts," Harry said.
Dudley and Penny looked confused, for all they saw was a dilapidated crumbling ruin and a big sign warning them not to enter. Penny also realized she had a book to read, as the Muggle repelling charms protecting Hogwarts placed thoughts in her mind to drive her away. Professor McGonagall waved her wand at both of them and both of them saw the ruin turn into a castle, unlike any other they'd ever seen.
"Where are we," Penny said flabbergasted.
"We're in Scotland. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. My fiancée's house team, Gryffindor, is playing against Ravenclaw, another house in the school."
"You really are a wizard? We're not even in London anymore?"
"Correct. Last time I checked Scotland wasn't a part of London." Harry said with a chuckle.
"You...brought us here," Penny tried to collect her thoughts and regain her breath after the weird sensation like being pulled through a rubber hose "And that ruin is gone. I... did you know about this Dudley?"
"I know Harry is a wizard, I knew he went to this school, but I've never been here," Dudley replied.
"Come on," Harry urged. "My friends are already at the Quidditch pitch saving seats for us."
As they walked towards the Quidditch pitch, Harry explained all about the game again, and Penny's genuine interest in sports really showed. Penny shivered with anticipation as she first laid eyes on the Quidditch pitch with its six towering rings and the spectator stands that looked like giant medieval siege towers decked out in colourful banners. Harry led them to the Gryffindor section and met up with Ron, Hermione, and the elder Weasleys.
"Ron," Harry shouted, hugging his best friend. Molly quickly gave Harry a bone-crushing hug and Arthur shook his hand. "All right, everyone. You've all met Dudley, but this is his girlfriend, Penny. Kingsley gave me permission to bring them here." Harry turned to Penny. "These are my best friends, Ron and Hermione, and this is Molly and Arthur Weasley, Ginny's and Ron's parents.
Molly gave them one of her signature warm smiles." Are you all right dear," she asked.
"It's a lot to take in, but this is really exciting," Penny replied exuberantly.
"Really, Quidditch is thrilling, but as I watch, I find myself wondering how a Muggle aeroplane stays in the air without magic," Arthur said. Molly gave her husband a sharp look.
"Mr Weasley is very interested in Muggles—non-magical folk—and it makes Mrs Weasley a little crazy," Harry whispered to Penny and Dudley.
"Hush," Molly said. "It's time for the teams to take the field. I don't want to miss my only daughter's first presentation as captain of the team."
The Gryffindor team flew over the pitch in a V-formation, with Ginny at the centre. To show off her speed on her Firebolt, she broke away and flew so fast and close to the audience. They ducked, even though they really didn't need to. "Ginny," they all cheered as she passed them.
The game announcer presented the team, Ginny last. "Flying a Firebolt, the captain of the Gryffindor team and Central Chaser...Ginny Weasley!"
The Gryffindor section roared and began to sing Weasley is Our Queen, a new version of the familiar song, Weasley is Our King, first sang for Ron three years before. By now, Dudley and Penny were captivated. Following presentation of the Ravenclaw team, Madame Hooch released the balls and blew her whistle to start the match. The Snitch disappeared immediately. Ginny caught the Quaffle and raced toward the Ravenclaw goal. Peakes whacked a Bludger perfectly toward the Ravenclaw Keeper for distraction as Ginny fired the Quaffle past the Keeper through the left ring. The game announcer called, "10-0 to Gryffindor!"
Only twenty minutes into the game, the score stood at 90-0. Ginny's team flew faster and with much more co-ordination than the Ravenclaw team. Molly watched nervously every time a Bludger screamed too close to Ginny or as she fought for control of the Quaffle. There were close calls, but Ginny was too fast and too skilled to get into any serious trouble. Ten minutes later, the stood at 140-0. The Gryffindor section went wild, especially after one of the Gryffindor beaters crashed into the goal post in a desperate act making a save. He fell to the ground, knocked out.
"Oh my gosh," Penny shouted. "Will he be okay?"
"No problem. He'll be up in no time," Harry said.
"Doesn't anyone get seriously injured," Dudley asked.
"Not usually. A few broken bones, a cracked skull, nothing serious. Madam Pomfrey fixes that kind of thing in a heartbeat," Harry replied matter-of-factly.
Both Dudley and Penny looked mistrustingly at him. The kind of injuries he'd described would land anyone in the casualty department.
"Unless Lockhart's around," Ron snorted. "Harry broke his right arm once, and Lockhart tried to fix it with some nutty jinx that removed every bone in Harry's arm. He spent a very long night in the hospital wing." Penny and Dudley looked at each other in mild horror.
"Don't remind me," Harry groaned. "That potion Madame Pomfrey made me drink to re-grow my bones tasted awful! Skele-Gro has got to be the most-disgusting stuff on earth." Harry focused on the game again. "Anything can still happen," Harry yelled to Penny and Dudley "If Ravenclaw catches the Snitch now they'll win by a score of 150-140.
Jessica Spinnet had not been really tested in this game. Ginny and her Chasers didn't allow Ravenclaw to attack. Ginny's co-ordination drills paid off as the accuracy of the Beaters made it necessary for the Ravenclaw team to busy themselves dodging Bludgers, rather than going for the Quaffle. Suddenly, Dennis dropped into a dive, followed by Ravenclaw Seeker.
"Dennis is faking. He hasn't seen the Snitch down there," Harry said.
"How do you know," Penny asked.
"Because it's right over Jessica's left ring," Harry said, discreetly pointing it out.
The others looked and sure enough, Harry was right. The Snitch hovered around the very ring Harry pointed out. The Ravenclaw Seeker passed Dennis and continued diving. Then Dennis immediately pulled up and shot off against Jessica. The Ravenclaw Seeker was twenty meters behind him, and in an instant, Dennis made an easy catch in his first game.
"Gryffindor wins 290-0," the game announcer shouted, while Gryffindor section exploded in red and gold. Fireworks depicting the Gryffindor lion filled the sky over the pitch as the team flew celebratory victory laps.
"Come on, let's go down and meet them when they land," Ron shouted. They made their way down to the pitch.
Ginny landed and threw herself into Harry's arms, knocking him down and peppering his grinning face with kisses. She was sweaty, her forehead bruised, her hair in a mess, and her smile breathtaking. I've never seen her more beautiful.
"Hey, Coach," she said breathlessly.
"Hey, Captain," Harry replied as he kissed her soundly.
"All right get a room, you two. There are brothers and parents here," Hermione said with mock disgust.
Harry and Ginny got up and he introduced their guests. "You remember Dudley. And this is his girlfriend, Penny," he told her.
"Hello, Penny. It's nice to meet you. How are you, Dudley," Ginny said, still breathless.
Ginny hugged all of them, but Molly didn't want to let go. "I'm so proud of you, you are so good, and I'm so very happy you didn't end up in the hospital wing," she gushed.
"Miss Weasley," someone called. Ginny broke away from her mother.
"Yes," Ginny said and turned around.
"I'm Gwenog Jones...of the Holyhead Harpies."
Ginny screamed. Holyhead was her favourite Quidditch team.
"Yes. Pleased to meet you too, Miss Weasley." Gwenog said with a smile "I was very impressed by your team, but even more by you. Few Chasers are able to match the speed of a Seeker."
"You watched us play?"
"Yes and I really enjoyed the match. Have you ever thought about playing professionally Miss Weasley," Gwenog asked.
"I've only dreamed about it all my life, but I never thought I'd ever be good enough," Ginny admitted.
"Miss Weasley, if you continue to play at this level, you'll have your choice among many offers. Come and practise with us anytime you have a chance. You could meet the team and get an idea what professional Quidditch is about," Gwenog said as she handed Ginny a parchment.
"I'm going to practise with the Harpies," Ginny cried after Gwenog left, throwing herself at Harry again, hugging him for all she was worth.
"Come on, I'm hungry," Ron muttered.
"What else is new," Hermione teased as she wrapped her arms around his waist.
Half an hour later, they all sat around a huge table at the Three Broomsticks talking about the match and Ginny's opportunity to practise with the Holyhead Harpies. "Did you enjoy your first Quidditch match," Arthur asked their Muggle guests.
"It was amazing. As fast as Formula One, but a bit like rugby," Penny said.
"Formula One? Rugby," Arthur asked.
"As I told you before," Harry whispered, "Arthur is very interested in Muggles."
Penny started to talk Muggle sports with Arthur, who sat transfixed.
"Formula One is a special auto racing series. The drivers drive very fast around a set course. They count laps and whichever driver completes the designated number of laps first, wins. Rugby is a bit more complicated, so maybe sometime Dudley and I can take you all to a match," Penny offered.
"A Muggle sporting match. Sounds fascinating," Arthur accepted in a sort of rapture.
Harry laughed. He just couldn't help himself. His surrogate father and soon-to-be-father-in-law never ceased to amaze him. Arthur Weasley was a brilliant man, a powerful wizard, and a kid in a candy shop when it came to all things Muggle. When he finally collected himself, he turned to his fiancée. "I'm so proud of you Ginny." Harry said "The Holyhead Harpies. That must be like a dream come true."
"It is. Oh Harry, I'm so excited," she said again as she clutched his arm. He planted a little kiss on the top of her head and nuzzled her hair with his cheek. They were interrupted by a flock of children who had been at the match.
"Mr Potter, can I please have your autograph? And if it's not too much to ask, can I have all of yours too." one of them asked, looking hopefully at Ginny, Ron and Hermione with a couple of Famous Wizards' Cards in his hands. They stopped talking and Dudley and Penny stared back and forth between the children and their friends, mouths agape.
Harry sighed heavily. He wasn't in the practice of signing autographs in public because of his aversion to a load of attention. But these were children and he just didn't have the heart to turn them down."Sure, no problem. What's your name," Harry asked as he took the child's quill.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny signed fan photos they figured must have been torn from Witch Weekly. Ron especially enjoyed signing Chocolate Frog cards. Anyone can have their picture taken, but to have it plastered to a Chocolate Frog card...
"What was that all about," Penny asked when the children had left.
"There was a dark wizard we defeated last May," Harry shrugged.
"Harry is always so modest. We were at war the last three years, and those three..." Molly pointed at Harry, Ron and Hermione "... made it possible to end it. Harry defeated the most evil dark wizard in centuries, while Ginny led a resistance at the school. They, and another friend of theirs, were all awarded the Order of Merlin, the most prestigious honour our world can bestow."
Penny gaped at them. They were her age, still in school, but had fought in a war, and obviously done great things. "Did you know about this, Dudley?"
"Only bits of it. Harry saved my life from a horrible soul-sucking monster, which makes you relive the worse moments of your life. It was after that I started to change my attitudes about a lot of things. All last year, my parents and I were in hiding so that dark wizard couldn't attack Harry's only family. My parents hated it. They hate magic, Penny. In fact that's why I moved out. Thanks to that, I met you." Dudley told her putting an arm across her chair. "You see, the day before I moved out and met you, I went to Harry's birthday party. My dad wouldn't let me go, but this lot got me out. Hermione was great."
Ron snorted. "Great? Blowing up your parents' door and threatening to turn your dad into a toad? She was mental!" Hermione blushed at Dudley's compliment and Ron's outburst. You may be a prat, Ronald Bilius Weasley, but you're my prat and I love you.
"I haven't spoken to Dad since then. Mum's visited me a couple of times. She's worried about Dad, that his hatred of wizards finally got the best of him. He never thought it was necessary to go into hiding and when I wanted to go to Harry's birthday party it was too much for him."
At this Molly huffed loudly.
"Doesn't he understand it saved his life when the Order had you hidden? Doesn't he know what Voldemort would have done to you," Molly asked. "He would have come to your house on Harry's 17th birthday. With Harry gone, he would either have tortured and killed you on the spot or kept you as prisoners, torturing you for his own amusement until he saw no purpose for keeping you alive. Then he'd have tortured you until you begged him to kill you."
Penny stared at Molly in stunned silence. "He doesn't want to understand and I've had it with him," Dudley stated flatly. "Now, are we having any dessert?"
"Well said, Dudley," Ron said. "Madame Rosmerta, dessert please."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Honestly, Ronald. Is that all you think about? Food?"
"No," he smirked, putting his arm around Hermione's waist, pulling her close to him. He gave her a wet kiss on the forehead. "I think about you most of the time," he whispered, "you're so beautiful."
Harry Apparated Dudley and Penny back to Dudley's flat. Harry left them with tentative plans to get together again. They sat cuddled together on Dudley's sofa, trying to gather their thoughts about their magical day. "Dudley, I understand now why you didn't tell me about all of this. It has been a truly amazing day. Quidditch was so great, and Harry and his friends are wonderful," Penny said as she snuggled into the crook of his arm.
"I guess after all the horrors they have been through they really value being alive," answered Dudley.
"You mean that war they talked about?"
"I don't really know that much, only what Harry told me and the things I heard from the wizards looking after us while we were in hiding. They don't fight wars like us—they use magic instead of bullets. Harry was hit by some Killing curse no one but him has ever survived. There are other horrible curses...and monsters like those soul-suckers I told you about."
"Still, they have wonderful things like Quidditch. Did you notice something...special or...unusual about Harry and Ginny. How old are they anyway?"
Dudley had to think a minute. "Harry's my age, but Ginny's a year younger, like you. What do you mean?"
"They seem older somehow, but I guess winning wars or leading resistance factions changes a person, but I like them. And Ron seems to like food as much as you, Dud," Penny smiled.
"Yeah, but you know what? I like you even better," Dudley said as he leaned down to claim Penny's lips. She deepened his kiss by allowing Dudley's tongue to meet hers in a right Muggle snog.
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Arthur and Molly had said their goodbyes in Hogsmeade. Hermione decided she would stay at the Three Broomsticks with Ron.
"Are you allowed to stay here," Ginny asked.
"If you and Harry were apart as much as we, you wouldn't care about the rules either. I'm staying here with Ron tonight and if McGonagall or Hagrid want to slap me with detention, I'll gladly take it," Hermione said resolutely.
Ron's sapphire eyes darkened to cobalt as he felt a mild shockwave pass through his body in anticipation of impending possibilities. What a woman!
"Don't forget the silencing charms," Ginny grinned, reading her brother's expression.
Harry and Ginny bid them goodnight and headed for the castle arm-in-arm."You told me about Dudley, about when you were growing up. It's hard to imagine he's the same person," Ginny said.
"Yeah, and if I run into that Dementor who attacked us, I'll be sure to have my stag thank it as he drives it off. Honestly Ginny, I'm glad I can have some sort of contact with the last of my mum's family," Harry said thoughtfully. "I mean, it's been a long time coming, but it's nice to know I have at least one blood relative."
Harry and Ginny walked on in contemplative silence. They reached the castle gates and stopped. Harry took her into his arms and leaned down for a passionate and long-overdue kiss. "I love you, Captain Weasley."
"And I love you, Coach Potter."
They passed through the gates and made their way past the now-silent Quidditch pitch, Hagrid's hut, and the Herbology greenhouses, finally arriving at the great doors. Harry ushered her inside and they made for their room.
Once inside, Harry waved his hand at the fireplace where a warming fire burst into the grate. They undressed and climbed onto the bed, snuggling down together under the covers. They fell asleep in one another's arms.
