Harry's Future, Part 7
It was well past midnight when Harry was finally ushered through the door of the Black house, his house in fact, by the house elf Kreacher. It had been a hectic, exhausting day. It began in the office of the Minister of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt where he was offered, and accepted, the position of Chief of Aurors. The proposal that Harry had prepared by direction of the Minister on how to reorganize the Magical Law Enforcement department had impressed the Minister and others so much that they insisted that he take on the task in full by becoming the Chief.
His agreement precipitated a series of events that had him in this conference room or that until only a few moments before he arrived home. After he had agreed to accept the position he was introduced to a middle aged wizard by the name of Abernathy Grimsson. He was the newly appointed Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. The previous Director, the dour former Auror that had interviewed Harry the year before had only been a temporary appointee and the Minister had decided he had really overstayed his time. The conversation between Grimsson and Harry was one he would remember for a long time.
"Well, Harry, I have to say I'm very pleased to be working with you. We all know your legend but I've been given a thorough briefing by various Ministry employees who know you and I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do with the department."
"Thank you, Mr. Grimsson. Are you coming from a different department here at the Ministry?" Harry asked.
"No, Harry, at least not now. I left this very department over ten years ago. I was having difficulties staying in step with how the other magical races were being treated and I've been in private law practice until the Minister contacted me last week about coming back. This is the important part, Harry. It's going to be my task to oversee the revamping of the legal system as regards the other magical races. I'm going to rely on you completely to handle restructuring your department and that includes bringing the other enforcement offices into the fold. If you need any help, come see me, but I'm expecting you to operate as independently as possible."
"Yes, sir, I understand," Harry replied.
"There is one other matter I'd like to discuss with you, Harry."
"Yes, sir."
"I'm given to understand that you are a good friend of Hermione Granger, yes?" Grimsson asked.
"Yes, sir. She is one of my two best friends. In fact it goes quite a bit further then just friends, she's practically family," Harry replied with a small grin.
"I see. Well, can you tell me, Harry, what you think of Hermione?"
Harry was somewhat taken aback by the question and had to think a moment. He had said things about Hermione in front of family and friends but never in a situation like this before. He took a breath and then said,
"Hermione is the most intelligent, dedicated and hardest working person I've ever known. In the years I've known her she's demonstrated courage and loyalty more times then I can count and I've said this before, she deserves every bit as much credit for the demise of Voldemort and the Death Eaters as I've been given. I'm glad for every day I've been able to call her my friend."
The new Director looked at Harry for a moment and then nodded briefly.
"I'm glad you said that, Harry. It's my intention to ask Hermione to accept a position as my special assistant. I read her report on the status of the other magical races and it impressed me a great deal. What you just said confirms what I had thought. Thank you."
"You're welcome, sir, I'm looking forward to working with you," Harry said.
After that he took part in a nearly continuous series of meetings as the Minister continued his revamping of the entire Ministry. It wasn't until almost six in the evening before he had a chance to sit down and gather his thoughts. He was doing this over a cup of tea and a sandwich in the small room that served as the canteen for the Ministry. Harry was getting the impression that whoever designed the building and its rooms must have thought the place was going to be used by house elves. He recalled the rooms they went through that terrible night that Sirius died were all pretty large but those for the average Ministry employee were barely more than closets. He finished his brief meal and made his way to his new office.
He hadn't realized that the Director who had interviewed him had been the Chief of Aurors before his temporary appointment and the office had remained vacant for the last couple of years. It was perhaps three times the size of Maxwell's closet. Just big enough to avoid being claustrophobic. Harry found a piece of cloth and began to wipe down the desk top and chair. He heard a cough behind him and as he turned around he saw Maxwell standing just outside the open door. The look on his face was uncertain.
Harry dropped the cloth on the desk and said,
"Come on in, Maxwell. Close the door and have a seat," he said with a half smile.
Maxwell did so and sat looking at Harry as he took a seat behind the desk. He sat with his arms resting on the desk, his head tilted slightly to one side.
"Kind of an odd situation, wouldn't you say?" Harry remarked.
"Yes, it is, um, sir," Maxwell replied.
"So how did you find out so soon?" Harry asked.
"Anyone who's worked here for a while knows how to find things out. The word came down about an hour ago. Caused quite a commotion. After what I told you the last time we talked there's also a lot of very nervous Aurors out there."
"What's the best space we can get for a meeting, Maxwell?"
"I'll see what I can scare up. You'll be here for a while?" Maxwell asked.
"For a good while, yes," Harry replied.
"I'll be back in bit."
Maxwell stood up and turned toward the door, hesitated a moment and then opened the door and went out into the hall. Harry watched as Maxwell disappeared from view. He shook his head and returned to straightening up his office. It's was about an hour later, while Harry was going though files that filled several cabinets behind his chair, when Maxwell returned. He simply stood in the open doorway and when he had Harry's attention he said,
"I managed to get the small amphitheater here on the second level for tomorrow morning at nine o'clock, sir. I put out the word and we should have pretty much the whole department minus a couple that are doing surveillance."
"Ok, I don't want to hamstring any operations but this won't take too long. I'll see you in the morning. Thanks."
"Yes, sir," Maxwell replied and left.
Harry was giving some thought to going home when a message fluttered into his office and dropped onto his desk. It directed Harry to come up to the Minister's office for a 'quick' meeting. It lasted until almost midnight.
When Kreacher closed the door behind Harry he let out a long sigh. He hung his cloak on the coat tree in the hall after bidding Kreacher good night, then he trudged up to his room. He managed to kick off his shoes and slip out of his shirt and pants before falling face down on his bed. He was asleep in moments. It seemed almost as quick that he was being roused from his sleep by Kreacher.
"Master Harry must awake. Master Harry has a very busy day and must get started."
"Ok, Kreacher, I'm awake," Harry replied, rather proud that he managed to stifle the groan he felt.
With the help of a shower, two cups of tea and a quick breakfast he managed to pull himself together enough to get to his desk by eight o'clock. He spent the time until he had to head down to the amphitheater jotting down notes on what he wanted to say. He knew a lot of it wouldn't be popular but it had to be said. There would be no time later.
Promptly at nine o'clock he walked through the door that led to the small dais and lectern that was set up. There were five rows of seats rising up to the back of the room and six across. Thirty seats and a few out on surveillance. So few to try and protect the magical community of Great Britain. He let out a sigh and placed his notes on the lectern. He reminded himself that this was not an exercise in education but one of power. He needed to establish his authority and there was no time like the present. He stood up to his full height and took hold of each side of the top of the lectern and looked out over the assembled Aurors.
"Let me have your attention. In case there's any question, I'm Harry Potter and I'm the new Chief of the Auror Department. You may not like it. You may not agree with it but that's the way it is. I've been charged by the Minister of Magic to reorganize this department and make it one that the magical community can be proud of. This is how it will go. The Department will consist of several different levels. The basic level will be that of Patrollers who will be out on the streets of Diagon and Knockturn Alleys as well as all of Hogsmeade. The core of the patrollers will be the current staff of the Magical Enforcement Squad who will be supplemented with new recruits. In addition, Patrollers will rotate to supplement the guards at Azkaban, which will be restructured as well to free up more experienced personnel.
"Secondly, there will be a special investigative unit established to investigate criminal activity. That unit will be comprised of the Aurors that have demonstrated investigative skills as well as some members of the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts office. They have to do a lot of poking and prodding in their business. A Special Tactical Squad will be set up for handling special or dangerous situations. Trainers for the Patrollers and new prison guards will come from your ranks as well.
"As to the matter of the remainder of Voldemort's followers, Maxwell will head a team consisting of Anderson, Muntab, Whitby and Truncheon to run the rest of them down. Let's come to an understanding right here and now. There's more going on in the wizarding world than the few remaining dregs of Tom Riddle's gang of thugs. Starting right now we begin paying attention to those things because they are important to the people who matter. All of you sitting here and those few others out on assignment have to come to a decision. You can accept what has happened and embrace it. Or you can accept the fact that it has happened and you can hang in and do your jobs and make it to your pension. Or you can refuse to accept it and make plans to leave. If you feel that you can't continue as a member of this department you have seventy two hours to put in for transfer without any adverse consequences. What you won't be allowed to do is stay and undermine what we're trying to do. That will result in summary dismissal with forfeiture of any pension regardless of seniority. And there will be no appeal, my word is final."
Harry let his gaze sweep around the room. The expressions he saw included shock, dismay, grim acceptance and here and there, humor.
"Well, that's all I have. Are there any questions?" Harry concluded.
"Why?" came a response from the back row.
"That's a big question for one word; would you care to be a little more specific?" Harry responded.
"Why these big changes now? Voldemort's gone, the worst is over."
Harry looked at where he thought the question and comment had come from, the actual speaker obscured by shadows in the back of the room.
"Because we failed, this department in particular and the Ministry as a whole. If looked at objectively it would be very easy to argue that the defeat of Voldemort and the Death Eaters was in spite of this organization, not because of it. His first rise to power twenty or so years ago was stopped because he ran afoul of an ancient magic. I think you all are aware of that story. His most recent and final fall came at the hands of a bunch of students, teachers and every day folks. And I won't even begin to discuss how it was that so many of his followers were able to avoid any consequences the first time around so that they could help pave his way back to power. As far as the magical community is concerned we are abject failures and it is to them that we are ultimately responsible, not the other way around."
Harry paused to let what he said sink in.
"So I think that's all for right now. Go back to work and think it over. Oh and Milligan, you'll be heading up the new Investigative section, if you plan to stick around. I'd like to see you at eleven in my office, please."
With that, Harry turned and headed for the door. He was about half way when he felt a faint but somehow familiar feeling and a buzzing in his ears that resolved itself into a soft repetition of the word 'resign'. Someone was trying the Imperious curse on him. He simply gave his shoulders a shrug and with the brief exertion of will threw off the spell. Without turning and with his hand on the door knob he said out loud,
"I suggest to whoever it was that just tried to use the Imperious curse on me to get me to resign, start running. If I ever catch up with you I guarantee you'll regret it till your very last day."
To the sound of several gasps and more mumbling he opened the door and left. He wasn't sure if he should be angry or disappointed in what happened. He was half tempted to have each Auror submit to taking Veritaserum and ask them a few questions but he knew that was no solution. So he made his way back to his office and continued his combing of the files for any useful information. His door was open and he looked up when he heard the quiet knock on the door frame. A tall, lanky wizard of middle years was standing there expectantly.
"Milligan?" Harry asked.
"Yes, sir."
"Right on time, please come in. Close the door and have a seat."
Milligan did as instructed and was soon folded into the chair opposite Harry. As with Maxwell, Harry had his arms resting on the desk, his head slightly tilted as he observed the Auror. Then he said,
"As I was going through the files here yesterday and this morning, your name showed up on a number of reports involving investigations into this or that. More so then any other Auror by far. Why is that?"
Milligan gave a shrug and said,
"Natural tendency I guess you'd say. Even during my years at Hogwarts I was always sticking my nose into something, finding things out. When I got here, after my first year out of training, I was involved in a case that had to do with smuggled contraband and I guess I asked the right questions and looked in the right places and cracked the case. After that it seemed whenever they needed someone to poke and prod, they called on me."
"Well, it's happening again," Harry began. "As I've said, you're going to head up the new Investigation Unit. Pick your people, say eight to start with, and give me the list and I'll assign them to you. You'll also get some help from the Department of Magical Catastrophes, they do a lot of poking and prodding over there and the Director has agreed to lend me two seasoned investigators to help train your team. Your first assignment is to find out what's going on in Knockturn Alley. Someone is trying to buy up the shops there, in whole or at least a majority interest. The fear on the street is that Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade will be next. Let's find out what's going on."
"Yes, sir."
Harry spent the next hour filling Milligan in on what he had found out so far and by the time he was done he felt comfortable that the man understood what he wanted. Harry sat back in his chair and looked at the wizard, who was probably twice Harry's age.
"So, are you in?" Harry asked.
"Sir?"
"Are you staying or going?"
"I'm staying. I've got too much time invested and it's the only thing I'm really good at. I can live with the way things are headed," he replied matter-of-factly.
"Good. Let me know when you have that list ready."
"Yes, sir," Milligan said as he stood up and made ready to leave. As he was reaching for the door knob he turned his head and said over his shoulder,
"Did you want me to look into that Imperious business from before?"
"No, that won't be necessary. I'm sure it will resolve itself in time."
"Yes, sir," and he was gone.
Harry got up and followed in Milligan's footsteps. His stomach was telling him that breakfast had been a while ago and he needed to get something to eat. He made his way down to the little canteen he had found and had a sandwich and tea. A note fluttered into the room and dropped onto the table in front of him marked Personal. When he opened it, it simply asked that he report to the Director's office at one o'clock that afternoon. Harry sighed, thinking it was the start of another long day of meetings but he knew it went with the job. It didn't make sense to walk back to his office and then back to the Director's so he stayed where he was and began jotting down notes in a small notebook he had begun to carry inside his robe. At around ten minutes to one he got up and made his way up to the Director's office. The Director's secretary told Harry he could go right in and he did so after knocking on the door.
What he didn't expect was the reception he got after stepping through the door. In the blink of an eye he was wrapped in a bear hug with a head of bushy hair tucked up under his chin. When he looked around he could see Director Grimsson looking at him with a wry smile.
"Um, Hermione? Are you sure you should be doing this?" Harry asked.
"It's ok, Potter," Grimsson said, "considering the circumstances and your long established relationship. But I wouldn't make a habit out of it."
"Yes, sir," Harry replied with a grin.
Hermione released her death grip on him and stepped back. Her face was alight with a big smile and her eyes were shiny.
"Sorry, Harry, I just got a little carried away. But this is such a dream assignment for me and after Director Grimsson told me what you said when he asked you about me I guess I couldn't help myself."
"If half of what Potter said is true, Ms. Granger, you'll be an invaluable asset to me and this department," the Director said.
"You won't be disappointed, Sir. I'm sure what I said didn't cover the half of it," Harry said quietly.
Hermione smiled again, a faint blush touching her cheeks.
"Well, I'm glad to see that you two do indeed get along so well. I have an assignment for both of you. Now, Potter, I know you are up to your chin in work right now but I need you to make a brief detour and accompany Ms. Granger to Hogwarts."
"Hogwarts, sir?" Harry asked.
"Yes. Ms. Granger's first assignment is to make contact with the Centaur community in the Dark Forest. I've asked that she make contact with each of the other magical races to begin the dialogue the Minister wants to establish. Your presence will lend weight to the proceedings and I hope help with the trust issue. As you're probably already aware Centaurs have little trust for humans and practically none for the Ministry. Making first contact might be the trickiest part," the Director said.
Harry and Hermione looked at each other and said in unison,
"Hagrid."
"Excuse me?" Grimsson said.
"Hagrid is the groundskeeper and Professor of Care of Magical Creatures at Hogwarts. He is well known to the Centaurs," Hermione told her boss. "We can contact him by owl and ask that he act as an intermediary. He's been a good friend to both of us since we were first years and he's known Harry since he was born."
"Oh yes, I recall him now, big fellow. Excellent. Please keep me informed. That will be all for now, thank you."
As Harry and Hermione left the Director's office her face lit up in a big smile.
"Wow, Harry. This is great. It's kind of like old times except a lot less dangerous," she enthused.
"I dunno, Hermione. Anything can happen in the Dark Forest. And the Centaurs were pretty divided about intervening in the last battle. Just making contact will be a big accomplishment."
They decided to go down to Harry's office to talk over what they needed to do and compose a message to Hagrid. Once they were seated and the door was closed Hermione picked up on the conversation.
"I hear what you're saying about the Centaurs, Harry. My guess is it will take years to come to any firm agreement but the important thing is to get started. I have no illusions about any quick turn around in our relations with the other races, but if it's going to be a lifetime's worth of work, it's a certainly a goal worth a lifetime."
Harry could only nod and smile.
"But it's just so great that you and I are working on something together again," she said and then she looked at Harry.
She took in the unruly hair, the brilliant green eyes and the jagged scar and was taken by a sudden realization. Her eyes grew misty and Harry said,
"Hermione, what's the matter? You're looking at me kind of strange."
"I'm sorry, Harry. Nothing is the matter. I was just sitting here and had a thought is all. You and I have a very special relationship. I know how you and Ginny feel about each other and there's me and Ron but you and I are linked somehow, different, but just as strongly in a way."
"What do you mean? I mean we are best friends I think, right?" Harry asked.
"I think it's more then that, Harry. As I've said before, you were the first one that I could really consider my friend. Even before coming to Hogwarts I didn't have anybody that I could call a real friend. Too busy with my nose stuck in a book to make any. Even with me badgering you about the rules all the time and then that ghastly business when Sirius sent you the Firebolt we still managed to stay close and get closer over the years. Why is that, Harry?"
"I dunno, Hermione. I guess I never really thought about it before. In some ways we're alike but in others we couldn't be more different. Maybe it was just meant to be. If we accept the idea of prophecies and that kind of thing it sort of implies that some things are supposed to happen. And if I was to have any chance of succeeding I'd need help. You were a big part of that help so here we are."
"Maybe, Harry, maybe. Well, as nice as this is it's not getting the job done. Let's write to Hagrid and see what he can do to help."
"Now that's the Hermione I know and love," Harry said with a smile and pulled out parchment, ink and a quill and pushed it across to Hermione.
"You write so much better then I do."
Hermione could only smile and laugh as she dipped the quill and began to compose the message to Hagrid. After the message was composed they began to discuss how they would approach the Centaurs and what they might expect as reactions. They were interrupted by a knock on the door.
"Come in," Harry called out.
The door swung open and Milligan stood in the doorway, a piece of parchment in hand. Noticing Hermione he stepped back.
"Sorry, sir, I didn't realize you were busy," Milligan said.
"It's ok, Milligan. Pulling some double duty. What can I do for you?"
"I have the list you wanted."
"Come on in and let's see what you've got," Harry said as he waved the older man in.
Milligan stepped past Hermione and handed the parchment to his new boss. Harry scanned the names and as they didn't coincide with any of the names he knew were earmarked for other assignments he nodded, borrowed the quill from Hermione and wrote a brief note on the parchment. He then handed it back to Milligan.
"They're all yours, Milligan. Put them right to work. Shake Knockturn Alley and see what falls out."
"Yes, sir."
"Oh, and by the way, Milligan. This is Hermione Granger. She's the new special assistant to Director Grimsson."
"Ma'am," Milligan said as he nodded to her, then Harry and left the room.
Hermione watched as the man left the office and then she looked at Harry with a quizzical look on her face. The she smiled at Harry and said,
"It's like you were born to it, Harry."
"What?"
"To lead, my friend. You did it at Hogwarts and now here."
Harry just shrugged and gave her one of his crooked smiles. She just shook her head and laughed. She left about fifteen minutes later telling Harry she would take care of getting the message to Hagrid. Harry spent the remainder of the day going through more of the files. Around five thirty Harry looked up at the clock. He hadn't been called to any meetings so he figured he would stop in at the Cauldron for dinner and see what he might dredge up about the Knockturn Alley situation. He decided he would walk so he left his wizards robe hanging on his door and proceeded to the elevator that would bring him up in the muggle telephone booth that they had used all those years before. It was a cool early fall evening and the walk was enjoyable. Harry hadn't seen much of the muggle world in the last few years.
He opened the door to the Cauldron, completely unnoticed by the many muggles who walked by. He stood there and let his eyes adjust to the dimness in the main room. As his eyes swept over the room he noticed that Neville and Hannah Abbott were sitting at a small table along the back wall. Neville was waving Harry over. Harry approached his two friends with a smile.
"Congratulations, Harry. We've only just heard the news. Chief of the Aurors, that's amazing," Neville said as he stood up to shake Harry's hand.
"Thanks, Nev. How did you find out?"
"It's all over the street in Diagon Alley. You as Chief, Hermione as a special assistant to the new Director. The Minister is really shaking things up," Hannah said. "Please, Harry. Sit down and join us."
"I wouldn't want to intrude on your date."
"Nonsense, Harry. We don't see you that often. Sit down, please," Neville insisted.
Harry pulled up a chair to sit at the end of the small table and exchanged a one armed hug with Hannah.
"So tell us, Harry, how are they taking it, the Aurors I mean?" Neville asked.
"As you might expect, some accept it, some aren't happy, and the rest will wait and see how it goes. They only found out this morning so…" he concluded with a shrug.
"All they need to do is ask any one of the DA to find out just how well you will do, Harry," Hannah said with a big smile.
"I don't know, Hannah, but thanks. There are going to be some big changes and that's hard for some people to accept," Harry replied.
As they were talking Tom came up to them to see what they would like for dinner. Harry noticed that he was looking tired and not nearly as talkative. When they had placed their orders he shuffled off at less than his usual speed.
"What's wrong with Tom? He looks done in," Harry commented.
"A couple of things, as best we can figure out from talking to him, Harry. His health is failing him somewhat and he's getting on in years. Plus he knew a lot of the people that fell victim to Voldemort and the Death Eaters. More then a few were regulars in here. Plus all the talk about what's going on in Knockturn Alley has him upset as well. He's even made some comments about selling the Cauldron and retiring," Neville said.
"Really? Wow, won't seem the same with out him," Harry replied.
"Well, the Cauldron has had many owners over the centuries but Tom is the third generation in his family to run it. Neville and I have talked about it. I'd love to run the place but we just don't have the money to buy it," Hannah said.
"We?" Harry asked with a crooked smile.
"Yeah, mate," Neville said, blushing. "Hannah and I have an understanding you'd say."
Hannah fixed Neville with a beady stare and said,
"Understand this, Mr. Longbottom. You and I are getting married next summer, yes?" she said severely and then broke into a big smile as she reached across the table to take his hand.
"Congratulation, that's terrific news," Harry said as he shook Neville's free hand and then leaned over to kiss Hannah on the cheek.
"As to the Cauldron, I happen to know that Gringotts has been making arrangements to help get financing for people doing business in Diagon Alley. That's how Angelina was able to get the ice cream shop opened. I believe she dealt with a goblin named Kandak. If you are really serious you should go talk to them."
"Wow, Harry, that's wonderful. Thanks for the information. We wondered how Angelina had managed to do that but we've never gotten around to asking her," Hannah said excitedly.
Tom came out with their dinners about this time and they ate in a decidedly good mood. They talked about Neville's work at Hogwarts. He had done his first lectures and they had gone quite well. They questioned Harry about his plans and were very enthusiastic about what he outlined for them.
"It's just amazing, Harry, but I can't think of anyone better to do what the Minister wants done. You know, my grandmother used to tell me that my mum and dad used to complain about the attitudes that a lot of the Aurors had. They didn't think that the Aurors and the Ministry were paying attention to the right things. That's why they wound up in the original Order of the Phoenix," Neville said, his eyes taking on a slightly haunted look.
They talked some more as they finished their meal. They argued a bit over the check but settled for splitting it. After saying his farewells, Harry headed for the door but when he looked back he noticed that Tom had been waved over and he was sitting at the table talking quietly with the future Mr. and Mrs. Longbottom. As he made his way to the Black house he smiled inwardly at the thought of Neville and Hannah getting married. He was very happy for the both of them. He began to think of his situation with Ginny. Ever since the days after Voldemort's defeat they knew where they were headed together, but Harry thought that it shouldn't be just taken for granted. An idea began to form in his mind and the more he thought the more he liked it.
The following morning Harry sent a message by owl to Kandak at Gringotts informing him that his friends might be coming to see him about financing for the purchase of the Leaky Cauldron and that the money could come from his assets. In this case however there need not be a silent partnership requirement, just a straight business loan arrangement. Harry considered this a wedding present of sorts. As fortune would have it there had been a message from Ginny the previous evening telling Harry how much she was missing him and congratulating him on his promotion and would he possibly have time for her to visit the following weekend. Her owl was waiting for a response. He happily replied that he would indeed and he was looking forward to her arrival. All in all he was quite happy when he arrived at the Ministry for his second full day as Auror chief.
Around midmorning he was nearing the end of his review of the files when a note fluttered through the doorway and landed on his desk. It was a summons to the Minister's office. Harry left his office, closing the door behind him, and made his way up to the Minister. The witch behind the desk in the reception room waved him on and Harry knocked and was called into the main room. Upon entering the room Harry saw the Minister seated at the conference table with one other wizard, a smallish, middle aged man with a notebook open in front of him.
"Harry, thanks for coming up so quickly," Kingsley Shacklebolt said, his deep voice neutral. "This is Mr. Godfrey Changeborough. He's a reporter with the Daily Prophet."
At the naming of one of Harry's historic nemeses his face took a decidedly wooden set that didn't go unnoticed.
"Yes, I understand your reaction, Mr. Potter and it's well founded," the little wizard said, a bit nervously. "The Prophet has rarely proven to be a friend of yours. I'm hoping we can get past that for the moment. There is a great deal of interest in the community about the changes being implemented by the Minister and what you are doing is very much at the heart of it. I was hoping to ask you a few questions so that we can inform our readers."
Harry looked at the Minister who gave a barely perceptible nod. Harry turned his gaze back to the reporter.
"You're right that the Prophet and I are not exactly on good terms, Mr. Changeborough. But the people do need to know what we are doing here on their behalf. But understand that I expect what I say to be reported truthfully and accurately. If not, you and I are going to have some problems," Harry said quietly.
"Of course, Mr. Potter, of course," the reported said quickly.
Harry took a seat across from Changeborough and folded his hands on the table top. He gave the man a nod to signal him to start.
"Now, Mr. Potter. Could you briefly describe what changes you are planning to implement within the Aurors' department?"
Harry responded with a cursory overview of the reorganization putting special emphasis on the Patrollers and what he hoped to accomplish for the average witch or wizard.
"How are you intending to recruit these newer, shall we say, entry level witches and wizards?"
"I was planning on placing an ad in the Prophet, in fact, announcing open try outs. With the Minister's permission I was going to request that the same office that administers the OWL and NEWT exams would do likewise for these try outs. Candidates will be tested to determine if they posses the minimum standards of magical capability, personality and emotional stability to provide policing while also being the day to day face of the Ministry to most of the magical community."
Harry looked to the Minister who responded,
"I'll have the testing director talk to you this afternoon, Potter."
"Thank you, sir."
"Just so you understand, Mr. Changeborough, it is my intention to have all matters of magical law enforcement to be unified under one office, headed by Mr. Potter," the Minister said. "In the past, the piecemeal approach with different offices dealing with different aspects and incidents has resulted in, well, what we've all just lived through the last few years. It needs to change and it will change."
"I see, well thank you for the clarification. Now, getting back to you, Mr. Potter. Some might consider you to be a bit young to be the head of such an important government office. How would you respond to that?"
"I'd say that from a point of view of mere years they're probably right. I only turned twenty this past July. However, most of what I've done seems to have happened before I was old enough. My first run in with Voldemort certainly, but also I was the youngest Seeker at Hogwarts in over one hundred years. I had three more run ins with Voldemort before I was sixteen. And my last before I was eighteen. Based on my experiences I'm a lot older then I look," Harry finished, his face expressionless.
"Yes, Yes. Lastly Mr. Potter, is there anything that you would like to say to the magical community regarding your efforts here?" the reporter asked.
"To everyone in the magical community, we are here to serve you. The combined efforts of all elements of magical law enforcement will be made with that single concept in mind. I ask you for your patience as we make the changes necessary and for your participation in building an organization that will make us all proud. Details for the try outs will be posted as soon as possible."
"Well, thank you, Mr. Potter. I appreciate you taking time from your busy schedule to talk to me," the reporter said.
"You're welcome," Harry replied then turned to the Minister. "Do you need me for anything else here, sir?"
"That's all for now, Potter. Thank you."
Harry nodded, stood and with a nod to the reporter walked out of the Minister's office. On his way back down to his office, he bumped into Hermione, literally. She was hurrying down an intersecting corridor and ran into Harry's side.
"Harry! Oh, I am sorry but I was on my way down to see you. I got a note back from Hagrid. He says he's talked to some of the Centaurs and although they are very suspicious they would talk to the rest and give us an answer. No indication of when, though," she said all out breath.
"Not surprising, really," Harry said with a little laugh. "They can move pretty fast when they're upset but ask them to think on something and they're as slow as the stars they're always looking at."
"Hmm, you're probably right but it's a start of sorts I guess," Hermione replied thoughtfully.
"I'm curious though, Hermione. Doesn't the Department of Regulation of Magical Creatures have offices that deal with the different other magical races? Wouldn't they have ways of making contact?"
"There are offices for the Goblins and Centaurs. But there's been so much bad feelings between us and the Goblins that the official relationship is very strained. As far as the Centaurs go, I don't think there has ever been any official contact made. And they don't even consider the house elves worth considering. That's one of the reasons I'm over here, it's almost like starting over," Hermione said.
"I have someone I think might be able to help with the Goblins. Maybe Kreacher knows of a way to talk to the house elves as a whole, but I can't imagine what it might be. I'm heading to Diagon Alley for lunch so I'll see what I can find out for you about the Goblins," Harry said.
"Ok, thanks, Harry. Gotta run," Hermione said as she moved off at high speed.
Harry watched as his friend quickly disappeared down the corridor, smiling at her energy and enthusiasm. He made his way to his office, checked for any further messages and then made his way to the lobby where he Disapparated to a fairly secluded spot near Gringotts. His first stop was the jewelry shop that had been robbed recently. He stepped in and looked around for the owner.
"Ah, Mr. Potter. So good to see you again. Is this visit personal or professional?" the wizard shopkeeper asked.
"A bit of both. Have you had any more trouble since the day you were robbed?" Harry asked.
"No, none at all. And just yesterday, I received a message that the case of the thief has been dealt with and I can come and claim my stolen property. I just need to find a little time to pop over and pick it up."
"That's great. As to the personal, I'd like to discuss something with you if I could," Harry said.
"Why, of course. Anything I can do for you, Mr. Potter, will be my pleasure."
It was perhaps a quarter of an hour later that Harry left the jewelry shop with a very satisfied smile on his face. His next stop was Gringotts. As usual the door Goblins bowed him in and a clerk hurried up to greet him.
"Good day, Mr. Potter. How may the bank be of service to you today?"
"I was wondering if I could speak to Mr. Kandak," Harry said.
"I'll just go and see if he is available, excuse me please," the little Goblin replied.
Harry stood quietly, looking around the ornate lobby, nodding and smiling a bit if he made eye contact with anyone. A few minutes passed and then Harry saw the elderly Goblin that he had dealt with often hurrying toward him.
"Mr. Potter. Very good to see you again, sir. I understand you wished to see me?"
"Yes, Kandak. Is there somewhere we could speak privately? It's not really bank business but I thought you might be able to help me," Harry said quietly.
"Certainly. Please follow me."
The elderly Goblin led Harry down a side corridor to a heavily carved wooden door that opened to a moderately sized but severely plain office. A simple desk with a chair on either side sat in the center of the room, with plain bookshelves on both sides and a single high window. Kandak gestured for Harry to take the one chair as he settled himself into the well worn one behind the desk.
"Now, sir. How may I be of help to you? Oh, and may I offer my congratulations on your recent good fortune?"
"Thank you and that good fortune has a bearing on my request. As you may have heard the Minister has made some serious efforts at reorganizing the Ministry of Magic. A major change has been shifting the responsibility for legal relations for all the magical races to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Goblins, Centaurs and house elves will no longer be grouped with other magical creatures. The Minister and Director want to put all the magical races on an equal footing, at least as far as the law is concerned."
Kandak's face remained passive but Harry could see his hands tighten as they were clasped together in front of him on the desk.
"Now, I'm not going to insult your intelligence and tell you that this is going to make everything wonderful and erase all the bad feelings that have existed over the centuries but at least it's a start. Do you remember the day I mentioned to you that a strong voice for equal treatment was coming to the Ministry?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter, I do recall that day," the Goblin replied.
"Well, that voice is being heard and she's been appointed as a special assistant to the Director of Magical Law Enforcement with the assignment to make contact with, well, representatives of the various magical races to begin a useful dialogue. Her name is Hermione Granger and she's a very good friend of mine."
"I am aware of the name, Mr. Potter. Usually in concert with your own. If she is a trusted friend of yours then she is a being worthy of trust," Kandak said thoughtfully.
"I've trusted her with my life on more occasions then I care to think about. My question to you is, can you help put her in contact with influential members of the Goblin community?" Harry asked.
"If you can vouch for the trust and sincerity of the others involved in this, I believe I can do that, Mr. Potter."
"Thank you, Kandak. I can't make any promises about where this will lead but I think it's an opportunity we can't let get away from us," Harry said.
"Indeed, sir. Is there any other service we can provide for you today?"
"Just being curious. Has anyone contacted you about that matter I owled you about?"
"Yes, indeed. Our business loan department reported an appointment has been made for this Friday, sir."
"That's great. Well, I better be getting back to work. Thank you for all your help," Harry said as he stood.
"You are most welcome, sir, and it is my pleasure to assist you in your many endeavors," the elderly Goblin replied. "I will contact you as soon as I have made arrangements."
"Great, thanks again and good bye for now," Harry said as he made his way to the large double doors.
Kandak watched as Harry made his way to the door, the Goblins eyes fixed on the back of the young man he had come to respect and admire. And as much as it could be said for the usually stern expression that was so natural to a member of his race, he eyes had a wistful, expectant look to them. With his long fingered hands clasped behind his back, the Goblin walked back to his office.
Harry walked along the narrow confines of Diagon Alley, looking into shops, exchanging greetings with various witches and wizards, many of whom apparently knew Harry although he didn't know them. As he walked past Angelina's Ice Cream Haven, he stopped to look in and caught the eye of the tall, dark skinned proprietress. She broke into a big smile as she was dishing up a customers request.
"Harry, come in, please," Angelina called out.
Harry stepped into the shop which had only a few customers, which was to be expected on a weekday in early fall. Angelina had done a great job of decorating the shop, with the bright paint, fancifully designed tables and chairs in almost gossamer wrought iron. She had found someone to paint small renderings of various magical and mythical creatures along the walls. He hadn't noticed those before. After finishing serving the last customer, Angelina hurried out from behind the counter.
"Harry, it's so good to see you, it seems like months," she said with a big smile as she wrapped her long arms around him in a tight hug.
For not the first time, Harry wondered what made him so huggable, but after so many years of emotional neglect he had come to savor every one, so he returned the gesture with one of his own.
"I think it's been about a month, Angelina. Dinner at the Burrow, remember?" Harry said as they stood back from each other.
"It seems longer. Can you sit a minute?"
"Sure, I can chalk it up to improving community relations," he said with a smirk.
"Yes, your promotion," she said as they pulled out chairs and sat down. "That's so bloody brilliant, Harry. You know, back at Hogwarts we all thought you were going to do big things, just didn't know it would happen so fast."
Harry could only smile and shrug his customary shrug.
"So, how are things going here? Are you happy?" he said earnestly.
"Yes, I am, Harry. I really like this. George always talks about how much fun he has with the customers and this is the same kind of store. Buying something you want to enjoy, not just something you need. Even in this weather the business is pretty good during the week and it really gets busy on Saturdays. I have two weekend workers now. Your money is in good hands I think, Harry."
"I wasn't concerned about the money, Angelina. I was asking about you," he said quietly.
"I know you were, Harry," she said with a soft, knowing smile. "But business is business after all," she said, reaching across the table to squeeze his hand.
"I don't remember these paintings on the wall, Angelina," Harry said to change the subject. "When did you have that done?"
"Aren't they brilliant, Harry? Had it done this summer. A friend of yours did them for me," she said with a mischievous grin.
"Who?"
"Abagail Westwood."
"Abagail did these?" Harry asked, astounded.
"Yup," Angelina replied. "Back in the spring I mentioned to Ginny that I was thinking of doing something to spruce up the blank walls. I was thinking of some sort of mural or characters or something and Ginny mentioned what a good artist Abagail was. Something about an owl message she had gotten from Abagail that showed you and Ginny flying on your brooms. She showed me and it was amazing. So I contacted her up at Hogwarts and she wound up here a lot during the summer, doing these."
"Wow, I wish I had known. I haven't seen her since my last visit to Hogwarts. But I'll be up there again in a while," he said obviously disappointed that he had missed seeing her over the summer.
"Well, you may have missed seeing her, but she didn't miss seeing you. Every time she was here working on the walls, she'd tell me what you were up to. I guess I should have mentioned it to you, Harry, but you seemed so busy I didn't want to distract you. Sorry."
"No need to be sorry, Angelina. Everything is pretty much a whirlwind at the moment," he said with a smile. "How are the wedding plans coming together?"
"Pretty much set. Last weekend in May at the Burrow. Hopefully it won't be as eventful as Bill and Fleur's was," she said with a grimace.
Harry had a quick flash back on how the wedding started out so nicely only to end in such chaos.
"Only thing you'll have to worry about is the weather," he said with a smile.
"So, Harry, that will make you my, what, unofficially adopted brother-in-law?" she said playfully.
"Something like that, I guess. Whatever it's called, we'll be family. Not that we aren't already," he said quietly.
Angelina smiled again and then saw a young witch standing at the counter.
"Well, brother of mine, I guess I should let you get back to your busy day and I'll get back to my customers."
Harry nodded and they both stood up, Angelina giving him another heartfelt hug. She watched him as he left the shop and returned the wave he offered from beyond the front window. She smiled again, shook her head and returned to the counter to serve up another smile on a cone.
Harry made his way from the ice cream store to the entrance to the Cauldron and had a simple meal in a quiet corner. All in all it had been a good morning. He wondered how the article was going to work out but he felt at least this time the Prophet had more to lose if they tried to mess him about so he didn't let it concern him, much. Then it was back to the Ministry to continue his work of revamping law enforcement in the magical community.
The rest of the week passed quickly. There was still no word from the Centaurs. They were probably still looking for their answers in the stars. Kandak had sent a message on Friday morning indicating that progress was being made but it would likely be a few weeks before anything concrete could be arranged. Harry figured after centuries of discord, a few weeks were well worth the wait. Hermione agreed. Surprisingly, Harry had received only two transfer requests and one resignation from the Aurors. He didn't know if any of these three was the curse thrower but he wasn't going to dwell on it. He sat in on a meeting of the fledgling Investigation Unit and despite some awkwardness at the start, things seem to be heading in a good direction. Likewise he had his first contact with the Director of testing and the elderly witch was more then eager to help Harry with his plans. She had lived through all the Voldemort years, had been impressed by Harry with the results of his OWLs and NEWTs, not to mention his other accomplishments and was pleased to be able to participate in some way with his latest enterprise. She felt they could have something ready for mid November, just over a month away.
By the end of the day on Friday, Harry was more then anxious to see Ginny. He decided he would work late to try and stave off any over-excitement and to make him tired enough to fall asleep as soon as he got home. It was a good plan but failed miserably. He was indeed tired by the time he got home but the anticipation over what he had planned for the next day didn't allow his mind to shut down enough to let him fall off to sleep. It was well after midnight and he was still in his comfy chair in his study flipping through the pages of one of the rare books of magic that he had finally been able to acquire. Kreacher was standing in the open doorway watching his master and knowing he needed his sleep. An odd look passed over his face and he raised a finger and waved it briefly. The costly book came to rest in Harry's lap as his head drooped. Kreacher walked in and removed the book and placed it on his master's desk. He then placed a small blanket across Harry's lap and left the room to find his own rest for the night.
When Harry awoke the next morning he was feeling a bit stiff from having slept sitting up but all in all he felt quite refreshed. After showering and dressing he ate the excellent breakfast Kreacher had waiting for him. He was just finishing up his last cup of tea when the knocker on the door banged. Kreacher was there in a flash and Harry could hear him say,
"Welcome, Mistress Ginny. Master Harry is in the kitchen."
"Thanks, Kreacher," came the voice of which he could never hear enough.
He barely had time to get up and away from the table when a red headed blur burst into the kitchen and had him wrapped in a tight warm embrace.
"Oh, Harry, I've missed you so much, sweetheart."
Nothing was said for the next few minutes as their lips were otherwise occupied, not surprisingly in the same task. When they finally surfaced for air Harry was looking down into the face that never failed to send a thrill through him.
"Hello, love. I've missed you, too. Have you had your breakfast yet?"
"Yes I have, but I could do with another cup of tea if you have any left."
Harry pulled out a chair for her as she slid off her coat. She sat down and Harry poured her a cup from the pot on the table. He still had some left so he chose to sip it slowly as Ginny put the finishing touches on her's and then took the first sip.
"Ah, that's the thing. It's a bit chilly out there today, my dear. So, do you have any plans for us or are we just going to knock about today?"
"I thought we'd do a little shopping in Diagon Alley. How does that sound?" Harry asked.
"It sounds great. What girl would turn down the opportunity to shop?" she said with an impish grin.
It was perhaps a quarter of an hour later that Harry and Ginny walked hand in hand down the streets of London towards the Leaky Cauldron. Ginny was looking around having spent very little time amongst muggles. She leaned toward Harry.
"They sure are a noisy bunch, aren't they?"
"Yes, they are. But I guess it keeps them from noticing what we don't want them to notice."
They reached the Cauldron and walked inside. At mid morning it was still a bit on the quiet side but a few people turned and looked and waved to the young couple as they walked through the tap room on the way to the back exit. In a few minutes they were standing at the head of Diagon Alley on a cool, sunny fall day. They strolled hand in hand looking in windows, going into this shop or that. Two must-stops were of course Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes and the Quidditch Supply Store. They spent about a half hour in each, in the first talking with George about how things were going, new products and so on and the other admiring the brooms and engaging in a detailed discussion with the shop owner and two customers on the virtues of the Firebolt and Firebolt II. They concluded with Harry and Ginny signing autographs and posing for pictures. Harry appeared good natured about it but when they left the store Ginny could sense his embarrassment.
"Why does that bother you so much, Harry?"
"I don't know, Ginny. I just don't feel comfortable having a fuss made over me like that," Harry said, his cheeks still showing some rosiness.
"Harry, my love, try to remember something. It's not just that you are the famous Harry Potter, Quidditch King and defeater of evil demons. You're Harry Potter who people genuinely like and who goes out of his way to be nice to them and they know that and respond. Remember all that business about friends and family you've never met? Well, there they are and they want to feel like they were your friend or a member of your family, if only for a short time talking Quidditch in a shop. Think of it that way and maybe it won't be so embarrassing, okay, sweetie?"
Harry looked down at his favorite red head, or any head for that matter, and smiled.
"Once again, I have to marvel at your wisdom, my love," he said with a smile.
She smiled back and pulled him down for a quick kiss. By this time they were coming up on the jewelry store. Harry looked down at Ginny and said,
"Have you ever been in here, Ginny?"
"Harry, when would I have had the money to even think of looking in there? Why do you ask?"
"This is the shop where that smash and grab thief stole the gold chains that time. Why don't we pop in and see how things are going?" Harry said, trying to sound as nonchalant as he could.
"Ok, Harry. It might be fun to look around," she said.
The stepped through the door and the proprietor looked up from his work of arranging a counter display and said,
"Well, Mr. Potter. So good to see you."
"Thanks, I hope everything is going ok with you?"
"Oh, yes, indeed. I was able to retrieve the stolen items from the Ministry yesterday and the breakage was easy enough to repair. Is the young lady one of the new Aurors we've been hearing about?"
"Oh, no. This is my girlfriend, Ms. Ginny Weasley," Harry said.
"Ah, the stand out chaser from the Holyhead Harpies. It's an honour Ms. Weasley. I follow Quidditch very closely, I do. I was keeper for the Hufflepuff team my sixth and seventh year," the jeweler said.
Ginny looked a bit flustered but very pleased at the recognition and moved forward to shake the jeweler's hand when her eyes fell across the display that he had been working on. It contained a number of rings containing various types of precious gems including diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Her eyes went very wide as she bent a little closer to study them.
"Is there anything the lady would like to look at," the wizard asked, a small smile on his face.
"Oh, no, I was just admiring them is all. I couldn't even begin to think of something like these," Ginny said a little breathlessly.
"Please, young lady. It would be my pleasure to have you look at them. No need to feel obligated in any way."
"Go ahead, Ginny. It can't hurt to look," Harry said over the top of Ginny's head looking at the jeweler.
"They are so beautiful, Harry. Look, this diamond looks exactly like the one that Bill gave to Fleur when they got engaged," she said excitedly.
"Ah, yes, Mr. Bill Weasley and the stunning French girl. I remember them well. They still stop by now and again. You have a very good eye, Ms. Weasley. That is the very same cut of stone although this one is a tad larger if I remember correctly."
Ginny's eyes continued to move slowly over the different rings and gemstones until she let out a startled exclamation.
"Oh my goodness, Harry. Look at this one," she said in a rush.
"What have you got there, Ginny?" Harry asked calmly.
"This one, the emerald. It's the exact same color as your eyes. See?"
"Hold it up for me to see, will you, love?"
"Yes," the jeweler said, "hold it up and let's see if they are indeed a match."
Hesitantly Ginny picked up the ring with the bright green stone and she held it up just to the side of Harry's head and looked back and forth as he held his eyes on her face.
"My gosh, Harry, it's exactly the same color," she said as she turned her head over her shoulder to the jeweler. "Don't you think so?"
"Yes, indeed. You have a fine eye for color, Ms. Weasley."
"Let me have a look," Harry said as he took the ring from Ginny's right hand as he took hold of her left. "Yes, it does seem to look the same. Of course I'm going by memory from what I see in the mirror in the morning. Let's take another look though."
Deftly Harry held up Ginny's left hand so that the fingers were extended palm down and just as deftly slipped the slightly oversized ring onto the third finger. Ginny gasped and looked at her hand then up into Harry's face, her eyes wide.
"Ginny Weasley, will you marry me?" was all Harry said.
Ginny's eyes popped wider then began to mist over. Her mouth moved but nothing came out. She began to nod and with her free right hand pulled Harry's head down and buried her face in his shoulder. In a moment, Harry could hear small gasped 'yes's and then she pulled away, brought both hands around his neck and pulled him down to kiss him long and lovingly, all the while the jeweler standing behind the counter smiling fit to split his face. When the couple separated he said,
"I have seen this done many times and many ways over the years but I've never grown tired of it. Congratulations to you both. I did notice that it slipped a bit freely onto your finger, Ms. Weasley. If I may?" he said as he held out his hand.
Ginny hesitated then reluctantly held out her hand so the jeweler could slip it off her finger.
"A moment if you please," as he turned to his workbench behind the counter.
Ginny put her arms around Harry's waist and held him tightly as he did likewise. After a few moments the jeweler turned and handed Harry the ring.
"I believe that should do it," he said
Once more Harry took Ginny's left hand and slid the ring onto her finger, feeling the snug fit. She once more pushed up against Harry and snuggled her face into his chest. Then she looked up at him and said,
"But Harry, we don't even know how much it is?"
"I do. I saw it when I was last here about the robbery. This wasn't quite as spontaneous as it seemed," Harry said quietly, smiling.
"But how did you know that I would pick this one?" she said breathlessly.
"I didn't know, but I had hoped, and sometimes hope is enough."
Her lower lip quivered and her eyes began to stream tears as she once more buried her face in his chest. Harry smiled at the jeweler.
"I think were all settled here, aren't we?" Harry asked.
"Yes, sir. Gringotts sent a receipt for the transfer just this morning. You are both welcome back anytime and any cleaning or adjustment for the ring is free of charge."
"Thank you," Harry replied.
"Oh, no, Mr. Potter. Thank you, for everything."
With a last smile and thank you from the happy couple, Harry and Ginny walked arm and arm out of the shop. Ginny paused to look at the ring in the midday sun. She smiled and looked up at Harry.
"The same color and the same sparkle," she said happily.
Harry gave her a squeeze and they proceeded up the Alley toward their final planned stop of the day, Angelina's. As they entered the shop Harry could see that business was indeed brisk and Angelina and the two weekend assistants were busy dishing up various frozen delicacies for a small crowd. Harry and Ginny, still holding each other tightly stood toward the back of the shop. Something must have tugged at Angelina's awareness for as she stood up straight to hand a dish of vanilla over the counter she looked directly at Harry and Ginny, her look questioning. With a megawatt smile Ginny held up her left hand, palm inward, fingers pointed to the ceiling. The tall, dark skinned girl's eyes went wide and Ginny nodded vigorously. Angelina let out a squeal that brought everyone up short as she dashed around the end of the counter and made her way around the edge of the small crowd of customers. She slid to a stop just short of the happy couple and stammered out,
"When?"
"Just now," Ginny replied.
"Where?"
"The jewelers down near Gringotts."
"Let me see, let me see."
Ginny held out her hand and Angelina looked at the bright green gem as it gleamed on Ginny's finger, then she looked at Harry's face.
"It's a perfect match," Angelina said breathlessly.
"Yes, we are," Harry said quietly.
Angelina nodded, laughed and then threw her long arms around the two of them, squeezing hard. Then she let go of Harry and pulled Ginny to her and they began to do the 'happy girl two step' which primarily involved jumping up and down together in a hug accompanied by squeals of laughter and crying, sometimes simultaneously. After they ran out of petrol, they stopped and Angelina turned to the crowd with one arm still draped around Ginny's shoulders.
"Hey, everybody. Harry Potter and Ginny Weasley are officially engaged," she called out.
A number of customers came up and offered congratulations and well wishes. Harry and Ginny both had to dodge a few wayward ice cream cones but all in all they emerged unscathed. They were finally able to extricate themselves from the crowd after promising Angelina that they would meet her and George at the Leaky Cauldron for dinner at six. They still hadn't had lunch so after leaving the ice cream parlor they stood on the pavement and thought about where to go.
"Harry, we should really go see Mum and Dad. They'll be thrilled and we'll have a chance to relax before dinner. What do you think?" Ginny said.
"Sounds like a great idea, Ginny, besides it means a free lunch," Harry said with a smile.
"Oh, you are so bad, Harry," she replied with a laugh. "See you in the backyard, sweetheart."
With that she popped out of view. Harry counted to ten and followed, appearing in the backyard of the Burrow. Ginny was making her way to the house and Harry hurried to catch her up. Just as she got to the kitchen door Harry came up behind her and gave her a quick hug as she pushed open the door.
"MUM!" she yelled out. "Are you home?"
"Ginny, I wasn't expecting to see you this weekend. What a pleasant surprise," Mrs. Weasley said as she came into the kitchen from the living room.
"And Harry. Is everything all right, children?" she said a bit concerned.
"It couldn't be any better, Mum," Ginny said as she held up her left hand as she had in the ice cream parlor.
Mrs. Weasley looked stunned. Her eyes moved from her daughter to Harry and back again. They both nodded and smiled. She let out a scream that could have been heard on the other side of Ottery St. Catchpole. She rushed forward and swept them up in a hug that would have done a mother grizzly bear proud. She was crying and babbling and the best that either Harry or Ginny could do was rub her back and smile at each other. After a few moments Mr. Weasley came crashing though the back door shouting,
"What is it? Why are you screaming, Molly?" Arthur Weasley called out.
"Oh, Arthur…it's, it's, it's…" and she broke down in tears again.
"Ginny, Harry, what's going on here?"
"Sorry, Dad, Mum's a little excited right now," Ginny said from the vicinity of Harry's shoulder. "Harry and I are engaged, Dad," and she held up her left hand.
"Oh, my word, this is fantastic," Mr. Weasley said loudly and added his two arms to the hug fest.
"Mum, Dad, easy please. We need some air here," Ginny said from the middle of the impromptu rugby scrum.
Laughing and with a few tears of his own, Mr. Weasley pulled back and helped unwrap the children from Molly Weasley's grasp.
"Come on, Molly. Let the children catch their breath and tell us all about it," Arthur said as he started to lead her into the living room.
The two couples took seats in the expanded living room, one pair on one couch and the other, younger couple perched on the edge of a love seat.
"So you two, give us the details," Mr. Weasley said as his wife was still sniffling and trying to compose herself.
"Well, Dad," Ginny began. "Harry and I had planned on spending the day together and we went to Diagon Alley to walk about, window shop, stop in and see George and Angelina and have some lunch. Well, Mr. Wonderful here lures me into the jewelers that's by Gringotts under the pretense of checking up on a robbery that had taken place," Ginny said with an impish grin. "He then coaxed me into examining some very nice but horribly expensive rings. One of them was this positively gorgeous emerald that matched the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen and as I held it up to compare the two, he used some magical slight of hand to slip it on my finger and right then and there he proposed to me. What could I do but say yes."
Mrs. Weasley didn't know whether to laugh or cry so she did a bit of both. Mr. Weasley had no such problem and he was chuckling as he looked at his daughter then to Harry's face full of mock outrage.
"My dear daughter. I'm sure it was much more romantic then that."
"Oh, I'm just teasing, Dad. It was the most beautiful thing in the world. But if I tried to tell you seriously I'd be as big a basket case as Mum is," Ginny replied, her eyes filling up.
"Well, for the both of us, congratulations and our blessings to you both. I'm not going to be the one to ask for plans. I'll leave that up to your mother once she's pulled herself together. But I think I'll go round up those of the family that I can," he said looking at the grandfather clock that didn't tell time but told where all the members of the family were.
It always made Harry feel good to see his face up there, currently pointing to the marker that read 'home'. He could see that Bill and Fleur were at their home, George at the store, Ron at Hogsmeade, Charlie was somewhere in the Scottish Highlands working on his research project. Percy was in London. Fred's 'hand' had been taken down and was set in a small wooden frame next to the clock.
"I'll be back in a little while, everyone. Children, keep an eye on your mother," he said with a grin then popped out of sight.
Ginny got up and went and sat next to her mother, wrapping her arms around her. She looked back at Harry and smiled. After a few moments Mrs. Weasley gave a big sniff and looked at the two of them.
"Well, my dears. You've given me a right shock, but a very happy one. I always thought this day would come but it's still so exciting. But I'm forgetting myself. Have you two thought to have lunch with all this?" she asked.
"Well, we thought this is the best place in the world to be fed, so…" Harry said with a crooked smile.
Molly Weasley laughed, shook her head and got up from the couch. She bustled into the kitchen and began gathering items together to make a quick lunch.
"Come in here, you two. Free lunches are served in the kitchen."
Harry got up and offered his hand to his bride to be and walked with her into the now spacious kitchen and sat at the big table. By the time their meal was ready popping sounds were heard in the yard and the first one through the door was Fleur, squealing excitedly as she rushed toward the table. Ginny bounced up and Harry and Mrs. Weasley were treated to a repeat performance of the 'happy girls dance'. Bill walked in with an amused grin on his face and came up to Harry and shook his hand and offered his congratulations. After a few moments, Ginny and Fleur let go of each other and the French beauty swept up to Harry and wrapped him tightly in her slender arms and kissed him warmly on each cheek and then his forehead.
"Congratulations, mon frere. I am more 'appy then I can say. I weesh you both all the love and 'appiness een the world. Especially to you, 'arry. You deserve eet more than anyone."
Harry smiled back at her and for the first time anyone could remember he leaned forward and kissed her on each of her cheeks. To everyone's amazement Fleur blushed and gave a girlish giggle.
"Well, mon ami, that took you long eenough," she said with another giggle.
They all sat down at the table and shared in the lunch that Mrs. Weasley had prepared. After about a half an hour Mr. Weasley returned. He informed them that Ron wouldn't be able to get away until closing; Charlie would be along in about half an hour and George would talk to Angelina to see if they wanted to come along or have everyone go to the Cauldron as planned.
"Oh, shoot, that's right. Angelina wanted us to meet them for dinner at the Cauldron at six," Ginny said.
"She didn't know we'd be coming here, Ginny. We didn't know we'd be coming here for that matter. We'll just see what the afternoon brings," Harry said.
"Well everyone, why don't we move out of the kitchen and make use of the lovely, large living room someone so thoughtfully provided for us," Mrs. Weasley said with a mischievous smile.
Harry blushed a bit, then laughed and taking Ginny by the hand lead them into the living room. As the afternoon passed, various family members began to arrive. Charlie Weasley came in wearing his outdoor gear which showed some heavy singe marks. His research was still a secret but the evidence bespoke dragons were involved. Shortly after five o'clock Ron came through the kitchen door at a run and caught Harry up in a bear hug that had them both laughing. Once they settled down, Harry looked at his first and still best friend and said,
"You'll be the best man, won't you, Ron?"
"Of course, Harry, what are best mates for?" he said with a smile.
A few minutes later George came through the door and said,
"Hey, everyone. We decided we'd join you here for a free dinner," he laughed. "Angelina will be along in a bit, she had some cleaning up to do."
"And you didn't stay to help her, George?" Mrs. Weasley said critically.
"I tried, Mum, but she pushed me out. Said she was worried someone would come to the Cauldron looking for us," he replied, his face a mask of innocent concern.
"And I'm sure you protested loudly as she pushed you out the door," his mum countered, her voice heavy with sarcasm.
"No way, Mum. I never argue with a woman. Learned that from you years ago," George laughed again.
Mrs. Weasley scowled at her son as he came up to offer his congratulations to Harry and Ginny. Angelina joined the festivities shortly before six and Percy was the last to arrive shortly thereafter. He did apologize that he wouldn't be able to stay long since he had a previous engagement for eight o'clock back in London. Mrs. Weasley had been busy during the afternoon in between conversations and welcomes and by six thirty everyone was helping themselves to a number of dishes served buffet style. Ginny had spent a great deal of time talking with Fleur, her mother and Angelina, when she arrived, about ideas for the wedding. The idea of a double wedding was floated but Ginny shot that down immediately.
"No way. Angelina deserves her own special day and so do I," she said firmly.
The men's discussion ranged from where the two would live, juggling the two careers, honeymoon destinations, all of which lasted for perhaps a quarter hour and then on to more important things like Quidditch, Harry's job, what was going on at Diagon Alley and of course, more Quidditch. Harry was pleased to learn that the Gryffindor team was doing well and had a decent lead for the Cup.
"Shame of it is, Harry, after your last year, it's all gotten pretty dull. No unbelievable catches, no spectacular crashes. You raised the bar and every match gets compared to one of yours. You're getting to be known as Almost Harry Potter," Bill said with a laugh.
"Almost? What's that supposed to mean," Harry asked, puzzled.
"Match and post match commentary is filled with things like "that was an almost Harry Potter catch" or "that seeker has almost Harry Potter like moves", Bill replied.
Harry could only smile a little and shrug. The Bill got a bit more serious and asked,
"When do you think you'd be able to find some time to come up for a lecture, Harry? I'm getting a lot of questions."
"Well, on the one hand I'm pretty busy with the reorganization, Bill, but on the other in a way I'm almost my own boss and I don't have to worry about any complaints about me interrupting my training so let's think about it. What do you say to Tuesday, week after this one coming up?"
"That'd be great, Harry. Your promotion to Chief was big news at Hogwarts," Bill replied.
"How'd they find out so fast?" Harry asked.
"Your biggest and smallest fan let everyone know almost before it happened," the elder Weasley brother grinned.
"Abagail?"
"Abagail. It happened I had her class late that morning and she came tearing in shouting 'Mr. Potter is Auror Chief' so loud it echoed off the walls. She was fit to burst she was so happy for you."
"That probably means our engagement is old news up there by now," Harry said with a laugh.
"Most likely," Bill said.
It was around ten thirty when Ginny looked over at Harry and motioned toward the door with her head. He nodded and stood up.
"I don't want to be rude but it's been a long and exciting day. I think it's time to be heading back to London."
"Are you sure you wouldn't rather stay over tonight, Harry? You know you're always welcome," Mrs. Weasley asked.
"Thanks, Mum. But I think I'll head back. Ginny? Are you staying or coming too?"
"I'll come along, Harry. I'll need to head back early tomorrow, we have a major practice starting on Monday morning," Ginny said.
"Ok, dears," Mrs. Weasley said as she came up and gave her 'son' and her daughter warm hugs. "You've given us wonderful news today and we'll have to sit down soon and make plans."
"Yes, Mum," the two replied together, smiling.
Harry and Ginny then walked out hand and hand, then they Disapparated back to the front stoop of the London Black house. Harry reached for the knocker but the door swung open as Kreacher's head appeared around the door.
"Welcome home, Master Harry, Mistress Ginny," the house elf said.
"Thanks, Kreacher. Sorry I didn't let you know but we were at the Burrow celebrating."
"Master Harry needs not to apologize and Kreacher is most happy that Mistress Ginny will soon be Kreacher's true Mistress," the elf said with a small smile.
"How did you know that?" Harry asked.
"House elves have their ways, Master Harry. Kreacher was told by Hogwarts house elves who heard it from a little girl who ran through the halls of the school yelling about Master Harry and Mistress Ginny."
Harry and Ginny looked at each other and said together,
"Abagail," and then laughed.
The couple walked into the foyer and handed Kreacher their coats. Harry then led Ginny into the rarely used parlor where they could sit down on a small couch. Ginny was pressed up close to Harry's side and she held her left hand out in front of her, admiring the way the lamp light reflected off the bright green emerald. She sighed and let her head come to rest on Harry's shoulder and she said slowly,
"Mrs. Harry Potter. I like the way that sounds," she said in a dreamy voice.
"I love the way it sounds and I love you, Ms. Ginny Weasley," Harry replied.
Ginny looked up at him and let one hand slide around his neck to pull his face down to hers. Their lips met and remained locked together for some time. As they pulled apart Harry had to catch his breath. He looked at his bride to be and said,
"I guess you're going to have to head back tonight?"
"No, Harry, I don't plan on going back to Holyhead tonight," she said in a soft, low voice that struck a chord in Harry.
"Oh, then I better have Kreacher get the guest room set up for you."
"No, Harry, we don't need the guest room set up for me tonight," she said in a tone that made the back of Harry's neck tingle.
"Um, you're not going to Holyhead and you don't need the guest room so where…" he faltered to a stop as he gazed into the eyes of his hearts greatest desire.
Ginny simply nodded and then stood up and held her hand out to Harry. He took it and let her pull him up off the couch. They left the parlor, their arms around each other and as they walked up the stairs to the second floor they kept their eyes locked on each other. They didn't even notice that Kreacher was standing in the doorway leading into the foyer from the corridor where he could watch them finish their climb up the staircase and then disappear down the upper corridor. His smile was wide as he turned and made his way to his sleep basket.