I wanted to take a moment to convey a few thoughts to those of you who have been reading my story. First and foremost "THANK YOU". I enjoy knowing you're appreciating my writing almost as much as I enjoy writing it. I particularly appreciate the time you take to post a review to let me know what you think. In regards to those comments I'd like to offer you the following:
For those of you who've asked for posting dates I really can't do that. Between job and family I write as I can and since I don't have any real plan for each episode I don't really know when I'll be done with a segment so I can't really put a date at the end of one chapter as to when you can expect the next.
The length of each episode seems to be a love/hate sort of thing. Some of you like them long, others don't. More frequent posting of shorter chapters seems like a way to approach it but my head doesn't work that way. I just start writing and let the particular story line carry me along til I think it's done and that's where I stop.
As to the end of the story, nope, haven't come close. I realize chapter 17 seemed to suggest an ending but in fact merely stated something that would continue for a long time. There is plenty of story left to tell. You don't think I'd pass up telling you about the wedding of the century or the unfolding tale of a deep dark criminal conspiracy do you? 8^).
Lastly, thanks to JKR for providing such a rich foundation to build upon and to my son, Brian, for introducing me to this website. Now on we go…
Harry's Future, Part 18
Harry sat on a hard wooden chair in the makeshift conference room also known as the Aurors' break room. The small wall opposite from where he was sitting was covered with a large sheet of parchment that had been spliced together from smaller sheets with a lot of tape. Milligan was standing to one side explaining the collage of pictures, connecting lines and small paragraphs of smaller writing. On the table in front of Harry was a book as thick as the London phone directory. The briefing had been going on for over an hour and Harry's head swam with names, places and dates.
"So, Chief, as you can see the smuggling operation was, or perhaps still is, intended to be a revenue generator for an organization which appears to have its roots with Durmstrang. Our friend from the potions shop was a second level operative, Travers was apparently trying to work his way in as the last of the Voldemort gang and that little git, 'the source', now known to us as Philbus Hammersmith had been acting as a go between for the Death Eaters and this east European gang. What we don't know at this point is how extensive the network on the continent is but apparently these three characters here are well known to the investigators from France and messages have already been dispatched to Minister LeClerq," Milligan concluded.
It was late in the morning on the Wednesday before his wedding and Harry was having a hard time focusing on what was being said. Considering the breadth and depth of the criminal conspiracy that was being described to him, he was having a difficult time believing that Abagail had been able to ferret out so much information and he said so.
"Ah, that was the beauty part of it all, Chief," Milligan replied with a smirk. "Once she had been able to peel the first half dozen or so like onions, as she put it, we just presented the information to the others as if their comrades had finally cracked, it all started coming out. Guess they figured it might go easier on them in court if it looked like they were cooperating. I had four investigators at a time taking down information. These pictures were drawn by the young lady, taken from the head of Markovic, that's the potion shop guy, and Hammersmith. He didn't know their names but they were recognized by our French guests."
"I guess I didn't have so much to worry about. I figured Abagail would be seeing all kinds of nasty things in their heads," Harry mused.
"Oh, I'm sure she did. Between the expressions on her face as she was 'peeling' them and the things she relayed to my guys writing it down it wasn't pretty but she's a tough little character," Milligan said.
"Speaking of the tough little character, I haven't seen her since I brought her in today. Where is she?" Harry asked.
Milligan stood there looking at Harry and scratching his head.
"Well, sir, it seems that some of our hard boiled Aurors are a bunch of pushovers. They figured they wouldn't be seeing much of her now that we've gotten all this so they're throwing her a little 'thank you' party of sorts," he said.
"There's more then one way to peel a hard boiled egg," Harry said with a little laugh.
"Yes, sir. All she has to do is look at you with those big eyes and she's got you hooked like a codfish. I'll tell you this, Chief, if she really wants to come to work here she'd put me and my folks out of business," Milligan said with a laugh.
"I doubt that. There's usually more then enough crime to go around but she'd sure make the tough cases easier to crack. She's still trying to convince me it's a good idea but I'm not sold yet," Harry said with a small smile. "Well, good job. I guess I can get married on Saturday with out any distractions now. I'll be in my office. See if you can find Abagail and let her know where I am."
"Yes, sir."
Harry took up his cane and made his way back to his office. He had been paying particular attention to his knee over the last week, taking it easy, avoiding any stress and doing everything the therapist told him. He was bound and determined to be in as good a shape as possible on Saturday so that he and Ginny could dance like they did at the Halloween dance during their seventh year. He had a session that afternoon and then another on Friday. He entered his office and before he could even sit down he heard a voice from behind him.
"Well, Potter, that was quite a breakthrough you fellas had. Too bad it took a fourteen year old child to make it happen."
Harry turned around and saw a short, stocky wizard named Ellington standing in the doorway. Harry let out a sigh because he found this particular wizard to be a great source of irritation. He was one of the 'spooks' from the Mysteries department and unlike most of those that worked in the murky basement of the Ministry who simply went about their business in quiet secrecy, Ellington seemed to revel in the idea that he knew things that you didn't.
"I don't care where the information comes from, Ellington, as long as the job gets done. Is there something I can do for you or is this just a social call?" Harry asked trying to keep his voice level and his rising irritation in check.
"Just passing by, Potter. But I'd be careful if I were you. If half of what we hear about that little girl is true, Mysteries might have to step in and…" Ellington tailed off and the smirk dropped off his face.
"Understand this, Ellington," Harry said, his voice so low it was more felt then heard, "you and the rest of the spooks down in that murky hole you work in better forget that girl even exists."
Harry was standing next to his desk, his right hand on his cane, his left on the desktop. He glared at the unpleasant little wizard and took a step forward.
"If I hear that you've so much as looked at her again I'll come down there and you'll think that oversized lizard you have in bits and pieces came back to life. There won't be a magic door left on its hinges. Remember, I got in there once before, so I can do it again but I won't be nice about it."
Ellington was rooted to the floor but he was leaning back, with sweat pouring down his face as if he was standing in front of an open bake oven.
"So take my advice, Ellington. Get the hell out of my office and mind your own damn business," Harry ground out.
As if he was released from a spell the little wizard hastily backed out of the office doorway until he banged off the wall opposite and then scrambled down the corridor towards the elevators. Harry began to take deep breaths and closed his eyes trying to calm down. He stepped backwards a few paces and sat down in his chair.
With his eyes still closed he leaned his head and rested it on the chair back. He was more upset with himself for letting that arrogant fool get him so wound up then at the idea that they would actually try and get their hands on Abagail. But with the spooks you never really knew for sure. He didn't really know how long he sat there until he heard a familiar voice from the doorway.
"Hello, Harry," Abagail said.
Harry looked over towards the door and smiled.
"Hello, little one. Did you have a nice morning?"
"Oh, yes," she said as she slid into a chair on the other side of Harry's desk. "I got a chance to see all the Aurors that were here and some of the Patrollers. I promised that I would come back and see them before I went back to Hogwarts. I hope that's ok with you, Harry."
"That's just fine, Abagail. I got a chance to see what Milligan and the rest were able to put together with your assistance. You were really a big help. I know I've asked before but I will again anyway. Are you alright? Nothing scary, no nightmares?"
"No, Harry, again," she said with a little grin.
"Hey there, little one. Guardian, remember. I'm supposed to worry about you."
"I know, Harry, but you don't need to worry about this. It's not a problem," she said in her airy voice. "But there's a problem with you, isn't there. I can feel it."
Abagail sat back and looked at Harry. Then she looked down at the top of the desk where Harry had put his hand down while confronting the 'spook' Ellington. There was a faint but clear image of a hand singed into the worn finish. She looked back up at Harry and her eyes got that unfocused look.
"Oh, Harry. You didn't," she said. "Please, you've got to stop getting so upset about these things. A simple punch in the nose would have gotten your point across without damaging your furniture," she finished with a perfectly straight face.
Harry looked at her for a moment and then they both started to laugh. At this point Harry's assistant, Tom Medford knocked on the door frame.
"Um, excuse me, sir. Could I get your signature on these?" Tom said waving a handful of parchment.
"And these would be?" Harry asked.
"Oh, the first two are requisition forms for equipment and furnishings for the Hogsmeade Patrollers station and the rest are your countersignatures for the weekly reports."
"Sure, let's have them," Harry said holding out his hand
Tom came up alongside Harry's desk and handed his boss the sheaf of parchment. He happened to glance down and noticed the handprint on the desk surface and frowned. He felt a tingle on the back of his neck and tried to nonchalantly look behind him. He saw Abagail sitting there looking up at him with those big dark eyes.
"Oh, hello, Ms. Westwood. I'm sorry, I didn't see you there," he said with a small smile.
"That's ok, I'm just waiting for Harry to take me home to the Burrow. How do you like your new job?" she asked.
"Very much, Ms. Westwood," Tom said glancing down at Harry who was just finishing up signing the paperwork.
"Here you go, Tom. I'm going to take Abagail here back to the Burrow then I'll take a turn around Diagon Alley. Then I have to report to Saint Mungo's for my therapy session. Anything comes up Maxwell can handle it."
"Yes, sir. Nice to see you again, Ms. Westwood."
"Bye, Tom," Abagail said with a smile.
Tom left the office, papers in hand. Harry looked at Abagail and said,
"You ready to head for the Burrow?"
"Yes, sir. I promised Mr. Weasley I'd work on cleaning out the inside of the car. There was a lot of rust in there."
"Ok, let's go," Harry said and together they made their way up to the lobby to the fireplace set aside for those employees that used the Floo network. They each took a handful of powder and Harry said,
"Ladies first."
Abagail giggled and threw down the powder, said 'the Burrow' and stepped into the green flames. Harry waited a few heartbeats and then did the same. When he stepped out of the fireplace in the Burrow, Abagail was already moving towards the kitchen table where lunch was waiting.
"Harry, dear. Wonderful to see you. How are you holding up?" Molly Weasley said.
"Doing great, Mum. Little one here put a major dent in that bunch of smugglers. It looks like we've got the beginning of a trail to who they've been working for as well. Not to mention she has all those hard bitten Aurors wrapped around her little finger," Harry said with a smile.
Abagail started to giggle as Mrs. Weasley looked at her with raised eyebrows. Harry took his place at the table and the three of them began to eat. Mrs. Weasley looked at her 'son' and said,
"That's all well and good, dear, but I was referring to the wedding. Are you ready for Saturday?"
Harry looked at his 'mum' and smiled and then said,
"Yes, Mum, I've been ready for this for a long time."
After lunch Harry Disapparated to Diagon Alley and took a slow stroll up and down the pavements. As he walked along he thought it would have been nice to have spent some time as a Patroller trainee working each day here or at Hogsmeade or at least spending time doing what he originally intended, being a true Auror. He let out a long breath and decided to drop into the Ice Cream Haven. As he walked in he could see there was a fairly large number of customers and that the weekend workers were being keep busy during the week now. It was obvious that they were too busy for Angelina to break away so he gave her a wave and then left the store.
As he stood out on the pavement it occurred to him that he was just wasting time because he couldn't stay focused on anything. The idea that in less then seventy two hours he and Ginny would be married kept pushing everything else to the side. He shook his head and made his way to the back of the Cauldron and then Disapparated back to the Ministry. When he got down to his office he found a message requesting he make his way up to the Ministers office when he returned. So Harry turned around and made his way up to Shacklebolt's office.
"You can go in now, Mr. Potter, they're waiting for you," the elderly secretary said.
'They' Harry thought to himself. He hoped it wasn't going to be another reporter. He opened the door and stepped in.
"Ah, Harry, there you are. Come in," the Minister said.
Harry saw that 'they' meant the Minister and Director Grimsson. He took a seat at the conference table where Shacklebolt and Grimsson were already seated.
"Harry, you're looking surprisingly calm for a man so close to his wedding day," the Minister said with a smile.
"I've got the easy part, sir. I just have to show up. Mrs. Weasley has been doing all the hard work," Harry said with a smile.
"I'm glad to hear that, Harry. Abernathy and I are looking forward to what should be a very memorable event," the Minister said and then his face took on a more serious expression. "There is, however, a more immediate and somewhat serious reason for us to want to talk to you, Harry. Shortly before lunch this morning I had the very agitated Director of Mysteries up here complaining that you threatened one of his people. Is that correct?"
"No, sir, it's not. I threatened the entire department."
Shacklebolt's eyebrows shot up and he said,
"The entire department, Harry? Would you care to elaborate?"
"The individual in question was Ellington. He suggested that Abagail Westwood was of interest to them and that they might, and I quote, 'step in'. I took that to mean they would want her as a subject of study and I informed Ellington that I wouldn't like that idea and what the consequences would be if they tried anything in relation to the girl," Harry said calmly, never taking his eyes off the Minister.
"Yes, I believe you suggested that you wouldn't leave a door on its hinges," the Minister replied straight faced.
"Harry, could it be that you simply misinterpreted what was intended to be a joke?" his boss, Director Grimsson suggested.
"Perhaps, but the way Mysteries conducts its business rarely has any humor to it, sir. And Ellington is the worst of the lot. I wouldn't submit a hardened criminal to that bunch let alone an impressionable young woman. I think I made that clear," Harry concluded.
"Harry, I understand your feelings but you also must understand that I can't have senior Ministry officials threatening to lay waste to an entire department. If it makes you feel any better I made it absolutely clear that Miss Westwood is off limits. But your reaction is of concern to us. Anything you care to tell us, Harry?" the Minister asked.
Harry tilted his head back and looked at the ceiling of the Minister's office. Then he looked back at the Minister.
"It has been explained to me that I have some issues controlling my anger where family is concerned. Abagail is family. I felt she was being threatened and I responded. I realize that what I did wasn't very professional but then again I haven't had much time being a professional so I guess I'm still learning," he said looking at the Minister and then the Director. "Maybe I'm not really suited for the job after all."
"What are you talking about, Harry? You're doing very well," Grimsson said.
"Maybe, but I still think I'm not ready for this job. I think you moved to soon, sir, at least where I'm concerned," Harry said to the Minister.
"Well, in a way you're right, Harry. It was my intention to give you at least a few years to get seasoned and show what you could do but the previous Director forced my hand when it became obvious that he was going to resist every effort I made to reform the Ministry in general and your department in particular. So that meant I needed a new Director and a new Chief. So, here we are. You're just going to have to learn on the job Harry, just like I am. Being an Auror doesn't really train you to be a Minister. So to borrow from the muggles, suck it up, Harry. We need you doing the job with a clear head. You have two days before your wedding so take them off, go home and get yourself ready. Enjoy your honeymoon and come back ready to work. Understand?"
"Yes, sir," Harry replied quietly.
"Good, now go home and we'll see you on Saturday, hopefully in a better mood."
"Yes, sir," and Harry got up and left the room.
Shacklebolt and Grimsson watched as Harry left the room. Then the Director looked over at his boss.
"You don't think you were a little tough on him, sir?"
"Harry understands tough. He already knows he has some issues to deal with. Being soft with him isn't going to help him. Keep an eye on him but don't get in his way. We need him to do things his way to get where we need to be."
"Yes, sir."
The subject of this discussion had left the Ministry building by Disapparating into the backyard of the Burrow. He walked up to the doorway that led into the kitchen and knocked before sticking his head in.
"Anyone home?"
"Harry, dear. This is an unexpected surprise. Is everything alright?" Mrs. Weasley called out.
Harry walked into the kitchen and up to his adoptive mother and gave her a big hug. As he was releasing her he heard his name being called out in a low airy voice.
"Harry!" Abagail called out.
"Hello again, little one," Harry replied.
Abagail came up to Harry and her eyes lost their focus for a moment and when they sharpened she looked at him with a sad expression.
"I'm sorry, Harry. You got in trouble because of me."
"What's this, Harry? What kind of trouble?" Mrs. Weasley asked, genuinely concerned.
Harry pulled out a chair at the kitchen table and gestured that Abagail should do the same. He looked at his mum and said,
"One of the spooks from Mysteries said something that set me off. The Minister found out about it and dressed me down and sent me home until after the honeymoon. It's not a big deal, really," Harry said.
"Harry. What could one of those people have possibly said to make you that upset?"
"Harry was protecting me, Mrs. Weasley. A nasty wizard said something about me that made Harry very angry. Harry threatened to wreck the Mysteries department if they bothered me," Abagail said, placing her hand on Harry's forearm.
"Oh, Harry," Mrs. Weasley began. "I thought you were going to try and get that under control."
"I know, Mum, but I did say it was going to be hard where family was concerned. But it was worth it. The Minister laid down the law to the spooks so Abagail shouldn't have any problems with them. So I can handle a little dressing down for that."
Mrs. Weasley just shook her head and ruffled Harry's already tousled hair. Abagail rested her head against Harry's arm and held on to his hand with both of hers. Harry rested his cheek on the top of her head for a moment and then straightened up. Abagail lifted her head up off of Harry's shoulder and looked at him with those big, dark, soulful eyes.
"Thank you, Harry," she said with a sad little smile.
"You're welcome, little one."
*******************
Harry stood on the dais that normally held the table for the faculty of Hogwarts. Today the table was gone and instead there was an ornate wrought iron trellis festooned with flowers matching the colors of Gryffindor house. The stone wall behind was covered with flowering vines bearing blooms that matched the Hogwarts colors. Harry looked about the Great Hall with an almost bemused distraction.
After years of turmoil and struggle, tragedy and triumph, Harry was ready to take what he considered to be his first big step into a happy future. He could see that the usual long tables for the students had been replaced with a number of round tables, covered in Gryffindor and Hogwarts colors and surrounded by the numerous guests who, like Harry, were awaiting the arrival of the bride and her attendants.
Standing next to Harry was his best man, and best friend, Ron Weasley. Behind Ron were arrayed the other ushers, Bill, Charlie, Percy and George Weasley and Neville Longbottom. Harry was dressed in his best formal robes; the black with dark gray accenting that had been so impressive during his trip to Beauxbaton. The others were in basic black.
It had been Harry's idea that the wedding be held in the Great Hall at Hogwarts because it was and would always be considered part of his second home. He wanted it to be something special for Ginny as she was the first Weasley daughter to be married in three generations. There were hundreds of guests drawn from the Weasley family, the staff of the school, its board of governors, Ginny's Quidditch Team, members of the Ministry of Magic and many, many friends from their time at Hogwarts. He also noticed the spot along the wall near the double doors was an area that had been set up that included pictures of those friends and family members who had passed on. It gave him a brief pang of regret.
The wedding was scheduled to begin at noon and Harry was drawn out of his musings when a chime sounded throughout the Hall. Since there was no big clock in the Hall he assumed someone must have magicked the sound. He focused his attention on the double doors at the back of the Hall where under ordinary circumstances the students would use to enter and exit. As the twelfth chime faded away the first member of the bridal party entered the Hall, Abagail as the flower girl. She was dressed in a pale lavender floor length gown and from a basket she began to scatter flower petals the same color as those on the iron trellis.
After Abagail had gone ten paces Gabrielle Delacour entered and Harry had to smile slightly at the sight of the younger sister of Fleur who, true to her veela heritage, glowed, literally. Next was Hermione who had gone to the same lengths to tame her usually bushy hair as she had for the TriWizards Tournament Ball. She looked beautiful and Harry could hear Ron's sharp intake of breath. Following Hermione was Ginny's friend and teammate Eleanor MacManus. She was not a beautiful young woman in the way that the Delacours or Ginny were but she possessed a slender athleticism and grace that drew your eye. Next came Angelina Johnson who, just as during her own walk down the aisle as a bride, kept breaking into a wide grin. Then there was Fleur. Harry had half expected Fleur to be glowing like a summer sunrise but she looked just like any other drop dead gorgeous young woman with long shimmering silver blonde hair and a smile that could melt your bones.
Next came the maid of honor, Luna Lovegood. All the young women wore gowns of the same pale lavender but as a mark of her special status Luna also wore a circlet of lavender flowers atop her golden blonde hair. Instead of her usually distracted expression she seemed focused and determined as if making it to the dais without a misstep was the most important thing in the world. Due to the length of the Hall all six of the bride's attendants and the flower girl were walking in file and in step and Harry thought, if only briefly that nothing looked more beautiful. Then Ginny appeared in the doorway.
Harry experienced what could only be described as tunnel vision. The Hall, the guests, the bridal party all faded from view and nothing registered but the sight of his bride to be.
She wore a traditional white gown that was cut to flatter her shorter stature. To accent her wealth of crimson hair, a short dark green cape was draped over her shoulders. Instead of wearing her hair long and straight as she usually did, it had been more elaborately done up with some thin braids and gold combs producing a tiara or crown like effect. Her face was serene with just a touch of a smile and her stride was smooth and unhurried. Harry continued to watch her as she practically glided down the aisle until he started to get lightheaded. He finally let out the breath he had been holding and gulped in some fresh air. Ron wasn't the only one who had to remember to breath sometimes.
By now, Abagail had reached the steps leading up to the dais and as she approached she gave Harry a smile and wink and then she turned to move to her left to begin to form the attendants' line. Gabi was struggling to maintain her sense of dignity against the overwhelming desire to smile and giggle as she usually did in Harry's presence. Hermione and Angelina each gave Harry a little smile and nod while Eleanor's eyes briefly flicked towards Charlie before she turned to join the others. Fleur made eye contact with Harry from the moment she touched the first step and her expression was soft and warm. Harry smiled back and then his eyes returned to Ginny, who was just approaching the bottom step. As their eyes met resolve crumbled and both of them broke into huge grins. Luna had taken her place just to the left and as Ginny came up to Harry he turned and they both faced the same little wizard who officiated for Bill and Fleur and George and Angelina.
Harry was doing his best to concentrate but he was having trouble staying focused on the matter at hand. From the moment Ginny was within two paces of him he was aware of a light heady fragrance that was doing a very good job of scrambling his concentration. At least some small part of his mind was paying attention so that when it came time to repeat the vows he didn't miss a beat and it brought him back to the here and now.
He and Ginny were facing each other and holding each others hands. All Harry could see were those bright brown eyes looking back up at him. They got through the vows without any stumbles and then the little wizard asked if Harry had the rings. He nodded once and then turned toward the crowd and made a gesture. From a table near the aisle about half way back to the rear entrance a small boy in a black robe began walking toward the dais with a small silver pillow held in both hands. He face was very solemn and his pace controlled and slow. Teddy Lupin was making his public debut. It was obvious that his grandmother had coached him extensively. As he slowly mounted the steps he looked up at Harry and Ginny and a little bit of a smile began to break through.
Teddy approached Ron who reached down and picked the two rings off the pillow. Having completed his mission, Teddy's face lit up in a full smile and then he shifted over a bit to stand in front of Bill Weasley. The rings in Ron's hand were unusual for a wedding. Instead of gold or silver or a combination they were actually carved from jade in a shade that matched the emerald engagement ring that Ginny wore. It was an idea that had occurred to Ginny one day as she was sitting staring at her engagement ring as she often did. The rings were fairly plain except for two runes that had been engraved in each. Hermione had suggested them to Ginny as they were symbols for health and happiness.
As the officiating wizard directed, the rings were exchanged and the final benediction recited as were the words they had both been waiting to hear for so long.
"I know pronounce you husband and wife."
The kiss they exchanged was appropriately brief but contained an energy and promise that left them both a little breathless. Then the little wizard had them face the assembled guests and said,
"Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my extreme honor to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Potter."
The applause and cheers were thunderous. This wedding was more then just the joining of two young people. It was emblematic of a rebirth of sorts for the British magical community. An editorial published in the prior Thursday edition of the Daily Prophet made reference to the impending nuptials as one of the signs that a new era had begun and noted that with Ginny being the first Weasley daughter in so many generations that perhaps this was a marriage preordained by fate. When it was brought to Harry's attention he snorted and said he'd ask Firenze if he had seen any road signs.
Since the wedding and reception were to be held in the same Hall the dance floor had been arranged as a large circle in the very center surrounded by tables. The aisle had cut through the tables on a line from the rear doors to the dais through that circle. Therefore the bride and groom had only a short walk to reach the spot of their first dance as husband and wife. Harry and Ginny proceeded to the center of the circle and the bridal party fanned out to stand around the perimeter ready to join in.
"Are you going to be ok dancing, Harry? Your knee I mean," Ginny asked quietly.
"I'll be just fine, love. I've got things well in hand. We'll be dancing all night if you like," he said with a smile.
"Well, not all night, sweetheart," she said in low voice with an arch look that gave Harry chills up his spine as he smiled wider.
Then the small orchestra began to play and they began to dance at a moderate pace in an elegant step and after the first playing was concluded the song was repeated and the rest of the bridal party joined in. Abagail was holding on to Teddy Lupin's hands and moving him around in small circles much to the small boy's enjoyment. Then there was the obligatory dance including the bride and groom's parents, who in this case were the same people. As Harry moved slowly about the floor with his 'mum' she looked into those bright green eyes and said,
"How are you doing, dear?"
"I couldn't be doing any better, Mum. I'm finally part of a real family," he said quietly.
"Harry, dear, you've been a part of this family for years," she said.
"I know that, Mum, but this makes it seem more real, more permanent. It's like a hole has been filled and I don't need to worry about falling into it anymore."
Mrs. Weasley's eyes began to tear up a bit as she smiled at her son, according to the law and according to love. When the music ended she pulled him close and gave him a big hug. What Harry did next was unplanned but something he felt he had to do after a short conversation he had had with Neville before the wedding began. He had asked Neville when he and Hannah were getting married, having recalled the conversation they had had in the Leaky Cauldron last fall. What Neville told him was surprising and a bit disturbing.
They were already married. At the end of June Neville and Hannah had a private ceremony with just themselves, two witnesses and the little wizard who seemed to be at all the weddings for witches and wizards. Neville explained that with the situation with his parents and Hannah having lost her mother to Voldemort anything larger or more elaborate would have been too painful. Harry was determined to do something for his friends. So after the bearlike hug from his mum he took out his wand and touched it to his throat and said 'Sonorous'. He then waved Ginny over and with his arm around her shoulder he began to speak.
"If I could have your attention, everyone. I know this is a little out of order but I would expect by now you're used to me doing unusual things," he said with a half smile and everyone laughed. "First I want to thank you all for being here to share this wonderful day with us. You might not think it, but I consider myself to be just about the luckiest fellow in the world. I've been blessed with the most wonderful girl anyone could hope for, the greatest family and the best friends. Right now I'd like to share a bit more of this great day with someone who is only a few hours short of being my oldest friend. He surprised me this morning with some news and I'd like to share that surprise with all of you and share some of your good wishes with him. So, ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, I'm extremely honored to present to you for the first time in public, Mr. and Mrs. Neville Longbottom. Hannah, would you come up and join your husband for a dance?"
As the guests and wedding party all started to applaud Neville walked up to Harry, his cheeks a bit pink and said,
"Thank you, Harry. Thanks for sharing your day with us."
By now, Hannah had made her way onto the dance floor and Neville turned to join her and together they began a slow dance that kept them in the middle of the circular space with the wedding party standing around them watching. From the half circle of Harry's arm Ginny looked up at her husband with glistening eyes and said,
"That was wonderful of you, Harry. How did you find out they were already married?"
Harry whispered to Ginny what had transpired and when he was done Ginny's hold on his arm was almost painful. After a sniff she whispered back,
"You've given them a very happy memory now, Harry. It's like I've said before, you always know the right present to give."
Harry smiled and managed to beat back the self effacing shrug that was almost automatic at times like this. Then they both turned to watch as their two friends finished their dance. When it was over the guests applauded enthusiastically and the young couple came over to Harry and Ginny. Hannah released her hold on her husband and came directly to Harry and threw her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder. The sound of her crying was muffled but evident. Both Ginny and Neville were rubbing her back to sooth her. After a moment she pulled her head up to look at Harry.
"Thank you, Harry," she said as she sniffed. "That was the kindest thing you could have done for us," she said and then kissed his cheek. "Oh, and while I've got you here this is for arranging that loan for us, we know it was more then just a suggestion," and she kissed him lightly on the lips. "You're the best friend anyone could ever hope to have."
Harry was a surprised at this and wondered how his secret got out but that would have to wait for another time. The orchestra was starting to play and some of the guests were coming out to dance and the party was beginning. In the hour or so before the meal was supposed to begin Harry and Ginny were partnered off with a dizzying array of attendants and guests. He danced briefly with each of Ginny's bridal party although Fleur demanded more of his time and he was only to glad to oblige. When he was able to recover his bride from the melee they were both flushed and near out of breath so they slowed things down a bit.
"How are you holding up, sweetheart?" Ginny asked.
"Just fine, love, don't feel a thing," Harry replied with a smile.
Ginny gave him a funny look but then something caught her eye and she whispered to Harry.
"Harry, look over there. That's the third time that Charlie and Eleanor have danced together," she said with a little giggle.
"You haven't been playing match maker, have you?" Harry asked.
"Who, me? Never. But wouldn't that be something."
Their conversation was cut short by the drum roll and the orchestra leader, who was also acting as the master of ceremonies, calling for everyone to take their seats as dinner was about to be served. In the time that it had taken for all the dancing the wedding trellis had been removed from the dais and the long table for the faculty had been returned to be used by the wedding party. Harry and Ginny were seated in the center with others arranged as couples on either side. Teddy was back with his grandmother and Abagail with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Unlike the free for all style of dining for the students, this meal was served in courses, each arriving already on the plate. It was a very elegant meal and it was prepared to perfection. Harry was convinced that at least for this occasion whoever prepared the meals at Beauxbaton had nothing on the kitchen staff at Hogwarts.
It was the first time that Harry could actually take stock of what was going on around him. He looked out at the guests and saw Hagrid and Madame Maxime occupying one whole side of a circular table that was set for part of the Hogwarts faculty. The extensive extended Weasley family occupied a number of the round tables and Harry could see a few of the male cousins casting not-so-casual glances to where Gabrielle was sitting. He saw his parents, the Delacours and the Johnsons at one table along with Abagail. So many people there to share this most special of days. The dinner lasted for nearly two hours and by the time it was nearly over Harry would swear he had gained five pounds. Then it was time to cut the cake. It was a towering affair of multiple layers covered in white icing and adorned with all manner of rosettes and swirls done in the colors of Gryffindor and Hogwarts.
Harry and Ginny, followed by the wedding party, moved to where the cake was on display to one side of the vast Hall. With great ceremony, Harry and Ginny held the knife with one hand each and together made the first cut and then a second. Then Harry took the knife and used it as a serving spoon to lever out the slice of cake and placed it on a plate in front of Ginny as he had done the last several years on his birthday. He then took a fork and cut a piece from the slice and offered it to his bride who accepted it gracefully and without incident. Ginny then took the fork and likewise offered a slice to Harry who accepted it. What Harry didn't notice was that while she held the fork in one hand up near his mouth her other hand had moved to the cake and scooped up a small bit of icing on the tip of her finger and while Harry happily chewed and swallowed his piece of cake, she reached up and deposited the icing on the tip of his nose to the general amusement of all who watched.
She then reached for his tie and pulled his head down and kissed the tip of his nose, cleaning off most of the icing and then kissed him full on the lips in a long smoldering kiss that promised greater things to come. The audience applauded as the cake then disappeared, only to begin returning in slices a few moments later in front of each of the diners. This signaled the end of the formal dining and a more party like atmosphere began to develop. The music took on a lively air and people began to move about the Hall to dance and mingle. Harry and Ginny made the rounds of the table to greet guests and generally join in the fun. Hagrid in particular looked fit to burst.
"Harry, I can't tell ya how glad I am ta see this day. It's been twenty one years since ya was born and this is gotta be the happiest of the lot," he said, he smile wide beneath his bushy beard.
"Thanks, Hagrid. I know you were there the very first day I needed someone and then on my eleventh birthday and all those days afterward. You've been such a big part of helping take care of me I thought maybe you could keep on doing that."
"Whatta ya mean, Harry?"
"Ginny and I have talked it over and we'd like you to be the godfather of our first child."
Hagrid stood there and stared down at the two of them. Harry was looking back up and smiled while Ginny nodded. They could see his eyes crinkle up in a bigger smile and then tear up a bit.
"I'd be honored ta, Harry," he said in a choked up voice. "Thank ya, very much."
Madame Maxime was standing nearby and she smiled and laid a hand on Hagrid's forearm. They continued to talk for a bit more and then they continued to circulate around the room to visit as many of the guests as they could. When they approached the Weasley parents' table they noticed that Mrs. Tonks had been invited over and Abagail had little Teddy perched on her lap and she was whispering in his ear. Whatever she was saying it had the small boy entranced. There were many hugs and kisses exchanged and Mrs. Tonks repeatedly thanked Harry for his support over the years. He couldn't help but shrug at this point but it only got him a gentle nudge from Ginny with her hip. Their conversations were interrupted when Hagrid lumbered over and said,
"Harry, there be someone outside that wants ta see ya."
"Is something wrong, Hagrid?" Harry asked, suddenly concerned.
"Not wrong but def'nitely unusual."
Harry took Ginny by the hand and together they made their way out of the Hall and to the big doors at the entrance to the castle. A number of guests were also trailing along behind. When they came to stand at the top of the steps Harry could see that Bane and Ronan, the Centaurs, where standing a few feet away from the bottom step. Harry was amazed that they would come this close to the school and was privately alarmed that something dreadful had happened. Harry released Ginny's hand and hurried down the steps to stand before them.
"Bane, Ronan. Is there something wrong that brings you out of the forest?" he said, the concern evident in his voice.
"Be at ease, Serpent Slayer. We are not here due to crisis or concern, but out of respect for you on this, your mating day. Would you ask your mate to join us?" Ronin requested.
"Certainly," Harry said, plainly relieved.
He looked back at Ginny who was standing at the top of the steps and he motioned for her to come down. Carefully she walked down to join Harry at his side. She looked up to the imposing faces of the two Centaurs, wondering what was going on. The two Centaurs took several steps back and Bane turned to his side and made a gesture. Other Centaurs began to appear on the path that led past the castle down towards Hagrid's hut and the Forbidden Forest. Half a dozen came to stand by Bane and Ronan while the rest hung back a bit. One carried a bow and quiver in his hands.
"Serpent Slayer," Bane began. "Long have the humans and Centaurs maintained an uneasy coexistence in this world. Few among you have we ever counted as worthy of our trust. Dumbledore was one and for decades the only. He is gone. You have come forward to fill that void. Your struggles against the great evil that was Voldemort demonstrated your worth as a warrior. Your willingness to sacrifice yourself for the good of all demonstrated your worth as a leader. We welcome you as a friend of the Centaurs and we offer you these as tokens of our respect."
The Centaur that had been standing aside with the bow and quiver stepped forward and offered Harry the two items. Harry reached out and took hold of the bow and quiver and nodded to the unnamed Centaur who nodded in return and then backed away. As Harry looked up at Bane and Ronan all eight Centaurs rose up onto their hind legs to tower over Harry and Ginny. The small crowd that had gathered on the top of the steps gasped at the sight. The Centaurs settled back to the ground and Harry took a step forward and said,
"My friends, you have done me honor today far beyond what I could ever expect or truly deserve. The memory of this day and the gifts you have bestowed will have a special place of honor in my family down through the generations. I only hope that my efforts on behalf of all the magical community continue to be worthy of the trust and friendship you have demonstrated today. Thank you."
As Harry finished he shifted both items to his left hand and offered his right to Bane who accepted it in the style of the Centaurs which was to grasp the offered forearm as opposed to the hand. Harry repeated the gesture with Ronan and then not sure but daring to hope he did so with the others arrayed before him and each accepted with solemnity. When they were finished Harry stepped back to stand with Ginny again. Ronan looked down at her and his deep voice rumbled up from his chest.
"Serpent Slayer's mate. We charge you to care for the Serpent Slayer to the utmost. He has value far beyond his understanding."
Ginny simply nodded and said,
"I will."
With that the larger group of Centaurs turned aside and allowed Ronan and Bane and the others to pass through and then they closed in around them and they all made their way back towards the forest. Harry and Ginny watched them go, his free right arm around her shoulder, her left arm about his waist and her right hand clutching his. She felt him begin to tremble violently. She gripped him tighter and looked up at him in alarm.
"Harry, are you alright?"
"I, I think…so," he said through teeth clamped tight to keep from chattering. "Just the adrenaline I think. I'll be ok in a moment, just don't let go or I'm likely to fall on my face."
Bill Weasley made his way down the stairs followed by Fleur and a few others. Ever mindful of Harry, Fleur could see his reaction to the emotionally charged event and she hurried to his other side and grasped his arm to lend support.
"Mon ami, 'arry. Are you well?"
"I, I'm ok, Fleur. Just all the excitement I guess."
"That was the most amazing thing I've ever seen or heard of, Harry," Bill said in an oddly subdued voice. "I don't know if they've ever done such a thing before. To offer you that bow and quiver is the same as saying you're a member of their herd."
"I think maybe I'd like to go inside and sit down for a bit if you don't mind," Harry said quietly.
"Of course, sweetheart. Give us a hand, Fleur," Ginny said still clinging tight to her husband.
Slowly the three, led by Bill who helped open the way for them, climbed the steps and went into the Hall. The Hall was full of whispered conversations as Harry walked in between the two young women, the bow and quiver of arrows clutched in his hand. They walked him over to the Weasleys' table and sat him down. Mrs. Weasley was looking at her son in wonder and Mr. Weasley poured out a glass of pumpkin juice for Harry. The shaking had subsided for the most part and Harry was still a little unfocused but he could sense what was going on around him. He motioned to Bill and his older brother leaned down for a brief whispered conversation. Bill nodded and then stood upright. He pulled out his wand and touched his throat with the tip and said, 'Sonorous'.
"Friends. Harry asked me to tell you that what occurred outside, while extraordinary, isn't something that should dampen our joyful mood. He assures me that he is ok, just a bit overwhelmed by the honor that the Centaurs bestowed on him. He just needs a moment or two to gather his thoughts. I believe we have the Hall rented for the night and hope you all continue to enjoy yourselves."
Harry looked around at his family who were crowded around the table. He took hold of Ginny's hand and brought it to his lips and kissed it softly.
"Sorry, love. They just caught me by surprise is all. I'm doing fine. Wow," he said blinking. "We're going to have to find a special place for these," he said referring to the bow and quiver that were now resting on the table.
"I'm thinking in your study, Harry, above the bookcase with all the books on magic you've collected," Ginny offered.
Harry merely nodded. After a few more gulps of juice Harry started to feel better. He spent another fifteen minutes sitting there and then he heard a slow song begin. He looked over at Ginny with a small smile and asked,
"Dance with me?"
"Are you sure you're ok?"
"We'll take it slow and easy. I'll be fine," he said, slowly standing up and offering his hand.
She took it and rose from her chair. All eyes were on them as they moved to the dance floor and then holding tight to one another began to move slowly to the music. Other couples began to join them and as if a collective sigh had been released the mood in the big room lightened. The couples included all of the wedding party although Percy was dancing with Audrey, Neville with Hannah, while two of the younger male cousins had claimed Gabi and Abagail. The partners in the last two couples were making sure to keep plenty of space between themselves since they were being closely scrutinized by Mrs. Weasley and Madame Delacour.
Since it had been a while since the main meal, trays of snacks began appearing in the middle of each table and guests began drifting from table to dance floor and back. Harry and Ginny had come back to sit at the Weasley parents table and were helping themselves to some of the biscuits that were provided. Professor McGonagall came over to stand by them and said,
"First of all, my warmest congratulations to you both, Harry, Ginny. This has been a wonderful occasion and I and all the staff wish you all the happiness in the world," she said with a smile.
"Thank you," they both replied and then Harry offered, "and thanks for letting us use the Hall. It's been absolutely perfect, Professor."
"You're most welcome, Harry. Now, after seeing what happened outside I took a walk up to my office and had a little discussion with my 'roommates," she said the last with a smirk. "As far as we can tell that was a singularly unique experience. No one has ever heard of such a thing happening before. Professor Dumbledore didn't seem the least bit surprised but he did offer his congratulations and they all asked that you both come for a quick visit before you leave in the morning."
Harry and Ginny, as well as any of the guests who so requested, were going to spend the night in the dorm rooms to avoid any issues with Disapparating while tired or otherwise impaired.
"Of course we will, Professor, as long as it's not too early," Ginny said with a perfectly straight face.
Harry turned three shades of red while the rest of the people around the table began laughing uproariously. Professor McGonagall, to her credit, matched Ginny's expression and replied,
"In your own good time, Mrs. Potter."