Harry's Future, Part 35
Harry sat on the examination table with his left leg stretched out in front of him. Doctor Antimony was conducting the examination with both his wand and his fingers. His face was a mask of concentration but otherwise gave nothing away. He finally stepped away and made some notes on a chart and then sat down on a stool next to the table and looked at Harry.
"The swelling is just about all gone, Mr. Potter. I've finally gotten a thorough look at the damage and it's fairly extensive. Both the ligaments and tendons show signs of tears and there are cartilage and bone fragments floating around in there. I'm afraid with the time that has lapsed and the residual effects of your protective magic, I'm unable to offer you any help. You're going to have to seek out a muggle surgeon if you want to have any hope of using that leg normally."
"Do you think that my mother's protective magic might prevent surgery from working?" Harry asked.
"I really have no idea, Mr. Potter. But since the injury occurred by ordinary means, that is getting hit with something hard, I'm inclined to doubt it. My guess would be it's just protection from certain kinds of magic. Do you think you'll have any trouble finding someone to help you?" Doctor Antimony asked.
"Personally, I don't know of anyone, but I'll ask my friend Hermione. Her parents are both muggle dentists. They might have some contacts that could be of help," Harry replied.
"Very good. As for now, you can switch to this lighter brace that can be worn under a looser pair of trousers and use a cane for support. I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help to you."
"You've been a great help, sir. I appreciate everything you've done for me," Harry said with a genuine smile.
The healer smiled back and then showed Harry how to use the brace. Once they were both satisfied he was comfortable with it, Doctor Antimony shook hands with Harry and then left him to get changed. Harry used his crutches and made his way out to the waiting room where Ginny and Fleur were waiting. They both looked up with questioning glances as he moved to meet them.
"The healer was able to get a good look this time and it's as big a mess as he first thought. He said it will require a muggle surgeon to fix it. I'm going to ask Hermione tomorrow if her parents might know of someone or how to look for one. He gave me a different brace to use that my pants leg will cover and I can use a cane instead of these things. Guess I won't be racing up and down the corridors at Hogwarts this year," he said with a grin.
Both of the young women were now standing and Ginny hugged Harry as best she could with the crutches in the way and Fleur added an arm around his shoulders. Then with one on each side they escorted him out of the hospital towards a waiting car that returned them to the Black house.
Despite the bad news about his knee Harry and Ginny snuggled up on the back seat contentedly. The still secret knowledge that they were going to be parents kept them afloat on a cloud of joy. They decided to confirm her condition before making the announcement so while Harry was busy at the Ministry the next day, she would make a visit to the midwife that delivered little Fred. When they got home the three made their way up the stairs and Kreacher bowed them through the open door. They went into the parlor and Harry sat down with his leg propped up. Fleur and Ginny took seats in separate chairs and Fleur said,
"So 'arry, do you think that you will 'ave any deeficulty at 'ogwarts with your leg?"
"I think I'll be able to manage, Fleur. They have me in first floor classrooms and I can always have a bunch of students haul me around if my leg gets too bad," he said with a straight face. "Or maybe Professor Flitwick can charm a chair for me that will float me around the school."
Ginny giggled and Fleur just smiled and shook her head,
"Well, at least you steell 'ave a sense of 'umor. That weell be very important for you, 'arry."
"Oh, I don't know, Fleur. I think that would be an interesting image to cultivate as a professor. Grumpy ol' Prof Potter, hobbling along with his cane, barking at the unruly students that infest his classroom," Harry said with a twisted smile.
"'arry, that is an 'orrible thing to say. You weell do no such theeng. You weell be 'appy and smiling and the students weell love to be een your class because your joy for teeching weell make eet so much fun," Fleur said seriously.
"Fleur, I was teasing. I'm sure I will do fine and if the knee acts up I'm sure Madame Pomfrey will be able to help me. So, what do you say to some lunch? I'm starving."
Ginny could only roll her eyes and laugh.
The following day, around mid morning, Harry Disapparated from the front porch to the Atrium of the Ministry. When he appeared he was hailed by a number of people, both Ministry employees and visitors, with wishes for his good health and good luck on his sabbatical. Harry smiled and waved and shook a few hands. He smiled even more when he saw Hermione hurrying over to meet him.
"Harry, it's so good to see you," she said as she took his hand in hers. "How did the visit to St. Mungo's go? I can see some things are different."
"Yeah, I have a smaller, different kind of brace and I can use a cane now instead of the crutches. The damage is pretty bad though. Dr. Antimony says I need a muggle surgeon to repair the knee. I was hoping maybe your folks might know someone or how to find them."
"I'll bet they do. I'll talk to them tonight and let you know. But for now I'm supposed to escort you to your send off. The Minister allowed us to use the big conference room, but it's still likely to be a tight fit."
"Really? I didn't think so many people would be that eager to see me go," Harry said in a mournful tone.
Hermione looked at him with a start and then when she saw the mischievous glint in his eye she gave him a 'look' and light swat on the arm, then laughed. This got him laughing as they slowly made their way towards the conference room. When they arrived the room was already full and there were many shouted greetings. Harry was a little taken aback by the display but he rallied quickly and soon was shaking hands as he made his way around the room. This went on for around a quarter of an hour and then the Minister and Director arrived and things settled down. Harry was shown to a chair at the front of the room.
"Well, this is truly a wonderful turn out," the Minister began. "The Director and I thought we'd give you some time to yourselves before we came in and put a damper on things. But seriously, we wanted to take this opportunity to express some thoughts to and about Chief Potter that are long overdue. I think it's safe to say that the Chief, or Harry as he prefers, has long since passed the point where anything we could do or say would be adequate compensation for what he has given to our community. It would most likely be a great embarrassment to him for me to go down the list so suffice to say by the time he graduated from Hogwarts his achievements were enough to place him at the top of any roll of wizarding greats. But that wasn't enough. I think one of my most vivid memories will be that day shortly after his final defeat of Voldemort when he informed me that he was interested in applying for Auror duty. And he did it from the flat of his back in a sick bed. To say I was surprised would be a gross understatement. I wasn't sure if I should admire him for his sense of purpose or suggest he be examined for some sort of head injury," the Minister said as he smiled down at Harry while those in attendance laughed.
"But you know the story. Most of you here in this room are the story. I will admit I did Harry a great disservice. It had always been my intention to put him in a leadership role but circumstances forced my hand and Harry was asked to take on a role that he had doubts about. I have to admit I had a few myself. But as you all know he rose to the challenge magnificently and the results speak for themselves. His time here has been an unqualified success and despite any misgivings Harry may have about his performance I think you will all agree it has been nothing short of phenomenal."
The Minister had to pause as applause broke out in the room. Harry had been keeping his eyes low, concentrating on a small knot in the table top in front of him but he did look up now and he made eye contact with Hermione who was clapping, her eyes misty. The Minister raised his hands and when it quieted down he continued.
"Now for those of you who know Harry well, you know that right about now he'd be very happy if I just stopped talking. If you asked him about his time in the job he would most likely shrug and give you that half smile of his and say 'I just tried to do my best'. Of course we all know how good his best can be. I just thought it was time it was said in front of people who could truly appreciate what he's done for us. So to close I'll just say thank you, Harry, for everything you've accomplished so far and whatever your future holds I'm convinced it will be full of success and I hope, happiness."
The Minister reached down to shake Harry's hand. Harry gave him the smile and shrug which got everyone laughing. Next to speak was the Director.
"The Minister has managed to capture very well what I'm sure we all think about Harry's accomplishments. He and I began our work here on the same day. When I had the opportunity to meet him for the first time I have to admit I had a hard time associating the amazing stories with which we were all so familiar with the unassuming young man who was sitting across from me. Now there are some here who have had the privilege to know Harry on a more personal level and had they been there I'm sure they would have had no such issues. I've taken the time to speak with these individuals, those patrollers who were members of the DA at Hogwarts during those dark times and my special assistant Hermione Weasley. All I can say is had I known then what I know now, there would have been no doubts, no questions, only confidence in what he was going to accomplish in the relatively short time he has been here. I would just like to add my best wishes to the Ministers and say that whatever decisions you make about your future, Harry, I'm confident of your every success."
There was more applause as the Director shook hands with Harry and then indicated he should say something. Harry got up from his chair and leaning on the new dragon handled cane looked at all the people crammed into the room. Hermione was nearby; Ron was huddled up with the rest of the Patrollers further back in the room. He could see Milligan and Maxwell and Muntab sitting at the table. Some of the people he recognized as Ministry employees from other departments including the head of the Testing Division. He smiled a bit and then said,
"There was a time when after hearing all those nice things said about me I'd have made some comment about needing to have the air valve in my head opened up, but my wife finds that really annoying so for her sake I'll pass on it today. I will say that I really appreciate what the Minister and Director have said and your responses. What they failed to say was that all of my accomplishments have been the direct result of the assistance and cooperation of more people then I could begin to count. When I agreed to take on this job there were plenty of people who had serious doubts that I'd be able to pull it off, not the least of which was me. But with a lot of hard work and sacrifice we made a lot of good things happen. Some things didn't turn out the way I had hoped. My biggest disappointment was that I had so little to do with training the Patrollers but that didn't seem to matter because you all are doing terrific work and I know for a fact that the members of our community appreciate everything you do every day for them. And now as you all know I'll be spending the year up at Hogwarts, a place that is very, very special to me. I'm sure you've all heard that Professor McGonagall would very much like me to make it a permanent change of profession. I can honestly tell you I don't know which direction I'll be taking. I've been thinking about it a lot while I've been convalescing and my family has had a lot to say about it. But whatever happens, I just want you all to know that our accomplishments these last few years and the associations I've developed here will sit at the very top of the list of things that I take pride in. Thank you all for what you've done and will do to continue to build on that success," he said with a smile.
There was a great deal more applause and a number of people came forward to offer congratulations, well wishes and handshakes and a few hugs. The crowd began to thin out a bit but a number of people remained and the room buzzed with conversation. Harry answered questions about the status of his knee, what kind of classes he would be teaching, and did he think he'd be up at the camp that had started that week. As lunch time approached Harry found himself sitting at the end of the conference table with Hermione, Ron and most of the DA members who were now patrollers.
"So, you all have had chats with the Director about me, eh?" Harry asked.
"Well, not just about you, Harry," Parvati Patel replied. "We talked about a bunch of different things but you were one of the main topics."
"He was interested in how we got organized and how you taught us and things like that," Alicia Spinnet added.
"Well it sounds like you said some nice things so thanks for that. If I've never said this to you before I'm very proud of the way you've all been performing and I'm sure you are going to have great careers here," Harry said seriously.
"Harry," Parvati began, her tone low and serious. "There's something that those of us who aren't your family, I mean Ron and Hermione, have talked about and I was voted to tell you. We've been discussing this and we want you to know we don't want you coming back after this year."
Harry looked very surprised, as did Ron and Hermione.
"What do you mean, Parvati?"
"We all want you to stay at Hogwarts and keep teaching. As much as we've been proud to work for you we think you've done enough. You can't keep taking the abuse you've endured. But more importantly, we have firsthand experience being taught by you and we want that for our children and hopefully our grandchildren. I know you could have a lot of influence if you stayed here but thinking of all the students you could reach in a career at Hogwarts, it would be so much more. Please think on it, Harry. We may be Patrollers and you are our boss, but first we were, and still are, your friends and we want you to be around for a long, long time and we want to hear our kids come home and tell us what we already know, that you are an awesome wizard and teacher."
By the time she was done, tears were running down her cheeks and Harry's eyes were misting over. He looked around at those around him, his friends, schoolmates and his two closet friends in the world, all nodding with small smiles and not a few misty eyes. He was having a hard time finding his voice. He reached across the table and took Parvati's hand in his.
"Thank you for that, Parvati, everyone. A number of people have suggested similar thoughts to me lately. I don't know what I'll do but I do know that with you all here, this department is in very good hands and I know that you'll have a lot to do with how it's run in the future. I also want you to know that whatever becomes of me, if I can ever do anything for any of you, all you have to do is ask."
They all stood up and Harry held out his hand but Parvati just brushed it aside and stepped up to hug him. This was followed by handshakes from the guys and a hug from Alicia Spinnet. They said last farewells and left Harry with Hermione and Ron. The Minister was watching from the other end of the room and he waved Harry over.
"I just wanted to say a final good bye, Harry. I know you're trying to make a big decision but I wouldn't feel right if I didn't mention something. If you do decide to come back, in all likelihood you'd wind up as Minister of Magic one day."
"Oh, no, sir, I don't think so," Harry said with a laugh. "I appreciate your thoughts but I don't think I have the temperament for the job. You have to deal with a lot of disagreeable people and that takes a lot of patience and diplomacy and that just isn't me."
"I don't know, Harry. You did quite well with the French trying to establish the exchange programs and the joint work on the smuggling operation," the Minister responded.
"Thank you, sir, but that was because we were all in agreement on what we were trying to do. You should have seen how annoyed I got when I found out the exchange program was being held up by 'tradionalists' from both sides. But if you're looking to the future I think you're in the right room," Harry said and he turned his head to look down to the other end of the room.
The Minister followed and saw Hermione chatting with Ron. He looked back at Harry.
"You're referring to Mrs. Weasley?"
"I am. I think if you gave her a few more years here finishing up the legal status issue of the other magical races and then started moving her around the Ministry to broaden her experience she'd be a perfect candidate for Minister one day," Harry said confidently.
"What about Ron Weasley there?" the Minister asked.
"I think Ron is a bit too self conscious to put in too visible a role, but he's showing signs of a real grasp of tactics and strategies. I see him easily becoming the head of the tactical squad and maybe even the Chief."
"Harry, would you do me a favor?"
"Certainly, sir, if I can," Harry replied.
"Whatever happens, coming back or staying at Hogwarts, would you please make yourself available for these little discussions? I'd like to have the benefit of your advice from time to time," the Minister said with a smile.
"I can do that, sir, if you think it would be of help."
"Oh, I think so, Harry, I think so," Shacklebolt said holding out his hand for Harry to shake. "So long, Harry, and good luck."
"Thank you, sir, and thank you, for everything," Harry said.
"Hmmm, I think that should have been what I said, but you're welcome, young man," and with a clap on the shoulder the Minister left the room.
Harry walked back down to the end of the table and sat down.
"Well, you two, that was an interesting event. But it's about lunch time and I'm starved. What do you say I take you both to lunch, my treat, as a way to say thanks for all the good work and support?"
"That would be wonderful, Harry. We'd love to, wouldn't we, Ron?" Hermione replied.
"I am pretty hungry myself but I'm not so sure I want to be anywhere around Harry if he's that hungry. I like my fingers right where they are," Ron said with a straight face.
Harry's eyebrows shot up and then he just shook his head as his two best friends started laughing. After lunch he returned home and was sitting in the study trying to read through some of his notes for his first classes but he kept looking up waiting for Ginny to return home. Finally he heard Kreacher welcome her home and he looked at the doorway of the study expectantly. When she appeared her face gave it all away but he waited to hear the words.
"Hello there, Papa Potter," she said, her face lit up with a wide smile.
Harry smiled just as wide and as best he could rose from his chair and met his wife half way where they hugged and kissed and laughed and cried. When they calmed down enough to be coherent Harry asked if she thought they should go see her mother and break the news.
"Oh, I think so, Harry. If she doesn't hear it from us, we are going to be in very big trouble," she said with a laugh. "And while we are at it, we can collect little Miss Abagail."
"Ok. How long can you continue to Disapparate? Did you talk about that?" Harry asked.
"It was recommended to stop it around the seventh month but it could be done in an emergency. The big issue appears to be the energy depletion and the affect it can have on the baby and mother. Once we get settled in up at Hogsmeade I intend to keep it to a minimum. But let's get going."
"Kreacher? We're heading to the Burrow and chances are we'll be staying for dinner."
"Yes, Master Harry."
Harry and Ginny stepped out onto the porch and Disapparated to the back yard of the Burrow. Despite her great excitement Ginny suppressed her urge to dash right through the back door and kept pace with Harry, her arm hooked in his. When they got to the back door she banged on it and then opened it and yelled inside,
"Anybody home?"
"Ginny dear, how wonderful," Mrs. Weasley called back. "Come in. Is Harry with you? Is everything alright?"
"Yes, he is," she said as they entered the kitchen, "and everything is wonderful."
"So what brings you two out here, it's not time to take Abagail home already is it?"
"No, Mum. We have some news we thought we'd like to share," Ginny said, her eyes bright.
Mrs. Weasley looked at her daughter expectantly while Harry could see Abagail smiling brightly from the living room. Ginny looked at her mum and said,
"You're going to be a grandmother again. Sometime in April, we think."
Mrs. Weasley looked at her daughter and then her son-in-law and then let out a loud yell and rushed to sweep them both up in a tight embrace. While not quite the emotional outpouring as when they announced their engagement it was still rather loud and for Harry, a bit painful. Fortunately, Molly Weasley seemed to realize what she was doing and backed off enough for Harry to take the weight off his left leg.
"Oh, Harry, I'm so sorry, but I'm so happy for you two. Come in to the living room and get off that bad leg."
Mrs. Weasley walked into the living room with her arm around her daughter and Harry trailing behind. He sat down on the couch and adjusted the new brace that allowed him to sit more or less normally for a while. Ginny sat down gently beside him and Mrs. Weasley sat in her chair nearby. Abagail was looking at her 'parents' with an odd smile.
"Oh, my, this is so exciting. So April you say. I hope that house you're renting will be big enough."
"Well, hopefully the new house will be done by then. But if not we can make due until it is," Ginny replied.
Harry was watching his ward while the discussion was going on. He could tell some serious thinking was going on behind that smile.
"What are you thinking, little one?"
"Well, I'm having trouble figuring something out. Do I consider myself an aunt or a big sister or am I not really anything at all?" she said quietly.
"Oh, you most certainly are something, little one. Don't ever think otherwise," Harry said seriously. "As to the rest of it, why don't you just let the baby figure that out? As your relationship grows I think it will sort itself out," he concluded with a smile.
"You know, dear, I've had the same trouble with you. I can't figure out if you're the oldest of my grandchildren or my youngest child," Mrs. Weasley said.
"Well, since I tend to think of Harry and Ginny like my dad and mum, and you're their mum, then I'd have to say you're like my gram, right?" Abagail replied.
"I guess it would sort out that way wouldn't it?" Molly Weasley said with a grin.
They talked for another hour or so and then Molly decided it was time to start work on dinner and she'd take no argument about Harry and Ginny staying. Abagail assumed her post as cooks helper and Harry and Ginny moved to the kitchen table so the conversation could continue.
"So, you two, have you given any thought to names?" Mrs. Weasley asked.
"Not seriously, Mum," Ginny said, "but I think James or Lily depending on whether it's a boy or girl."
"Really, love?" Harry asked.
"I think so, Harry. You are their only son so I think our children should carry on with their names. My brothers can take care of the Weasley side of the family. Right, Mum?"
"Right you are, my dear," Mrs. Weasley replied from by the stove as Harry took Ginny's hand and kissed it.
When Mr. Weasley returned home from work the excitement repeated and Arthur got very misty eyed as he hugged his daughter. While he never made any big demonstrations about it, he held his daughter in a very special place in his heart, as fathers often do. Dinner was a very happy occasion and on the following day a number of visitors arrived at the Black house as the news spread via the Weasley telegraph.
Harry and Ginny were due to make the move to Hogsmeade on Sunday with a send off at the Burrow on Saturday. While it had intended to be an occasion for both of them, the news of Ginny's pregnancy made her the center of focus and Harry was thoroughly enjoying himself. He sat in the new chaise lounge watching the Weasley women make a fuss over his wife. What Harry couldn't figure out was why, since they had pretty much done the same thing just a couple of days ago, but she was having so much fun it didn't really matter. Charlie and Bill hadn't been able to get away since it was the first Saturday of the Quidditch camp but with Eleanor and Fleur there they weren't really missed all that much. Harry thought back to something Bill had said last summer about a father not being all that necessary around an infant. He guessed that that held true for a mother-to-be as well. Ron had arrived a few minutes ago, having just come off duty and he was hunting up the wizard's chess set and a small table so they could play outside.
While Harry was waiting he noticed Audrey looking over at him. When they made eye contact she gave him a little smile and walked over to him. She sat on the edge of the lounge chair, being careful not to disturb his leg.
"Congratulations, Harry. I know most of the attention goes to the mother-to-be but having seen how you've been with Abagail, I know you're going to be a great father," she said with a smile.
"Thanks, Audrey. I hope so."
"Um, Harry. I know this is going to sound rather silly, but with you going off to Hogwarts we won't be seeing much of you for a while. I was wondering if you might be willing to show me the dragon side of you, just once?" she asked, her face almost childlike.
"Hmm, I suppose that might be possible. There's no time like the present, I guess. How about giving me a hand up first though," Harry said.
Audrey smiled wide, stood up and then offered Harry her hand. She helped pull him up and he took up his cane and began walking toward the front wall. He called back to Ginny.
"Gin, excuse me a minute will you. I thought I'd let Audrey in on the full secret," he said with a grin.
"Alright, but be careful please, Harry. Watch out for your knee," she said.
He gave her a nod and then walked to where he could pass through the wall using the front door pathway.
"Why don't you wait here, Audrey? I need some room for this. Oh, and would you hold this for me," he said, handing her the cane.
"Alright, Harry."
Harry walked slowly across the road and into the field and its summer browned grass. When he thought he was far enough he turned around and thought 'big'. With in two heartbeats he was looking down at Audrey. The discomfort in his knee grew noticeably so he slowly swiveled down onto all fours and shifted so that most of his bulk rested on his three good legs. He looked at Audrey and saw the shock and awe on her face. He lowered his head so that he was more eye to eye with her.
"Can you understand me, Harry?"
The massive head nodded. She held her hands up to her mouth, her eyes wide and she laughed a little. She stepped out from behind the wall and moved sideways so she could see down his length. She couldn't help notice the way his left rear leg was resting only lightly on the ground.
"Harry, I'm sorry, this is stressing your knee. Let me move closer to where you'll be then change back. I'm convinced," she laughed again.
She quickly moved into the grass and then took a spot not far from where she thought he'd be standing. Harry watched until she was standing still and then he thought about his other self and within two heartbeats he was standing looking at Audrey a short distance away. She hurried over and handed him his cane. He leaned on it and looked at her.
"So, what do you think?" he asked.
"It's the most amazing thing I've ever seen, Harry. I come from a long line of magical folk and I thought I'd heard of everything but this is incredible. You know, there was a tiny bit of me that still thought it was some kind of joke but I'm convinced," she said with a laugh.
Harry smiled and indicated they should go join the others. She hooked her arm in his free one and walked slowly at his side. As they approached the others Ginny looked up and said with an impish grin,
"So, what did you think?"
"I saw it, but it is still so amazing, Ginny," she said as she released Harry's arm who then went to face off against Ron.
Audrey resumed her seat with the other ladies. She looked over at Harry as he helped Ron set the vocal and sometimes fractious chessmen in place. Then she said almost to herself,
"It makes you wonder why he hasn't tried to take over the whole world."
This comment was met at first with total silence and then one after another the women of Harry's family began to laugh. Audrey looked around to see Ginny, Mrs. Weasley, Fleur and even Eleanor laughing openly. Little Victoire was giggling from her place in her mothers lap in imitation of those around her. Audrey frowned and asked,
"What's so funny? He must be at least as strong as Voldemort or Grindelwald were. Add to that the dragon and it's not such an odd idea."
Mrs. Weasley was the first to regain her composure and looked at her daughter-in-law with a smile. After wiping her eyes she began to say,
"My dear, it wouldn't be such a ridiculous idea if we were talking about someone other than our Harry, but it is most likely the furthest thing from his mind. Didn't Percy tell you anything about him?"
"Not a great deal. We talked about what happened that night when Harry found out what the healers from St. Mungo's told you. But he doesn't say much about him at all, even when I ask," Audrey replied.
Mrs. Weasley nodded as she said,
"Harry and Percy had a bit of an issue there for a time while Harry was still at school and trying to deal with Voldemort but that's all been dealt with. I imagine Percy isn't too interested in discussing it, but what it means is that you don't know Harry well enough to answer your own question. Simply put, Harry doesn't see his power as something that should be used to his benefit but to use to protect his family and his world. You will likely never see him use his wand to make things easier for him, even with the bad knee. Ginny, have you ever seen him use it to fetch a book from a shelf?"
"No, Mum. He always goes to the bookcase and gets it himself. Frankly, he wouldn't even need the wand but I don't think it ever occurs to him. I know he's used it when teaching but I'm sure that's because he sees it as a tool. You know, Audrey, he didn't even want to be the captain of the Quidditch team when it was offered to him during our seventh year. In fact, he told me just last night that when he went to work for his send-off party, the Minister suggested that if he returned that one day he could be the Minister of Magic. He was laughing when he told me. He said he couldn't deal with all the people who would want to argue with him," she said with a smile that then slid off her face. "I think he understands what could happen if his frustration with such things would flare into anger. I also think that the idea of him being in charge of everything is just not one he would ever consider."
Eleanor saw the look on Audrey's face and smiled as she said,
"Don't feel bad, Aud. I formed some conclusions about Harry without knowing the details and you saw how well that turned out."
Audrey smiled a bit at the memory and watched as Harry let out a long groan and slapped his forehead as Ron sprung a trap on him. Ginny watched the exchange and then said,
"Besides, considering he keeps losing to my brother at wizards chess I'm not so sure he would be all that good at world domination."
This got more laughs, Audrey included. By the end of the afternoon Harry lost three straight games to Ron but the last one was a fight to the end. Despite Ginny's seemingly denigrating remark about Harry's ability the truth was he was actually an excellent player when he put his mind to it. He was just handicapped by the fact he usually played against a truly gifted player in Ron. When they left for the Burrow Harry and Ginny were loaded down with her gifts. In fact Harry had to call on Kreacher to come and help carry some of the bags home. As they carried the booty to their room Harry had a thought.
"Um, Gin, I realized that I left all the moving chores in your hands, but I guess I should ask how things have gone."
"It's been fine, Harry. I've had more than enough help. Kreacher has been a very big help and he even enlisted some of the Hogwarts housekeeping staff. The only thing left to go is our bed."
"Our bed?" Harry asked, sounding very surprised.
"Yes, sweetheart. You didn't think we were going to sleep in some rented bed did you? I don't mind a kitchen table and chairs, but not a bed. After you and I leave for Hogsmeade in the morning Kreacher and some of his helpers will take it apart and bring it up to our rented house and put it back together. Then he'll come back and close up this house and join us back at Hogsmeade. Abagail is going to spend the last week with my Mum and Dad, sort of a vacation from her vacation. I'll go back to make sure she gets on the train and then I'll be back. So, set your mind at ease, my love. It's all well in hand," she said with a smile.
Apparently, she was right. When Ginny and Harry arrived outside the small house they rented on the edge of Hogsmeade all of the things they would need for setting up housekeeping were already there and in place. It was a two storey stone structure with a kitchen, small parlor and what would pass for Harry's study/office on the first floor and two bedrooms and a bathroom on the second. It didn't take long to take the tour and Harry's only comment was,
"Snug."
"It will be fine for the short amount of time we'll be here and since it's closer to the school side of town it will cut down on your walk to and from. Since it looks like Kreacher and his friends have got everything in order what do you say we take a walk, a slow walk, to the stadium and see how the camp is going?" Ginny suggested.
"Sounds like a good idea and if it gets to be too much you can always carry me back," he said with a smile.
"You're forgetting, Harry. This is Hogsmeade. I can just levitate you and float you home."
Harry laughed and picked up his cane and followed Ginny out of the house. They walked slowly hand in hand towards the school gates acknowledging the greetings from the few residents they passed on the way. Once on the grounds they made their way to the stadium. As they walked through the entrance tunnel the sounds of voices loud enough to be heard by flyers reached them. Harry and Ginny came out into the bright August sun and could see the organized chaos of several different groups of campers being put through their paces. They quietly made their way up into the stands, unnoticed by anyone.
Taking seats in the shadow of one of the VIP towers they were able to watch most of the action, avoid the heat of the sun and enjoy some quiet time while watching one of their favorite activities. As they watched they exchanged comments on how well someone was doing, who could use a little more work on their technique and the prospects for some good competition this year. Ginny wasn't inclined to do any serious flying anytime soon but they both had mentioned taking in as many games as they could.
"You know this is really fun, Harry. Just sitting and watching. The only thing missing is some snacks and beverages," Ginny said with a smile.
"Yeah, next time we should bring a basket full of Kreacher's best," Harry said as he watched a seeker make a rather risky grab. "Someone better tell that seeker to watch his balance. He almost came off his broom."
But almost as soon as he said it they saw Charlie zoom into view and call the young flyer to a halt so he could explain the poor move and how to do it properly. After he was done he went to turn and his eyes swept across where Ginny and Harry were sitting. His face split in a big grin and he flew over to hover in front of them.
"Hey, you two. When did you get here?"
"About an hour and half ago, I guess," Harry said. "We've just been watching and enjoying."
"Do you want to come down and talk to the campers?" Charlie asked.
"If you don't mind, Charlie, we'd just like to watch. Maybe we could join you for dinner and talk to them then?" Harry said.
"Sounds like a good idea. See you then. Dinner starts at seven."
"We'll be there," Ginny said and then she turned to Harry. "Well done you, Harry. We get to stay up here and watch and then get a nice dinner in the bargain. My hero," she finished with a laugh.
"My love, you give me far too much credit. I was just being selfish and lazy. I didn't want to move from our spot and then I get to eat all I want without putting a big dent in our food budget," he said with a laugh.
They settled back to watch more of the practice with Ginny holding tight to his arm. Harry thought it was a wonderful start to his time at Hogwarts. The practicing finished around half past five and as the students were sent off to the showers, Harry and Ginny slowly made their way down to the pitch. Charlie and Bill came over to greet them with hugs and handshakes.
"How are you feeling, Harry? What's the word on the knee?" Bill asked.
"It's a mess, Bill. I'm going to have to see a muggle surgeon to have any hope of it being fixed. Hermione's parents are talking to someone about it for me and will let me know when I can see them. Apparently it's someone they know from their early days when they had offices in the same medical arts building. Now they treat a lot of muggle sportsmen for injuries so I think they should be able to help. Thankfully, I know enough about being a muggle that I should be able to make it work."
"I hope you'll be able to get back on a broom someday, Harry. We had a lot of long faces around here when they found out you weren't going to be able to help out. But they'll be glad to see you tonight," Charlie offered. "Why don't you hang around a bit and then we can all walk up together."
"Sounds good, just don't take too long. It will take a bit of time with this thing," Harry said as he brandished his cane.
"I can levitate you up there, my love," Ginny said, giving Harry an adoring look, batting her eyelashes until everyone started to laugh.
As Harry predicted the walk was slow and took some time but it wasn't that bad and it passed pleasantly as Bill and Charlie filled them in on how the campers were progressing. Those that returned from last year were really showing improvement and a couple of soon to be first years were showing some real promise. Harry wore a small smile, inwardly pleased that his idea to bring the Beauxbaton concept to Hogwarts was working out so well.
As was custom with guests, Harry and Ginny were seated at separate tables with the campers and they spent their meal talking Quidditch. Harry discussed some of his more spectacular games and moments while Ginny was engrossed in a running conversation about what it was like to play in the pros. This was one arena in which Ginny could claim some ascendancy over her husband but on the one occasion that Harry was mentioned she didn't hesitate to explain that he had indeed been invited to try out for two major teams but he chose to go to Auror training instead. This caused most of the heads at her table to turn in Harry's direction.
After dinner was over and the two were walking back to the house in the still warm summer air they agreed it had been a very enjoyable day. Ginny had accepted an invitation from her brothers to spend some time each day of the coming week at the stadium while Harry worked to get his classrooms in order but he alluded that he would probably be able to find some time to come down, most likely in the later part of the afternoon. Both were told they would be expected at dinner each evening.
As the week proceeded, Harry would be hard pressed if asked to determine which part of the day he enjoyed more. He was glad to be able to start getting things in order for his new class. The room he was assigned was on the first floor in close proximity to the DADA room and the room set aside for Frienze and his Divination class. On his second day he was sitting at his desk going over some notes and materials when he heard the sound of hooves on the polished stone floor. As he looked up he saw the Centaur standing in the doorway.
"Greetings, Harry Potter. May I enter?"
"Of course, Firenze. Please come in. I hope you'll excuse me if I don't stand up. The knee is acting up a bit today," Harry replied.
"There is no need to apologize. One thinks that you may be overdoing it with walking to the castle in the morning then down and back to the Stadium and then home again."
"You're probably right, my friend, but there's no help for it. My wife has offered to levitate me around the grounds but I think that would be just a bit ridiculous," Harry said with a laugh.
The Centaur came to stand before Harry's desk, which thanks to the platform beneath it put them almost at eye level to each other, and he offered his hand. Harry took it in the fashion of the Centaurs by gripping the forearm.
"Despite your pain, you look content, friend Harry Potter. You are happy to be here."
"I am, Firenze. This is one of my very favorite places and I'll be doing something I really enjoy. On top of that, my wife and I are expecting our first child in the spring. I am very content," Harry replied. "And you? You've been here a while now. Are you content?"
"I fear being content is not in my nature. 'Tis one of the reasons I ran afoul of my herd. I was constantly searching for answers that were not forthcoming from the stars."
"Isn't it a little odd then that you're teaching Divination?" Harry asked.
"It would seem so, but when Dumbledore first asked for my assistance it was my understanding that he was looking for a more practical approach then the unrestrained mysticism of Professor Trelawney. I teach them some ways to understand the signs in the stars but I stress that they would do better to seek their own path, as you and I have discussed before."
"I wish I had had more time to spend with you as a teacher then, Firenze. I consider my two years of Divination to have been pretty much a waste," Harry said with a hint of scorn in his voice.
"Give it not a thought, friend Harry Potter. We can not change what has been, only learn from it. I will leave you to your work now. I wished to greet and welcome you. I would take it as a great kindness if you would allow our conversations to continue during your time here. I derive great satisfaction from our discourse," Firenze said solemnly.
"Of course. I'm always happy for the chance to talk to you," Harry replied.
The Centaur nodded and turned and left the classroom, the clacking of his hooves fading down the corridor. Harry had another visitor later in the week that was equally interesting. Professor Slughorn knocked on the open doorframe and stuck his head in.
"I say, Harry. Might I have a moment?"
"Of course, Professor. Please come in. It's good to see you."
"My apologies, I should have said 'Professor Potter'," Slughorn said with a grin.
"That's alright, sir. It's going to take me some time to get used to it, too."
"Harry, I stopped by to see how you were getting on. There has been some concern shared by the faculty about your leg and the stress your duties here will place on it. I want you to know that I will be more then happy to supply one of several effective potions to help you cope. If you start having problems, please see Poppy Pomfrey and she'll let me know what you need," the Potions Professor said as he came forward, setting himself against a student desk across from Harry.
"Thank you, sir. That's much appreciated. I'm hoping that a muggle surgeon can put it all back together again but that will take some time to sort out so it's good to know I'll have your help," Harry said with a grin.
"Not at all, my boy," the Professor said, his face very serious. "It would be a great disservice to your mother's memory if I were not to help in any way I could. I know I've said this before but your mother was my most favorite student. And not just for her skills with potions. You know I often thought that she could have taken my place her if she so chose. But as I was saying it was more then that. You never really got the chance to know that your mother was one of the kindest souls I ever met. She befriended some of the most unlikely of students, as if she could see the good in their hearts like you and I read a book."
Harry thought immediately of Severus Snape and was sure that's who Professor Slughorn had in mind.
"I know everyone tells you that you look just like your father, except the eyes of course, but it's your mother that you take after in most ways, at least as I have observed. To be honest with you, my boy, I had very little use for your father in his early years here. There was much in his nature that was not very admirable but fortunately he seemed to shed that as he matured. I believe your mother had a great deal to do with that. I'm very happy to see her spirit returned to this place and I'm looking forward to having you as a colleague. I fully expect to see her promise fulfilled in your being here," the older man said, his face looking sad yet hopeful.
Harry emotions were stirred up by the time the Professor finished. The mention of his mother and their apparently shared character brought a lump to his throat. He wasn't pleased to hear the comments about his father as a younger student but he already knew the sad truth and had come to accept it. The last comments threatened to break his composure but he kept himself under control.
"Thank you, Professor Slughorn. It's not often that someone takes the time to talk to me about my parents. I think most of my family thinks I'm a little fragile in some ways and are afraid to mention certain things. I appreciate you telling me your thoughts. I'm looking forward to being here and I hope I won't be too much of a burden on your supply cabinet," he finished with a grin.
This comment broke the older mans solemn mood and he laughed heartily.
"Not at all, my boy, not at all. Perhaps I'll assign some promising NEWT candidate the task of being your chemist," he said with a smile and then hauled himself to his feet and came up to the desk and offered his hand to Harry.
Harry took it with a smile and then watched Slughorn's back as he left. He knew the Professor was given to extravagant comments and his habit of picking pet students never sat well with Harry but he felt the Professor's comments about his parents, particularly his mother were straight from the heart. It suggested to Harry that people were often not fully what you saw and he needed to remember that. Severus Snape was such a one, he had come to learn at a bitter cost.
Since the first of September fell on a Saturday this year, school was set for Monday morning with the Express arriving on Sunday evening. Ginny had left for the Burrow to get Abagail taken care of. Her Mum was fully capable of dealing with it but Ginny's maternal instincts, first aroused by her 'little sister' were in full flower and she insisted on being there. Harry was looking forward to seeing her. He would have liked to have met her at the station but as faculty he needed to be at the head table when the students arrived.
So it was that on Sunday evening the Great Hall was bright with lights and Harry, or should it be said, Professor Potter was sitting at his place at the head table. He smiled when he arrived to see that he had been given a seat that put him between Bill and Hagrid. Professor McGonagall seemed especially pleased when she greeted him. Harry had thought no kneazle had ever looked happier after catching a garden gnome. As he sat there in his formal robes, the one he wore to Beauxbaton, he watched as the students filed in and found their new places at their house tables. When Abagail arrived he watched her and when she looked up and saw him they shared smiles and waves, his small and dignified and hers expansive and unrestrained. Other students also looked up and offered various waves and smiles.
As he leaned back in his chair he took in the sight of the Hall, the students and the Professors to either side of him. He thought about the classrooms, the stadium and the town of Hogsmeade. He had a feeling that he had felt only twice before that he could remember. The first was when he returned to Hogwarts as a second year. The other was when he spent the full month of August at the Burrow for the first time. It was the feeling of coming home.