8
After the Battle
Chapter 8: Conflicting Emotions
Harry awoke feeling much better, though he did have a pressing problem. He gently and stealthily tried to slip out of bed without waking Ginny.
He had just slipped his arm from around her and was easing the duvet up when he suddenly found himself staring at the end of a wand, inches from his nose.
"Where the hell do you think you're going," a harsh voice interrupted him.
"Merlin, Ginny! Why not scare the piss out of me," Harry cried in surprise.
"Just answer my question, because you aren't going anywhere," Ginny growled.
"Ginny! Unless you want me to have an embarrassing accident, I really need to get up and use the loo," Harry replied defensively.
"Then why were you trying to sneak out of bed?" Ginny asked, lowering her wand.
"I just didn't want to wake you," he replied softly.
"I appreciate the sentiment, but you should have known that I'd want to keep an eye on you," Ginny sighed.
She did appreciate it that he was trying to be so good to her but he should have realized that she was very concerned about him and wouldn't want him to go out of his way to treat her special. Later that would be fine but at the moment she just wasn't going to put up with it.
"All right, but I expect you back here in five to ten minutes. If you're not back by then, I'm going to be coming to find you and you won't like what I'll do to you. Got it?" Ginny insisted, her eyes narrowing.
"Got it," Harry gulped, not wanting to find out what she'd do. She could be so creative with her spells and hexes.
Harry returned in just under five minutes, feeling much better, his pressing problem taken care of.
He'd hoped that he'd find that Ginny had fallen back to sleep as he knew she had to be almost as tired as he was. The previous day had been just as trying emotionally for her as it had been for him, probably more so as Fred was her brother and she had been much closer to Colin than he had.
Instead he found her sitting up in bed, the sheet barely covering her bare breasts and he felt his groin stir. He contemplated laying down and trying his luck but then thought better of it.
He was pretty sure that Ginny would consider that over exerting himself, as much as he wished she wouldn't. He found her irresistible and wanted nothing more than to make love to her again.
He laid down next to her, cuddling into her side and being unable to stop himself, he cupped her one breast with his hand.
Ginny glared at him, just as he knew she would.
"Just getting comfortable," he replied defensively.
He couldn't help smiling when he saw the corners of her lips curl up slightly as she tried to maintain her stern look.
"I know, I have to conserve my strength but you have to admit that the thought is tempting, now isn't it?" he asked roguishly.
Ginny rolled her eyes and shook her head but a smile did break out on her face.
"Yes it is tempting but we will not give in," she said firmly. "Not until you're feeling much better."
"I know," Harry sighed, sounding like it was going to be the most difficult thing he'd ever done.
Now that Harry was laying back in bed and she was much more awake, she took a good look at him.
"How are you feeling?" she asked bluntly.
"Pretty good overall," Harry replied truthfully. "My chest still feels a little heavy but not as much as yesterday and I didn't cough at all this morning."
Ginny gave him a satisfied nod, glad he told her the truth and didn't try to just say he was fine. Something she wouldn't have stood for.
She grinned when she looked down at him. When he had laid down, he had tucked into her side with his head level with her chest. She saw him eyeing the breast that was closest to him, licking his lips.
"Don't even," she growled playfully.
Harry froze and then slowly looked up into her eyes. "Sorry, but they're just so damn tempting," he murmured apologetically.
Ginny giggled and shook her head. "You're lucky I love you," she whispered, leaning down and kissing him on the top of his head.
"I know," Harry replied, "and I love you too."
They laid there just snuggling together for a while, enjoying the fact that they could do so in peace.
Ginny had remained sitting up with Harry laying his head on her chest, using her warm soft supple breasts for a pillow. As long as he behaved himself, Ginny didn't have any problem with it.
"Harry, can I talk to you without you getting upset or defensive?" she finally asked softly.
"With that lead in I'm sure I probably won't like this conversation, but I'll try to keep my temper and hear you out with a open mind," Harry replied with a soft chuckle.
"True but I didn't want to just spring things on you," Ginny responded warmly.
"So, what's up?" Harry asked curiously.
"I want you to promise not to over do it today and will remember your promise to Poppy," Ginny said hesitantly, hoping he would understand why she was asking even though they had discussed it the previous afternoon.
Harry considered what she had said carefully and knew why she was asking. "I know I can be something of a stubborn git at times but I learned an important lesson yesterday and realized that it's not just about me any more. I need to take you into consideration now. It's not just me, it's us now and I need to remember that and respect that fact," Harry replied seriously, "So I promise I'll listen to you and Poppy today."
Ginny felt her eyes tear up and she smiled happily. She really hadn't expected such a deep thoughtful response. "Thank you, Love," she whispered emotionally.
Harry shifted and as he leaned up, he drew Ginny's head down to his and he kissed her tenderly.
Ginny closed her eyes as Harry kissed her, feeling the love he had for her fill her completely.
After what seemed an eternity to both of them, they broke the kiss,
Harry smiled at Ginny. "Come on, lets go down and make breakfast and surprise Bill and Fleur," he said with a grin.
When Ginny hesitated he gave her a pleading look. "Please, fixing breakfast won't tax me and afterwards we can go sit out back until it's time to get ready," he implored.
"Okay, I know it will be a good thing for you to be up and moving and fixing breakfast won't tire you," she agreed. "And it's so sweet of you to think of doing something nice for Bill and Fleur."
They got up and both threw on shorts and t-shirts before heading down to the kitchen. They smiled when they found it empty and immediately set to work making breakfast.
A short time after they began frying the bacon they heard footsteps on the stairs and Bill and Fleur appeared, smiling at the couple as they finished plating up the food they had prepared.
"This is a pleasant surprise," Bill remarked with a smile.
"Oui, it iz," Fleur agreed, coming over and kissing Ginny and then Harry on both cheeks.
As Harry and Ginny joined the other couple at the table, Fleur gave Harry the once over and was pleased with what she saw. "You are looking much better," she observed with a satisfied smile.
"I'm feeling better with just a little heaviness in my chest. Don't worry I promised Ginny that I'd take it easy and listen to her and Poppy today. I really don't want to over do it and risk myself. Ginny means to much to me for me to put her through another serious situation," Harry explained sheepishly.
"A wise choice," Bill interjected with a smirk.
"I realized I just can't think about me any more. I have to take Ginny into consideration," Harry explained.
"I'm happy to 'ear you say say that," Fleur beamed, marvelling at his maturity.
Harry glanced at Ginny before turning his attention to Bill. "Bill, is there any way we can do that thing we talked about after Remus' and Tonks' funeral?" he asked, keeping things vague so as not to say too much in front of Ginny.
Bill looked at him in surprise, not having expected him to bring the subject up. "I suppose so but what about Lavender's funeral?"
"While I'd still like to make it if possible, I feel this other thing is more important and I'm willing to miss it if necessary," Harry replied earnestly.
"What are you up to?" Ginny asked lowly, eyeing him closely.
"I, um, can't tell you," Harry winced, hoping Ginny wouldn't press him on the issue.
He watched as Ginny stared at him, thinking hard. He also noticed Fleur studying him and after a moment a sly smile formed on her face. She made eye contact with him and gave him a small nod. He shook his head, wondering if she had really figured out what he was planning.
Shifting his gaze back to Ginny, he saw her sigh. "Alright Harry, but if you over extend yourself, Merlin help you because I won't take it easy on you," she informed him and he knew by her look that she meant every word.
As they finished eating, Ginny rose and began reaching for the dirty dishes with Harry joining her.
"I'll take care of things," Bill said with a smile. "Since you two cooked, it's the least I can do."
"Oui, and I'll 'elp 'im," Fleur stated with a smile. "You two go off and relax," she added, shooing them out of the kitchen.
Harry and Ginny went out the door and headed for the bench that sat overlooking the ocean. Once they were sitting, Harry wrapped his arm around Ginny's shoulders and drew her into his side.
"I hope you know I'm trusting you to take care of yourself and not over do it," Ginny stated seriously.
"I know it and I appreciate it. I promise I won't over do it and I'll change my mind if you or Poppy think I shouldn't," Harry replied softly.
"Okay, as long as we have that straight," Ginny said as she snuggled into his side.
Harry sighed contentedly and closed his eyes, breathing in the clean sea air, feeling it ease the tightness in his chest.
He contemplated what he hoped to do, figuring he could talk to Bill once they finished up at Gringotts. Hopefully Bill would agree and help him pull everything off and he wouldn't have to worry about Molly any more.
"Hey you two," he heard a while later and he realized he must have dozed off while sitting in the warm sun.
He grinned when he noticed Ginny sitting up, yawning and stretching, realizing she had fallen asleep too.
"You should head inside and get ready," Bill smirked, his eyes gleaming.
"It's that time already?" Ginny asked groggily.
"Yes, so you'd better hurry," Bill replied with a smile.
Ginny rose and extended her hand, helping Harry stand. Hand in hand they headed inside and up the stairs. Once in their room, Ginny grabbed their things and turned to Harry.
"If you behave yourself we can shower together," she stated, eyeing him closely.
"I promise to behave myself," Harry replied with a chuckle.
As promised, Harry behaved himself, though he found himself tempted. Showering with Ginny tested him to his limits but he satisfied himself with just admiring her nude body, hoping that soon he wouldn't be so restricted.
After their shower they quickly got dressed just like the previous day. Harry didn't even protest when Ginny put on his socks and finally his boots.
Once they were ready, Ginny wrapped her arms around him, gazing lovingly into his eyes. "I want to tell you how proud I am of you," she whispered, caressing his cheek. "I know it has to be difficult for you to limit yourself."
"Not as hard as you think," Harry replied, his eyes filled with warmth and his love for the beautiful witch he was holding.
Ginny was taken by surprise by his answer but as she thought about it, she realized she shouldn't have been. Ever since his defeat of Tom, he'd been acting more mature.
Sure he'd pushed himself a little too much the other day but even with that, how he had reacted once he realized how much he had risked, he'd shown a much higher level of maturity.
She understood that having to kill someone, even someone as evil as Tom, had changed him and it was for the better. She could see how deeply it had affected him and the pain it had caused. She didn't know of anyone else who could have gone through what he had and handled it so well.
She smiled at him and gave him a deep tender kiss.
"What was that for?" Harry asked, not that he really minded but there just seemed to be something different about the way she had kissed him.
"Just for you being you," she replied, smiling warmly, her eyes full of love.
He wasn't quite sure what she had meant but he accepted it, knowing it seemed important to her.
"Ready?" he asked.
Ginny nodded and took his hand, leading the love of her life down for another trying day.
Ginny was surprised but pleased when Harry let Bill Apparate him while Fleur Apparated her and she let him know it by giving him a kiss when they arrived at their destination.
It was after they had kissed and Harry looked around that Ginny saw his shocked look. "What is it?" she asked in concern.
"My parents are buried here," Harry replied lowly.
Ginny was struck speechless and she took a quick look around, not recognizing where they were.
Before she could ask, Bill came over to them. "We should head inside, the service will be starting soon," he informed them.
Harry nodded absent-mindedly as his eyes darted around and Ginny had to take his arm, leading him toward the small church. She thought it looked very picturesque, with its wrought iron fence and kissing gate.
As they approached the front Ginny saw a small sign, St Jerome's Church, Godric's Hollow, finally finding out where they were. She glanced at Harry worriedly but he gave her a small smile.
"I'll tell you after the service," he whispered as they entered.
Once inside, Harry paused, staring at the front where two coffins were situated and Ginny heard him take a deep breath and let it out slowly. She could see his shoulders sag as a sad look enveloped him.
As her gaze followed his she felt her throat closing as a huge lump formed. While she had liked and respected Remus, she hadn't known him as well as she had Tonks.
Ginny tightened her grip on Harry's arm as they slowly made their way forward. Her mind swam with images of the klutzy, sweet, lovable metamorph, changing her nose to such outrageous forms while sitting at the table in Grimmauld Place, making her laugh so hard till her sides hurt and tears were running down her cheeks.
Of sitting late in the evenings a few times, each of them commiserating about their pig headed wizards. How Tonks gave her hope and told her not to give up, that she had to believe that Harry would eventually come around, just as she still had hopes that Remus would do the same.
She felt the tears trickling down her cheeks, thinking about how both of them had. She glanced quickly at Harry with a wan smile, wishing that Tonks were here so she could tell her all about how she and Harry had gotten back together, her cheeks burning as she gave her the intimate details even as she smiled widely because Tonks would understand.
She was slightly surprised when she noticed that while Harry's eyes were bright with unshed tears, they weren't falling. His lips were curled up at the corners and she realized that he had to be reliving his own memories of times spent with Remus and Tonks.
They made their way up front to pay their respects, going first to Tonks' coffin. Ginny was surprised to see Harry reach out, his hand shaking, as he lightly touched her cheek.
She could see his lips moving as if he was talking to her but it was so soft she couldn't hear a word of it. Ignoring him, she turned her attention to the witch who had become like an older sister to her.
"Damn it Tonks! Do you have any idea how much I'm gong to miss you and the confidences we've shared. I have so much to tell you but now you're gone, leaving a hole in my heart. Yes, Fleur, and don't get me started about that, of all people is helping to fill that hole, if you can believe it. She and Bill have been so supportive and helpful to me and Harry," she thought silently.
She fought her tears and hastily brushed them from her cheeks, not really caring if anyone saw. "Let them see, Ginny Weasley really can cry," she thought. Something she had almost never done up till now and here in the space of a couple of days it seemed that she couldn't stop.
"And don't get me started on Him, the prat. Not only did he give himself over to Tom, willing to sacrifice himself so that Evil Git could finally be defeated, he almost died again the next night because he didn't have anywhere to go to get out of the rain when my so called mother sent him away all alone. It almost killed me Tonks, and I swear to all that is Holy that I'll never see her the same again. She has driven a wedge between us that can never be bridged. She still doesn't want us together and I really can't understand why. Yes, okay, she caught us right after we made love, but still, I'm almost of age physically and have been mentally ever since, well you know. It's one of those things we talked about and I never did get to thank you properly and now I never will."
Ginny sniffled and turned with Harry as she felt him move, going over to Remus' coffin.
"Goodbye Tonks. I'll miss you and Ihope you knew I loved you, even if I didn't say it."
She sniffled again, a small hint of a smile forming on her lips. She couldn't believe how much younger the man looked. Gone were many of the lines that had creased his face, making him seem so much older than he really was. She felt Harry move and looking over at him, she saw him leaning against the side of Remus' coffin, his eyes blazing with emerald fire.
"I'm so sorry Remus," he whispered intensely. "I promise to be the best damn Godfather a kid ever had. No way will I let him grow up the way I did, be treated like I was, unloved and feeling abandoned by those who should have cared."
To Ginny the words were like a red hot knife being plunged into her heart. Sure she and Hermione had speculated about just how bad his childhood had been but it seemed it far surpassed everything they had thought. It made her see him in a new light and explained so much that she hadn't understood before. She vowed then and there to talk to him and be there for him, no matter what.
"I'll make sure he knows just what fabulous people his parents were, how strong and brave they were and why they were willing to sacrifice themselves so that he could grow up in a world without the likes of Riddle. I owe that to him, you and Nymphadora," he whispered, a small sad smile growing at the end.
"I know she'd be threatening to hex me right now but I'll make sure Teddy knows just what a beautiful name his mother had, one that showed just how beautiful she really was under her sometimes gruff exterior," he added wistfully.
Ginny shook her head slightly, once more surprised by her fiancé and the depth of emotion he was displaying. She'd never suspected how much he loved and admired Tonks as he had never displayed it, at least when he was around her in Tonks' presence.
She felt her pride in him grow, her feelings of his maturity being reinforced by his display.
Whatever else he had to say Ginny didn't hear as Harry fell silent, still staring down a Remus. He finally gave a curt nod of his head, closed his eyes for a moment and give a small shudder as he fought to control his emotions. A brief moment later, he straightened up, glanced at her, offering his arm and led her away.
Ginny gasped and tensed as a woman approached them and it took a moment to realize it wasn't Bellatrix. Though there was a strong resemblance, the woman had light brown hair and wide set compassionate eyes, completely different than the deranged psychopath.
"Harry, I'd like to talk to you after the service, if you have the time," she said softly.
"I'd like that very much," Harry replied with a small smile.
He had heard Ginny's reaction, so similar to his own when he had first met her on the night he had left Little Whinging for the last time.
"Ginny, this is Andromeda Tonks, Dora's mother," he said in introduction.
He then turned back to Andromeda, "And this is Ginny Weasley, my fiancée."
Ginny was surprised when Andromeda hugged her with a warm smile. She could see the strain the woman was under and marvelled at her strength of character. She was also surprised by Harry's use of Dora and she wondered at the story there.
"I hope you'll join us," she whispered into Ginny's ear.
"I'd be honoured to," Ginny replied quietly.
Andromeda smiled at her before Harry led her to be seated, letting Bill and Fleur greet the woman before the service started.
He led her over to a seat by Poppy who looked at him closely before giving him a small smile. He was surprised to see several Hogwarts Professors along with Minerva McGonagall sitting beyond her.
When Ginny was talking to Fleur who had sat down next to her, Harry looked at McGonagall and became thoughtful. He quickly came to a decision and he hoped things would work out because it would make his plans all that much better. Now all he had to do was manage to talk to the formidable witch without Ginny knowing. No easy task at all.
To Harry the service seemed surprisingly short and he was rather glad that they didn't ask anyone to speak. While he would have done so, he wasn't sure what he'd have said.
What happened next shocked him even more, Remus and Tonks were buried in the plot next to his parents. Somehow to him it seemed fitting that two of the true Marauders were buried side-by-side.
He noticed that there was a space on the other side of his parent's graves and he thought it would be a perfect place for a memorial stone for Sirius so he could be there with the other two even if only in spirit and he vowed to speak to the pastor about having it placed.
As the burial came to an end, he kept Ginny there as the others drifted off. Andromeda came up to them, a sad smile on her face as she realized why he was lingering.
"Come find me when you're ready. I'll be out front of the church and please take your time, I'm in no hurry," she said with a warm sad smile.
Once Harry and Ginny were left alone, Harry stared at his parent's graves and told Ginny about his and Hermione's visit at Christmas the year before.
Ginny listened intently, snuggled into Harry's side and gently rubbing his back, offering what comfort she could while she silently cursed his relatives for never bringing him here and telling him such lies about James and Lily.
She smiled warmly when he introduced her to his parents as his fiancée and she found herself blushing even though she knew they weren't really there. Though she did feel a spiritual connection to the Potters and especially Lily, something she found amazing.
Harry eventually fell silent and Ginny saw him staring wistfully at his parent's graves and she could only imagine what he was thinking.
Harry reached out and tenderly ran his fingers across the top of their headstone, a beautiful red granite in the shape of two intertwined hearts.
"We'll be back Mum and Dad," he whispered softly.
"It was a pleasure to meet you and we'll definitely visit often," Ginny added, earning her a warm smile from Harry.
Hand in hand they slowly made their way to the front of the church, neither speaking, both satisfied with being with the other.
As they came out of the cemetery they saw Bill, Fleur, Poppy, Minerva and Andromeda standing in front of the church. They were half way to them when Harry suddenly halted, his eyes wide when he saw Andromeda was holding a small bundle in her arms, a tuft of turquoise hair sticking up.
"Teddy," he breathed lowly.
Ginny glanced at him and she saw him staring at the little bundle, half in awe and half in fright.
She saw Andromeda spot them and with a smile, she urged them over, galvanizing Harry to begin walking again, albeit a bit slowly.
"Harry, I'd like to introduce you to your Godson, Edward Remus Lupin, but we call him Teddy," Andromeda stated with a thin smile. Her eyes shining with her unshed tears.
Up close, Harry stared at the little boy, his eyes shining brightly with his own unshed tears.
"Hey Teddy. I'm Harry and I'm your Godfather. I'm sure we'll get along famously," Harry choked out in a whisper, reaching out and brushing the little boy's cheek with one finger.
Teddy cooed and grabbed Harry's finger, holding on tight. Harry smiled at the little boy. "He has a strong grip," he quipped, eliciting chuckles from those around him.
"Would you like to hold him?" Andromeda smirked.
Ginny, Minerva, Poppy, Bill and Fleur laughed at the horrified look on Harry's face but with a little coaching from Andromeda, Harry took the baby into his arms, holding him stiffly as if he was afraid he'd break him but he had an awed look on his face as he held the little metamorph for the first time.
Ginny wished she had a camera because the look on Harry's face was priceless and she instinctively knew that he was going to be a fantastic father when they had children of their own.
Fleur noticed the look on Ginny's face and she giggled, elbowing the red haired young woman gently in the side. When Ginny looked at her, she leaned in and whispered, "I agree, 'e will make a fine father when the time comes. 'E will 'ave 'ad plenty of practice on top of it so it should be much easier when 'e 'as one of 'is own."
Ginny blushed but smiled. "It's a little early to be thinking about children, I mean, Merlin, we're not even married yet," she replied softly, not wanting Harry to overhear.
The quarter Veela just smirked at her, her eyes dancing mischievously.
"Please God, no children yet, we have enough on our plate for the moment," Ginny prayed silently.
Harry did eventually relax a little but the others could see how grateful he was when Andromeda took Teddy back.
"Harry, while I know you're Teddy's Godfather, I know you're not in any position to raise him but I do want you to be part of his life. He'll need a father figure and I couldn't have picked a better one than you. You'll be able to tell him about Remus, along with introduce him to Quidditch and other things a young Wizard will want and need to know," Andromeda explained warmly.
"I'd like that very much," Harry replied, sighing in relief and taking a quick glance at Ginny. As much as he loved the little boy, he knew Andromeda was right, he wasn't ready to take care of a child, Teddy or one of his own.
Ginny smiled and nodded her head, knowing it was very important for him to be involved with raising his Godson, something she found herself looking forward to also.
They talked a little longer before Andromeda told them she should be going as someone needed his bottle and his nap.
While Ginny was talking to Fleur, Harry edged over and had a brief conversation with McGonagall, something that Ginny noticed and wondered about. Whatever he said to the woman must have pleased him because he smiled and shook her hand.
Harry then talked to Poppy and Ginny watched as the Matron looked around before deftly drawing her wand and cast a couple of quick spells on Harry. Satisfied with what she found, she gave him a nod of her head and the two of them headed directly for her.
"Ginny, Poppy has checked me over and says I'm well enough to do what I talked about at breakfast. I hope that's good enough for you and I promise I won't be too long," he pleaded, his eyes entreating her to agree.
Ginny took a deep calming breath, realizing whatever Harry wanted to do was extremely important to him and since Poppy had cleared him, she really had no objections as long as he kept his promise.
"Okay Harry, I'll see you back at Shell Cottage," she replied, hoping that things would be alright.
Harry gave her a brilliant smile before he hugged and kissed her. He then hurried over to Bill and spoke to him briefly. Once Bill had agreed to whatever he had said, Ginny saw him nod at Minerva who nodded back at him before Apparating away.
Ginny sighed and wondered just what her fiancé was up to once again. Knowing that he'd let her know when he was ready, she went over to Fleur and after Bill Apparated away with Harry, she and Fleur returned to Shell Cottage.
Once they had entered the kitchen, and once Ginny shucked off her dress robes, Fleur had her sit down and began to make some tea.
"Do you have any idea what Harry is up to?" she asked in frustration.
Fleur waited until she had prepared the tea and sat down with Ginny before she answered.
"I 'ave an idea but please don't press me for an answer. I wouldn't want to spoil 'Arry's surprise," the quarter Veela replied with a knowing smile.
Ginny growled softly in frustration but relaxed a little, knowing she wouldn't want her surprise spoiled if she had planned one.
She sat and fidgeted, glancing at the clock frequently, wishing that Harry would return.
Fleur did as good job as she could trying to distract Ginny but was only partially successful. Not that she could fault the red head, she'd be worried too if Bill had been as sick as Harry had been.
It was close to an hour before the wards signalled that two people had arrived and Fleur smiled as Ginny sprang up and looked out the window, sighing in relief when she saw it was Bill and Harry.
Harry and Ginny
Harry and Bill appeared out back of the Leaky Cauldron and found Minerva waiting patiently for them.
"Professor McGonagall, I'm so glad you agreed to meet me. I'm planning to surprise Ginny and I'm hoping to include you, if you're agreeable," Harry spewed in a rush.
The older woman laughed at Harry's enthusiasm. "First off, it's Minerva. If anyone deserves to call me that, it's you," she replied smiling. "and I'd be happy to be part of your surprise, that is if I know what I'm getting myself into."
"I'd be happy to explain but I need to finalize one last thing and I'd appreciate it if I could presume on your patience just a little longer," Harry sighed in relief.
"Do you mind if I ask you what you're up to?" Minerva asked, looking intrigued.
"Well, I need to see if I can find something in my family's vault but before I can do that I need to talk to the Goblins," Harry winced.
Minerva looked thoughtful for a moment. "Would my presence be of any assistance?" she asked, glancing between Harry and Bill.
Harry turned and looked at Bill, silently asking for his input.
Bill shrugged. "I can't see how it would hurt and who knows, your being there just might help," he replied.
"The I suggest we get to it," Minerva said with a smile.
They entered Diagon Alley and quickly made their way to the Wizarding Bank. Bill was able to take them directly to an important looking Goblin.
"Mr Potter has a pressing need to speak to one of the Senior Goblins," Bill informed the Goblin.
The formidable looking Goblin eyed Harry suspiciously for several moments before he gave a curt nod and padded down a nearby hallway.
They waited patiently, Harry a bit less so than Bill and Minerva. It was about five minutes later when the Goblin returned.
"Someone will see you now," he said soberly.
He indicated with a gesture to follow him so Harry, Bill and McGonagall, in line, were led deep within the Bank with Bill whispering that he'd never seen this part before.
The finally ended up before a large ornate door but it was without any name or other indication of who's office it was.
The Goblin opened the door and said "The Director will be with you in a moment," and left.
Bill whistled lowly. "The Director. I've only heard about him. He's supposed to be one of the most ruthless of the Goblins."
Harry figured that would be true with what he knew about the Goblins, not that he knew all that much. He did have a vague recollection of the numerous wars that they'd fought with Wizards and Humans in general over the centuries, but other than that, he knew they prized gold, jewels and wealth in general and someone who'd be the director of the large financial institution like Gringotts would probably one of the most ruthless Goblins among a species of ruthless beings.
A minute or so later the door opened and a Goblin entered. Harry scrambled to his feet when he noticed Bill and McGonagall rising.
Harry was rather surprised because while the Goblin was fairly well dressed, he wasn't overly so and on top of it he wasn't particularly large or impressive. In fact Harry doubted he'd even have bothered to glance at him if he was up above in the main part of the bank.
Once the Goblin sat down he motioned for them to do likewise.
It was when he turned his sharp gaze on him, that Harry could finally see a difference. The gaze was piercing and had a hardness to it that made the small hairs on the back of Harry's head stand up and he felt a shiver run down his spine.
The Goblin held Harry under scrutiny for quite some time, though in reality it was maybe thirty seconds, to Harry it seemed an eternity.
Harry felt beads of sweat forming on his brow and he wished he had the nerve to wipe them off but he felt that he shouldn't make a move, drawing even more attention to himself, though for the life of him he couldn't figure how that would even be possible.
Then suddenly the Goblin took a quick glance at Harry's companions before turning his attention back to Harry.
"I am the Director and you Harry James Potter have done the Goblin Nation and Gringotts a severe disservice and caused significant damages not only to the actual physical structure of Gringotts but also a severe financial loss. Guard Dragons can't be found on just any street corner, you know," the Director snarled menacingly, his sharp teeth and eyes flashing.
"Before you are granted access to your Vaults, restitution must be had," he added, slamming his hand down on his desk.
If he expected his display to intimidate Harry or the others he must have found himself disappointed. Neither Harry, Bill nor McGonagall flinched, not so much as a batted eyelid met the Director's theatrics.
Harry stared back at the Director and while his heart was racing fairly quickly, he didn't give any outward sign.
"Yes sir, I'm well aware that restitution will have to be made and I'm willing to pay whatever the Goblins deem is sufficient to satisfy the debt I have incurred. As far as I'm concerned you may empty my Vault if required," he said evenly.
Harry heard Bill shift uncomfortably next to him, but he never took his eyes off the Director.
To most onlookers it would have seemed the Director didn't react at all but Harry saw the Goblin's eyes widen almost imperceptibly in surprise.
"Are you saying that you will allow us free access to your Vaults and take whatever we deem suitable in payment for the losses we have sustained?" the Director asked harshly as if he expected to be contradicted.
"Yes Sir, that's exactly what I'm saying," Harry replied stoically, once more his eyes never leaving the Director's face. In fact Bill was wondering if Harry had even blinked since he had started speaking to the Goblin.
The Director stared at Harry for several long moments before he nodded. "The Goblins accept your offer Mr Potter. Let us proceed directly to your Family Vault and determine what we will require to fulfil our agreement," he declared.
The Director arose and headed for the door, pausing to let Bill proceed him to open the door before he stood aside and let the Goblin exit first.
Bill, Harry and McGonagall followed the Director, with Minerva leaning over to Harry. "Harry, are you sure you did the right thing in not asking for a list of the damages and their monetary worth? What you did may very well leave you destitute," she whispered worriedly.
"I did what I thought was right and as far as being without money, well I've never had hardly any up to now so I'll manage," he replied. His only concern was finding a ring for Ginny and hoped he'd be able to convince the Director to allow him that one small boon.
The small group walked back the way the Wizards had come in but quickly turned off down another corridor. After a couple of quick turns they found themselves at the tracks that led down into the bowels of the Bank.
The Director whistled and a cart appeared. Once they were all on board, it took off at a breathtaking speed.
Harry couldn't help himself, even though it was a stressful situation, he found himself smiling as the cart swooped, circled and flew deeper and deeper into the dark confines of the Bank.
He did grimace as they passed under where he, Hermione and Ron had cast their spells to enlarge the tunnel to allow the Dragon to escape but fortunately the Director made no comment and Harry was soon smiling again, enjoying what may be his last ride in the carts.
Harry was surprised when they approached the area where Bellatrix's vault was located, though they stopped a little short of where her Vault was.
Since the guard Dragon was long gone, there was no need of the clankers and the Director led them to the nearest Vault.
He ran his fingernail down across the door and it vanished from sight. He then motioned for Harry to proceed him inside.
Harry entered and immediately came to a halt, his eyes widening in all that he saw.
There were piles of Galleons, Sickles and Knuts along with chests full of jewels and a myriad of other precious items. His mind boggled at the wealth he saw around him.
He was startled out of his thoughts by the others joining him. Bill and McGonagall equally impressed with the contents of the vault.
"I ask you again, Harry James Potter, is it your intention to allow me to choose whatever I deem suitable to fulfil your debt to the Goblins?" the Director asked quite formally.
"Yes, though if I could I'd like to ask a small favour. I'm looking for something suitable for something I have planned," Harry replied nervously.
The Director stared at him with a frown. "What are you looking for?" he snapped.
"I'm hoping to find a suitable engagement ring," Harry replied hesitantly.
The Director stared at him uncompromisingly for several moments before he nodded. "I find that acceptable," he stated firmly.
The Director looked around and it appeared to Harry that he was assessing the contents of the vault with a knowledgeable eye.
He glanced at Harry with an inscrutable look before he walked over to the nearest pile of Galleons and picked one up.
"This is what I choose as full payment," he smirked before he turned and left the stunned Harry, Bill and McGonagall standing there in shock.
Bill shook his head, blinking his eyes as if he didn't believe what he had just witnessed. He glanced at Minerva who just arched one eyebrow high into her forehead. He then turned his attention to Harry who was just staring at the place where the Director had disappeared, appearing too stunned to move.
"Harry, why don't we look for what you came to get," he said quietly, startling Harry out of his stupor.
"Right," Harry replied and the three of them began to spread out and search the vault.
A short time later Bill called out, "Over here Harry. I think I found what you're looking for."
Harry and Minerva made their way over to Bill who was standing in front of a small set of shelves. On it was a selection of jewellery, including several ring boxes.
Harry opened each one, studying its contents closely. Most were much to ornate for what he was looking for, knowing that they wouldn't suit Ginny at all. Finally he opened one box and smiled.
Next to the other rings, the one he was looking at seemed almost plain in comparison.
The central stone was a large step cut, slightly rectangular Emerald. While not as flashy as the modern brilliant cut stones, it allowed the beauty of the Emerald to show its clear blazing colour. On either side were three small diamonds set in a small triangle with the point farthest from the central stone. They flashed brilliantly in the glow of the torchlight.
To Harry, its simplicity only added to how beautiful it look.
"I've found it," he sighed happily.
Bill and Minerva nodded in agreement, it was the perfect ring for Harry to give to Ginny.
Harry pocketed the ring and they headed for the exit.
"Harry, you should grab some Galleons," Bill smiled.
"Oh, right," Harry replied sheepishly. He grabbed a money pouch that he found by the door and stuffed it full with several handfuls of Galleons.
They continued for the exit, wondering how they were going to return to the surface as the Director had taken the cart they had rode down in.
They were pleasantly surprised to find a Goblin sitting in a cart waiting for them.
Harry smiled, "Hello Griphook, it's nice to see you again," he said in greeting.
Griphook gave him a toothy grin. "It's a pleasure to see you too," the Goblin replied, thinking "He is a rare Wizard indeed."
In no time at all they were back at the surface and after Harry said goodbye to Griphook they left Gringotts and headed back to the Leaky Cauldron.
Once they had passed through the wall, Harry led them inside, asking Tom if he could have the use of a private parlour for a short time.
Tom was more than willing to help Harry, after all he had just defeated the evillest, most vile Dark Wizard in centuries.
Bill smiled when Harry politely refused Tom's offer of a free Firewhisky and chose to have a butterbeer instead.
Bill and Minerva also chose to have butterbeers and after suitably outfitted, they proceeded to the private parlour.
Harry quickly outlined what he wanted to do and thought his companions were surprised, they readily agreed to help him, mostly Bill as all Minerva needed to do was show up at the appropriate time and place.
With Harry's plans taken care of, they chatted for a bit while they drank their butterbeers, mainly discussing how the repairs at Hogwarts were going.
"Things are really just in the planning stages as even with magic it will be a huge undertaking to restore the castle. Though I'm confident that Hogwarts will be ready for school to resume in the fall," Minerva explained.
She also told them that she had been reinstated as Headmistress, something both Harry and Bill highly approved.
Once they had finished their drinks, Harry surprised Minerva by hugging her tightly. "Thank you for everything," he whispered emotionally.
Minerva felt tears coming to her eyes, her usually stern exterior crumbling. "You're welcome and I'll see you soon," she replied, equally choked up.
They exited the Leaky Cauldron, going their separate ways, Bill and Harry heading back to Shell Cottage and Minerva back to Hogwarts.
Harry and Ginny
Ginny hurriedly retook her seat, not wanting to seem too worried and needy when Harry came through the door, something that Fleur found quite amusing.
Ginny looked at Harry worriedly as he came bounding through the door, appearing flushed but then when she saw the look in his eyes and the smile on his face she figured out it probably had nothing to do with his illness.
Bill was right behind him, grinning like a maniac and he shared a quick glance with his wife.
Harry came right over in front of Ginny, his smile growing. "You have ten minutes to pack a bag," he informed her.
"What? Why? What's going on?" she stammered bewilderedly.
"The sooner you get packed the sooner you'll find out," Harry quipped before he ran off up the stairs to pack his own bag.
Ginny stared after him until he disappeared from sight. She turned to Bill and Fleur, still appearing totally confused.
"I suggest you do what he said," Bill replied to her unasked question. "And don't think you can wheedle anything out of me," he laughed.
Ginny huffed in annoyance as Bill hauled Fleur to her feet.
"Come on love, we need to pack too," he grinned, flashing Ginny a mischievous look.
As they headed off, Ginny suddenly realized she needed to get moving, she didn't want to be the only one not ready for whatever Harry had planned.
Harry and Ginny
A/N: So Remus' and Tonks' funeral has been dealt with. I tried to make it not so emotional, keeping it more solemn than anything else.
Then there's what Harry's up to, any guesses? I think it should be fairly obvious, but then again I know what he's planning. Lol
Please review, it makes me happy and a happy author is a prolific writer. (hint, hint)