Chapter 26: Talks and Proposals

After the dust settled, difficult conversations began happening all over the island. Lovers, friends, family, soldiers, acquaintances, and elves were all trying to come to terms with their current situation. For most of them... so much had changed. They had lost loved ones. They had lost their homes, livelihoods, and faith in the institutions that were supposed to guide and protect them... Most of them were scared to be in an unknown land. Harry Potter hadn't been seen around much. He spent most of the day training and the rest in strategy meetings with the military people and his top advisors.

As much as they were grateful for these safer surroundings, they feared exile. Many of them were terrified that if they were to put one foot out of line, they would be kicked out. The worst part of that was that they didn't even know which lines to try not to step on them. Many new people didn't know Harry well enough. Some had heard of him through others. Some had read about him both in good and bad terms from The Prophet and The Quibbler. They didn't know what to think anymore. He was too quiet, too reserved. During meals, he would sit and talk in whispers with a woman who was apparently his girlfriend or wife. Some weren't sure.

Those who had been on the island the longest seemed to worship the man and his woman, the wizards and witches, that is. The newer additions were very grateful to be safe, but they were so confused by everything that surrounded them. The soldiers were not so sure. They seemed to trust him as a fellow fighter, but since not all of them were wizards or witches, they didn't know the history there. Even if they did, they knew bits and pieces as their homeland was far away.

The tension in one of the family rooms was so thick that the two people inside it felt the very air oppressing their bodies.

"He is dead," Bill said. His voice was merely a whisper.

"What?! How?!" her shock was real.

"We were on a mission... I... He was half-gone already..."

"You... killed him?!" she exclaimed, wide-eyed.

"I didn't want to do it, but he was... He was too far gone. It was for the best; trust me," Bill tried to use his calmest voice even though he was crumbling down inside.

"You sit here telling me you killed him for what? The greater good?! Like that senile fool used to say?!" she pushed him harshly, and he fell off the bed.

"NO! Never! Ginny, you weren't there! Ron was more a ghost than a person! He was still helping the Death Eaters," Bill scampered up. "He betrayed us. Don't forget that."

A long silence passed, "Did you bury him, at least?"

"No. There was no chance... I turned him to ash, but I had to leave him there. We were under attack," Bill explained.

Ginny sighed; after a while, she asked, "Is Mom going to be okay? Why did I have to learn she was ill from Malfoy?"

"Yes, she will as long as she takes it easy... I don't know why the hell he told you. We didn't want to give you any cause to relapse or get worse than you were... Which reminds me... What the fuck, Gin?"

She stared with a frown, not understanding him.

"Why the fuck did you not tell us that you were on a potion regime?"

"I didn't want people to treat me like I was crazy."

"Why didn't you tell me? ME! I would have fought for you!" Bill tried in vain to keep tears at bay.

"You don't understand... I felt so... dirty... So disgusting. I couldn't even see myself in a mirror for three years. I would always see... what they did to me. I couldn't speak of it. I remembered flashes, and they were all so horrible..."

Bill got on the bed and opened his arms. Ginny collapsed into his embrace and let out a deep breath. She felt so safe when Bill was nearby.

"Gin, I would have never thought you were crazy. I would have been there for you... You were a child. What happened to you was not your fault," Bill rubbed her back soothingly.

"Maybe, but I am the one who has to live with the consequences... Mom and Dad were already struggling financially. They couldn't have afforded a Mind Healer. They are too expensive."

"Gin, look at me," Bill lifted her face with a finger under her chin. Ginny looked up and actually saw how much had changed. Bill was starting to get wrinkles. His face now had several scars that weren't there before. Some were still red and scabbed, so they were recent.

"I would rather go without eating than have you without your potions, alright? If I had known what was going on, I would have sent you the gold or the potions. You are my baby sister, and I always want to take care of you. But you have to let me help you. What Harry said to you... we all mean it. We want to be there for you, to take care of you, to protect you, but you need to let us in," Bill looked into his sister's brown eyes with complete honesty.

"I... I know... It's just hard for me. I can't... trust people easily anymore. I did... then... and I paid the worst price for it. I need t-time... I don't like to talk a-about it. I don't want to talk about it. It brings back the night t-terrors that only stopped with the right potion regime. I know Luna t-told the Healer here, and I feel like bat bogey hexing the hell out of her... She was never supposed to tell anyone. I trusted her because she was my friend," Ginny said with a deep frown.

"Gin, please don't go there... Luna is not the scaredy cat you remember. She's a badass. Harry adores her, and Neville would kill anyone who dares to hurt her. With a couple of touches, she can disable your magic. I cannot stress this enough. Don't confront her or blame her. If she hadn't done anything to help us, Andromeda could have given you the wrong potion, which would have set you back further," Bill advised.

"I know... but... you don't understand. She was the one person I trusted with this, and she burned me... How many more will burn me?"

"She saved you from all the potentially horrible side effects of the wrong one! I read up on it. They are very serious, Gin," Bill countered.

"Does he know?"

"Does who know what?"

"Harry, does he know?"

Bill took a deep breath. "Yes, Gin. He does."

"WHO TOLD HIM!? IS THIS HOW YOU STAND UP FOR ME?!"

"Gin, don't be unfair... I didn't tell him."

"Did the Healer tell him?! That's illegal!" Ginny exclaimed.

"No. She did not."

"Then it was Luna... Get out, Bill. I need to be alone."

"Ginny..."

"Who else knows what Luna knows?"

"Andromeda, me –at least what they told me– our mom, Harry... and Hermione," Bill grimaced.

Ginny gasped, feeling the worst kind of betrayal. Hermione knew her biggest, most shameful secret. Marvelous. "Please leave," she looked down, fighting tears.

"Ginny... I... I... Just know our family's love for you is endless and that you can always count on us. You can always count on me," Bill kissed her forehead. "You are every bit as pure, precious, worthy, and beautiful as you have always been, poppet. Never forget that."

Ginny swallowed hard. Her father had just spoken through Bill, and it was like she was punched in the gut. She looked away so the tears could fall unseen, but Bill felt each tear as it fell like acid pouring directly over his heart. He felt useless. He wished there was more he could do for her.

"I understand that, but I am her mother!"

"You can't make medical decisions for her. She's now awake and coherent. Plus, she's legally an adult."

"How can she make such important permanent decisions when her mind is not right?" Molly asked, outraged.

"That is a risk we have to take, Molly."

"Mr. Tonks..."

"Yes?" Ted looked up from some paperwork that he was working on regarding the whereabouts of the Grangers. The magical world had no idea. Maybe muggle Australia did.

"Is it?"

"Is what it?"

"Is it a risk we have to take?"

He had been paying attention to their conversation, but he didn't expect to be included, let alone consulted, "Well, the only other alternative is to declare her mentally incompetent, Mrs. Weasley, and I advise strongly against it. She will feel attacked," Ted replied, blushing at the glares he received. "Don't shoot the lawyer... That's the legal term."

"Molly, you don't want to do that," Tonks warned from her wheelchair. She refused to stay in bed as her mother wanted since she was having some concerning bleeding, and this was the only compromise she could agree to. Moving around in a wheelchair was a lot better than being bedridden.

"Why not?" Molly blinked.

"Because she will never forgive you. You have already forced her to remain unconscious for way longer than what is advised," the Auror narrowed her eyes at Molly and at her mother, who had the decency to blush, feeling thoroughly called out.

"It is in her best interest to get the treatment," Molly insisted.

"Yes, but we can't force her," Andromeda pressed on.

"We have to!"

"Excuse me," Draco knocked outside the office that had been created within the Infirmary.

"Come in," Andromeda said, halting the conversation.

Draco came inside with a tray, "Mrs. Weasley, your morning potions." He handed her three vials.

"Thank you, dear," Molly uncapped the vials and drank them one by one. She had grown fond of the boy. He was very polite and respectful. He was particularly dedicated to her improvement. He had even joined her on her mandated walks around the island and had long conversations with her about many topics. Sometimes he would even bring her food and drinks. Molly didn't really understand why he was acting like this, but she was glad for it.

"No problem," he vanished the vials. "Aunt Andi, Ginny insists on speaking to you. She says that if you won't have the decency to go see her, the least you could do is untie her and let her take a proper shower."

"Did she lash out at you again?" Andi frowned.

Draco sighed, "Surprisingly, no. I was expecting that, but she was sad and more despondent than angry and murderous, thank Merlin," he replied, instantly feeling bad at saying that in front of the girl's mother. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean 'thank Merlin, she's sad...' It's just that she already bit me and threw up on me twice. She didn't yell at me this time. She did call me a useless arrogant piece of shit, but that's mild for her," he quickly explained to ease Molly's concern.

Molly sighed, "I am sorry she insulted you."

"It's okay. She hates me by association..." Draco trailed off. "She's not the only one..." He turned to leave.

Molly stood up and placed her hand on his shoulder. He turned back to her. "Draco... What you did... I can only imagine it was horrible to go through, but let me thank you for ridding the world of him. Also, I am so sorry you had to do that, and I am very sorry for your loss. Regardless of what he did, he was your father. I don't want to overstep or make you uncomfortable, but if you need someone to talk to or if I can help you in any way, dear, please don't hesitate."

Draco was speechless. His eyes filled with tears, and before he could finish processing this shocking offer from the matriarch, she was hugging him for all he was worth. He was very stiff at first, but then he returned the hug, and his tears fell on her shoulder. He whispered what he hadn't dared to say until now, "I k-killed my d-dad."

"Oh, sweet boy," Molly caressed his hair.

"My m-m-mother hates m-me," Draco cried against the crook of her neck.

Molly did something she hadn't done in a while. She sat and pulled the taller boy to sit on her lap. It wasn't the first time she had ever done this. Her sons were all taller than her, but when they were heartbroken, she would console them as if they were little kids. They all crumbled as Draco did. They made themselves smaller to fit in her embrace and cried their eyes out, just like he was doing at the moment. Molly stared at Andi in a clear request to leave.

Andi tapped her husband, stared meaningfully at him, and together they rolled Nymphadora out and left quietly, closing the door behind them. Andromeda had been particularly worried about her nephew. He had gone through a lot, and he wasn't confiding much in anyone but Luna. Narcissa was too far gone in her guilt and shame at allowing her son to go to Hogwarts. Patricide was such a grueling thing. If anyone deserved their child to make sure they would die, it was Lucius. He had been close to death from blood loss, but Draco carving on his body with a Greengrass blade meant that those injuries could not close, and even if someone came to try to help or use some occult ritual, he would still die.

Since Narcissa was released, she had locked herself up in her room. There, she would sharpen weapons and polish dragonhide, but she was not speaking to anyone. Apparently, even her son was getting the silent treatment. Now, she would have to speak to her sister and niece. It was not acceptable to shut her son out in her grief. They would be better off grieving together.

Sirius was currently trying to decide whether it would be too unseemly and/or too humiliating for Lord Black of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black to transform into Padfoot so he could better outrun an irate Amelia Bones, who was currently chasing him with curse after curse. He had decided to be funny at a very inconvenient time. Now, this wasn't an unusual occurrence, but now that Amelia didn't have a job since she risked it all for him and his godson's cause... well, she wasn't really in the mood to put up with his shenanigans.

"Amy, please stop! I'm sorry!"

"You tosser! I lost my job because of this insurgence! I sent you those portkeys, and instead of coming to see me, or at the very least, send me a letter, you give me the silent treatment!? How dare you?"

"Please, love. Harry and Hermione were unconscious because of Dumbledore's wand! We didn't even know what would happen or if they would wake up!"

"All I needed was a line! 'We are alive, Amy. Thank you.' Is that too much to ask?"

"Honestly, if I had sent you a line, it would have been, 'Will you marry me, you boss ass witch?'"

"Oh, don't get cute with me!" she complained and crashed against his back as he suddenly stopped running.

"While I am cute... I am also completely serious."

"Not the pun thing!"

"I didn't intend it as a pun, it is a word too, you know?"

"Sirius Orion Black."

"Not the three names!" Sirius covered his face with his hands in mock embarrassment.

"That is no way to propose! We haven't even gone on one date since you came back from the dead!" Amelia yelled.

"No, but I did ask, and you were the one who said no... Does that mean you are also saying no to being my wife or-?"

He couldn't finish his question because she grabbed him and started kissing him so enthusiastically that they fell in a tangle of limbs onto the wet sand beneath them.

Harry and Hermione were locked up with a desperate Neville and a quickly losing patience goblin Queen on a floo call.

"Heir Longbottom, I assure you I am not joking! Even in the present circumstances, when the room is metaphorically on fire, your grandmother has submitted the paperwork to take you to court for your title," the queen replied. "That is a done deal. That is irreversible. The only purpose of this meeting is to determine what you want to do in retaliation."

"How did she even find the time to do that?! All of England is in shambles! Doesn't she need a barrister?" Neville asked, dismayed. "She saw my pictures all banged up in the newspaper, and she still went through with this! She wants me dead! This travesty," Neville waved the citation parchment in the air, "It's for a few days from now. She knows I have a bull's eye on my back! She knows that his minions will be all over the Wizengamot waiting, foaming at the mouth to get me!"

"Neville is right. This can't happen," Harry squeezed Neville's hand in support. "He can't go there."

"I don't see a way around it, love. He was summoned by the court for a formal House Trial. This isn't for arbitration. If he doesn't go, he will be in contempt, and when he finally shows his face, their Aurors will arrest him and probably fine him," Hermione looked at the queen to corroborate.

"That is true. A fine is nothing to worry about... However, Azkaban is run by Death Eaters and dementors. If they don't get him in the Ministry, they will get him there for sure," Queen Anord confirmed.

"Then what the fuck are we supposed to do?!... Your Majesty?" Neville added the last part when he realized he had just cursed at the royal.

"First of all, Heir Longbottom, I am glad to see you do have a backbone," Anord smirked, and the fireplace let out a gust of smoke. "After all, you will need it. We could try to have the Family Trial in a Gringotts branch abroad, but she would have to agree to it."

"She won't," Neville replied.

"She might," Hermione grimaced.

"Lady Potter, whatever is on your mind, you have my support," Anord replied, fairly confident in this particular human's plans.

"You are too hasty, Your Majesty... We would have to break... I don't even know how many laws, but I really think she might agree."

"What are you thinking?" Queen Anord asked.

Harry stared in shock at his wife, mouth agape. Oh. Fuck. That is devious, love, but I think you are right.

Hermione turned to Neville with an apologetic expression, "I think we should kidnap your parents, Neville."

Neville gasped, "What?! Kidnap my parents?! Like out of the hospital?!"

"Yes... What is the only thing she cares about?" Hermione asked. Realizing her mistake, she added a hasty, "Sorry, Neville."

"Don't be. I know. I think you are right... I don't think anything else will get her to agree," Neville replied. "She loves my father enough to come to find him wherever we say. If only so that the only Longbottom blood she considers worthy won't be used for something nefarious."

Queen Anord nodded, making a piece of wood move in the fireplace, "I will need two elves willing to go to St. Mungo's. It will be quite risky, but to get Mr. and Mrs. Longbottom out, we will need at least 6 people. Two pairs to carry each of your parents and someone moving ahead and someone else moving behind for protection. We no longer have an ally in the DMLE, and Portkeys –at least legal ones– are out of the question, and illegal ones are not as reliable."

"Master," Ruki appeared and bowed. "Dobby wishes to go, sir. I want to go too."

"No. That is out of the question, Ruki. I need you both here."

"Then who, sir?" Ruki frowned slightly.

"We will ask in an elf assembly... they are getting much too big to call them meetings anymore," Harry added the last bit at the curious look Neville donned.

"Narcissa, frankly, I don't give a damn!" Andromeda yelled back.

"I thought you would understand!" Narcissa complained. "He was a monster, but he was my husband!"

"AND HE IS YOUR SON!" Andromeda exclaimed. "He is alive. He is suffering, and he needs you! He thinks you hate him!"

"He carved her full name on his father's body with a blade!" Narcissa said with a grimace.

"HE RAPED HIS GIRLFRIEND AND FORCED HER LEGS OPEN SO HIS SICKO FRIENDS COULD RAPE HER TOO!" Andromeda yelled with a terrifying look on her face. To her, that was nothing as payback went.

"Narcissa... He allowed Merlin knows how many men to rape her! She was beaten and starved, and humiliated in every way possible! Carving her name on his body was mild!" Tonks exclaimed. "I would have crucioed him to death!"

"You don't understand... I... How can I look at my son and not see him as a monster willing to kill his father in such a barbaric fashion!? I have tried... But the more I think about it... I can't even glance at Draco without seeing him over Lucius, covered in blood, with a twisted grin of enjoyment at his father's pain."

"You mean without seeing Lucius' same motherfucking expression he had when he allowed them to rape you too!?" Andromeda spat.

"Will you ladies ward up this room? Everyone can hear you!" Professor McGonagall opened the door and stepped inside.

"GET OUT!" Narcissa threw a vase at the door.

Professor McGonagall intercepted the vase with a spell and put it on a side table. She came inside the room and warded it. "Listen to me, you hypocritical, cowardly, immature witch! Your son has been through a lot. He has worked on himself so much. He has proved himself every single day. He stayed by his girlfriend's bedside day and night. He watched her die. Daphne died because of the damage your piece of shit of a husband and his devious associates did to her. She was beaten and raped and humiliated beyond measure, and you are worried that Draco enjoyed his father's pain?! By not extending his pain for days as Lucius did to Daphne, Draco showed him mercy your husband didn't deserve, and nobody else would have granted him. You should be proud of him. You should be helping him through his grief."

"Why would you presume you have any right to tell me what to do? You don't even have children!" Narcissa spat.

"That's where you are wrong! I have had hundreds throughout the years. I spent more time a year with the children of wizarding families than some of you, especially rich ones like yours, spent in years. Mother is a noun and a verb, and as someone who has mothered hundreds, you are going about this the wrong way. I didn't have the opportunity to have my own children, and it is so sad to see people who did have them treat them like an inconvenience. Draco is a product of your and Lucius' decisions. Don't act like you had nothing to do with the result," McGonagall gave her a scathing look that would have sent most people running.

"This is family business! Get out!"

"Please! It is only family business now that I warded the room. Everyone inside the house has heard you!" Minerva opened the door to leave. "Narcissa... The next time you dare to throw a vase at me like the petulant child you are, I will conjure a way to have you spanked for a whole day, and I will make sure you go to bed without supper!" Minerva spat, slamming the door as she left. Tonks had to bite the inside of her cheeks not to laugh.

Draco realized about twenty minutes into this position that he was currently being held on Molly Weasley's lap. That was odd and alarming. Even more alarming was that he was perfectly comfortable, and she didn't seem to be struggling at all to hold him, which was very impressive, considering he was at least a head and a half taller than her.

"I know that I have no business telling you anything..." Molly trailed off.

"No, please... I... d-don't really have anyone like you... You know?"

Molly smiled against his hair. Like a mom went unsaid. "Draco, you have been through so much. It is alright to need to cry, scream, and be alone if that's what you think you need. But you don't have to go through this on your own. Your mother... well, she's dealing with her own pain and, unfortunately, pain is selfish. It is very hard for many people to see the struggles of others when they are barely keeping it together themselves."

"I know... I'm a-asking for too much... After all, I did murder her h-husband... my f-f-father... It's like... I did to her what he did to me, oh no... I am turning into my father," Draco's horrified, blood-shot eyes broke Molly's heart.

"Oh, sweetheart, no... Your mother needs some time to come to terms with things. She doesn't hate you. Trust me. I know. No matter what our children do, no matter how they behave, there's something primal about motherly bonds that don't allow us to hate our children or wish evil upon them," Molly rubbed his back in small circles.

"You don't understand... She... She can't unsee me doing what I did... I turned into a monster like him before her eyes... Mrs. Weasley, I-" he tried to inhale deeply but it was shaky and short as sobs shook his body again. Neither he nor his mother had disclosed any details. Lady Greengrass had kept her mouth shut too. If he said this now, he felt everyone would know soon enough. "I c-c-can't... You will hate me too..."

"Draco, your father did many bad things in his life. He caused a lot of suffering for a lot of people... My own daughter included. Any punishment he received would be better than none," Molly replied.

"I... I c-carved her name into his b-body... like he was a t-turkey or something."

Molly stayed quiet for a while, "Was that what killed him?"

"Not exactly, but t-that's what made sure he died."

"How come?" Molly asked, not knowing how else to phrase the question.

"We a-attacked him and subdued him. I t-tried to interrogate him. He a-admitted to being the first to rape Daphne. He then h-helped others do the same. He refused to give me the n-names of those beasts. Lady Greengrass f-forced his mind open to extract information with a family spell. She then c-castrated him, and that's when I cut her name into his body with one of Lady Greengrass' blades."

Molly's heart felt so sad for this young man. She wished she could ease some of his pain. "No one who can watch over their loved ones as you did with Daphne has a bad heart, son. You did what she wanted. You have avenged her. Miss Greengrass said it best. You loved her so well, and you deserve to be happy."

Draco sobbed, "I d-don't feel like I d-do..."

"Trust me. You do. I know evil... I have stared it in the face," Molly remembered the expression on Ronald's face. "And you aren't it... I am so puzzled, though. Your mother seemed to be on your side."

"My m-mother is a Black and a Malfoy... She would d-die before she ever airs out any problems she has in public. Especially now that he's d-dead. She k-knows our House is weak a-at the moment so she wouldn't let a-anyone think there's p-problems, but she s-split our family room and is not t-talking to me... She said she's scared of me at times."

"Oh, dear," Molly sighed.

"I know I a-acted out badly when she d-died. I know I was loud and f-foul. I couldn't keep my t-temper in check, and I screamed at her..."

"I see. Did you apologize?" Molly asked with a small frown.

"I tried, but she d-doesn't want to t-talk to me," Draco shrugged.

"May I make a suggestion?"

"Yes, p-please," Draco nodded.

"What is your mother's favorite food?"

"Beef Wellington with red wine," he replied instantly.

"Can you cook?" Molly asked.

"N-No," Draco blushed.

"That's the fancy steak meat coated with something or other and wrapped in puff pastry, yes?" Molly tapped her chin.

"Yes. Fillet steak coated with foie gras and duxelles wrapped in puff pastry," Draco nodded, his head still on her shoulder.

"Ooookay. You will write her a letter. Apologize if you think you need to. Explain how you feel. Offer what you can, be it companionship, support, or, well, you know her better..." Molly trailed off.

"Apology, flattery, offer to do what she wants in that order," Draco chuckled as he wiped his nose with a paper tissue Molly handed him.

"Good, you will have to talk to Ruki about that foy something or other," Molly blinked. She wouldn't even try to pronounce that. "Then, I will figure out how to make her that dish, and you will bring both to her room. I guarantee she will at least talk to you to say thank you."

Draco nodded and stood up slowly as Mrs. Weasley began to let go. "Thank you, Mrs. Weasley."

"Don't mention it, dear" Molly patted his cheek. "Come see me later. I think I found something to help with that bite scar in the Prewett Grimoire."

Draco's eyes widened. "The P-Prewett Grimoire? As in the Prewetts who wrote Wizarding Maladies and Remedies?"

"Yes, dear. Why?" Molly's expression was curious.

"MERLIN! You are a Prewett?!" Draco blinked.

"Yes, born and raised. I married into the Weasley family... Why?"

"That book saved my life... and my mother's. My father used to... get physical with us after Riddle tortured him. We didn't really have anything close to a healer, but the spells and potions there helped us get better," Draco replied with a smile.

"I am sorry you both had to go through that, but I am glad the book helped. Go write your letter and speak to Ruki," Molly kissed his forehead. "I will see if I can find a recipe for that dish."

"Poppy, we have been through this. It is much too soon for you to be anything but a patient," Andromeda insisted.

"Andromeda Tonks! I knew you when you were nothing but a child in a pram! I have been healing way longer than you have been alive. I know my own limits!"

"Be that as it may... You weren't subjected to just any wizard's magic. You were subjected to Tom Riddle's," Andromeda crossed her arms. "Molly, tell her!"

"Poppy, respectfully, I have to agree with Andi."

"Molly!"

"I know, Poppy. But just like you wouldn't let me out of bed rest to nurse my twins because all my stitches would tear, I will not have you compromising your health –especially not your mental health – just so we can have one more Healer. Harry would disapprove," Molly frowned.

"He's a child! He can't order me around! You need help!" Madam Pomfrey complained.

"No, my dear. He's not a child anymore. For one, he is bonded to Hermione. So, he's a married man now... Also, he has seen so much war, bloody and raw... He's not the child you remember, Poppy," Molly replied.

"Fine, but Andromeda... Please. Let's make this as quick as possible."

"For us to do that, we'd have to put you under, Madam Pomfrey. That way, we can work on your mind faster," Andromeda said with a slight frown.

"Forgive me for meddling, but Mind Healing it's an art. You know this, Madam Pomfrey. You either want it done fast or done right. We need it done right. We need your help. It is your brain and your memories, but as a fellow Healer, I feel compelled to advise you," Lady Greengrass said.

"Fine. Do it well as fast as possible," Poppy conceded.

"Ladies... does anyone here know how to make Beef Wellington?" Molly asked.

Harry stared out into the ocean while he waited for everyone to gather on the beach. Ruki had informed him of growing tensions and fears among the people and creatures living on the island. Hermione was concerned that this could degenerate into a conflict that could start serious problems on the island. Hundreds of pairs of eyes stared at Harry curiously. Many looked at him with affection and admiration. Some, with straight-out pride and love. Hermione had posed that before they sent anyone on another potentially deadly mission, they should spend some time getting to know them, especially the new ones. Harry magnified his voice.

"Good afternoon, everyone," Harry began.

"Good afternoon," was a chorused reply.

"It has come to my attention that some of you are anxious, perhaps even scared... I know many of you don't know me personally, so I take no offense to that," Harry smiled.

Many looked relieved at that.

"This whole public speaking thing is not my strong suit. I want to get to know all of you a bit better. We are all here in complicated circumstances. This is not what I would rather be doing on a tropical island," Harry chuckled, and the audience laughed. "That being said, I have heard that some of you feel the need to walk on eggshells around me... There's something you should know. Come here, Draco," Harry motioned to the blonde, who blushed and shook his head repeatedly, but Luna nudged him forward with a conspiratorial smile.

"Blondie! You have betrayed me!" Draco complained loudly over his shoulder.

"I love you too, Draco!" Luna smiled at him.

"Potter, what are you doing?" Draco whisper shouted.

"Everyone, I want you to meet someone... This very pale, very blonde, very annoying person," Harry winked at him, and Draco rolled his eyes. "Used to be my school nemesis... He hated my guts, and I hated him for almost seven years," Harry ruffled Draco's perfectly coiffed locks.

"Hey! Leave it alone!" Draco moved his wand over his hair and undid the damage. Then he nodded with a small smile.

"Now, he braids my hair for battle," Harry wiggled his brows at Draco.

"Potter! Shut up! That was supposed to be just between us!" Draco exclaimed, realizing Hermione had magnified his voice.

"Draco, you have a gift. If you can tame my hair and Hermione's, you can tame anyone's hair... But on a more serious note..." Harry turned toward the audience, "We have been through a lot together. I know I can trust him with my life, and I have grown fond of him," Harry smiled an honest smile while the audience chuckled. "I don't know if he hates me still, but I know I feel no hate for him anymore," Harry stared into Draco's eyes, "I respect him. I admire him. The things he has been through would have destroyed others, but he's still standing, and I am proud of him."

"Potter, if you make me cry in public, I will end you," Draco replied, taking a deep slow breath to reign in his emotions. "The feelings are mutual, though."

"I am glad to know that you are still a Slytherin," Harry laughed. "My point is that circumstances have impacted us all. We have lost people, creatures, a school, and normalcy. But we have a new normal now. I don't know how long we will have to share this island-"

"There are worse places to share," Draco said with a smile. Many nodded. Draco went back into the audience before Harry decided to embarrass him further.

"Indeed. I want you to know that I don't expect you to act as if this island is a military institution-"

"Lord Potter!" General Xu narrowed his eyes at him.

"I meant non-soldiers! Sorry, General Xu!"

"Harry, please explain how we want to talk to them," Hermione whispered in his ear.

"Yes, love. I am getting off track... For those of you who don't know, this beautiful woman next to me, who has been keeping me on track since I was eleven, is my bonded wife and the current Lady Potter. Love, please take it away," Harry pulled her to stand before him.

"Hello, everyone. Lord Potter and I will meet with you in groups according to the date you came to this island. We want to start with those of you who have just got here so we can let you know what is expected and the um... rules. We don't have many, but anarchy doesn't work. We want all of you to be in the best conditions possible regardless of how long you stay with us. We have no way of knowing if this war will last more weeks or months," Hermione said with a smile.

"We will start with the last group to arrive: Murcus' clan. Everyone else, you are free to go back to whatever you were doing," Harry smiled at them and received many more smiles than before. "Ruki will let you know when we are ready to talk to your group. Thank you for coming," they started to disperse.

Ruki smiled with pride at her charge as he spoke to the crowd. Harry had become the young man his parents hoped for. He was smart, kind, funny, generous, respectful, protective, loving, and strong. She hadn't personally seen his scars, but when McGonagall told her, she felt her very blood grow cold. She had failed then, but she wouldn't fail now. She would help him navigate his lordship and all the additional problems it would bring. She could sense that some people and creatures would present problems sooner rather than later.

Hermione vanished the small podium she had created so everyone could see Harry. Neville and Luna walked hand in hand toward the couple. Neville looked very unsure.

"Hey," Neville began.

"Hey... Is everything okay?"

"I heard what happened with Murcus and Omari," Neville replied.

Harry sighed, "Don't remind me. I wish they could get along and share."

"Harry, may I offer some advice?"

"Always," Harry nodded.

"Murcus needs to learn her place. Merfolk are very territorial and will fight you for your properties and riches, claw and fang," Neville replied. "As Lord Potter, you set the tone in all your territories. If she refuses to do as she is told, give them a two weeks' notice."

"An ultimatum?" Harry asked to confirm.

"No, an eviction notice, I think that would be the legal term. But we can always ask Ted," Neville shrugged.

"Is that what you would do, Heir Longbottom?" Harry asked with a small smile. He really looked up to this more confident Neville, who was willing to weigh in on things.

Neville blushed, but after an encouraging squeeze from Luna's small hand on his, he nodded, "That's what I would do."

"I'll need you to help me learn this Lord business enough, so I don't make a fool of myself."

"Anytime, mate," Neville clapped his back.

"Harry..." Luna trailed off.

"Yes, Luna?"

"I need to talk to you. Later..." she looked down to hide how this affected her.

Harry frowned a bit. "Is it urgent? I can rearrange my meetings."

"Ginny is awake. She's well enough, according to Bill. Come and find me when you are free. I have to warn you about some things... I will be helping the Browns with this week's bread, so come find me in the kitchen," Luna smiled and left, pulling a confused and concerned Neville after her.

"How long has she been awake?" Neville asked as they left.

Harry waved his hands, and the sand moved around the artificial lake to form a small sitting area for Harry and Hermione. Firenze galloped toward them and waited, ready to interpret.

"Murcus," Harry offered his hand and bowed over the leader.

She bowed back, trying to keep up the pretense of cordiality.

"Would you rather Firenze interpret or-?"

Murcus shook her head. Harry pricked his finger with a pin Hermione gave him and let a drop fall into Murcus' tongue.

"What are you waiting for, Firenze? Leave!" Murcus brusquely dismissed him.

Firenze looked affronted but resigned. He turned to Harry and Hermione, "I will be in my area, Lord and Lady Potter," he bowed his head and left.

"Was that necessary, Murcus?" Harry asked.

"Yes. I don't trust Firenze anymore."

Harry and Hermione shared a look.

"I see," Harry replied. "Well, Murcus. How are you and your clan? Is the artificial lake to your liking? Are you comfortable?"

"It is acceptable," Murcus replied, her tone saying anything but that.

Hermione made an effort not to roll her eyes at her. "Is there anything you can contribute to the island?"

"Contribute?! I thought we were guests," Murcus frowned, seemingly offended.

"You are refugees," Hermione corrected.

"Same difference."

"No. It really isn't. Everyone here who is not ill or disabled in some way from battle has to earn their keep by doing some work on or around the island..."

Murcus laughed sarcastically, "How do you expect us to contribute when you relegated us to a glorified kiddie pool!?"

Harry frowned severely at this, "This glorified kiddie pool cost many work hours and the cooperation of many people and creatures to make, not to mention the gold spent on materials. You kept asking for more and more modifications. This is not a forever home, Murcus, nor is it a resort. It's a temporary shelter. You would do well to remember that."

"The only reason you even are in a kiddie pool is that you couldn't share a space with the locals without getting confrontational and having a tail-measuring contest with Omari!" Hermione snapped.

Harry could have laughed at that, but he powered through with his serious face. "I will ask Charlie what you can help us with. Although it would be much better for you to volunteer according to your clan's strengths."

"What the hell do you expect us to do? Fishing? Help you eat our kind?" Murcus said, clearly incensed.

Harry could feel a migraine coming.

"Master," Ruki bowed after she popped next to Harry. "May I make a suggestion, sir?"

"Always, Ruki," Harry smiled at her. He realized who was in his own clan based on who he said 'always' to when it came to advice or requests.

"Murcus' clan could help the cleaning elves with the washing," Ruki said very seriously.

"T-The washing!? Of clothes?! How dare you?!" Murcus pointed her trident menacingly at Ruki.

Harry ripped the trident off Murcus' hold. "Don't you ever even think of harming one of my clan!" he roared.

Murcus swam back. She was not expecting the human to be so... gutsy. "Give me back my trident!"

"NO. You have proven you can't control yourself. When you learn some temperance, you can have it back," Harry replied.

"As I was saying... The washing of clothes, yes. Why? Do you think honest helpful labor is beneath you, Chieftainess?" Ruki asked with a dangerous glint in her eyes.

"N-No... Head House Elf Ruki, we don't... I... It's just impractical. How are we supposed to keep our water clean if you want us to do something involving soap?" Murcus maneuvered.

"I will personally oversee the creation of a moat around your pool so you can both do the laundry and keep your water clean," Ruki replied. "You can also mend the clothes that need repairs."

Murcus noticed the looks on both Harry and Hermione's faces and admitted defeat, "Certainly. I would just like to know what Omari and his clan are doing to earn their keep..."

Ruki stepped forward and narrowed her eyes at her, "That is none of your business, Murcus," Ruki used a caustic tone that left no room for a response. "You are a refugee here, not a Mistress, and most certainly not a Potter."

"I wouldn't want to be one!" Murcus snapped. "Why would I? So I can be a slave like you? Why do you think you are their equal? You will never be a Potter! You are nothing but a servant!"

Before Harry could react, Ruki had ripped the trident from his hold and pressed it against Murcus' neck, hard enough to lightly puncture the skin. Ruki's expression was a fearsome thing to behold. Her teeth were bare, her expression murderous, and her magic was crackling on her skin. While alarmed, Harry felt protected and loved beyond measure. He couldn't explain how someone he had been around for so little time had his full trust, but Ruki did.

"You better wash your mouth and watch your tone when you speak before Lord and Lady Potter!" Ruki spat.

"How dare you attack me?" Murcus swam backward to put distance between her and the elf.

"Listen to me very carefully, Murcus. I dare because it is my family. I dare because Lord Potter is my charge. You must keep one thing in mind for the rest of your life. To defend my family, I am willing to kill and eat the remains of whoever is stupid enough to harm them!"

Hermione was impressed and proud to have Ruki in their lives. She could feel Harry agreed. "Thank you, Ruki," he said.

"Know. Your. Place, Murcus! Next time you push me to the point of having to physically defend my family, I will put this trident as a skewer through your tail!" Ruki pushed the weapon nearer to the chieftainess, who gasped and moved further away.

"You will allow this... creature to threaten my life, and you thank her for doing it?!"

"This elf you call a creature in such a horrible tone is a Senior Potter family member! As such, she is within her rights to banish you from this island whenever she deems you no longer deserve a space here! I wouldn't question her decision at all. Murcus, my people came to your aid to return the assistance you provided to us at Hogwarts. The mission to get you and your clan out was done at a high risk and cost to this clan. Yes, it was expensive. But it cost us more than gold. We lost two elves! Instead of trying to be a little grateful or, at the very least non-confrontational, ever since you got here, you have been nothing but a pain in our ass!"

Murcus' eyes widened.

Hermione placed a calming hand on Harry's chest. "Well then... Will you contribute by doing the laundry, or should we speak to our lawyer about having you removed to a different space of your choice?"

"We will do the washing and mending," Murcus' eyes narrowed, but she said nothing further, although her hue went reddish in anger, and she looked at Hermione up and down with scorn.

"Is there anything else, Murcus?" Hermione asked with a sharp tone. She wouldn't back down.

Murcus shook her head and went underwater.

"The nerve!" Ruki exclaimed, handing Harry back the trident. "Pardon me, Master Harry. If I overstepped, I-"

Harry threw the trident down and knelt before the Head House Elf, and wrapped his arms around her. Is this what it's like to have a mom defend you? He wondered. Hermione replied, Yes. Harry smiled. Good, I like it. "Never apologize for caring, Ruki."

"As you wish, Master," Ruki had tears in her eyes. To have her boy see her as a mother was the biggest gift and honor any elf like her could ever get. Ruki popped away to their next destination before her emotions got away from her.

"Remind me never to get on Ruki's bad side," Hermione chuckled. Harry nodded enthusiastically, and he apparated them both away.

"Firenze?"

Some branches moved, and the centaur stepped out. He looked dejected and upset, although he seemed to school his features when he saw them.

"Lord and Lady Potter," Firenze bowed once to them. "Ruki," he nodded respectfully.

"Firenze," they nodded back.

"I am sorry about before. I should have known I was not wanted," Firenze said, looking down. "I lost my clan during the invasion, and it's just me. I swore fealty to Murcus because that is a very precarious position to be in, especially during a war, but now I think that I made a mistake. I have never been treated like that by anyone before... Not even by Dumbledore when he was in one of his... moods."

"We are all really sorry. Perhaps we could ask Murcus to release you from your oath at some point," Hermione offered.

"I would appreciate that."

"Of course. How are you feeling? Are your wounds healed?" Harry asked.

"Yes, Charlie helped me with that. Some will need time," Firenze looked conflicted.

"That's alright. Don't rush through your healing. Take all the time you need," Hermione smiled.

"Thank you," Firenze smiled.

"How about this area? Are you comfortable here?" Harry asked.

"Can we do anything to make it better or to help you?" Hermione added.

"I have been trying to find something to eat," Firenze replied after some hesitation.

"What?!" Harry's eyes widened.

"You mean to tell me you have not eaten anything since you've been here?!" Hermione was appalled.

"Don't fret, Lord and Lady Potter. Us centaurs don't need to eat as often as humans. I am still pleasantly satiated. I want to know where I can go when I need to get something."

"What is your diet like, Firenze?" Ruki asked.

"Vegetarian for the most part."

"Cooked or raw?" Ruki inquired.

"Some things raw, some things smoked over a fire," Firenze answered.

"Kreacher!" Ruki called.

"Yes, Head Elf Ruki?"

"Please make sure Firenze gets plenty of food and drink. He's a vegetarian. He will let you know what he needs, and you can cross-reference with what we have in storage or around the island. Please talk to the elves that used to help professor Sprout in the greenhouse. We need to start planting crops in case importing becomes impossible later on," Ruki spoke to Kreacher with the voice of someone used to commanding others and having those commands be followed to the letter.

"Yes, Ruki," Kreacher took out a small notepad and a pencil and scratched something there. He looked, Harry and Hermione noticed, quite happy to have someone in charge who knew what to do and how to go about it. "Whenever you is ready, Kreacher expects you in the kitchen."

Kreacher popped away, and Firenze turned to the humans.

"We need to go speak to more newcomers, Firenze. You are in great hands," Harry smiled.

"Anything you need in the coming days, come see us... If we are busy, please call Ruki, our Head House Elf," Hermione added.

"Any issues you have with Murcus, please inform us immediately."

"Yes, of course. Thank you."

Harry and Hermione held hands and vanished.

Luna paced in front of Neville, who was following her with his eyes from his hammock. Luna felt Ginny wake before Bill even approached her to tell her the news. She could feel all the screaming that would ensue. She was scared Ginny would attack her, and she would have to defend herself and injure the redhead.

"Luna, how can I help you?"

"I don't think you can... Nevy, I can feel how much she hates me from here," Luna sighed.

"Metaphorically or -?"

Luna turned to stare at him with her hands on her hips with a mildly angry expression.

"Oh... Okay. How can I help?" Neville asked, not even trying to understand the dynamics of his girlfriend's ability to feel other people's feelings from afar.

"Please don't be mad, Nevy, but you can't."

"Let me be the judge of that... Why does she hate you?"

"She told me some things in confidence that I had to tell Andromeda... and Harry," Luna sighed, and her head hung in shame.

"Come here, love," Neville opened his arms, and Luna went to him, cuddling against his side. "Was it something very personal that she wouldn't have wanted Harry to know?"

"Yes."

"Did you have a choice?"

"Yes. Or well... no."

"Meaning?"

"I could have kept quiet in detriment to her health. It could have caused permanent damage to her brain," Luna replied against his chest.

"Hmm... You prioritized her health. She's going to have to learn to live with it. That's who you are. In any case, the way she was acting made it clear to everyone that something was wrong with her mind," Neville replied. "I accepted you didn't feel you could tell me, but if you told Harry –keeping in mind that they used to date– you must have had a good reason."

"I did. If Harry let guilt get to him over something he didn't even do, he would lose it."

"Okay, love. Then you did what you had to do. If you need me to be there for you when you talk to her, say the word. I'll keep you safe."

"Thank you, Nevy," Luna sighed. She felt so lucky that she got to be here with her boyfriend, who really loved her, and her father, who was currently working on some further photographs for the next issue. They were her world, and they were safe. Draco was becoming one of her favorite people too. He was still sad, and that would probably never go away completely, but little by little, he was opening up to more people. What Harry did today would help a lot.

Ruki sang to herself as she chopped some vegetables. Draco Malfoy approached with a strange request. Beef Wellington... she wondered what he was up to. He even offered her his remaining galleons to buy the meat. Harry came in sweating profusely after yet another grueling training. He poured himself a glass of icy lemonade.

"Is Lady Potter-?"

"Hermione, Ruki... And no. She wanted to shower right away."

"Master... Mr. Malfoy wants me to procure the necessary ingredients for Beef Wellington."

Harry blinked, puzzled. Draco hadn't been demanding at all. He was actually surprised because the blonde was eating whatever he was fed, and Harry suspected that in different circumstances, that wouldn't be the case, "Um... Why? Craving?"

"No. He says it's for his mother. To apologize for something?" Ruki replied, a bit confused.

"Hmm... I see. Okay. Get it for him," Harry replied.

"But sir, I have never made Beef Wellington. Us elves don't eat meat, and that dish sounds awfully complicated. Foie gras Ruki knows... but what are du... duxelles, sir?"

"Oh, it's a mince of mushrooms, shallots, and onions finely diced and sautéed in butter," Harry replied right away.

"How do you know that, Master?" Ruki blinked, instantly concerned.

"Never mind that..." Harry blushed with a small smile. "Get me the ingredients, and I will make it myself. I haven't had a chance to cook for a while. I miss it."

"Master likes to cook?" Ruki blinked. She had only gone through his negative memories to catch up. She would have to take a walk down his few positive memories growing up too.

"Yes, I do."

"Oh, Mistress Lily would be so pleased," Ruki smiled.

Harry smiled; his eyes shone brightly. Any morsel of information he could get on his parents was a small treasure to him. "I am glad to hear that."

"Your father never did manage even to cook himself an egg and toast," Ruki chuckled. "He had a specialty in burning things to a crisp. Your mother kept a muggle fire extinguisher in the kitchen at all times..."

Harry laughed, "Well, it's a good thing I did learn then."

"Yes, Master. A very good thing," Ruki smiled.

"I have been looking all over for you!" Remus pulled Hermione into her bedroom and did all the wards. Sirius came in right after and closed the door behind him.

"What? What is it? What happened?"

"We were able to confirm my suspicions," Sirius replied.

"Merlin!" Hermione had to sit down.

"She really is pregnant."

"How far along?" Hermione asked with a frown. Her head started pounding.

"We are not sure, but far enough that it is easily visible," Remus replied.

"I don't think we can even get to her at the moment... but even if we did... Are we really talking about killing a pregnant woman?" Hermione asked with a frown.

"What is the alternative?" Sirius asked.

"Wait a minute. Who told you?" Hermione frowned further.

"Amelia," Sirius replied.

"How the hell does she know?" Hermione asked, suspicious.

"Classified information from the Aurors. Apparently, there are still a couple of spies in Riddle's inner circle."

"There's no way!"

Harry apparated to the room with a frown. He had felt Hermione's agitation and conflict through the bond, "What is the meaning of this?"

Harry had his hands on his hips. A flowery apron was over his clothes, and a handkerchief was tied on his head, keeping his hair away. Remus and Sirius shared a look. Remus had to grab Sirius' thigh harshly so he wouldn't comment jokingly on Harry's appearance. This was a serious conversation. They waited for Harry to hear it from his wife.

"Love, Bellatrix... She's visibly pregnant," Hermione replied.

Harry was silent for a while. Then, he looked up and screamed, "FUUUUUUUUUCK!" and then he started laughing a bit maniacally.

"Harry?"

He kept laughing. By now, he was on the floor, holding his aching abs, "We... We just can't catch a break, huh?"

"What do you mean, son?" Sirius frowned.

"We can't kill a pregnant woman," Harry whispered.

"Woman? She's not a woman! She's a demon... and she's bringing the Devil's spawn into existence," Sirius replied. "We'd be doing the world a favor."

"I understand that, but... Fuck... Are we positive?"

"Yes, classified info from Amelia," Sirius nodded. He didn't add 'my fiance' like he wanted to because a lot was happening to top it off with an engagement.

"I can't even think straight right now. I have had so many difficult conversations today... I can't really debate the moral or ethical implications of this... I have called an assembly with all elves on the island. Please join me."

"Of course... About what?"

"Kidnapping Neville's parents out of St. Mungo's as it is the only way we have to pressure Lady Longbottom into having the House Trial in a location of our choosing and not the Wizengamot, as that would be like sending Neville hog-tied and wandless to a Death Eater occupied Hogwarts. It would be a blood bath," Harry replied. "I am not about to have Neville be killed for some mean old demented lady's unburied hatchets."

"Absolutely," his godfather nodded. "We have your back."

"Harry... Um... Why are you wearing an apron?" Hermione asked.

"I was cooking... for Narcissa," Harry shrugged.

The shocked looks he received made him expand his answer.

"Or rather, I was cooking for Draco to give something to Narcissa. Luckily, we had most of the ingredients already. I'll take a quick shower, and we can call the elves to the beach," Harry kissed Hermione's cheek and went into the master bathroom.

Remus, Sirius, and Hermione all shared the same look, and in unison, they said, "Huh?"

A/N: Thank you for reading! 2023 already! I wish you all the best in this new year. Apparently, many people just found me and my stories. Welcome, and thank you for the follows and favorites. I appreciate you taking the time to read and follow this story. I hope you are happy, healthy, and safe wherever you are! -Lux-