A/N:
Important note: I will be uploading one chapter a day this week so that you follow the wedding at the same pace as the characters! I thought that would be cool (If it is not you are getting it either way).

Most of these chapters will be shorter (3K-ish) with the more significant chapters being a little (or a lot) longer.

Now if you don't have time to read a chapter a day, do not worry. I need to write the battle after that so there will be a gap anyway before I update again and you will have time to catch up. As I write this I think the wedding will be a 25K words total but currently don't have the last two chapters written (I will have by the time I post this.- Update from more recent-past-me: it's 29K)

- I will try to update 12:30 PM (noon) CEST (GMT+2) every day. If I am late please forgive me, I am supposed to post this on my lunch break so time may vary

- If you don't remember all the Gods that's okay, they are all addressed per chapter but I left the overview at the end.

I originally had Draco as a Prince but I forgot about it and named him Lord but his mother would be a Princess since she is the younger sister of Queen Bellatrix. Therefore I changed it to Prince Draco. (Lucius is still a Lord tho). The changes for Prince/Princess are in chapters 7,9, 13 and 18 to reflect this.

Of course, thank you Meg (megonagall410) for your swift beta-reading.

Ginny is wearing 'stays' in this chapter and it will be mentioned again in chapter 25 (Wedding Day 7). I think you can understand from the context what it is (And I have Harry ask about it in Ch25 because he too is confused about all the layers, poor guy) but apparently, it's not a common word and I have been watching too many of the cool vintage/period clothing videos. Anyway, stays are basically what came before corsets. They are usually not as structured and don't have the boning that corsets do. It kind of functions like a bra.

Writing these many chapters in one go and planning it all out was a little daunting but also fun, I hope you enjoy the end result!

The day before the wedding they had to wrap up a few last-minute things - one last training session with Alastor, one last time going over the numbers for the troops, one last meeting about the wedding schedule.

Regulus signed the papers and handed them over to Neville, who put them down on the desk. By doing so, he was officially letting go of Ginny as a Knight, and Neville was to permanently work under the castle too.

"Both of them are now officially your problem," Regulus told Harry.

Ginny thought she noticed a hint of tears glimmer in his eyes, but she decided not to comment on it. He would deny it.

"Thank you, Reg." She walked up to him and offered him a warm hug.

"I am still going to be here the whole week!" he told her though his arms wrapped around her too.

She sighed. "I know. It's just... it's the end of a chapter, isn't it? And I wouldn't have been able to do any of this without you."

He released her and smiled warmly. "I merely showed you how, but you were the one who put in all the hard work. You can be proud of yourself." He turned to Neville. "You too."

"Thanks," Neville said, looking down.

"I'll walk you out," Harry offered.

Regulus nodded and followed him.

Neville eyed Ginny. "Your wedding starts tomorrow. Nervous?"

"A little," she admitted. "I desperately want to marry him, but it's a big event."

"You don't have to tell me; this has been a real challenge." He pointed at the desk, full of papers. "But your brothers have been great."

"Yeah, I am sorry you got thrown in like that…" She shook her head. "Put I knew I could trust you with this."

He shrugged. "We've been in tougher spots."

"How do you see our chances?" Harry asked Regulus.

"You have the numbers," Regulus replied.

Harry's eyebrows raised at the diplomatic answer. "And?"

"Bellatrix is batshit crazy." He sighed. "She is unpredictable."

He nodded. "I know that. Not much to do about that."

They turned the corner, Harry nodded in greeting to Kingsley going the other way. There were many guests in the castle for the wedding, which didn't allow them much private time.

"I am going to give you advice and you have to trust me that I don't do it because I am biased," Regulus continued. "She is your best fighter."

"I know." He knew Regulus was talking about Ginny. They had all seen it.

Regulus shook his head. "It's more than that. I have been talking to Alastor. The guards look up to her and since they do, the troops will too. She's your key player."

"It is both reassuring and terrifying," Harry confessed.

"I believe you," Regulus said. "She has plenty of battle experience too. Trust her."

Harry nodded along as Regulus spoke; he knew he was right. "I just worry this battle will be all or nothing for her. She had said as much."

Regulus stopped in his tracks. "It will be. This is what she has been dreaming of all her life. The motivation to be a good Knight so that one day, it may get them Harpia back. She is ready but she won't stop until you've won."

It wasn't particularly reassuring, but Harry appreciated his honesty. He sighed. "Yeah. My fault of course, I suggested getting Harpia back first. It's the right thing to do."

"The odds are in your favour, but war always brings losses. That's how it is."

Ginny felt like she had been awake for hours when they finally brought her breakfast. She was an early riser to start with, but the excitement of the wedding made her wake up even earlier. She considered going out for her morning training at least for an hour, but simply could not afford to risk it; certainly not today.

She sat down at the small table as the servants brought her clothes. She would have insisted that she could dress herself but considering the size of the dress, the extra help was welcome. She had picked out the dress and the fabrics, the golden and light green details but she had never seen it completed. It was one of a kind.

Once she was done with breakfast, it was time to put it on. She pulled the stays on over her undershirt. She knotted the laces in front by herself, this much she could manage. The stays were more structured than the ones she usually wore; the dress demanded it. Then again it did pull her waist in quite nicely and she was sure she could tease Harry with some more cleavage, if they managed to get a private moment in today.

Then came the dress. This time the measurements were exactly right, the long sleeves fitted perfectly, adjusted for the muscles underneath without accentuating them. Golden embroidery ran down the dress, alternating the soft green floral pattern in between. They pulled on the laces until it fit perfectly around her waist and started tying it. She giggled to herself, thinking back to the moment after the ball, but the servants were none the wiser what she was thinking about.

When the dress was on, she moved to look in the mirror. She was aware she was becoming Queen today, but seeing herself look so regal was something she would need to adjust to. She put her hands into the slits on the side hidden in the folds of her skirt, allowing her access to a pocket and later, when she had time to attach it, a dagger.

A knock came on the door and a moment later Bill popped his head in. He smiled brightly. "Wow, Ginny. You look... You look like a Queen."

She turned around to him and smiled brightly. "It's something for sure."

Bill stepped to her and held up something wrapped in paper. "I have a gift."

She took it and immediately ripped the paper off; she had never been patient when it came to receiving gifts. She took out a tiara. She gasped and looked up at her brother.

"We may not have access to the original, or know if it still exists but I had them remake one of mum's tiaras from memory. I know how much you loved this one. Except this one is golden, and the pearls are green to match your dress. The crown will fit right onto it."

She pulled Bill into a hug. "Thank you."

The tiara was worked into her hair, framed by soft braids that pulled her long hair back. Bill sat beside her silently, looking fondly at his little sister.

Hermione rose from the couch in Harry's bedroom. "I really must go now, should be seated in the temple before you lot arrive."

"Thanks for keeping me company," Harry told her.

There was a knock on the door and Hermione went to open it. Ron stepped in.

His eyes fell on her. "You look beautiful," he said bluntly.

Harry watched in amazement as his friend, who never really seemed to have cared for looks or men, blush at his words.

"Thank you," she said with a curtsy. She left the room and closed the door behind her.

"Maybe you could ask her for a dance tonight," Harry suggested.

Ron frowned for a moment. "Let's focus on your wedding."

"Oh, I certainly am, but you weren't." He smiled smugly. It amused him to see Ron's ears turn red similar to how Ginny's would.

"How are you holding up?" Ron tried changing topics.

Harry shrugged. "Alright. Been kind of preparing for this for years and kind of don't feel prepared enough."

"Is it the marriage part or Ginny? Because... you chose her. That's on you." Ron made himself comfortable on the couch.

Harry turned on his chair so he could look at Ron. "It's just that she's so many things... Knight, Princess, Queen soon... And I am just a King."

Ron seemed to suppress a snort. "That's a luxury problem to have, you know."

"I know; it's silly." He shook his head.

Ron turned towards him. "Look, when all is said and done, Ginny loves you. There is no denying that. It wouldn't have mattered to her if you were dirt-poor or the most powerful man on the continent." He shrugged. "Though I don't think you give yourself enough credit. A King has so many tasks to complete. I think you've simply forgotten because you have been doing it for so long."

Harry frowned. "Perhaps. Who am I kidding? The moment I see her I'll stop worrying at all."

"I think so too," Ron agreed with a nod. He looked over at the adjoining door. "So that's where Ginny used to sleep?"

Harry nodded. "Feel free to go have a look. We've already moved most of her stuff."

Ron walked through the door and looked around. He stepped back in. "How did she manage to hide she was a woman at all?"

Harry shrugged. "She was always awake before I was. I don't think she went to sleep until I did. I never went in there... I had no reason to. It's not like you can have a quick chat with a Knight who doesn't speak."

"True," he agreed. "Ginny told me you invited her to drink in here and that was the start of ... all this."

"Yeah." He smiled at the memory. "I had so many questions and I wanted to keep her secret safe so this was the best place to talk. Then I just found her incredibly easy to talk to." He fondly remembered how she gradually became more comfortable and curled up on his couch like she belonged there as she chatted away about anything.

There was another knock on the door. Neville came in. "It's time."

Harry rose from his seat and looked in the mirror. An optimistic soul had attempted to tame his hair, but it was already laying just as usual. He may have run his fingers through it absent-mindedly once or twice while he was waiting. He put his crown on top of his head.

"Ron, you need to—"

He walked to the door. "I know, I know. You briefed us perfectly well."

Neville stepped out of the way to let Ron through and then turned to Harry again. "Let's get you a Queen."

Harry grinned. "Let's go."

Ginny looked up when Neville entered the room. This meant that Harry had just left in his carriage, and it was nearly time for her to leave too.

"How was he?" Ginny asked.

Neville smiled. "Doing perfectly fine."

"How did he look?" she asked next.

"Uhm..." Neville shrugged. "What do you want me to say to that? He looked fine?" He sighed. "Just get into the carriage and you'll see him very soon."

Ginny rolled her eyes. "Alright."

Bill walked up to her. "Last moments as a Princess," he said softly.

"I'll always be a Princess of Harpia," she told him. "I am just adding titles."

"Collecting them," Neville muttered. He cleared his throat. "Let's not make the King wait."

The three of them walked down together. She met the rest of her brothers at the front of the castle. They were all dressed nearly identically but had made their own minor changes to the dark blue vests. Bill's vest and cloak had the most golden details as head of the family.

They all mounted their horses behind her carriage. First Bill, then Charlie and Percy. Behind them Fred, Ron, and George. She smiled widely at them. In front of the carriage there were three guards on horse and three more at the end, together with Neville. A footman held out his hand and helped her into the carriage. First her and then the train of her dress. The door closed and the little procession left.

She settled into the seat and drew a big breath. She didn't attempt to look outside beside the drawn curtains; she wasn't meant to. Harry was the first one she was supposed to lay her eyes on. The ride didn't take too long, and it appeared more people had gathered along the road today than during Xydite's parade. She could hear their shouts and cheers as they passed. She was sure her brothers were giving them a good show.

Her carriage pulled up beside Harry's in front of the temple. The knock on the door indicated she could come out when she was ready.

She pushed open the door and stepped outside as Harry stepped out too. As soon as she was safely out of the carriage, her eyes landed on him.

She took him in. The black vest and matching trousers. Golden details with a darker green adorned the sleeves and collar. His ever-messy hair now sported a crown. It was odd that she had never actually seen him wear it until this moment. The best part however was his expression. His eyes twinkled brightly as he looked at her. She smiled back eagerly, and they both stepped forward to greet each other.

The rest of this was a choreography. They had gone over it several times and Ginny had read it until it was engrained in her mind. She refused to mess up on her wedding. Her hands slipped into his. He squeezed them softly. He leaned in and kissed her cheek.

He lingered and whispered into her ear. "You look gorgeous as usual." He grinned as he leaned away.

It was her turn to place a kiss on his cheek. "You're the most handsome King I have ever had the honour of marrying."

He almost snorted and she took a moment before she leaned away. While this little exchange was hidden from the crowd by the carriages, it was not hidden from the participants of either procession. Bill cleared his throat quietly.

This is when she looked up. He raised an eyebrow. Ginny looked over at Harry's part of the procession, in stark contrast to hers. While he had been granted two more guards, his 'family' section was terribly empty with just one horse. It carried King Sirius, as Harry's godfather, and little Prince Teddy sat in front of him on the saddle as godchild. Sirius kept a good hold on the toddler, so he wouldn't get any ideas about jumping off.

"Ready?" Harry asked as she faced him again.

She nodded. "Let's get married."

They let go of each other and walked towards the temple together. The doors of the temple were opened, and they walked in. They halted at the start of the aisle. The temple was laden with people, as many as would fit. Any person of importance was in there. All eyes were on them; conversations dropped into silence as soon as they entered.

They took their place on either side of the aisle. Sirius walked in first, holding Teddy. Sirius and Harry shook hands. Teddy was meant to bow but he was too young to care and therefore excused. When they turned to Ginny, she curtsied to Sirius and then shook Teddy's little hand.

"Now let's hand him off to his parents before he starts crying," Sirius told her quietly.

She bit her lip trying not to laugh as Sirius continued down the aisle to take his seat at the front. Then her brothers came in. Bill came in first, bowed to Harry and shook Ginny's hand. Fred and George had a great discussion during preparations about who was older and got to go first, until Neville decided to put his foot down and told them to go in alphabetical order. Ron shook her hand last and walked to the front.

They took their positions now. Ginny had half a thought to check where the guards were positioned but she resisted. She had discussed all of this with Alastor, and she knew they'd be okay. They started walking down the aisle beside each other. As they neared the midway point of the aisle, she could feel the heat increase from the two fires that were flickering on either side of the temple to keep the guests cosy warm.

She could see the High Priestess waiting for them at the end, fully dressed in her ceremonial clothes. She smiled encouragingly at them. The symbol of Gydus had been brought out from its altar from the side of the temple and stood on top of the main altar.

They halted in front of Tassia and faced each other.

"Today we stand in front of Gydus as God of the Sun and as representative of all the Gods that follow him. In his name I will marry these two souls, to join them together in marriage, for better and worse, until death do them part." She turned to Gydus' symbol; an ornate depiction of the sun, its rays curling around the circle in silver and golden streaks. She put both her hands on it, closing her eyes for a moment. She turned back around and offered her hands to them. They both took it.

"King Henry James Fleamont Evan of Ignotia, do you take Princess Ginevra Molly Cedrella Prewette of Harpia as your wife?" she asked.

Harry's eyes remained focused on Ginny. "Yes, I do."

"Princess Ginevra Molly Cedrella Prewette of Harpia," she continued. "Do you take King Henry James Fleamont Evan of Ignotia as your husband?"

"Yes, I do." She smiled widely.

High Priestess Tassia then guided their hands together and they intertwined, fingers curling around each other's forearms. "I now pronounce you married before all Gods. When all the ceremonies have been completed, you shall receive blessings from them." She turned back to the altar and picked up the crown. She held it above Ginny's head. "With this marriage, I crown you Queen Ginevra Molly Cedrella Prewette of Ignotia."

Ginny's grip on Harry's arm tensed as the crown was placed on her head. Harry's gaze shifted upwards as he watched Tassia do it. He met her eyes again and smiled softly.

Tassia stepped back. She took up the sun symbol and held it between her hands. "You may kiss."

They both took a step towards each other and leaned in. She kissed him softly, careful not to linger too long, aware of how many eyes were on them.

Harry leaned away and looked at her, both smiling equally as bright. They let go of each other and stepped apart. Tassia stepped forward between them and to Gydus' altar. Both of them followed in silence. She placed the symbol back in its spot. She bowed to it, and they followed. Tassia turned to them and joined their hands again, which indicated the end of the ceremony.

Everyone in the temple rose from their seats. He intertwined his fingers with Ginny's. She squeezed his hand. Together they walked out of the temple as everyone applauded.

After the ceremony, the newly married couple would travel in one carriage instead of separately. A footman handed them their cloaks. The weather was getting cooler and sitting still in a carriage wouldn't keep them very warm. He took her cloak first and put it on her, closing the clasp by her collarbone. Then she did the same to him.

She was about to turn and head to the carriage when he pulled her close again. He kissed her softly, a little bit longer this time. He leaned away and looked into her twinkling eyes.

"You're going to hold up every guest," Bill commented in amusement as he exited the temple.

Ginny turned her head without letting go of Harry. "It's my wedding and I will take my time if it pleases me."

Charlie chuckled. "She's been Queen for five seconds and she's already abusing it."

Ginny offered them a glare and Charlie shrugged, before being ushered off by Bill.

"Come on," Harry said softly.

Ginny followed him to the carriage. He stepped aside to let her go first. He was impressed by how well she was manoeuvring the whole dress as she got into the carriage. He got in too and settled down beside her.

They had to wait a few minutes while the rest of their procession mounted their horses and the guards had taken their respective places. He noticed Ginny fiddling around with the cushions.

He looked at her warily until she brandished a dagger, appearing from under one of the cushions. "I guess that shouldn't surprise me."

She smiled at him. "No. I put it here last night. Though I must say it is slightly worrying none of the footmen or guards noticed it."

"Gin," he started. "What's a dagger in here going to do any good to a would-be assassin? Because if they have already gotten into the carriage, they were probably already armed."

She leaned against the backrest. "Maybe you have a point."

"Just so you know, I am not letting you wave at the people while holding a dagger," he told her.

She chuckled. She shoved the dagger back under the cushion. Her eyes locked with his. "I love you."

"I love you too," he said.

The next moment the sun broke through the clouds. It shone brilliantly through her red hair, a thousand tints of red and orange dancing through it. The golden details of her dress reflected even more light, and her eyes turned a golden brown. It almost looked as if she was emitting the light, not the sun. He smiled, absolutely enamoured by his Queen.

Ginny looked up at the sky. "It must be a good sign if Gydus himself is making an appearance."

Harry found his tongue again. "I'll take it as a blessing."

He adjusted their cloaks and Ginny looked on.

"My dad always put it like that," he said. "If you put one over the other you can sit closer together and keep warm."

She nodded and scooted closer to him. "Body heat... makes sense," she agreed.

Neville gave the sign that everyone was ready. The procession took off towards the city centre. Harry waved at the people as they passed them by. They smiled up at them, eagerly trying to get a look as they waved. For the first time since his parents died, he found some joy in it again. Today there wasn't pity in their eyes, no worry or judgement. There were only happy and excited faces, and they grew even more excited as the two of them waved back.

He snuck his arm around her waist and squeezed her even closer. She happily leaned into him as she continued waving at the crowd. Her hand found his thigh and squeezed it softly. He kissed her cheek and she beamed at him. He resisted pulling her in for another kiss.

They pulled into the main square of the capital and the carriage came to a halt. He stepped out and then offered his hand to help her out. She took it and got out too, coming to stand beside him. He could see her eyes flit across the square as her brothers got off their horses.

"You're off-duty today," he told her softly.

Her eyes landed on him. "I am never off-duty."

"I admire your dedication to keeping me alive," he said.

"It's entirely selfish," she said with another intense look.

He smiled back at her. He waited for her nod and then they walked towards the cheering crowd together. They went around together, waving, smiling, and shaking hands. Suddenly he spotted the girl they had spoken to during Xydite's parade.

"Daisy," Ginny said at once when she noticed where he was looking.

They made their way to her. She was holding two flowers.

Ginny smiled at her. "You must be Daisy. A Knight told me about you."

Daisy's eyes lit up. "I brought a flower for you!" she announced excitedly. She stuck out her hand holding the white flower.

"Thank you," Ginny said.

Daisy's eyes darted over the square. "Do you... Is Knight Gwyn here today?" she asked in a small voice.

Harry smiled. "He is here but he is hidden in plain sight to keep us safe. Can I pass on something to him?"

She looked down at the other flower in her hand. She looked at Harry. "This flower is for him."

Ginny took it. "We'll pass it on. I am sure Gwyn will feel very honoured he received a flower from you."

Daisy smiled brightly.

"Thank you," her mother said.

"Bye, Daisy," Harry said, continuing through the square.

Ginny waved at her and then followed him. "I got two flowers and you got none," she teased.

"You're very pleased, aren't you?" he asked her.

Their gazes met and her eyes looked watery. He took her hand and squeezed it softly.

As the guests were guided to the ballroom, the two of them took off towards the room set up for the painter. Ginny considered pulling Harry into a corridor to have a moment to themselves, but she decided not to. There were simply too many guests around and she knew making a good impression was important.

The painter greeted them enthusiastically and bowed.

"This is Roderick," he told Ginny. He turned to the painter. "Just tell us where you need us."

They were positioned close together, their hands joined together.

"Many, many generations of painters dreamt of painting true Harpian beauty. Seven generations we had to wait to have one again. Truly an honour that I can paint you," Roderick told them as he started sketching away.

"And here I thought you were biased," Ginny told Harry with a smile.

He met her eyes. "I am, I do think you are twice as pretty as everyone else thinks you are." He offered her a grin.

"I will get started today, but we may have to revisit this later to truly get the accents right," Roderick said. "According to your availability naturally." He smiled at Harry. "Of course, you are familiar with the process, although it's been a few years."

"You know I am not fond of it," Harry told her. "When did you last sit for a painting?"

Ginny thought it over. "Must be nearly twenty years. Family painting. I think they just painted me somewhere randomly."

"Really?" Harry asked.

"It is tricky getting seven children to pose for a painting. But the seven of us?" She shook her head. "Not happening. I think we were in the right pose for about five minutes exactly. Then they just brought us in turns."

"Gods yeah. I can imagine that'd be a challenge."

"I thought I'd feel more married now," Ginny said. "Instead, we are in some... wedding limbo until the end of the week."

Harry smiled. "It's just a week."

She shifted. "I know." She locked eyes with him. "We don't get any private time even. As if it isn't our wedding."

"You miss our Knightly chats," Harry said softly so the painter didn't overhear.

She nodded. "I do. And I feel like we didn't properly get to enjoy the last one because suddenly there were wedding guests everywhere and we were too busy discussing everything." Her thumb rubbed against the back of his hand.

"You do realise by the end of the week, we'll be sleeping together?" He squeezed her hand.

She looked away, trying to will the blood away from her cheeks. "Don't be so diplomatic about it." She offered him a hard look. "It's more than sharing a drink and cuddling on the couch. I just don't like that we need to spend time apart now."

"We weren't exactly meant to be cuddling before this," Harry responded. "So at least we've had that."

"I know, I know. I am complaining. I just grow restless when you're not nearby. I don't know if it's because I worry or because I miss you but... I don't sleep well like this," she admitted, leaning into him for comfort.

Harry sighed softly as a small smile danced around his lips. "Me neither. I've grown used to having you near."

The door opened and Neville walked in. "How are we doing here?"

"You tell us," Harry said with a nod at the canvas.

Neville glanced at the painter's work. "Pretty good then." He looked at them. "All the guests are settled and are getting some food."

"I could do with some food," Ginny commented.

Neville grimaced. "You're not exactly supposed to be eating now."

"Says who?" Harry asked.

"Tradition," Neville replied. Then he seemed to think about it a little longer. "I'll go look for a snack."

"She's just snippy because she thinks we are not spending enough time together," Harry told him.

Neville's eyes slid over them, judging the pose they were in. "There is no way you could be standing any closer in a way that would be decent in public."

"You just don't get it, Neville," she replied but she was grinning.

"I really don't," he agreed.

When he came back a few minutes later, he was carrying two small bowls. "Lucretia insisted on pudding. Don't ask me why."

"Oh," Ginny let out, taking one of the bowls. "That's so sweet of her. I am surprised she remembered."

Harry raised his eyebrows in question.

"It's the first thing she fed me when I arrived. I snuck into the kitchens for a bread roll, and she insisted I sat down, gave me a cloak and gave me pudding. It was such a warm welcome, it really set the tone for my time here." She took up the spoon and scooped some pudding into her mouth. "And it is still as good as it was then."

When they entered the ballroom, the food was about to be served. Ginny was eager to settle down and dig into the food but she first had to exchange pleasantries with the people seated at her table. She was surrounded by royalty.

One guest at the table she had never met.

"This is Prince Viktor, Crown Prince of Durmstorm," Harry informed her. He turned to the Prince. "So glad you could make it."

Ginny looked over at Prince Viktor. He had thick black brows and a sharp face. He barely smiled as his eyes landed on her.

"So nice to meet you," she said politely.

"Likewise," he said, though his expression would suggest otherwise.

It didn't surprise Ginny that he wasn't very pleasant, the Durmstormers weren't known for their hospitality.

The starters were served, a little salad with seafood. Ginny had to remind herself not to wolf it down. She was hungry and she still wasn't quite comfortable with a more regal way of eating. She was a little relieved when Harry picked up a shrimp with his hands. She picked it up too and they bumped their shrimp together before eating it. She shot him a thankful smile.

"Why must your country always get to the pretty ones first," Viktor commented with a nod towards Ginny.

Sirius, sat next to the Prince, let out a laugh. "Please tell me your uncle isn't still hung up on Lily."

Viktor's dark brows furrowed. "My uncle, Prince Severus wanted to extend his regards to—"

"Aren't you ashamed? Hasn't Harry suffered enough?" Sirius interrupted him.

"He didn't spare her a second glance until she was made Queen," Harry told Viktor. "It was a little too late."

Ginny's eyes widened. She leaned towards Remus, who had been following the exchange quietly. "What am I missing?" she asked quietly.

"Prince Severus met Queen Lily before she was made a Lady. She was here a lot you see; James was... he was supposed to be courting ladies but he only had eyes for her. Severus treated her like she was nothing whenever he visited. So, when she was made Lady and then later Queen, he suddenly had eyes for her."

"He went after her? When she was married?" she asked.

He nodded. "He still mourns her like she would have loved him back. She never cared for his advances."

"Thanks," Ginny said.

He smiled at her. "Happy to help."

"I suppose Durmstorm can't keep their riches unless they marry rich," Ginny commented airily.

Sirius appeared to be biting back a grin.

"Don't think I am marrying her for her beauty," Harry added as he finished his salad.

Viktor blinked. "You're marrying her for the alliance. How is that any different than marrying for riches?"

"He is not marrying me for that either," Ginny told Viktor. "That would be a dangerous game to play anyway, considering the current situation."

"I've heard..." Viktor swirled his wine in his cup. "You are planning to make a difference."

Harry nodded. "Indeed, we are. If you lend us some men, the win would be secured. You'd add some great allies."

Viktor smiled properly for the first time. "Tempting." He shook his head. "But my father wouldn't go for it. Unless..."

Harry raised his eyebrows. "Go on..."

"We can annex Harpia. Then we could be allies," Viktor suggested without any shame.

It was silent for a beat at their table.

Remus leaned towards the Prince. "Is that the suggestion your father sent you here with? Something no sane person would go for?"

Viktor shrugged. "You all know we do not need you. How many troops are you providing?"

"Half of what I have," Remus told him with pride.

Viktor turned to Sirius. "And you?"

"Hold on," Ginny interrupted. "How do we know you won't share that information with Bellatrix?"

"We don't pick sides. Bellatrix has nothing to offer in return, so why would I?" Viktor said.

The plates were removed, and the next dish was served immediately. She saw Lucretia watching over the room, checking if the food was liked. Ginny caught her eye and smiled widely, giving her a nod. Lucretia touched her hand to her heart.

Queen Dora came back to the table with the youngest Prince. Teddy was carrying a very peeved Ce.

She smiled apologetically. "He wouldn't come unless he could bring the cat."

"Animals are always welcome here," Harry told her. "Sort of a contractual obligation," he joked.

Teddy put down the cat and sat down at the table. Remus quickly cut up his meat so he could eat it. Ce hopped over Teddy's lap and onto the table. He seemed to make it straight to Viktor, stepped onto his lap and sat there, loudly purring.

"Soon I will have to hand over the whole castle to Ce," Harry muttered.

"How many cats do you have currently?" Dora asked.

Harry frowned. "About thirty? I think. I would have to ask Hagrid."

"There are 34 actually. Another four were born in September," Ginny told him. "They are called North, East, South and West."

Harry looked at her in surprise.

"What?" she said. "Hagrid named them."

Hermione walked up to the table. "Shall I take the old man?" she asked, pointing at Ce.

Viktor looked up with a frown, but his expression quickly changed as he laid eyes on her. "I wouldn't want to be a bother."

"It's not a problem at all," she assured him. She picked up the cat and tucked it against her. "Enjoy the rest of dinner," she said with a smile and then took off with the cat.

Viktor stared after her. He turned back to the table. "Who was that?"

"Lady Hermione," Harry said. "I am surprised you have not met her. You must have been here at the same time before."

"I would have remembered that." Viktor threw another glance over his shoulder at Hermione.

After dessert, Harry rose from his seat. He offered his hand to Ginny. She took it and together they walked to the centre of the floor. He released her hand and they stood across from each other. They both bowed at each other. It was the first time in many years he had bowed to anyone.

The musicians started playing and he stepped toward her. His arm came around her waist and their hands fitted together. He never felt quite confident dancing in front of a crowd, but he just focused on Ginny as they started to dance.

"Very nice knot I can see under your vest there," she told him, her eyes shining.

He met her eyes. "I took extra care today. Wouldn't want you to have any comment about my appearance at our wedding."

"Oh, I have comments." She paused, the corners of her mouth quirking upwards. "You are beautiful. And that suit looks gorgeous on you. The green really brings out your eyes just the way I like."

His insides turned to goo. "I am glad you like it." He turned her around under his arm and then pulled her back in. "What knot do you want on Sunday?"

"Harry..."

"It's yours to undo," he teased. He squeezed her hand. "Are you nervous? Because I am too."

"Yes, but that's not it," she said, her eyes darting away. "And must you really make me blush in front of so many people?"

"I like the colour of your cheeks," he told her.

"I long for you in a way that isn't even funny, and talking about it makes it worse," she admitted.

"Oh."

Her eyes darted back up to him playfully. "How are you liking the cleavage today?"

"I see, you are turning the teasing around. That's fair." He was careful not to divert his gaze from hers. "Very nice, but you can't get me to look right now."

She laughed. "If you hadn't noticed before now, I would have been seriously concerned." She pulled him a little closer as they moved.

They fell into silence for the rest of the dance. Though he enjoyed dancing with her, he was relieved when the music stopped. They bowed to each other, and the crowd clapped. As they moved to the side of the room, other pairs walked onto the dance floor.

"Oof," Ginny let out. "Ron's not happy."

He looked until he found Ron, looking a little sullen. "What happened?"

"Look at Viktor's dance partner," Ginny muttered.

Viktor was spinning around a widely smiling Hermione. "I see... Should we do something?"

"I'll go dance with him," Ginny said. "I have to dance with all of my brothers sometime. But he can ask Hermione himself if he wishes." She pressed a kiss against his cheek and took off towards her brother.

He watched with a fond smile as they danced together. Charlie walked up to him.

"Hi," he said.

"King Harry," Charlie greeted.

They watched the dancing pairs together.

"I find it difficult, letting her go so soon after finally having her back. I never was able to visit her much..." Charlie said.

Harry turned to him quietly.

"But when I see you looking at her like that... I know it's okay to let her go," Charlie told him. "I mean it's what we all want, isn't it? To find such love?"

Harry nodded. "I feel incredibly lucky. I felt like I was missing something and then she showed up, armour and all... and it didn't take me too long to figure out I found it."

"Can't say I know what you are talking about," Charlie said with a smile. He picked up a glass of wine from a passing waiter. "But she said you almost let her go, you retracted your proposal... proposals."

Harry looked over at Ginny again, enjoying time with her brothers. "Because I want to see her happy, and I knew how she had missed all of you. I found it selfish to keep her here."

Charlie frowned. "And then you changed your mind again?"

Harry shook his head smiling. "She yelled at me for retracting the proposal. Said it was her choice." He looked at Charlie. "And she was right. It is her choice, it has to be what makes her happy, isn't it? I am very glad it's me. I know, if we manage to get Harpia back, she will have to miss you again. But it will be easier to keep in contact too."

"That's true," Charlie agreed. "And she can live a good life here, I know that too. Better than what she had for sure."

Harry nodded. "Thank you, Charles. And any of you will always be welcome here to stay as long as you like."

Charlie grumbled. "Call me Charles again and I'll call you Henry," he said with a glare Ginny had perfected too. His expression softened. "I am thankful for what you are doing for all of us."

"I just hope it works out," Harry sighed.

"Me too."

The music stopped and she went to bow when Ron stopped her. "You are Queen, you don't bow to me anymore."

She paused and looked at him. "I know. I am not used to that yet."

Ron hooked his arm into hers and they walked to the side again to make room for other pairs.

"Bill!" a Lady with short grey hair let out.

Ron looked up in surprise and then smiled apologetically. "Lady Pomona."

She noticed Ginny now and bowed. "Forgive me, Queen Ginevra, your brother here..."

Ginny smiled. "I know, he used to work in Nidus before."

"Who are you, really?" Pomona asked.

"Prince Ronald of Harpia. Youngest son and older brother to Queen Ginny over here," Ron told her. "I am sorry, I never said anything and then disappeared. They kidnapped us, I wouldn't have left without saying anything."

"I would hope so," Pomona said. "But you will be coming our direction again quite soon..."

"Very soon," Ginny said. "As the last city before the border we have to rely on your help."

"I have been stocking up on food during winter for years. So many people escape Harpia during the winter months because the food runs out. They have depleted all their resources... They don't care that the peasants go hungry. I will be able to provide you with plenty for your army."

"If you don't mind, I will be coordinating the food once we arrive there. We know how to work together," Ron suggested.

Pomona smiled. "I would like that." She turned to Ginny. "I was thinking of keeping a few of my men at Nidus so they can stake out the border before the army arrives."

Ginny's eyebrows rose. "That's a good idea, I'll pass it on."

"Lady Pomona, if you want to excuse my brother, he was meant to dance with Lady Hermione soon," Ginny said, shoving her brother in her general direction.

"Wha—?" Ron objected.

Ginny waved him off. "He needs a little push," she told Pomona.

They watched together as Ron made his way to Hermione, who was still chatting with Viktor. She gladly took his hand, and he led her onto the dance floor.

"Good work," Pomona noted. "Some of us thought she and the King would end up married but it never happened."

"It would have been an acceptable match, I suppose," Ginny agreed. "I guess neither of them sees each other that way."

She happened across Alastor a little while later. He was surveying everything with a stern eye.

"You can relax a little, Alastor. All is fine," she said.

Alastor bowed his head. "Queen."

"Don't distract me with pleasantries," she told him.

He shook his head, continuing to look over the crowd. "There can always be a rotten egg between the guests." He glanced at her. "It's not like you don't keep checking."

"It's difficult to let my guard down," she admitted.

He nodded. "Indeed. But this is my job. Your job is to be Queen right now and enjoy yourself. It is your wedding."

"I am enjoying myself," she told him.

"Shoo," he said, moving his hands. He smiled at her.

She returned a smile. "Alright then."

After many dances, she settled down on a couch on the side. She drank water from her goblet before she set it down on the table beside her. A little later, Harry joined her on the couch.

"Can I have your last dance tonight?" he asked softly as his hand found hers.

She entwined her fingers with his. "Is it time already?"

He nodded. "Next song. It's almost midnight."

She sighed and shifted a little closer to him, leaning against him. "No fair."

He kissed her temple. "I know."

She turned her head to look at him. "What if we pretend it isn't midnight yet?"

He smiled. He shook his head. "We can't," he murmured. He kissed her softly. "One of your brothers will come after us and I am unwilling to fight them."

She chuckled.

The music stopped for a moment before the next song started. She stood up and held out her hand. "Come on, my handsome King."

He took her hand, and she pulled him up before returning to the dance floor together. They held each other close as they danced.

She looked up at him. "Will you marry me again tomorrow?"

He smiled softly. "It would be my honour."

Too soon the song was over, and they stopped dancing. They walked to the entrance of the room.

"You first," Harry told her.

She kissed him again, quickly as she held him. "Good night."

He smiled brightly. "Good night, Ginny."

Reluctantly she let her arms slip from him and walked towards the stairs, when she noticed Percy catching up with her.

"Oh, what? You are going to make sure I make it to my room, okay?" she mumbled.

He nodded. "Yes. I know you like sneaking."

"I wasn't going to," she defended herself. "Even then, it's not like we'd have sex or something."

Percy turned red. "Ginny!"

"That's what you're worried about, isn't it? We've kissed, so that can't be it." She walked onto the landing and towards her room. "Did Bill send you?"

"Bill doesn't seem to care. I don't understand it, it should be his responsibility," Percy said with a slight frown.

She turned to her brother and grabbed him by the shoulders. "You really should loosen up a bit... and have a little more faith in me. If I snuck around, you'd be none the wiser, trust me."

Percy smiled. "That wasn't exactly what I wanted to hear," he said as they continued to walk.

They came up to her room. She turned to him. "Thanks for walking with me anyway. Good night." She hugged him and then disappeared into her room.

She began tugging at the laces. She was aware she could ask for a servant to come untie it and help her take everything off but she decided not to. She undid the knot at the back and loosened the dress before stepping out of it. Being rid of the weight of the dress, she felt noticeably lighter. The rest of it came off easily and she laid down on the bed, staring up at the ceiling.

Harry closed the door to his room and sat down on the couch. He didn't feel quite tired enough to go to sleep yet. He looked over at 'her' corner on the couch and smiled. He had insisted the couch would be moved to their room later that week. Something just felt right about it, it had always been significant to them. First proposal, second kiss... secrets shared. He wanted to make more fond memories on it.

He walked to the cupboard and took out one goblet and filled it with water. He sat down on the couch again and sipped from it before putting it down on the table. With a sigh he slumped against the back of the couch and stared up at the ceiling as minutes ticked by.

A/N:

Gydus: God of the Sun. Head God
Rekione: God of Honesty
Ovtis: God of Dreams
Gynus: Godess of the Moon. Honours the dead and twin of Gydus
Drymera: Goddess of Loyalty
Xydite: God of Nature and animals/creatures. Husband to Gorphine
Gorphine: Godess of Passion and Water. Wife to Xydite