Chapter 6
The New Plan
Sunday, 03 August 1997
-Delacour Manor, France
Sunday morning Harry and Ginny's normal habits started to return. At least they're waking up. They still didn't feel like heading out for a run or exercise. Harry started a full pot of tea, figuring they would drink their way through it. They both woke up slowly, reading. Ginny started on sixth year charms. Harry started Seventh year. Like old habits, Harry shared tips he had picked up from the year prior.
About an hour later, Ron emerged from his room with a head nod to each of them and a subdued, "Hey," as he walked over and poured himself a cup also.
"I don't expect 'fine', but how is she doing?" Harry asked.
Ron took a seat and scratched his head. "She did sleep last night. A bit. On and off. Several wake ups, lots of crying. All I did was a lot of hugging and tried to comfort her but… I don't know what I'm doing."
"You're doing fine Ron." Ginny reassured.
"Yeah, that's literally the best any of us can do." Harry agreed.
"From you, that means a lot mate." Ron replied. "I'm out here now because she kinda kicked me out. Said get some breakfast and let her be alone," he said with an expression of pure confusion.
"It's not personal," Harry explained, and he rose and patted Ron on the back. "And it's not you. She's … processing. She's going to bounce between crying and silence and angry and wanting to be alone and clinging desperately to one of us. But yeah Ron, you likely are first in line for that. It's going to suck for us all, but we'll get her through." Ron and Ginny exchanged looks of mutual acceptance of the reality at hand. Then it seemed as if an idea came to mind. "Be right back."
Harry disappeared into his room then emerged with a muggle style notebook and pen. "She's already gotten me through several things. It's her turn now." He said as drew a few columns in the paper. "There's no shortcuts here. Depression sucks and it does stuff."
"Babe…" Ginny tried to say.
Harry let a small smile out. "It's Hermione. It's one of you three. We've already been a quartet for year… and now… well… we're all we got. I mean, I know we have the Delacours a bit but-"
"Harry," Ron smiled, "We get you. What's with the paper?"
"Care Log. For Hermione. Well, for us for Hermione."
"For what babe?"
"There's three of us for her here. Granted our schedules are open, but still we have the Manor here. I think we can all agree it's best not to leave Hermione alone right now. And I don't mean we have to be right next to her but at least this room when she wants alone time."
Both the Weasleys nodded in agreement. Harry continued. "Well I'm not saying we need to take formal shifts or anything, but between the three of us with links, let's just make sure Hermione's got a friend with her for the next few days. Agreed?" More head nodding. "Okay, and while we're here, let's just make sure she's eating and drinking something. Lets just write down what and when, okay?"
"You think she'll get so bad she forgets to drink?" Ginny asked.
"She damn near did during O.W.L. year." Ron said. "I regularly was running sandwiches 'n stuff to her, and that was just class stress."
"Oh," Ginny said in realization. "She told me you'd be kind like that. I even agreed it was sweet. But … I never realized what the need for that was. Gods, I should have thought-"
"Gin, please don't." Harry said as he wrapped around from behind her. "No one is looking for guilt or blame. Right now we're just trying to figure out how best to be there for a mate. Everyone gets a break when they need it. Hermione always has someone close. We work the case."
Hermione refused company for the rest of the day. She refused anything for the rest of the day. "Go away," being the only words she would say. She remained largely unmoved on the bed. When 10:00 pm ticked by, Ron decided to be just a little stubborn. He brewed a fresh pot of tea. Grabbed a package of biscuits and a jar of marmalade jam.
"What are you going to do, Ron?" Ginny asked.
"It's my room. I'm going to my room to get ready for bed. And I'm going to do my damndest to make sure everyone in my room has what they need for a decent night's sleep." This time Ron didn't knock, he walked straight into their room and the shroud of darkness that Hermione had kept it.
"Go away." Hermione greeted again.
Ron ignored her. He took his wand to a single lamp and cast the lowest lumos charm he could on it.
"Go away." Hermione said again.
"Can't babe." Ron replied simply.
"Ron, please I just want to be left alone."
"Hermione, It's getting to bed time again. I've given you the whole day. I don't mind. And I'm not asking to have a word of conversation with you."
"Good." she simply replied as she stayed on her side with her back to him.
"I am however going to pull boyfriend privilege and I will see you eat three biscuits and a cup of tea before I go to sleep."
"Not hungry," she replied.
"Hermione, I love you enough, I kinda don't care." Ron replied.
That got Hermoine's attention. She rolled over and looked at Ron with a questioning expression.
"Yes, I'm serious." Ron said, as determined as he was when he stood up to Harry. "I don't want to, but if I have to , I'll bring Ginny in here to apparate this into you like one of Harry's potion doses. But I will see you eat and drink something before I call it a night. We can just sit here in silence if that's how you want it. But we're sitting together."
Hermione glared at Ron, as fiercely as she ever had before.
Ron continued to ignore her and took a teaspoon to cover three biscuits with heaping amounts of marmalade. Once the tray was set he set it to just off the bed so it wouldn't be disturbed by their movements. Then he took out a Cannons magazine and started flipping through it.
"You're serious?" Hermonie asked as she looked at him annoyed.
"Yes," he said kindly and warmly but without even looking up from his magazine.
She gave the glare several more minutes but it became clear it was useless. Finally she sat up properly. She grabbed one of the biscuits and held it up as evidence in a case. "I want it noted that I am eating this biscuit under duress." Then she popped it in her mouth as angrily as Ron had seen her do anything.
"I don't care what dress you wear while you eat, babe. But I care enough I will see you get something in your system."
"No, Ronald! I mean-" she started to correct after she swallowed, only to see Ron start to smile.
"You know exactly what I meant, didn't you?" Hermione asked, tilting her head to the side.
"Yep," Ron simply replied as he spread marmalade onto another biscuit.
"Merlin," Hermione shook her head as she grabbed another biscuit. "It's just like you to act the dullard for a joke.
"Maybe," Ron replied, replacing the biscuit again. "But I stand by my results."
"Gods," Hermione said, taking the tea to wash the biscuits down. "You're really trying to get a laugh out of me, even now?" She took a drink as she watched him.
"Honestly, no." Ron said as he shook his head. "I'm not dumb. Not looking for a laugh."
"Thank Merlin," Hermione said, grabbing another biscuit. "You can be as optimistic as Luna sometimes."
Ron shrugged. "Meh, I'm not trying to be that cheerful today," he said, replacing another biscuit.
"Good." she said, taking another biscuit from the tray. "I just… I just don't have that in me right now Ron. I'm sorry." She washed it down with another drink.
Ron shrugged. "I'm not trying to cheer you on, babe. I see this is big enough, it's going to be a bit. I'm just trying to be here with you." Ron continued to replace the biscuits as they disappeared. Then he rose and went to the bathroom and returned with a warmly damp washcloth. He noticed the teacup and was empty and two more crackers were gone.
Ron didn't even ask. He just started gently wiping away washing Hermione's face.
"Ron… you don't have to-"
"None of this is 'have to' babe," he replied simply looking carefully at the face he had studied far longer than he sometimes cared to admit. "But I get to, and I want to."
"I just…" Hermione tried to apologize. "I know I'm not good company right now."
Ron shrugged again, laying the cloth on the tray and refilling her tea. Then started replacing biscuits again. 'You're fine company love. I've been a right arse for no reason when we were younger, and you still stuck it out. You have every reason to be down. I'm happy to be of comfort to you now."
"You… you didn't sign up for this." Hermoine said, taking another sip of tea.
"Kinda thought I did." Ron shrugged. "I mean I know we haven't done things like marriage vows or anything. But when you date someone for a while, you say things like, 'I love you,' I always figured that meant, 'Hey when crap gets hard I'm still here.' I know it may not be as fancy but-"
"Ron," Hermione interrupted. "It's perfect, you are perfect."
"Dunno about that," he grinned. "Though this girl I know once called me brave, quiet, and reliable once."
Reminded of their first date, Hermione smiled slightly. "Thank you," she said as for the first time in a day she pulled him over and kissed his cheek.
"Happy to help," he replied.
Hermione looked at the tray. "Where am I with biscuits?"
"Six." Ron replied.
"I thought you said I only needed to eat three?"
"How's your stomach feel?" Ron asked.
Hermione sighed. "Better," she admitted. "But I didn't say anything about it."
He leaned over and kissed her cheek. "Hey, you're my girl. Be blue, be down, but I'm going to take care of the basics."
Hermione nodded. "Thank you… Ron, could I just get you to hold me again tonight?"
"Everynight babe, everynight."
Monday, 04 August 1997
-Delacour Manor, France
When the Monday sun rose Harry could feel the frustrations of the weekend had added up to the point that he knew he needed to work out. Being the first one up, he tore a page from his cop book and left a note on the table. He took the run around the perimeter of the Delacour grounds. Periodically he would see a guard at his post standing watch who simply gave Harry a passing nod. A much friendlier interaction than his first arrival so he reciprocated. But left them to their job. The Delacour gym was first rate. Like most mages, nothing electrical, but weight springs and pulleys worked just fine in the wizard world. The punching bag worked wonders for Harry's stress. He didn't feel like a new man, but when he got back to their suite he did feel at least a bit lighter and vented. Ron and Ginny were already having breakfast tea when he got back. Ginny's hair was still wet from a recent shower.
"I'll go with you tomorrow." Ginny greeted with a hug and a peck.
"If you want," Harry nodded. "I just-"
"Needed a vent." Ginny finished with a nod. "I get it."
"How's Mione?" Harry asked.
Ron nodded slowly and carefully. "Forward progress I think is the best description."
"It's all we can hope for." Harry agreed.
"I did get some biscuits and tea down her, probably 'round half past ten last night." Ron clarified, as Harry went over to the log to make sure it was updated. Ron continued. "We small talked. A dumb joke or two. Nothing of importance."
"But she talked," Ginny pointed out, kindly rubbing her brother's shoulder. "That's better than she did all day before that."
"I know. She slept better. Still woke up a few times, but none of them were screaming. I think going to bed on a full stomach helped."
"Oh and it had nothing to do with her boyfriend holding her?" Ginny asked with a raised eyebrow. Harry smirked in agreement as he poured himself a pumpkin juice.
"I - I dunno about that." Ron shook his head.
Ginny continued, "Ron, you and I have had a… normal sibling relationship. Put that off to the side. You are a good bloke. Especially to Hermione."
Harry came round and patted Ron on the back. "Sorry mate, I'm going to side with my girl on this one."
"Figured you would, you bloody idiot."
"Guilty as charged," Harry smiled. "If you two seem to be okay for the moment, I think I'll grab a shower?"
The Weasleys shared a smile. Ginny looked over to Harry. "I grabbed one while you were out. We're fine. Go ahead."
When Harry returned a house elf stood creating the tableware with a center serving bowl of oatmeal and a platter of various fruits and a second platter of various jams. Finally a large teapot with steam rising from the spout sat on the table. "Lord Potter," the elf nodded in a deep voice. "Your ladyship requested breakfast."
Ginny rolled his eyes. "I asked for something simple."
"By house elves standards, I reckon this is," he replied, kissing Ginny hello. Then he brought his attention to the elf. "Baldric, right?"
"Yes, Lord." the elf nodded. Ron snickered.
Harry rolled his eyes finally, "Thank you very much. That will be all." He took a seat and they all started to set their bowls and start breakfast. Finally Hermoine emerged from her bedroom. She stood in the doorway, clearly uncertain how to proceed.
"Hi," she simply said, almost with a tone of embarrassment and apology.
"Hey," everyone welcomed. Ron rose and pulled out a seat or her next to him. She made it halfway to the table before all three of them surrounded her in a mass hug again. But they did stop quicker this time to let Hermione get to the table.
"Can I sweet talk you into something for breakfast?" Ron asked as she scooted Hermione into the table.
Hermoine nodded simply. "I promise I won't be quite the pain as I was yesterday."
"Mione, you're working through stuff." Ron said with a kiss to her forehead. "Don't apologize."
"Agreed," Harry said, setting a bowl of oatmeal in front of her.
"You pretty much can do wrong right now." Ginny said with a hug after she laid a tea down.
"Thank you for yesterday. I'm sorry. I know-"
"Mione, stop." Harry said plainly, but with a warm smile.
"We're on the run and should be plan-" Hermoine tried to explain.
"We are getting back up from taking a massive blow, sis. We are recovering." Ginny explained more.
Hermoine nodded as he sipped her tea. "Did we find out anything more while I was…. indisposed?"
"No," Harry said, "And if what you want is distraction or something to keep busy…"
Hermione nodded affirmatively.
"Okay," Harry replied, refocusing. "We accomplished the first step. We're safe, I'll go so far as to say for the moderate time. But like I said before, I'm not sitting this out. With this new dynamic, how do we proceed now?"
"Horcruxes." Ron replied. "If we want Riddle off the board. We need to make him mortal. Level the playing field."
"Logical, agreed." Harry nodded. "It seems the best lead we have on one of them is back at Hogwarts, in the Room of Lost Things."
"School was on summer shutdown before the attack." Ginny replied, holding her teacup in both hands. "I can't believe it would have loosened up with the attacks."
"Agreed," Ron nodded after swallowing some oatmeal. "So logic suggests waiting till September."
"You can't." Hermione warned but softly. She was stirring marmalade into her oatmeal. "They missed the two of you at the wedding. They will be expecting you to go back to school."
"So how do we kill a horcrux from like 700 miles away?" Ron asked.
"We don't." At first Harry felt she was letting the depression get to her. But then Hermione looked up with the smallest of smiles. "Divide and conquer."
"Neville!" Ginny said in realization, then turned to Harry. "We have the Marauders kill it!"
Harry fell silent in thought for a moment. The weight rested clearly on his shoulders. "I want to make it clear. I hate the idea of a horcrux fight and I'm not involved. But… I get it. Needs must with the devil drives and that's the most logical approach." He took out his cop book and pen. "Let's work this out though. "
"He has a link and a two way letter, so we can keep in touch with him." Ginny replied.
"I think Harry's meaning 'what kind of a plan can we give Nev' rather than just "Oi! Longbottom mate, go kill that thing."
Harry nodded and pointed to Ron. "Actually, I did."
"No argument," Ginny chuckled. "So let's work the case. What can we tell them?"
"Harry," Hermoine spoke up. "You had weeks of difficulty getting into that variant. Who else besides Draco can summon it?"
Again Harry sat back, closed his eyes, and thought. Hermione having finished her oatmeal summoned over the pen and notebook on the shelf behind her. She looked at the open sheet labeled 'Care Log'.
"Er… sorry…" Ron apologized. "We just wanted to make sure you were-"
"You're all working together to watch over me." Hermione finished with a small smile and a tear. Nods from all three of them affirmed she was right. "You're all sweet. Thank you." She leaned over and kissed Ron on the cheek. Then filled out her breakfast entry on the log. Then turned the page. "Harry?"
"Right, well," Harry closed his eyes to focus on remembering. "Trelawney showed it to me. I then lead Tonks, Remus, and Bill in. There was the interior fight I was involved in. Then there was the exterior fight Neville led. After that I had Seamus, Ernie, and Luna, fetch the bodies from the interior.
"So that's technically seven but realistically six people who could summon the Room." Hermione counted. "At least I assume we agree we don't want Trelawney in a fight?" She looked up to confirm and saw heads emphatically shaking.
"So Neville and Tonks can get a team there. How do they find the actual horcrux?" Ron asked.
Harry shook his head. "No two ways about it, needle in a haystack. Stab every tiara they find?"
"I knew you didn't like princesses, Harry, but I didn't know you hated them that much." Ginny smirked. The lads giggled. Hermione did smile.
"I'm sure we can do better than that." Hermione said. "Harry, Hufflepuff's cup at your vault. You said you had to feel you way to it, right"
""Walk towards your pain," Harry repeated, impersonating Bill.
"So proximity is a factor. That alone narrows down the area." Hermoine observed. "You didn't feel that ache when you first entered the room, right?"
Harry took a moment to remember. "No. It, the pain, is what woke me up after I was knocked out from the cabinet blowing."
"So it is likely you weren't close enough to the horcrux to trigger your pain until the explosion threw you further in?" Hermoine asked and clearly looked to Harry for confirmation.
Harry thought it through. "Accurate statement, yes."
"Okay so we're getting somewhere." Ginny said, actually chipper. "Can we narrow it down further? Landmarks or references?"
Harry continued to relive his memory. "The blast created … basically a circular crater of debris. I landed on the edge furthest from the Room's door. Landed on and had a pile of chairs on me."
"That sounds like a close enough X to mark the start of the search to me." Ron said.
"I agree." Hermione nodded as she took notes and sipped her tea. "I just wish there's a way to replicate your headache."
"Trust me, Mione, you don't." Harry said, taking a drink.
Hermione closed her eyes and shook her head, registering what she said. "I'm sorry. I just meant for detection. I'm not myself-"
"Mione," Harry smiled. "You are fine. I get it."
"Wait!" Ginny added. "We have another detector!"
Harry realized it as soon as Ginny reminded him. "Luna!" they said together.
"Luna has natural mage vision." Harry continued. "Like my glasses offer. I'll describe it, the darkest green and black energy you've ever seen. With a 50/50 shot of it being a tiara."
"They've already got fangs." Ron remembered. "This gets them there. Luna can identify the thing. They all have field experience. This is not a bad plan."
"Agreed," Hermione said.
"Well, draft it once or twice to make sure we get this all to them but, yeah, call the Marauders." Harry nodded.
"That's six. Ideas for seven?" Ron asked.
"We're in France." Ginny said. "Beauxbatons?"
The idea of another library like Hogwarts, but completely untouched by her did make Hermione smile. "I can't say as the idea isn't entertaining…" Hermione began, but then controlled her smile. " I am certain they wouldn't just let anyone waltz in and look through."
"But we're not strangers off the street." Ginny protested. She looked at her boyfriend with a cheshire smile. "Harry's Triwizard Victor, they know him."
Hermione looked around, "Respectfully, I think the Delacours may be people of influence there as well. Fleur was the school champion and they have Gabrielle currently enrolled."
"And Madame Maxime is headmistress," Ron reminded. "I am sure she's not going to object."
"Okay…" Harry said hesitantly. "I don't know if I want to enroll-"
"Oh I didn't mean that!" Ginny clarified.
"Hell no mate." Ron agreed.
"But like, guests, visitor access, observers, or something." Ginny explained.
"Okay," Harry nodded, "I can get behind that. Hermione, how does that sit with you?"
Hermione took a moment. She looked down to her page "I don't deny the idea of going back to school has an attraction, but I do understand there are some things that are more important; the war, Riddle, the horcruxes." Finally, she looked up again with fragile confidence. "I admit I'm not 100% right now, but you still have me."
"Then we are the lucky ones." Ginny smiled.
Hermione found a small smile. "Harry, could I possibly borrow you for a moment, privately?"
Harry smiled. "Wondered when you would ask. Sure, walk and talk? Stretch your legs?"
"Fine, thank you." she nodded.
"Weasleys, you two okay a little longer?
"I think I might take a flight around the manor." Ginny said. "Ron?"
"If you don't mind, a broom flight sounds nice, yeah, thanks."
"Everyone take a link," Harry nodded, "and just stay on the Delacour property under their wards. I don't see a problem."
They each kissed their Weasley good-bye. Harry led the walk to no place in particular, but in general his goal was outside. Get Hermione some sunshine and fresh air. He let her lead the conversation. It took her several minutes as they walked with her arms crossed like she was cold, despite the fact it was a warm sunny summer day. But Harry knew that feeling so he didn't say a word. But he did kindly rub her back often.
"I feel like I owe you several apologies, Harry." she finally began.
"Well, no… but for the sake of conversations, what are you thinking?"
"That I understand you more now. Experience is vastly different from knowledge sometimes."
"Hey," Harry comforted as he stopped them in the path and hugged her. "I never wanted you or anyone to experience this."
"Thank you," she sniffled. "Just now… gods, I don't even know what I'm supposed to feel. Like I am supposed to be here to help you, but I feel like I should be back in London… doing something… I don't know what. Part of me still wants to hide in that room, part of me still wants to scream bloody murder still… I - I don't know what to do… and I'm supposed to be the smart one-"
"Mione, stop." Harry said, rubbing her shoulders and upper arms. "I swear to Merlin, I'm the Chosen One and you put more expectation on yourself than me."
Hermione chuckled with a tear down her face. "You may be right."
"First time for everything." Harry continued.
"Stop that," she argued. "You often are right. Like Sarge says, you have a first rate mind."
Harry grinned. "Alright, then will you believe me that you are not supposed to be anything other than Gin and I's friend. And Ron would really appreciate it if you'd still be his girl. But that's it. Everything else, 'Miracle', brightest witch, let it be for a bit."
"That brings up so many things." Hermione sighed.
That made Harry pay attention, but he still played support. "I am here, Mione."
"Harry… do you think … I was… a decent daughter?" Hermione finally let the dam break and balled, as Harry just slipped into a hug. He let her keep talking. He knew if nothing else she needed to get it out. "I've spent the majority of the last six years in boarding school ten months of the year. Half of my holidays have been at the Burrow. The simple truth is I have barely seen them since I was eleven years old! I have spent more time, and energy, and thought on you all and…." She collapsed into another wail.
Harry rubbed her back and let her vent. When she finally ran out of breath more than anything else, Harry continued to hug her. "Hermione Granger, you are a great daughter. Your parents put you through Hogwarts because that's where you belong. If you being the top of the class doesn't prove that, I don't know what does. You've always talked about how busy they were. They were high achievers, like you. You tell me, was there ever a time you were at the Burrow and they didn't know?"
"Oh gods no, I'd never." she shook her head.
"So they knew where you were every day of your life and you were there with their blessing. More than likely they just wanted you to enjoy your life and they knew you would have more fun with the Weasleys than home alone. They wanted you to live, even then. So especially now." Harry backed away and rubbed her shoulders in care and affection.
"So you don't think… I like… abandoned or betrayed them with all my attention elsewhere?"
"I think you honor them, Mione." Harry smiled. "I mean, why did you learn French?"
"They thought it would be a good idea to learn a second language and geography and family business made French the logical choice," she sniffled.
"You realize, you knowing French saved us from getting hexed when we got here, right?" Harry said looking in her eyes to make sure she heard him.
Hermione tried but words failed her.
"Mione, please, don't say anything. Just try to take some comfort that those wonderful muggle parents of yours, in a very muggle way, saved our arses from hexing, possibly our lives." Harry reminded hugging her again and actually got a full laugh out.
"Gods, I am such a mess right now," Hermione said, wiping away tears. "One minute I am balling, the next I'm laughing. What kind of person does that make me?"
"Human," Harry said with a grin. "And considering who we are up against, I consider that a good thing."
"How so?" Hermions asked, crossing her arms again and started walking again. "I'm sorry, I'm still not thinking clearly."
"Could have fooled me earlier," Harry said smiling. "Look at Riddle. From the Chamber and from the lessons with the Old Man, I've gotten a look at him at our age. He started normal, no too different from me. But since then… the horcruxes… he basically traded his humanity for immortality. "
"Oh…" Hermione said in a whisper. "I should have realized. I'm sor-"
"Mione, stop. No apologies. We get it. I very much get it. You're going to have ups and downs. When we were planning, you were thinking clearly like the rest of us."
Hermione nodded. "It proved distracting," she said as they began walking back.
"And there's nothing wrong with that. Merlin knows I've needed distractions occasionally. Let us return the favor now." He playfully hip bumped her and grinned.
"I think I will take you up on that. Those seventh year books too. Start a study schedule or something. I don't know," she shrugged.
"It's okay not to know," Harry said. "Just try to take a step forward. Yesterday, you fell to pieces and let Ron catch you."
"I love him for that. He didn't have to." Hermione sighed
"Tell 'em that. Lean on him. Lean on all of us." Harry nodded. "You took a hit. But you're not out yet, Hermione. Not by a long shot. You are catching your breath and finding your footing."
"So like, you want me to just quit… being clever?" she asked, clearly confused.
Harry shook his head, but with a smile. "I want you to quit trying. I want you to just be. I have no doubt, give it some time you will still be the brightest witch. Likely, all three of us will give you plenty of chances to save us." That elicited a small smile.
The wind in the hair and the air here rich with about every scent of flower she knew of and several new ones calmed Ginny down so greatly. She wished Harry were beside her but she did understand why Hermione needed a moment with him. To his credit, Ron was being truly kind and decent, joining her in friendly racing over the lawn and gardens of every color imaginable. The siblings paused and hovered over a patch of dahlias and asters for a moment to catch their breaths.
In a rare moment of seriousness, Ron asked honestly, "How you doing sis?"
Ginny took a risk. She was honest too. "Not bad… at least as best as can be expected." She bruised a few loose hairs behind her ear. "You? Besides Hermione, I mean."
Ron nodded as he crossed his arms and leaned onto his broom. "She's my main focus right now. As far as I know I'm okay. And I do keep an eye on you still, but-"
"Harry takes great care of me," Ginny smiled brightly as she nodded. "I promise."
"I know sis, I know."
"Ron, thanks for not going mental about this." Ginny said, holding up the engagement ring. "You're even being supportive."
Ron shrugged, "Well, you two are bloody obvious. He's already family." He grinded and leaned over, as if to share a secret. "Truth be known, I don't even care about your N.E.W.T.s. Harry already has the Minister offer him his badge, and well, Viktor's been playing pro for years now. I don't see why you couldn't."
Ginny cocked her head to the side, surprised by the continued support. "Thanks Ron."
Her brothers shrugged again and continued. "But we both know Mum though. She's still a bit disappointed the twins didn't finish their N.E.W.T.s. Never mind how well the shop does."
They both shared a laugh. "I promise I do plan to finish school, one way or the other." Ginny confirmed with a nod.
"One way or the other?" Ron asked.
Ginny shrugged. "Tonks showed us we can independently study and test for N.E.W.T.s. McGonagall told me how the school has correspondence classes. There are options besides the traditional classroom."
Ron nodded in acceptance and understanding, which was immensely appreciated. "What about you?" she asked.
Ron smiled sheepishly. "Well… no way in hell I'm letting you go running off in this war without me. And I know Mione feels the same."
"But after?" Ginny pressed, feeling just a touch of ornery.
"After? I probably will have to go to school, simply because I am heading towards D.M.L.E. too. Maybe not witch hunting like Harry's clearly cut out for, but maybe more the constabulary. You know, stationed somewhere and walk the beat. Be friendly with the locals. I can't imagine it would be half as mental as what we've already done so it sounds relaxing to me."
"Pick up a flat for Mione and you?" Ginny asked and a warm smile.
"You know, not living with Mum and Dad does sound appealing somedays." Ron smiled. They both laughed at that. After a breath of silence, Ron admitted. "Though today, I wouldn't mind."
"Me too, Ron, me too."
Harry and Hermione found their way back to their suit, Hermione seeming to be a bit lighter, which Harry counted as further progress. Together they wrote a first draft of their intended letter for Neville. Shortly thereafter, the Weaselys returned on the balcony with smiles on their faces from their flight.
"How is everyone?" Ron asked tenderly.
"One step better," Hermione nodded as she quickly rose to welcome him wrapping around his torso. "Thank you."
Ginny nodded for Harry who followed them to their room. "She does seem better. Thanks Harry."
"Meh," he shrugged. "It's what you keep me around for."
"Harry," Ginny gave a disapproving scowl.
They had a seat on the foot of their bed as Harry continued to relay how his chat with Hermione went. When he was finished Ginny leaned over and kissed him. "You really are a good man."
Later that evening they gathered with the Delacours in the Manor's dining room over a beef bourguignon and a pinot noir. Everyone was kind and social enough but as everyone was aware, the air was gentle and careful. Gabrielle had seemed to develop the habit of staring at Harry, who was, of course, oblivious to it. Finally, Harry broached the topic of visiting the school's library.
"Philippe, Apolline, I've been trying to think ahead for our next move." Harry began.
Both the Delacours paused their meals and watched Harry with interest.
"I do not want to make things awkward at all. But since we are here in France, and you clearly have some relationship with them. I was wondering if you could potentially arrange for us to visit Beauxbatons. Not enroll per se but-"
"Ah Apolline! What did I tell you? I knew it!" Philippe cheered in victory.
"I did not doubt love." Apolline smiled warmly.
A year working with house lords had Harry's ear perked at this conversion. "What did you say, Phillipe?" he asked carefully.
Philippe took a sip of his wine and washed down some beef. "Well it is obvious, no? You will address Beauxbatons. You will regale them with tales of your deeds and plans for revenge and victory and you will begin recruiting your army, no?"
Harry's mind exploded but he forced his poker face to stay ridgid. He looked at each of his British friends whose eyes showed similar shock. Hermione gave a subtle shake of her head, while Ron clearly nodded yes. He turned to the tie break, Ginny, who smiled wide.
"You are a brilliant man, Philippe." Harry said, raising a glass. "That's exactly our plan."
Apolline nodded, "We are quite cordial with Madame Maxime. I do not foresee any difficulty in you finding an audience. But beyond that mon ami, that is up to you."
"That's the part I am least worried about," Ginny beamed. "Harry can be quite charming and inspiring." She lifted a glass in respect, but still showed her cheshire grin.
"I agree, Maman." Gabrielle warmly smiled, but her gaze never left Harry.
Hermione cleared her throat and flashed an unmistakable expression.
But Harry opted to meet her halfway. "Apolline, when you speak to the Madame, could you also pass along our interest to access the school library? There are some matters of high importance to the war that the British libraries have not yielded fruit. Perhaps Beauxbaton's will?"
Apolline shrugged. "You would not be the first who wished to study its library. That should be a small matter. Especially by comparison."
A look of relief came to Hermione's face and she mouthed the words 'thank you' to Harry who nodded and raised his own glass to her.
Dinner fished with an air of more excitement than it had started, but finally Hermione's minimal eating from the last few days but then the dinner's wine clearly started to have an effect on her. But blessedly this time she was becoming a sleepy drunk.
"You'll have to forgive her." Ron said as he excused themselves and helped Hermione up.
"Ronald," Apolline said with a heartwarming smile. "All of you have been through so much. There is nothing to forgive."
Philippe nodded, "Agreed young sir, the only sin would be in not caring for your lady."
Seeing the dinner come to a close, Apolline rose and looked kindly to Ginny. "Lady Weasley, may I impose and have a word with Harry? I promised not to keep him for long."
"We're guests in your house. Of course," Ginny said with a nod, then tuned to Harry. "I'll help Ron with Hermione. Take your time." They kissed goodbye then Harry's attention focused on Apolline, but Ginny couldn't help but flash a glare to Gabrielle, who seemed to all but pout.
"Harry, escort me please." Apolline asked with her arm crooked.
Harry rose to take Apolline's arm. She quickly led him outside among the flower gardens. "Harry, your… acting skills… are first rate. I almost believed you," she smiled.
"Whatever could you mean, Apolline?" Harry grinned cockly. He wasn't sure which way this conversation was going so he fell back to his strengths.
"The idea of raising your army had never occurred to you before tonight." Apolline smiled, patting his shoulder. "And though you have skill, do not try to charm a veela."
"Does the source of the idea lessen the value?" Harry asked.
"Absolutely not. But I wonder if you are aware of what you are about to enter into," she said with far more concern than anything else. She led the way to a collection of bushes with large, trumpet-shaped, white flowers. The white petals seemed to glow in the moonlight. "When Fleur first asked us to be a safe haven for you, she explained your first plan was to buy a simple cottage. That you undervalue yourself. From what I have heard and what little I have seen. I am inclined to agree."
Harry sighed in discomfort. "I am working on it," he honestly admitted.
"Good," Apolline replied as she went to the nearest flower bush with an almost ethereal energy emanating from her being. Harry realized this had to be a variant of the allure that he wasn't familiar with, but he surely wasn't going to interrupt the lady. Apollie reached out to grasp one of the blooms. "Harry, do you happen to recognize what flower these are?"
"Apologies, no," he said as he bowed slightly. "I'm not bad at Herbology," he shrugged. "But not the greatest either. My friend, Neville, likely would."
Apolline nodded in understanding and Harry could swear he felt the warmth off of her. "It is Ipomoea alba, commonly known as Moonflower. It is rare among flowers as it opens and shows its true form only at night. But the light it shines is a beacon in the darkness." She turned her gaze from the flowers to Harry. "The humble soldier may have gotten you this far, but the war has changed now, you must change with it. Darkness has fallen, Harry. It doesn't need another soldier. It needs a beacon. You have served your time. You have survived, helped, served, followed. Now is your time to lead."
Harry rested his thumbs on the buckle of his tactical belt as took a long look at Apolline and the moonflowers. He sighed deeply. "I will shoot straight with you Apolline."
"Please do," she smiled with an enigmatic smile.
"I don't disagree with you. The way to Riddle though is going to be hard, and harsh, and bloody, and… not everyone is going to make it. How the hell do I ask people to sign up for that?"
"The same way every leader does; honestly, courageously, and with a reminder that what you fight for is right."
Harry nodded, in understanding and acceptance. "I never dreamt this would get this big. I just wish I could help Hermione more."
"That is commendable and understandable," Apolline agreed, then her smile curled even further and a twinkle came to her eye. "Harry, why do you not escort her to church, a memorial of sorts?"
Harry thought back to how his visit to his parents grave had indeed helped him. Obviously, this was a different dynamic, but it was at least something to help his friend. "Not a bad idea. Thank you. Is there one in Orleans you would recommend?"
"Actually Harry, I would suggest the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, in Paris."
Harry's eyes shot open. "Paris! We're trying to lay low and hide out. You're suggesting we go to Paris."
"It is a city of nine million people, I think you could hide in plain sight there. Besides there is a priest, Mon Père Raphael Arnaud, he is 'mage blessed' as he calls it, and very open to our kind."
There was a logic to it. Harry couldn't deny it. He smiled to himself as a thought crossed his mind. "Gin's birthday is coming up."
Apolline smiled very cheekily. "Baldric." she called.
With a pop and slight wind the house elf teleported next to Apolline and bowed to each of them. "Yes, m'lady."
"My vanity, a gold box by the mirror, please bring that here." Baldric popped away and returned only a moment later, offering the box up to the lady of the house. Apolline retrieved a piece of jewelry. "That is all, thank you." With a nod, the elf popped away.
"When you go to visit Mon Père Arnaud, wear this. He will recognize you as a friend who shares in the 'blessing'." Apolline held out a gold broach, a pin. Harry took it carefully. There was something vaguely familiar about it. The metal was light but firm, and textured to look like a small rope tied into four loops and stretched out in all four directions; up, down, right, and left.
"Thank you, very much," he said in a state of wonder.
"I think that settles it then. You will take your love and comrades to Paris for a few days. Ginny will have a good birthday. Hermione will continue to heal. You all will gather any supplies you need before visiting Beauxbatons."
-Longbottom Estate
Neville finished brushing his teeth and threw a shirt back on after his shower. He walked past his desk on his way to bed as was becoming his habit since Dobby and Kreacher made their visit. He gave a passing glance to his two way letter. Then stopped… and looked again. There was a message.
Hey mate,
We're fine. You're sharp so you know it's the smart play if we don't tell you much more. We have a plan too. And we need your help for part of it. I got a mission for you. Copy this on another page when you get it for safekeeping.
We need you to kill a Horcrux. I know it's big. But I also know you can get this done. I believe in you. All our best leads say that there is one in the Room of Requirement. But it's in a specific variant. We're calling it the Room of Lost things. It's the same room the Vanishing Cabinet was in. Tonks, Remus, Bill, Seamus, Ernie, and Luna all were inside it so any of them should be able to re-summon it. You're going to want to get a team together for this, so I would say talk to them all and get them together. You're going to need Luna for this. You and Susan still have your fangs, and you just need one stab to win.
Once you summon the room you should see a relative circular crater of destruction from the cabinet blowing. From the entrance door go to the far side of the crater. You should see a pile of chairs. That's your starting point. The horcrux is somewhere closer to that point than the door. I wish I could give you better directions. There is a 50/50 shot it's a tiara, Ravenclaw's Diadem.
Regardless of what it is, that is why you need Luna there. Tell her to look for the blackest, most evil looking thing she's ever seen with a touch of green to it. That plus the geography restriction should get you to it. You and Susan have been through this twice now, you know how they are. Make sure the team is alert with wands ready. I'm sure it will be a fight, but I know you can do this mate. And this time you won't have me holding you back.
Write when you have this copied, just so we know you received this.
Good hunting.
P.S. Probably be a good idea to check this letter at lights out each night going forward. We'll do the same.
COMING SOON
"Like sheep and goat we must separate Magical from the Muggle, we must promote the former, cast out the latter, and together all grow stronger."
"Well there it is," Hermione spat out, "I am now legally a second class citizen!"