hp priorities v

7/30/2019 HP Priorities V

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Chapter 60 Remembrances

The arrival of spring coincided with the recovery of not only the Weasleys and their extendedfamily, but with the general recovery of everyone involved. Kingsley Shacklebolt and hisadministration were under a considerable amount of scrutiny and criticism for allowing dark forcesto insinuate themselves so deeply into the fabric of the government, but the effect was blunted bythe implementation of the House-Elf Emancipation Act and by the vociferous support of HarryPotter on Kingsleys behalf. The Office of Aurors was in a state of disarray, considering that themajority of its members had been turned, but Dawlish, Lachlan and Harry had made the Officesrecovery their primary mission. As May came around, Harry was fully engaged in bringing histeam back to its fighting trim, but also, Harry was keeping a weather eye on his wife as sheentered the last trimester of her pregnancy.

Harry sat at his desk reading over some dispatches that had arrived via interoffice memorandum.He heard the flutter of wings and saw Helios, his golden owl, preening himself on the cubicle wall.Harry took a treat out of his desk drawer and tossed it to the majestic owl and pulled the messageaffixed to his leg. Giving Helios a brief pat on the head, Harry unrolled the parchment andimmediately recognized Ginnys handwriting. He scanned over the contents of the messagewhile his brow furrowed. As he moved to the end of the message, he allowed himself a little

smile and rolled the message back up, then placed it in one of the inner pockets of his robe.

Whats that, then? Ron had walked up from his own desk located in the adjacent row to Harrys.

Not much, really, just a message from Ginny. She went to see the midwife and everything is finewith the baby. Harry stood from his chair and pushed it under his desk.

Child delivery in the wizarding world was conducted, for the most part, under the guidance of amidwife. These were older or retired healers whose sole function was to assist expectantmothers with birth of their newborns. St. Mungos Hospital usually reserved itself for traumatreatment, and was not normally a facility designed with prenatal and obstetric care in mind. Themidwife was usually consulted at the beginning of the first trimester of the mother-to-bes term inorder to determine a good course of prenatal care and delivery preparation. Ginny was due

sometime in July and her visits from the midwife were scheduled weekly.

Ron gave a smile, So, have you two picked a name? I hear Ronald is a popular choice. Harrychuckled.

Were having a bit of a disagreement on this one. Ginny likes James and Im partial to Arthur, ifits a boy. Harry tidied up the papers on his desk. If its a girl, were both pretty set on Lily.

What? No Ronald, at all? Ron teased his friend.

Well, everyone knows that my favorite Weasley son is Percy, but he already asked us not toconsider that name. Ron gave a mock look of hurt.

So, its been six years, are you going to the memorial? The weekend would mark the sixthanniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts. Every year subsequently had been marked by a memorialon the grounds of the school near a grand memorial that had been erected near the cemetery forthose lost in the fight with Voldemort.

Of course I will. Its sad, though. Ron nodded his head in understanding. The turnout on thefirst anniversary of the Battle had been extraordinary, but each succeeding year had seen anoticeable drop in the attendance. Last year, it had only been the immediate friends and family ofthose lost. This year they expected the numbers to drop even further. Such was the nature offree societies when a crisis passes. The freedom to choose also causes very short term


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memories as to the sacrifices made to secure that freedom. Harry and Ron knew that the trendwould only continue, until the arrival of the next dark lord.

Listen, Im meeting my team in the training arena. Ill see you later? Ron gave a wave andHarry walked out of the office area. Harry went down the main corridor and stopped at the doorto the training arena. He adjusted his robes and walked into the massive, high ceiling chamber.Normally, the arena contained several mock ups of buildings and streets, but today it was anopen space, like the bottom of a Quidditch pitch with several blocks and boxes laid about, likeobstacles. The room was dark, the ceilings a dark purple with accent lighting dotted around theperiphery of the moldings. Harry walked in purposefully and strode to where his team hadgathered. They werent talking and none, save for Sarah, had looked at him since hed enteredthe space. They milled about and avoided each other. Sarah stood with her shoulders back andhead held high. Manchester and Williamson sat on boxes at the far end of the group. LeonoraSigismund milled around aimlessly and walked to avoid colleagues. Carter Coombs stood rigidly,his fingers twirling his wand in a variety of patterns, almost like a nervous tic. Monroe Burby satidly, his massive size dwarfing his fidgeting partner, Coombs, while he crossed his arms andinspected a dust mite on his sleeve. The tension was palpable in the room, despite its openness.

Harry walked down to the arena floor and scanned each of their faces. Their guilt and regret fortheir roles during the vampire crisis were etched in great detail. Harry felt a momentary pang of

empathy for them, but he also knew that for his team to retrieve its edge, a food fight wasprobably out of the question. He allowed a brief smile to cross his lips which buried into a scowl.With professionals such as these, the only real way to restore their confidence was to focus onthe work. Hed read each of their reports on the events and Harry figured he had the way to bringthem back.

I cant tell you all how disappointed I am in you. You should all be ashamed of yourperformance! Harrys voice grew in volume as he continued. Ive never seen such a poordisplay from Aurors in my life. They all looked up. Sarah had a puzzled look on her face; thiswas definitely not the pep speech shed been expecting. The others recoiled in shock, notexpecting their normally fair minded leader to chastise them.

Williamson stood up. Its my fault, Harry. I led the rest in becoming vampires. I converted most

of them. I should have been able to resist. Youll have my resignation within the hour. Thecrimson clad Auror dropped his head.

Harry didnt let up. Williamson, do you really think this is about you becoming vampires? Harrystared down the veteran Auror. What Im talking about is how shoddy your performance wasduring this whole time. Harry pointed to Williamson and Manchester, then to Coombs andBurby. You four allowed Sarah over here, Harry pointed to where Sarah stood. to incapacitateyou with a single blast charm. The four Aurors recalled their fight to overpower Leonora andSarah at the Hogs Head. Sarah had destroyed one of the overhead beams which covered themin debris and effectively removed them from the fight.

Leonora! At that same fight, you hesitated, even though you knew that the presence of yourteammates was out of sorts. You let them get the drop on you! Harrys face was beginning to

color as he really was becoming angry at their performance. Sarah, why didnt you attempt toescape at the Hogs Head?

I made a judgment call, Harry. I was trying to save Leonora. Sarah stumbled a bit, but wasconfident in her decision.

Your first duty was to all of us. You should have made an attempt to escape and warn the rest ofus. Your decision resulted in both of you being turned, not just Leonora. Sarahs head droppedas well.


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During the battles we fought, at no time did my side have more than six people a nd no more thanfour Aurors and yet you all failed to take us down. Harrys eyes lit up and burned into them. Inthe Ministry, there should have been no way for the four of us to do the damage we did or toescape. That was a horrible performance. Harry placed his hands on his hips and his tonesoftened. I blame myself, really. That drew surprised glances from his team. Ive been tooeasy on you all. Ive neglected your training, allowed you to get soft. Well, I intend to remedythat situation. We are going to work harder, train more often and we will hone your skills to a fineedge. Harry slowly drew his wand and took a defensive stance while whispering a stun charm.I think well start your training right, about, now.

Harry watched them enter the office area. They were tired and frustrated. Their faces wereanimated as they discussed the session and went over strategies to combat the beating they hadjust taken from Harry. He allowed himself a smile. They were fixated on becoming better and hesaw no evidence of the guilt or remorse that had been present before. Their own healing hadbegun.

***

They chose a perfect day to hold the memorial service. The sun was high in a deep blue sky, nota cloud in sight. Hogwarts was turned out in its finest regalia, the student body drawn up

together, no houses, no class distinction, much like the students whod fought against Voldemort.Tiers of seating were arrayed before the large monument that marked the entrance to thecemetery that held the slain from the battle. Seated were the survivors of the battle and familiesof the fallen. On the whole, it appeared to be an impressive gathering, but Harry knew better.Missing were the beneficiaries of the losses. The people who did not fight or did not sacrifice alove one were no longer attending the ceremony. Their lives had moved on and their memorieshad become lost. Only those personally affected seemed to remember the battle that was foughtand they sat among themselves, keeping the memory insular.

Harry glanced around and saw the survivors of Dumbledores Army drawn up, all attending andall remembering their fallen. Dennis Creevey sat with his father near him and Cho on his sidewhile he stared past the monument to the marker that identified the place where his brother waslaid to rest. Harry sat with the Weasleys, his hand in Ginnys while Molly and Arthur kept their

own counsel, sharing their thoughts of Fred and his sacrifice. Andromeda Tonks sat with Teddy.She allowed a small tear to escape her eyes, but kept a surreptitious watch on her grandson.Teddy had attended every memorial, but this year was different. This year, he truly understoodwhy he was here. He wore a black suit, with a white shirt and black tie. His hair was jet-black toreflect the occasion. He sat straight, his eyes focused on the eternal flame of the mainmonument, but straying every so often to the pair of grave markers beyond that sat together; thefinal resting place of his parents.

Neville Longbottom walked to the podium erected in front of the monument. It was an obeliskcrafted from the finest white marble capped with a crystalline jewel which refracted the sunlight ina myriad of colors. Its sides were smooth, only marked with the carving of a large lightning boltthat was filled in gold. The monument framed Nevilles figure. Harry noticed that Neville stoodtall, his shoulders wide and he approached the lectern with a confidence that hed not had while a

student. He was a teacher now, and his stature among the student body was growing every day.He placed a set of notes on the platform before him, but he never seemed to look down, theoccasion perfect for extemporaneous reflection.

Six years ago, we fought. The battle had been joined for many years and over time, had cost usmany friends and family, but six years ago, this school and these people at rest behind me tookup arms in a great cause. He paused and surveyed the gathering. We are all that remain toremember them, but it is of no matter, really. It is the nature of free societies that a special fewfight and die for the liberty of the masses. That is what we must always remember.


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Neville hesitated, the weight of the memories bowing his shoulders slightly. He fought thesadness of the loss of his parents to madness and he tried to rein in the tightness in his chestover the deaths of that night, six years ago. His head dropped a bit, and the familiar shynessbegan to rear its ugly head. He felt a hand on his back, light but reassuring. He looked to hisside and saw that Luna Lovegood had walked silently up to the podium and was looking at himwith an earnestness that was her special gift to her friends in times of need. He felt hisconfidence begin to grow and he stood tall.

I wont say that our smaller numbers today dont bother me. I wont say that I feel a little let downby the fact that members of our government and our society have not shown up today. Nevilledelivered his remarks without animus, but the bite was still there. It really doesnt matter in theend, as long as we, here, remember them. These were our friends and our families and our besttribute to them is remember their sacrifice and to remain vigilant against the return of oppression.

Nevilles eyes began to water, but his eyes shown brightly against the afternoon sun. The pastsix years have demonstrated that evil is always lurking. It doesnt recognize your house, or yourclass or your politics. Your status or your notoriety has no bearing on your safety. We must beon the watch and support each other in keeping the darkness at bay. Nevilles eyes finallyrested upon Harry, boring into him with a depth that caused Harry to start. I, for one, will alwaysbe there to fight, no matter what the cost, in order to preserve the freedom these people died for.

Thats the least I can do to make sure that the price they paid all those years ago was worth theinvestment. I, for one, intend to earn their gift, each and every day.

Neville stepped from the podium and leaned down to hug a teary Luna. He placed a gentle kisson her cheek and took her hand, leading her from the podium. A hush covered the crowd, theresonance of his words and conviction washing over them with a solemnity that finally broughtappropriateness to the occasion. There were no cymbals crashing or contrived lightshows, justthe gentle breeze off the lake and the rustle of the leaves from the orchard of trees nearby.

When the ceremony had ended, Harry made his way through the crowd, offering the umpteenthapology for the losses that the families had endured. He made his way into the cemetery andsaw Teddy standing in front his parents graves, their headstones were joined by an arch at thetop with an ethereal image of Remus and Tonks standing together, sharing a kiss. Teddy eyes

were fierce, but there were no tears. He stood tall, staring at their picture. They seemed so aliveand happy. Harry recalled Tonks unconditional love for Remus which overwhelmed the reservedman. She had unlocked the secret to his soul and Harry was absolutely convinced that they diedhappy because they were together.

Uncle Harry? Teddy finally spoke, his voice was strong. Harry looked down at him and graspedhis hand, pressing Teddy to continue. Im ready now. Can you tell me how they died?

Harry and Andromeda had tried to fill in the gaps of how theyd lived, who they were and howthey loved. By mutual consent, theyd agreed to leave the darker aspects of their deaths untilTeddy was older, when he the distance from the event matched his maturity to handle the details.His godson, Harry was discovering, was beginning to be wise beyond his years. Harry recalledhis own childhood, raised as an orphan. He remembered the questions he had and how lost he

felt by the emptiness of not knowing.

Are you sure? Harry knew the answer before Teddy did. Harry, after all, had been therebefore. A small glint came to Harrys eye. Remus had been so prescient. In naming Harrygodfather to his son, Remus had chosen the only person who could truly relate to the boy as hegrew up. Harry wasnt sure that Remus knew that Teddy would be an orphan, but coincidencesin life are hard to come by. Harry took Teddys hand and let him towards the shore of the lake.As they walked, Harry turned and began to tell Teddy the story of the Marauders and of his firstmeeting with a rather peculiar Defense Against the Dark Arts professor by the name of RemusLupin.


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The crowd began to dissipate, heading back to their lives built on the sacrifice of the dead.Dennis Creevey gave Cho a quick kiss on the cheek and walked over to his father, who had notstirred from his seat since the end of the memorial.

Are you alright, dad? Dennis towered over his father, but his manner was gentle. I can takeyou home, if you like?

Lionel Creevey woke from his reflection. I thought you were going to have a reunion with yourD.A. club?

Its no bother, I can get you home. I dont want you to be alone. Dennis smiled at his father,trying to shore up his flagging emotions.

Dont mind me, Dennis. I get this way this time of the year. The hardworking milkman rosefrom his seat. Since your mum and Colin died, it gets difficult, but Ill be fine. You go on, now.Go with your friends. Lionel Creevey looked over and spotted Cho walking with Dean Thomas.She seems nice. You like her?

Dennis blushed, More than I can tell you. Shes the one, I think. Lionel clapped his son on his

broad back.

Good, everyone should have someone. Hold on to her, son. Your life seems to always beunpredictable. Its good to have something solid to hang on to, but theres always a chance it canbe torn away. You and I both know that. Dennis glanced at his father, the tone of the responseheld a trace of bitterness.

Are you sure youre going to be okay? I dont mind taking you home, Dad. Lionel gave his sona chuckle and his best brave face.

Never you mind, Im not feeble, you know. Ive got the port key and Im going home and going tobed. Ive an early start tomorrow, so Ill watch some TV and toddle off. You run along, Ill seeyou next weekend. Bring that lovely girl of yours around and well have dinner, ok?

Dennis smiled and hugged his father, placing a kiss on his balding head. Ok, Dad. See youthen. Dennis strode off at a pace to catch up with Cho. Lionel Creevey watched his sonsreceding back. He pulled out the ancient key that his son had charmed that helped him transitfrom home to Hogwarts and back. He turned it in his hand, and the fear and the rage returned tohis face. The darkness that filled his thoughts day after day, night after night, returned. Hesighed heavily and transported home, to be alone.

Chapter 61 The Third Trimester Tournament

Summer crept up on Harry as he worked his team through its new training cycle. His team hadfinally pulled itself from its funk and now had an edge that was, in fact, better than theyd been

before their experience with the vampires. The team immersed itself into its work, tracking downthe odd dark arts practitioners and generally diving into their work with a professionalism theydnever had before. It was just as well for Harry, because as June gave way to July, he foundhimself immersed in a constant battle to the finish line as the impending birth of his first childbegan to dominate his time.

It started just into May. Ginny was showing more prominently and her ability to get around wasbecoming more and more hampered. Harrys experience with expectant mothers had been prettymuch limited and very distant. Hed watched from afar as Bill and Fleur went through Victoiresbirth and admittedly, had not seen the day to day demands that a husband must attend to, while


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the mothers body adjusts to the hormones that were overloading her body. To make matterseven more interesting, Ginny was a witch and the hormones seemed to be enhanced by themagical properties imbued by the babys parents. This made Ginnys high points, very high, andvery enjoyable from Harrys perspective, but her low points were very low, and at times, Harrywas hoping for the appearance of an army of Deatheaters, just so he could have a little peace.

Harry finally broke down, one day, and cornered Arthur Weasley in the Ministry. Arthur alwaysseemed to walk in a kind of peaceful calm that indicated after fathering seven children, includingthe aforementioned Ginny; he would have some sort of insight as to how to handle the situation.Harry was desperate and browbeating his father-in-law seemed to be the only recourse. Arthur,of course, was more than happy to lend some advice, man to man, of course.

Theres nothing you can do, Harry. Youre just going to make sure shes happy. Arthur gaveHarry a benign smile. His response, coupled with Arthurs look of complete seriousness,convinced Harry that the man was wandering through life drunk, or at least he made his waythrough Mollys seven pregnancies in that state.

Its true, Harry. If Ginny is anything like her mother, and believe me, she is, then youd be betteroff ramming your head into a brick wall than try to find some way to change her at this time. Allyou can do is try to give her what she wants, and be understanding. Besides, its not long now,

you can take anything for a month or so. Harry gave Arthur a puzzled look.

You do know were talking about Ginny, right? Harry leaned in, hoping hed smell the tell taleodor of some inebriating substance on Arthurs breath.

Yes, yes I do. With that, Arthur bade Harry farewell, and went towards the floo network, a smileon his face and a distinct twinkle in his eye. Harry didnt care what anyone said, he had a firmsuspicion as to where the wild side of the Weasley children came from. Harry allowed a heavysigh to escape his chest and made for home.

When Harry entered the front door, he found himself in the hallway, completely surrounded bypacking boxes and cans of wall paint. The front room, his favorite room, had been completelychanged over with a coat of bright red paint and new furniture that included a chaise and a sofa.

Gone were the Gryffindor colors and the immaculate oak bookcases and his easy chairs,especially his favorite easy chairs. A flowery border adorned the middle of the wall and the roomhad the distinct odor of drying paint. A loud crash resounded from upstairs and Harry braced hisshoulders while making the long, treacherous climb up the landing. When he reached hisbedroom, he paused, swallowed, and pushed the door open.

The bedroom was a wreck, with bed pillows and throw rugs tossed everywhere. The large four-poster bed was dismantled and all of their classic furniture was shoved to a corner of the room.Seated on an ottoman, Ginny reclined to take the pressure off of her lower back, but she waspointing here and there and giving out orders. Carting boxes and moving furniture, DennisCreevey and Ron were moving at a hectic pace, while Kreacher stood next to his mistressholding a serving tray with what appeared to be a glass of chocolate milk and vial of honey.Dennis noticed Harrys appearance and gave his friend a haggard, pleading look.

Harry hesitated. Ginny hadnt quite noticed him yet. There was still a small chance that he couldjoin Charlie on the dragon egg hunt in Turkey. He seriously contemplated his escape.

Welcome home, Master Harry. Kreacher gave Harry a wicked grin and Ginny turned to face herhusband.

Its about time you got here. Its lucky that Ron and Dennis came by to drop off a present, orelse Id have no one to help me. Ginny kind of scooted around and faced Harry.


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Yes, its very lucky indeed. Ron grumbled while struggling with the old grandfather clock. Ronput the clock down and motioned to Dennis. Well, it looks like Harrys home. Come on Dennis,we have to go do that thing for Hermione.

Dennis dropped the piece of bed frame he was carrying. Thing? Oh yes, the thing. Right. Seeyou Harry!

Before Harry could utter a word, his two friends, men who had risked life and limb against thegreatest evils in history for him, ran out the door like rabbits to the hounds. Harry dropped hisbag, sullenly and faced his wife.

Whats all this, then? He pointed to the tsunami strewn room that used to be his bedroom.

Well, weve got a baby coming and we have to have everything ready. Ready? What did shemean by that? We cant just have all this stuff around, we need to prepare and the house wasfilthy besides, wasnt it Kreacher.

Certainly, Mistress Ginny. The bland smile never left Kreachers face. Do house-elves drinktoo?

What about the sitting room? Harry felt that he was out ofcontrol; he had no idea where shewas going with this.

Oh Harry, it was time for a change. Our baby cant walk around some dark, drafty room andthose book cases were dangerous. Dangerous? Book cases?

Arthurs words from before echoed in Harrys brain. Harry sighed and took off his robe. Takingout his wand, he set about rearranging the furniture and rede corating the bedroom at his wifesinsistent commands. As he set about his work, he couldnt help but notice that Kreachers smilenever left his face. Harry was going to have to re-inspect the liquor cabinet.

A few hours later, their task complete, Ginny felt tired suddenly and drew herself into the bed.Satisfied at their labors, she had a peaceful look about her. She definitely glowed and Harry

couldnt help but think how beautiful she was. In fact, hed never seen her so beautiful and hegently kissed her forehead as he tucked her into the newly moved and repainted bed. She wasasleep almost as soon as her head touched the pillow. Silently, he snuck out and made his wayto the kitchen.

Kreacher was fussing about the kitchen, replacing this or that and generally tidying up the room.Rarely used cooking implements had been strewn throughout and Harry was curious as to whathad been going on while hed been away.

Im sorry about all this, Kreacher. Harry looked around. Whats all this?

Kreacher turned to Harry and now Harry was sure there was a light in the house-elfs eye. It is ofno bother, Master Harry. Such has been the way of my mistresses that were with child.

What do you mean? Harry sat wearily at the table. The house-elf seemed to sense hismasters exhaustion and anxiety. He placed an ice-cold tankard of beer in front of Harry.

Mistress Ginny is nesting. When the time for birth approaches, the mothers prepare theirhomes for the arrival of the youngling. Kreacher put away a large skillet. When house-elfmothers are about to give birth, they must blast a new burrow into solid rock. It is the way ofthings.


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Harry sipped his beer. Maybe Kreacher had something there. What about all this? It looks likeyouve been cooking for an army.

Kreacher bowed, Well, when mothers approach the birth of their baby, they get desires for exoticfood and drink. I can not explain it fully, but Mistress Ginny has been requiring me to preparevery interesting food combinations. The house-elf hesitated.

What? Harry leaned forward, unconsciously finding himself hanging on the first being thatactually was explaining what the blazes was going on.

Im sorry, Master Harry. There will be some requests that I cannot fulfill. Harry was surprised;the little gnome was usually quite resourceful. The mothers can be very specific. They may askfor an item from a particular establishment, a human establishment. Unfortunately, there areplaces in the muggle world that I cannot go.

That was an understatement. Well, Kreacher, you seem to have this figured out. Maybe we canwork out a way for me to find the harder to get items, but you have to keep me informed.

That would be acceptable, I think. Kreacher beamed once more.

***

June turned into July and the team of Harry and Kreacher did their level best to keep pace withthe extraordinary requests that Ginnys cravings came up with. The problem with the cravings, aswith a lot of pregnant women, was that there was no rhyme or reason as to what the motherdesired. In fact, Harry had no idea how Ginny had even had a notion about the foods shewanted; because as far as Harry could tell, there were items shed never had before, ever.

A Twinkie? What in Merlins name is a Twinkie? Kreacher, whod Harry had arranged todisapparate directly into the Office of Aurors, near his desk, shrugged his shoulders.

Who knows what a Twinkie is? Harry raised his voice to the room. Most of the Aurors,especially those in his team knew better than to openly laugh at their leaders predicament, but

Sean Manchester couldnt help himself. He burst into tear-emitting laughter.

Dawlish, ever the diplomat, and the best poker player in the Office helped Harry. A Twinkie is ayellow spongecake filled with crme filling. Its a mass market product from the States, why doyou ask?

Harry pointed to Kreacher. Ginny wants a Twinkie with lemon sherbet and covered with, Harrylooked down at the house-elf to confirm the last ingredient. HP Sauce.

Even the normally stoic Dawlish couldnt help himself. The laughter permeating the roomexploded into a roar and Harry could barely be heard through the din. Right, very funnyeveryone. Does anyone know how to get a Twinkie, ordo I have to go the States myself?

Dont worry, Harry. I have a friend, a wizard, who is at the American Embassy. Ill owl him andsee what we can do. Dawlish wiped a tear from his eye and walked to his office. Within thehour, Kreacher was off with a small baggie that contained two vacuumed packed bundles ofsugary delight called Twinkies.

***

Kreacher and Harry held their own as the weeks progressed through July. As the month ended, itwas all but certain that the baby would be there any day. An office pool had been started toguess the exact date and time while another side bet was on the sex of the baby. Everyone


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seemed to be getting in on the joy of the moment. Harry was finding himself more anxious thanever. Every appearance by Kreacher held the potential of telling him it was time, yet everyappearance brought out an increasingly more difficult to find item. Baguettes from Paris, noimitations. Belgian waffles? Did he have to go to Antwerp for those? What exactly was acaramel macchiato anyway?

Harry also was trying to clear his work plate, ensuring that his team was functioning and that hispaperwork was gone. When the baby arrived, he wanted to take some time off. One night, Harryfound himself alone in the Office, plying his way through any number of mundane reports thatcovered his desk. A loud bang announced the arrival of Kreacher. Exhaustion and stress hadtaken its toll on Harry, so his exasperated greeting was not unexpected.

What does she want now? Honey covered chicken wings? Pickles and whipped cream? Harrycast a weary glance to his house-elf.

Kreacher stood silently, a large and tooth grin on his face. He bowed deeply at the waist. It istime, Master Harry.

It was a simple statement which eliminated all traces of tiredness from his body. Harry jumped upand began hurry to and fro. He grabbed his bag and began to toss everything within sight into it.

As he scampered about, Kreacher reached up grasped Harrys arm. Harry stopped suddenly andlooked down at the house-elf. Harry took a deep breath and nodded to his companion. Kreachertransported the two of them to Grimmauld Place.

Harry and Kreacher arrived in the living room. Arthur Weasley stood there in a bathrobe andpointed upstairs. Molly and the midwife are already there.

Harry ran upstairs and heard the muffled sound of shouts. Was Ginny really calling him thosenames? He gave a pause and then rushed into the room.

Harry held her hand, her grip vise-like and crushing. She gave one last effort and then collapsedback onto the bed. He couldnt see what the midwife was doing and he felt a momentary pang offear. What if something was wrong? Soon, he heard the clear chorus of crying, the sound loud

and strong. The midwife brought a small swaddling bundle over to Harry and Ginny.

Its a boy.

The words pounded into his head. He turned to Ginny, her smile shining as they realized theirgood fortune. The midwife handed the delicate package to Harry, who lay it gently near Ginnyschest. His face was small and round and he had a small tuft of soft black hair. His eyes wereclosed and his brow was furrowed in a bundle of lines and rolls. His lips puckered slightly and hishands moved without direction. The babys skin was pink, darkening to red and he seeminglyrolled his head to get closer to his mothers heartbeat. In a magical world, it was the mostfantastic thing Harry had ever seen in his life.

Molly daubed her eyes as she wiped away her tears. What will you name him?

Ginny looked at Harry and nodded. Harry looked to his mother-in-law.

James. His name is James Sirius Potter. Ginnys eyes glowed. Hed made a good choice.Ginny nuzzled little James and kissed his forehead. She looked up, and Harry moved closer tokiss her. When they pulled apart, Ginny whispered in Harrys ear.

Happy Birthday, Harry.


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It was 1:02 AM, July 31st. He didnt know how shed done it, but Ginny had given him an

extraordinary, hard to top, birthday present, again.

Chapter 62 The Babysitters

Harry was dreaming. He was flying along on his Firebolt, rising high above the clouds. Ginnywas flying next to him and the pair soared high in the sky, laughing at their own daring. Her lightbrown eyes shown quixotically and her long red tresses trailed her as she banked and climbed inunison with him. He heard a slight rustle in the wind, an incessant buzzing noise in his ear. Hetried to keep his focus on Ginny, but the noise was getting louder and louder, like an approachingtrain. He hesitated and looked over towards Ginny. She seemed to be calling his name.Harry Harry

Harry! He woke with a start. His eyes open, he was looking at Ginny whos tired and crossfeatures he could barely make out in the darkness of their room. Its your turn!

Harry lay there confused, and then the buzzing noise in his ear resolved into the banshee wails ofyoung James, who was crying in the nearby bassinet. Harrys brain finally resolved itself intosome semblance of consciousness. Wearily, he nodded and rose from the bed. He shuffled over

to where his son was emptying his lungs of all oxygen in the known universe and gently liftedJames out of his bed. Harry cradled the infant in the crook of his arm. Still barely awake himself,Harry toted the boy off to adjacent room and changed the babys diapers. James, Harry noted,was now fully awake. Harry tried, for a moment, to be cross with the boys timing. It was, afterall, three in the morning, but James eyes were wide and they loo ked at his father with a look thatdemonstrated unconditional love.

Or, as Arthur Weasley told Harry the other day, the boy just had gas. It didnt matter to Harry; heliked the unconditional love explanation better. Harry finished swaddling his son and carried himdownstairs to the kitchen. When he walked into the kitchen, Kreacher shuffled out of small doorleading to an alcove off of the kitchen area. The house-elf said not a word but simply walked upto Harry and handed him a bottle. His task complete, Kreacher did an abrupt about face shuffledback into the door and shut it behind him. Harry held the bottle and stared at place where

Kreacher had disappeared. Shrugging his shoulders, Harry upended the bottle, allowing a fewdrops of the milk to touch his wrist.

In reality, Harry had no earthly idea what the ideal feeding temperature for James bottle wassupposed to be. He figured that somewhere between scalding and ice cold would be just right,and the test on his wrist seemed to fit that criteria. Harry grabbed a new dish towel from thecounter and walked into the sitting room. Through careful negotiation where he laid out athoughtful argument, Harry was able to finally wait out Ginnys decision to return the sitting roomback to its Gryffindor splendor. One remarkable change was the addition of a large, cushionedrocking chair near the fire place. Harry carried James over to the chair and sat down. Carefullysupporting the babys head with his arm, Harry placed the nipple of the bottle between Jameslips and the starving baby began to take long pulls on the milk within. Harry began a gentlerocking motion in the chair, never taking his eyes off his son.

His son. Itd almost been two weeks since his birth and Harry still could not believe that this smallbeing was there in his home. Ginny and Harry had their lives turned upside down and shaken upby the power of the love that they could have for this tiny person. Harry studied every inch of hissons face. He saw how puffy his cheeks became as the baby sucked on his meal. As hisstomach began to fill, James eyes began to grow heavy; the feeling of satisfaction combined withthe warmth of his fathers touch calmed the boy. After a time, the bottle was near empty andJames eyelids were drooping towards closing. Harry removed the bottle and moved to thechaise that sat in the corner of the room. Harry carefully placed the towel over his shoulder andgently brought the baby up to the shoulder. He began to lightly pat the babys back, until he


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heard the tell tale sound of burping. Exhaustion began to build in Harrys bones and he lay backon the chaise, placing James on his own chest. Maybe hed lie there for a few minutes and giveJames the chance to fall back asleep. Soon, Harry was sleeping himself, his son nestled on hischest and in a deep sleep.

Ginny rolled over in her bed and reached an arm to where she normally found Harry. His spotwas empty and she smiled. The first rays of dawn were peering through the shutters on thewindows and she sat upright. She stretched out her arms and knowingly looked over to thebassinet. She rose and pulled on a bathrobe and padded down the stairs, bypassing the kitchenand made beeline for the sitting room. The two men in her life were sleeping soundly on thechaise and she paused for a moment in the doorway gazing at them. Harry was lightly snoring,but he had an arm firmly around his sons body. The baby was lying on his stomach, his headturned to the side, as if his ear were turned to listen to Harrys heartbeat. There was a slightsmile James face. Ginny chuckled and knew her father would probably tell Harry that it was gas.

Ginny moved over to sleeping pair and gently picked James up from his fathers chest. Shelightly kissed him on the forehead and with little movement he remained asleep as sherepositioned him on her arm. She leaned down and kissed Harry gently.

Harry. Her voice was warm, reassuring. Harry stirred and smiled, enjoying the sound of his

name on her lips. Harry.

He opened his eyes and saw them, the rays of the morning light casting a warm glow on thefigure of his family. Good morning.

Good morning, yourself. Ginnys eyes cast a glow of mystery and romance. Youd better getup; youll be latefor work. Harry groaned, the moment was lost. He rose and went upstairs toget ready to go into the Office.

***

Ron came into work whistling a tune. His life was extraordinarily good of late. One thing aboutHermione, when there was something to be accomplished, she approached it with a vigor and a

single-minded focus that was enviable, to say the least. She always completed what she startsout to do. Lately, her focus had been on two things. First, she wanted a complete reconciliationand rapprochement with her husband and secondly, she was fixated on starting a family. Bothobjectives seemed to always have positive net gains for one Ronald Weasley. Ron walked to hisrow of cubicles and looked over to where Harry sat. His friend was at his own desk, hunchedover with his head firmly ensconced on a pile of papers from the inbox, like a pillow. Ron couldswear that he could hear the tell-tale murmur of snoring, but couldnt really be sure. Nonetheless,Ron smirked and walked overto his friends sleeping form and clapped him soundly on the back.

Late night again, mate? Harry jumped up with a start, his eyes were bloodshot and his clothesin haphazard disarray. You look a sight, Harry. Ron started to giggle a bit.

Harry grimaced and attempted to straighten his clothes. It was my night to feed James. Im tired

as Ive ever been. Im barely keeping my wits.

Ron couldnt help but chuckle. I think, my boy, that your wits are gone forever. Just look at mydad, the man is a walking zombie. Harry gave Ron an evil stare. By the way, not that youhavent thought of this, but what are you doing for Ginnys birthday, its tomorrow, you know. Ofcourse you know, silly me, shes your wife, the mother of your child, the light of your li fe, etceteraetcetera, etcetera.

Harrys eyes shot open, he was immediately awake. He shot a glance at a nearby calendar. Thedate read August Tenth. Ginnys birthday was tomorrow. Ron saw the sheer terror in Harrys


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eyes and smiled even more. Youdidnt remember? The look on Harrys face told the wholestory.

Ron, youve got to help me! Harrys brain worked through the dilemma. Can you and Hermionewatch James tomorrow night?

Im sorry, my friend, but Hermione and I have dinner plans with her parents, and I cant back outof them. Ron was almost genuinely sorry for his friend. The greater sum of his emotions,however, was that he was glad that he wasnt in Harrys position. Why dont you ask my dad?

Harry nodded and ran to an adjacent door that led to the Department for the Misuse of MuggleArtifacts. Harry peeked into the open door and saw his father-in-law, Arthur Weasley sittingbehind a cluttered desk and writing on a newspaper. The room was full of an assortment ofconfiscated items and books. The items ran from the mundane, like tissue boxes to the odd, likea miniature guillotine that was nominally used as a cigar cutter. Harry had no idea how thatparticular object had been misused. Arthur looked up from his desk and saw Harrys entry.

Ah, Harry, I so love trying to complete the crossword, but without the proper context, I have noidea what word belongs where. Do you know a four letter word for a hint to a mystery?

Clue. Harry stared at Arthur while the man filled in the answer.

Capital, Harry! Id been trying to figure a way to work Pensieve in there. What brings youaround? You look like youre holding up Arthur searched for a word to fit Harrys bedraggledappearance. admirably. Much like the men with Custer at the Little Big Horn, theyd held upadmirably until the end too, Harry thought.

I was hoping that you and Mrs. Weasley could take James tomorrow night. Its Ginnys birthdayand Id like to take her out. Harrys eyes were pleading, desperate.

Forgot that her birthday was tomorrow, did you? The reddening of Harrys cheeks told theentire story. Im afraid we cant help you tomorrow Harry. You see, Molly and I have our ownplans for tomorrow. With all the children out of the house, weve been rediscovering our

relationship. Weve got tickets to a show and who knows whatll happen after that? Arthur gaveHarry a playful nudge with his elbow and a sly wink. Harrys stomach started turning, but hedidnt know if was from the anxiety of not having a babysitter or contemplating the elder Weasleysnew dating patterns.

Im sure youll figure something out. Youre a resourceful chap, and whats the worse that canhappen? Ginny is a reasonable person. Arthur couldnt help butlaugh, as if Harrys discomfortwas a source of considerable entertainment. Let me know how it turns out. As Harry walkedout of his office, Arthur began to imagine what this weeks Sunday Dinner would bring.

Harry ran through the Office and passed Ron without a word. He had to find Ginny a gift and hewas desperate to find someone to sit with James. Hed have to accomplish both tasks bytomorrow and he had no time to waste. Harry ran out the door to catch a lift to the atrium.

***

Another sleepless night passed, but this time he wasnt awakened by James, but he was keptawake trying to find a resolution to his problem. Andromeda Tonks was not available and Bill andFleur had taken Victoire on a visit to Fleurs parents in southern France. Harry was growingdesperate as his time grew short. He had but one more option and in his current state, he waswilling to try it.


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He arrived home early from work and found Ginny in the sitting room. Shed laid out a large downblanket and placed James in its center. She was making faces and chatting with him. His eyeswere wide, drawn to the dulcet tones of her voice and the glow of her eyes. Harry paused. Shewas still the most beautiful creature on the planet and the joy she expressed playing with theirson, radiated down to his soul. His breath slowed and his heart rate slackened. He walked inknelt on the blanket beside them.

Happy Birthday, Ginny. He kissed her and gave her a bouquet of red and white roses. Id liketo take you out to dinner.

What about James? She was a little anxious given that shed not been apart from her son sincehis entry into the world.

Not to worry, I found someone to sit for us. Itll only be for a couple of hours. We both need thebreak, I think. She smiled, still a little uncertain, but also looking forward for a couple hoursrespite. She ran up the stairs to change. A little while later, she reappeared, ready to go out onthe town.

So, who did you find to watch him? Her question was interrupted by a loud knocking on thedoor. She pulled it open and stepped back in surprise.

Lee, George and Dudley strutted through the opening. George looked around and spotted Jameslying on the floor in the sitting room. He turned to his sister, I heard the little squirt wanted tospend some time with his three favorite uncles. Well, your babysitters are here.

Harry carefully watched Ginnys reaction. She was immediately incredulous, but as she workedthrough the possibilities her face morphed into a completely different expression. It wasntagreement or happiness. Neither was it disappointment or anger. Ginny Potter was a Weasleyand had as big a love for irony as any in her family. A small part of her saw the potential mischiefthat could happen with these three overconfident men watching her small bundle of joy. The lookHarry saw was a kind of twisted, like that of a person who knows that a practical joke was aboutto happen and couldnt wait for the results. .

Ginnys response was syrupy sweet. You all are so kind to do this for us. James is really notrouble at all. Do you have any questions for us? She batted her eyes a bit.

Questions? He eats, sleeps and gets changed. How hard could it be? George snorted.

Perfect, thought Ginny. How hard, indeed? Harry led Ginny from the house and took her to anice dinner out on the town. Later, they walked along the park leading back to their house. Harryreached into his bag and pulled out a carefully wrapped present.

Happy Birthday, Ginny. She smiled and took the package from him. Gleefully, she removed thebright ribbons and tore through the paper. She opened the box within, and pulled out whatappeared to be an old Kodachrome camera. She looked up at Harry.

Its similar to the cameras we use in investigations. It takes a full three dimensional image. Sheraised an eyebrow at her husband. I figured it would come in handy while youre coveringQuidditch matches. You could take pictures of the action, that is, if you want to go back to work.

She stopped for a moment. Shed been torn with conflicting emotions. Part of her wanted to stayhome all the time with James, but part of her didnt want to lose her identity. She loved hermother, but she didnt think that Molly Weaselys life was the one Ginny Potter wanted to have.She felt a little guilty for wanting to have a career and to be a mother. Shed been unable to raisethe issue with Harry, unsure of what his thoughts were on the subject. This simple gift, this small


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gesture told her volumes. He understood her dilemma. He understood her completely and hedknown.

I do want to go back to work, eventually. How did you know, Harry? He shrugged. It wasalways good to have a friend like Hermione who basically knew everything. Shed clued Harryinto what was on Ginnys mind a few days ago. Sometimes it was like taking the N.E.W.T.s withan open book. Ginny gave Harry a huge hug and kissed him deeply.

Well, its still your birthday, what do you want to do next? She thought for a moment and lookeddown at her camera.

Really? I miss James. Lets go home. I just feel like looking at him. Her gaze softened,because her explanation was mostly true.

Harry grinned. Is it just because you miss James or isthere another reason?

She checked the film in the camera. Oh, obviously I have ulterior motives. Lets go.

The almost ran the rest of the way to the house. Carefully opening the door, they walked into thehall. Diapers littered the hallway and silence dominated the space. They inched their way to the

sitting room and found it a shambles. The blanket was tossed up on the ceiling and anunidentifiable residue covered the walls. The couple smiled at each other and moved to thekitchen where pots and pans were strewn about with several opened and half empty babysbottles. A pot was boiling over on the stove and Harry took it off the flame and shut the gas. Hiseyes pointed up the stairs.

They crept up the stairs to their bedroom, which where the devastation from downstairs wasrepeated. The bassinet was upended and clothing was cast around. The three erstwhilebabysitters were sitting on the floor with green and white liquid covering them. Their backs wereresting on the large bed in the middle of the room. On the bed, James lay on his back. Hishands had just discovered his feet and he was grasping them. As if sensing their arrival, Jamesturned his head and smiled, a devilish grin, his dark brown eyes twinkling. Harry thought he wastoo young to be this much trouble, it had to be just gas.

George saw them enter, but couldnt muster the strength to rise. Projectile vomiting! How doesthat much liquid come from so small a person?

Dudley looked up, His crying could raise the dead. Im telling you, I have permanent hearingloss.

Lee didnt even bother to look up. You didnt tell us you gave Kreacher the night off and youdidnt tell us that putting on a diaper could be so dangerous.

Ginny smiled with distinct pleasure. She raised the camera up and centered the lens on the threepathetic men collapsed on her floor.

Smile, everyone! She snapped the shutter and waited for the film to develop. When imageresolved itself, she laughed and turned to Harry.

What a splendid birthday present! Harry laughed and returned his gaze to his son. Jamesburped and giggled at his own ingenuity, but at only two weeks of age, Harry was pretty sure, itonly gas.

Chapter 63 Jealousy and Pie


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The summer progressed rapidly while Harry and Ginny learned the intricacies of being parents.What they found out, ultimately, was that they would never know everything there was to know.Harry constantly felt that he was forgetting something or missing something. He had been abetter than average student, both at Hogwarts and as an Auror, but there was not textbook onchild rearing. Nothing, anyway, that matched the experiences he and Ginny were going through.The fact of the matter was that the times they felt inadequate were far overshadowed by the timesof pure joy they felt as James began to grow. Every day brought a new discovery, a new motion,a new experience and Harry and Ginny cherished watching James discover his world.

James immediately became the center of the Weasley universe and it was no more telling than atthe Sunday Dinner. Each time Harry and Ginny arrived, they were bombarded by constantrequests to hold little James. For his part, the young Mr. Potter seemed to relish the attention.He had a particular affinity for Hermione, who displayed very capable mothering techniques.James cooed for her and his eyes danced every time she talked to him. Aunt Petunia was now aregular at the gatherings and made a distinct fool of herself every time she held James. Not to beoutdone, Molly Weasley and Andromeda Tonks began a friendly competition of seeing who couldget young James to say a word, even though these two supposedly experienced parents knewfull well that actual words were still months away.

Everyone treated the new arrival with great pleasure. Everyone, that is, except young Teddy

Lupin. Hed been the first child of the post-Voldemort era and had, for a time, been the focus ofattention for the family. Now, the arrival of James Potter had changed that dynamic. Even whenVictoire had been born, Teddy still had a place in the eyes of the people gathered here, because,after all, Victoire was a girl. But now, everything had changed. His Uncle Harry barely spoke tohim and Uncle George was more interested in the sounds the little baby made. Ever since thememorial, Teddy started to get the feeling he that he was alone and that he didnt belong. Evennow, his grandmother was doting on the baby. Teddy began to brood and act out a bit. It startedwith small things, but slowly began to progress into full blown rebellion.

Todays party was especially festive because Charlie Weasley was able to make an appearance.Of course, Teddy thought, Charlie paid more than enough attention to James. Hed barelynoticed how much Teddy had grown since Charlie had last been in the Burrow.

Teddy! He felt the grip of the pair of arms grab his waist and squeeze. Normally, he was simplyembarrassed. Today, he was just mad. He tried to ignore Victoire, but the irrepressible cherubwould not be swayed.

You can sit next to me, if you like. Her royal highness had deigned to offer Teddy the ultimateprize, proximity to her person.

I dont want to sit next to you. In fact, I just wish youd leave me alone! Teddy pulled herarmsfrom his waist and walked off, away from the adults. What would it matter, he thought, no onewould notice anyway.

A small tear formed in Victoires eye. She looked around hoping that someone had noticed howrude Teddy had been to her. She glanced at her parents, but they were engaged in some small

talk with Charlie. A lady doesnt tattle, either, she thought. In a huff, Victoire walked off to findCrookshanks. Someone had noticed the exchange, someone who always kept a watchful eye onTeddy and had noticed his darker mood. Andromeda Tonks shook her head and walked over towhere Harry stood talking to Ron.

Harry, could I speak to you for a moment? Harry excused himself and walked over to whereshe stood. I think Teddy is a little jealous.

Harry looked around for his godson, but didnt see any sign of him. What do you mean?


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Andromeda sighed. Hes getting older, Harry and he feels alone. With James around, he thinksweve all abandoned him. He thinks that youve abandoned him.

Thats preposterous! Ive just been busy, thats all. I dont mean for him to feel like I dont lovehim. Harry rewound the events of the past few months, and discovered that Andromeda wasprobably right.

Hes seven years old, Harry. Just likewhen you were his age, hes beginning to understand thathe doesnt have any parents and hes trying to fit in somewhere. Large changes in his world canunsettle him. It would unsettle anyone in his shoes.

It was unsettling for me. Harrys tone was somber, as he remembered. He nodded to her andwalked off to find Teddy.

Teddy had walked out of the Burrow and out to a nearby pond. He was angrily hurling stones intothe pond, watching the ripples on the water. The force of his throws increased with his fury. Hepicked up a good sized rock and looked directly at a duck near the ponds far shore. Teddyreared back to throw the rock.

You dont want to hurt anyone, or anything. Youll regret it. Harrys voice froze Teddy. Teddys

hair turned a bright shade of red and he dropped the stone, heavily into the water.

What do you care? Teddy was sullen, his anger giving way to shame and sadness.

Of course I care Teddy. Youre important to this family.

I dont have a family, cept Gran. I dont have anyone when shes gone. Teddy collapsed onthe ground and buried his head his knees. Harry could hear his sobs and the sound hit himsquarely in the chest.

Thats not true, Teddy. The Weasleys are your family and Im your family. James is your family,too. Harry sat down next to Teddy and put a strong arm around his shoulders. Do youremember when I told you that we were the same? I lost my parents, just like you?

Teddy looked over at Harry and nodded.

Well, there is one difference. I didnt have anyone like you have. You should ask Dudley or myAunt Petunia. Youre very lucky. All these people love you.

Teddy sniffled a bit. I thought that you didnt want to be around me, because of James. Hesyour real son, afterall.

Yes, yes he is and Im sorry Ive neglected you. Im still learning how to be a good godfather anda good dad. Im not perfect, you know. Harry smiled and for the first time that day, Teddy smiledwith him.

I was pretty rotten to Victoire. Teddy stood, and helped Harry up. I guess I should apologize.

Perhaps. Harry stared Teddy down, causing Teddys hair to brighten to a shade of purple. Ilove you, Teddy. You will always be part of my family. Sometimes, you just got to help meremember, but keep this one thing in mind. Teddy looked up at Harry earnestly. You are nevergoing to be alone, ever. Teddy smiled and allowed Harry to take his hand and lead him back tothe party.

Teddy approached Victoire who turned her back to him and raised her nose. Im sorry, Victoire, Iwas a real heel to you. You didnt deserve it.


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The golden haired beauty was surprised at his sincerity and she immediately forgave him,however, being a lady, she decided to let him stew about for a few minutes. When she turnedaround to face him, her eyes grew wide with shock and surprise.

A large pie, twice the size of a normal pie made a graceful arc through the air and landed firmlyon Teddys head. Victoire turned to the source of the pie and spotted George standing besideDudley and Lee, snickering.

I got you, Teddy! Ive been waiting months to get you back and I finally got you! George roaredin triumph.

George Weasley! Ginny walked up to her brother and made to pull on his ear.

This side, sis. George redoubled his laughter, pointing to his one good ear.

Ginny turned a brilliant shade of purple. Teddy watched in awe as he wiped the remnants of thepie from his face. Hes seven! Youre picking on a seven year old boy!

Georges grin grew sheepish. He started it. That was all he could muster.

Ginny dipped a hand into her pocket and removed the photo she took of George and the otherbabysitters. She turned to face the three, Dudley, George and Lee. She waved the incriminatingpicture in their faces.

What you three juvenile delinquents seem to forget is that I work for a widely publishednewspaper! Ginny walked over to Teddy and took his hand. As they walked away, Teddyturned and stuck his tongue out at George.

Lee looked at George. She wouldnt, would she?

Dudley looked over at Lee and then at George. George returned their stares. Yes, I think shewould.

Chapter 64 The Pain of Loss

Dennis Creevey, Cho Chang and Lionel Creevey sat around the dinner table of Lionels home.The conversation was light and Lionel didnt feel the burden of the pain that always seemed tofind him. He was happy that his only remaining son had found someone he cared for deeply. Henoticed how Cho and Dennis rarely let their glances drift too far from each other. Dennis wasworking in the government in some capacity, Lionel wasnt really clear as to what and Cho hadbecome a developer of sports equipment for some game played in their world. That was the keyphrase, their world. The details escaped Lionel and yet, they dwelled on the events and thepeople that inhabited the strange world that had been introduced to Lionel and his wife so manyyears ago.

Dinner wound down and Lionel made to clear the table. Thats alright Dad, well get it. Dennisdrew his wand and began to motivate the dirty dishes towards the kitchen. Lionels face becamea dark cloud.

Dont do that! Dennis cast a quick look at this father, not expecting the harshness of the rebuke.I meanto say, you dont have to do that. I like doing this myself, besides what if one of theneighbors happened by. We still need to be discreet, Dennis.


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Dennis nodded his head and had the wayward crockery return to their spots on the table. He wasstill puzzled by the vehemence of his fathers shout, but decided that it was just a case of theblues. His father had seemed to be in a deep funk, despite the fact that itd been over six yearssince Colin had died. Their mother had passed almost a month later, overcome by the shock ofthe loss of her oldest son. That had left their father alone and the proud, hardworking milkmanhad never seemed to shake the dual blows of the losses. Dennis had some news that he hopedwould help his father lighten his mood, if only for a little while.

Cho and I are getting married! Lionel stood mouth agape. He looked at Cho whose face wasflushed, her eyes downcast. He recovered quickly and went to embrace the two.

Thats wonderful, Dennis. Im happy for you both. He moved to a sideboard and removed awell-used bottle from the cabinet. Id say this calls for a drink. When are you going to tie theknot? He poured three glasses of the amber liquid and handed them out to his son and hisfianc.

Probably sometime in November, we were thinking of doing it on the grounds at Hogwarts.Lionel smiled once more and raised his glass.

To my son and his lovely bride-to-be, may you be blessed in life, marriage and parenthood. The

last caused Chos face to darken more . They touched glasses and drank to the toast. Theymade small talk about the upcoming nuptials. After a while, Dennis and Cho rose to leave, andkissed Lionel goodbye.

Are you sure you will be fine with this Dad? Dennis looked at his father. Areyou okay, Dad?

Lionel looked at his one remaining family member. Dennis had grown. He was well over a headtaller than his father. Dennis was a hulk of a man; he had a broad chest and massive arms, buthe still had the look of the little boy that Lionel had sent off to that place.

Im fine, Dennis. Im just a little tired. Im proud of you, boy. Just remember, take care of eachother. You live in a very dangerous world, and I want to see my grandchildren. Lionels voicewas heavy and low.

Dennis beamed, the confidence of youth combined with experience eking out of his being. Dontworry about a thing, Dad. Im pretty good at this. Dennis winked and walked out the door withCho.

By the time hed cleaned up the dinner plates and tidied up the kitchen, darkness had fallen.Lionel poured himself another drink and decided that he didnt want to turn on the lights. Instead,he fell into the recliner in the living room and turned on the television. He didnt hear the programthat was playing; instead he grabbed a small picture frame that was propped up on the tablenearby. He stared at the picture. It wasnt one of those magical photos that Dennis and his likeused; it was a simple image of Lionel and his wife with the two boys when they were children. Itwas from before the kids knew they were special, before Lionel was convinced to send them offto that school, before Albus Dumbledore walked into his house and convinced Lionel to make the

decision that would take the lives of his oldest child and his beloved Dorothy.

He grasped the picture solidly while his eyes darkened. Hed been brooding more, lately. Hewas happy for Dennis, but how long before his magical colleagues got him killed? Dennis was agood boy. He was a man, now, no longer a boy, but he was immersed in that world and Lionelfeared that there was no way to convince his son of how terrified Lionel was of that secret alienexistence. Now Dennis was going to marry another of his kind, another magic person. Lionelwas sure that hed lose his son, as sure as the sun would rise. The thought caused hisdepression to start to turn to hate and the hate kindled a fire within him. He wouldnt lose his son,not to those people.


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The noise of the television caught his attention. A reporter was on location at a bookstore, itseemed, interviewing a doddering old man, who sat a table, a stack of books displayed.

This is Diane Hoss. Im here at Jacobs Books with Professor Elias Cohen, author of the bookThe Hidden World of Magic. Professor Cohen, many people thought that this was a how-tobook on magic tricks, but youre saying its something different entirely.

The old man had a kind face, the top of his head prominently displaying a receding hairline. Hishair was starkly white and he had a bushy mustache that covered the area from his nose to hislip. He wore a bright red running suit and his eyes were a cool blue, younger than his apparentage.

Yes, Diane. You see, theres a hidden magical world that most humans are kept from. Its as ifa secret society exists in the midst of our own, causing great harm sometimes, but often filling theworld with wonder.

The reporters skepticism was demonstrable on her face. She allowed her eyes to roll faintly,nevertheless, she kept her microphone trained on her guests face.

I dont know why weve been kept from interacting with this world, but Im sure there isgovernment involvement, all the way up to Ten Downing.

But Professor, this sounds like another one of those ubiquitous conspiracy theories; instead ofblack helicopters, you say there are black robes. The reporter was sure shed scored points withher producers back at the station with her deftness at handling this obviously deranged man.

Cohen didnt notice her slight. Instead, he chuckled. I understand that you dont believe it. Itsan interesting story, though, that the most famous secret organizations of our history were relatedto this magical world. The Freemasons, Illuminati, Skull and Bones, or the Order of the Dragon,were all mechanisms for wizards and witches from this secret world to gain entry into ours. Theyare all the same.

The reporter knew that this interview had long passed its point of real value, so she quicklysigned off and the broadcast moved to other things.

Lionel switched off the television and stared at its blank screen for a time.

Filling the world with wonder, that man is an idiot. Lionel brooded at the interview. The haze ofthe alcohol was clouding his head. He has no idea how deadly that world is. Lionel pulledhimself out his chair and made for the door. He was going to tell that professor how wrong hewas.

***

When Lionel arrived at bookstore, he had difficulty finding the man he saw on the interview. The

table hed seen was placed far in the back of the store and when Lionel finally found him,Professor Cohen was sitting idly, not a soul nearby, an untouched stack of books on the table.

Youre that man who knows about the magic world. Lionels voice was gruff, angry.

Yes. Yes, I am. Cohen straightened up and pulled on the bottom of his track suit jacket. Asidefrom the reporter, no one had been there at his book signing. Do you want me to sign a book?


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Im not interested in your bleeding book. Youre wrong. Theres nothing wonderful aboutwizards and witches. Its all rubbish. Cohen was struck by the venom in the mans tone. Itwasnt the tone of a doubter, it was much more real.

What do you mean? Mister? Cohen offered his hand.

Lionel ignored the gesture. My name is Creevey. The world you think you know is dangerousand evil. It killed my son and wife and more people than you can imagine. Its not wonderful atall.

Cohen was really intrigued. In his time, hed met the crackpots and hed been called one too.This man in front of him was genuine and he had to know his story. A sense of anticipationswelled in his chest. This man may hold the key. He may be the one theyd been looking for.

Why dont you tell me about it? Cohen offered Lionel a seat. Lionel paused for a moment, theexertion of his outburst having drained him of the pent up emotions hed been feeling.

You wont believe me. No one ever believes me. The only thing real is that my boy and myDorothy are dead and they were killed by magic. Lionels head drooped, the effects of the liquorand his depression combining to increase the weight on his shoulders.

Cohen head burned in anticipation. The whole point of this book was to try to draw someoneout who could get them a line in to Britains magical society. He was so close.

Ill believe you. Tell me your story, Mr. Creevey. You look like someone with a good one to tell.

Lionel Creevey unburdened his soul. He started with the oddities that began to happen when hisboys were growing up. He told Cohen of the visit from the mysterious headmaster of a peculiarschool that would educate his sons in the ways of their abilities. Creevey spoke of port keys andDiagon Alley, of wands and owls and finally of death and loss.

Their world is dangerous, Professor Cohen. Dont get me wrong, there are good people there,but the good are always fighting evil and their evil ones are very bad. My son, Colin, died fighting

one the worst of the lot. Lionel felt the weight on him slacken. He was relating feelings that hecouldnt even share with Dennis, but for some reason, this strange man before him seemed to bea kindred spirit of some sort. Now my only remaining son is getting married, to a witch no less.He will be a part of that world for rest of his life, how ever long that may be.

Elias Cohen had been waiting for Lionel Creevey for a long time. He savored the opportunity thatthe pathetic man in front of him gave him. Cohen nodded his head at the right times, but wasfixated on the chances that an association with Mr. Creevey might bring.

You know, Ive always believed that if these magic people were less secretive and more opento the rest of the world, theyd beless of a threat. Lionel looked at Cohen, his mind working. Ithink part of the problem is that no one knows about them and if the public did, then maybeeveryone, humans and wizards, would be safer. Cohen placed greater emphasis on the wizards

word. Essentially, he was focusing Lionels grief and pain on the secrecy portion of the equation.

It doesnt matter. They keep to themselves and theyre good at it. I dont know how much you orme could accomplish by just telling folks about them. Lionel shrugged his shoulders. Cohensmiled broadly, his teeth showing beneath the long tendrils of his whiskers.

What if I were to tell you that I had a very powerful sponsor, who had the power to change bothworlds? Wouldnt that be worth your sons life? Cohen went for the kill. Lionel pondered thequestion. Was it possible? Lionel Creevey wasnt sure, but he would do anything to keep Dennisalive. Lionel couldnt bear to think about any other alternative. He would do anything.


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***

Professor Elias Cohen was walking down the deserted street. He had his cell phone to his earand was conducting a vigorous conversation with the party on the other end of the line.

Im telling you Simon, this one is the key. Hes perfect! The voice speaking back to Cohenwheezed, trying to get the words out forcefully, but only managing a whisper.

I hope youre right Elias, were running out of time, maybe only until the end of the year.

I know Simon, but this is the only way. Im bringing Mr. Creevey around tomorrow. Well startthe background with him then. Will you be able to put on a good show? Cohen heard a pauseon the phone.

I want the strongest we can find, Elias. Everything else is secondary. Do you think this Creeveywill know who that is? The man known as Simon broke into a bout of hacking coughs.

Hes already mentioned a name. It keeps resurfacing. The most prominent and apparently themost powerful is a man by the name of Harry Potter. Cohen let his words echo across the

distance.

Good. That confirms some of the other information we have. Bring Mr. Creevey around, Ill beready. Our target is now Mr. Harry Potter. The line fell dead with a click.

Chapter 65 Illumination

His office was a reflection of his power. It covered the entire top floor of his headquarters. He satbehind the expansive desk and surveyed his surroundings. Banks of large flat-screenedmonitors, manufactured by his own company of course, covered a wall to his front. A wide arrayof business programming blanketed the televisions spewing an unending crescendo ofinformation from the multitude of markets that his company traded on. His was the penultimate

position of power in this world, and yet, he still felt powerless.

Simon Clark had risen from the depths of poverty to create the richest conglomerate in the world.Clark Industries was heavily diversified in everything from computers to shipbuilding,biotechnology to military hardware. He was young still, barely thirty-five. Clark was tall and lean,in most respects, the picture of health. He shunned all of the vices that tempted men of hismeans. He didnt drink or smoke and he rigidly monitored what he ate. He wasnt married, andwas not one for casual dalliances. For all of his money and influence, for all of his healthylifestyle, Simon Clark could not stem the flow of the inevitable. He was dying.

Doctors called it the rarest of genetic defects. So rare, in fact, that his was the only known caseof the disease. His body was literally eroding from the inside out. He reclined back in his chair.An innocuous metal pole stood sentinel next to him. Affixed to the pole, a clear plastic bag of

liquid was suspended with a long tube extending from its bottom. The tube ran into his arm,feeding a controlled amount of a special drug that his research division had developed. The drugwas not a cure, in fact, his scientists felt that every time he took a dose of the drug, it literallyremoved a day of life from his frail body, but the drug, when taken, gave him the opportunity tofunction normally. He was once more the titan of industry that his persona portrayed to thegeneral public. After a course of the medicine, he was able to forget, at least for a few hours, thathis time on this planet was limited.

Hed tried every known remedy. Blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, gene therapy andholistic medicine, everything he tried failed without any trace of success. Then he met Elias


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Cohen. Elias, at the time, was an unknown curmudgeon who was peddling an even lesser knowntheory in the form of a book to one of Clarks publishing companies. Elias would have beenunknown to him except for his appearance in Clarks research in the occult. Cohens story wasdifferent. He didnt speak of tricks orreligion. Instead, Cohens theory posited that evolution hadcreated a different race of humans. These humans were imbued with fantastic magical propertiesand, more importantly, life spans more than double ordinary humans. When Clark brought Eliasinto his office, he was amazed when the doddering old man regaled him with stories of themagical world. Clark was a skeptic at first. He cross checked every fact that he could and whathe found was that Cohen was more right than wrong. Their relationship began a pursuit. It was arace against time based on whether they could unlock the mystery of these wizards beforeClarks body succumbed to the inevitable. Theirs was a symbiotic relationship. Clark wanted tolive while Cohen was motivated by the desire to unmask the hidden world. Together, they wouldachieve both their aims in the person of one Lionel Creevey.

***

Lionel Creevey found himself exiting the Regents Park Tube Station to a rainy, dreary Septemberday. He turned the collar on his coat and quickly consulted the small sheet of paper in his hand.Gaining his bearings, he followed along Great Portland Street until he came to where the largeroadway met Weymouth Street. On the northwest corner, a large red brick building rose almost

ten stories in height and extended the length of the block. Lionel hesitated a moment and thenspied Elias Cohen standing in front of the glass entrance to the building. Cohen was in a royalblue jogging suit, completely ignoring the rain pelting his head. Seeing Lionel, Cohen waved andLionel walked to meet with him.

Good, right on time. Elias ushered Creevey into the entrance to Clark Industries. They ignoredthe receptionist and walked straight through the elaborate security apparatus constructed at thefront door. Cohen led him past the bank of lifts to the rear of the building and punched a codeinto a keypad outside a set of lift doors that were separated from the main bank. The lift doorsopened immediately and Cohen pressed the only button on the panel. They rode silently, Lionelseyes were lowered and his mind raced with doubts as to what he was doing. His thoughts wereerased when the doors opened and he walked into another alien world.

Mr. Creevey? A tall, ball headed man walked from around the large desk in the room hedentered. The man walked confidently and he had a pleasant smile on his face. He approachedLionel and gave a nod to Elias, then extended his hand in greeting. Lionel shook his hand andnoticed the firmness and self-assurance behind the gesture.

Im Simon Clark. Welcome, sir. Wont you sit down? The young man invited Lionel deeper intothe office and indicated one of the large comfortable seats in front of his desk. Instead ofreturning to the area behind the desk, Clark sat in an adjacent chair, on its edge, leaning forward.

Its so good of you come. May I call you Lionel? Creevey nodded. You see, Lionel, Im in thebusiness of providing a better life for all mankind. Elias here has told me your story and I thinktheres a way for me to help you and for you to help all of mankind. Lionels interest perked upnoticeably.

What do you mean? Clark smiled.

You see, Elias here believes that a lot of our world and the wizards world a s well suffers fromthe secrecy that they live in. I would think you would know more about this than I do. Lionelagain nodded. In my mind, theres more to this than just knowing about each other. Theres somuch that would benefit all of mankind by our capability to share in the magic worlds knowledge.

Lionel hadnt quite thought about this issue in that light. Hed been fixated on the danger thatliving in a small insular world had brought to his son. Hed never really thought about benefits.


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What do you mean? For the first time, he was open to hearing more.

Did you know what the life span of a wizard is? The blank stare greeted his question. Its up toalmost two hundred years. Lionel gave a look of shock. Wouldnt it benefit all of us to find outwhy and make our world better?

Lionel pondered the question. In the final analysis, he really didnt care. What good was it for hischildren to have a long life expectancy if they didnt survive their world? In his mind, his objectwas to lift the veil of secrecy and allow Dennis the ability to live in the light, free from fear. He toldClark as much.

Clark, for his part, didnt bat an eye. I understand. Believe me, your goals are my goals. Thething of it is, if you can help me, I can help you. Are you willing to work with Elias and myself todo that?

Creevey sat back in his chair. His mind raced at the possibilities. Hed be able to see his sonmarry and have children.

I will. Lionel was committed.

Splendid! Were going to make a better world, for you and your son. Clark rose and offered hishand. Please follow Elias. Were going to ply you for some information, but believe me, whenits all said and done, we will make history. Who knows, maybe young Dennis can work here forme!

Lionel smiled at the notion. His mind pictured Dennis having a normal life with a normal job. Hereadily followed Elias out a door at the side.

***

Clark watched the man follow behind Elias. When he disappeared out the door, Clark felt hisenergy draining from him. He slowly made his way towards his seat at his desk. He dropped into

his chair and hit a small button on his desk. Another door opened and a large, brutish mandressed in a finely tailored three piece suit. His muscles stretched the fabric of his coat and hehad the tell tale bulge of a weapon holstered tucked beneath his left armpit. His brown eyes wereconstantly moving as if looking for a threat. His hair was cropped short and he had a largeforehead and a jutting chin. His bearing was military and utterly deadly. Anthony Stephens wasex-military, a commando, no less. He had a reputation for ruthlessness which had got himmustered out of the service to begin with. He was a deadly instrument of mayhem and he wascompletely devoted to Simon Clark.

Stephens walked to his boss and began the complex process of connecting a vial of intravenousfluid, this time containing a solution designed to replenish Clarks nutrients. Clark nodded atStephens as he felt the cool sensation of the liquid entering his veins. After a moment, Clark satup and focused on a monitor imbedded in the surface of his desk. The image was that of a

conference room and he saw a large table where Lionel Creevey, Elias Cohen and a transcriberkeying into a laptop. From the audio, Lionel was speaking without pause. Clark smiled andturned to his brooding companion.

Prepare your assault team with a maximum load. Well have a target for you soon enough. Thegiant henchman bowed slightly and turned to leave the room. Clark noticed the small smile onhis team leaders face. Stephens was relishing this chance and apparently he hoped that hedmeet some resistance.


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Clark leaned back in his chair and contemplated this opportunity. If he was right, hed not only becured, but hed live a lot longer. He savored the possibilities. Why on earth would he share thispower with anyone? Hed be the most powerful man on the planet. Clark smiled even moredeeply. No, there was no need to share this ability; hed just have to make sure that he was theonly one to reap the benefits of his efforts. The knowledge gained from this venture would haveto be compartmentalized, after all.

***Hours passed and Lionel began to tire. Elias dismissed the stenographer and decided to call it aday. He motioned for Lionel to follow him out the door.

Do you want to see something interesting? Lionel shrugged his shoulders. They walked downa long corridor that led to an open room. The room was filled with display cases much like amuseum. The cases held a variety of wands and robes and other objects that Lionel had onlyseen in the display windows during his visits to Diagon Alley with his sons.

This is the sum total of our knowledge of tha t world. These artifacts were recovered from all overthe world. Lionel spotted a familiar face on the wall. Elias noticed his focus. Yes, thatsBenjamin Franklin. He, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were all members of theFreemasons. Lionel recognized the names, but had no idea who the Freemasons were. They

were all wizards, who rather dwelled in the human world, not their own.

Muggles. Elias looked at Lionel curiously. They call humans, muggles. It sounds kind of likethe name of a pet.

Muggles, then. The wizards still enforced their secrecy, but these secret societies sprouted up.Elias pointed to the gallery. This would have never happened had we not found out about thesesocieties. Cohen lost himself in the moment. Indeed, there were Illuminati members that willplay a key role in their gambit. Anyway, lets get you home.

Cohen escorted Lionel to the front door. With a wave, he watched the tired man walk towards thetube station. Cohen took the lift back to Clarks office and plopped himself in front of the desk.

Clark remained stationary, allowing his medicine to take hold. Well? What do you think?

I think we have a very good opportunity. Elias watched his patron turn in his chair towards him.We can use the Creevey boys wedding to make our move. Potter is sure to be there and wecan use Lionel to gain access to the proceedings.

Another door opened and Anthony Stephens lumbered into the room. Clark turned his headtowards him. Have your team ready to go in six weeks. Your objective is the retrieval of a mannamed Harry Potter.

What about collateral damage? The voice was deep.

Clark looked at Elias. The device will render them impotent so resistance should be negligible.

Clark nodded. Be that as it may, should anyone try to play the hero, use all available means tosecure Potter. I want him alive, all other considerations are secondary.

Stephens snapped his heels together and turned about. Clark let out a sigh and wheezed deeply.Finally, he spoke. Are you sure the device will work? Everything depends on its utility.

It was crafted by one the worlds most powerful wizards over one hundred years ago. Elias wassure.


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How do you know? Clark knew the answer, but he couldnt leave anything to chance.

You know the answer, I was his assistant. Elias steepled his fingers. I was there.

Assured, Clark closed his eyes and allowed sleep to overtake him.

Chapter 66 Illuminati Scientia

The Potters sat around the dinner table enjoying a quiet meal at home. James was seated in ahigh chair and his parents took turns feeding him from jars of food that sat in front of them. Hedidnt much care for the orange goo that his mother was feeding him and disliked the yellow mushthat his father was feeding him. His parents, as usual, were ignoring his insistence that thequality of his meals get better.

Getting married? His mothers squeal caused James to giggle which was fortunate because hewas growing bored with smearing his food on his high chair.

Harry wiped a large section of yellow paste off his sons cheek. Yes, Dennis said they weregoing to hold the ceremony at Hogwarts. I saw him in the training arena.

Dennis had been selected to lead the new Magical Law Enforcement hit team that was beingreconstituted after its decimation during the Morgana crisis. Dennis was ramping up the trainingregimen and using Harrys team as a training cadre for his recruits. In the beginning, Harrysteam of Aurors won every contest, but Dennis diligence was bringing the Ministry Hit Team up tofull proficiency.

Thats wonderful. Ginny fed James a spoonful of orange paste which he immediately pushedout of his mouth with his tongue and smiled at his ingenuity. I wonder what Ill wear? We canget my parents or Andromeda to sit for us. I cant wait. Ginny crammed a bit more of the orangepaste into James mouth and held the spoon to prevent a repeat of his tongue feat. Im going tosee Cho tomorrow at the shop.

Cho was an equipment designer at the Quality Quidditch Supply Shop. Ginny saw her often inGinnys capacity as senior Quidditch correspondent for the Daily Prophet.

Thats great, why dont you try to get a line on a good gift for them? Harry picked up Jamesfrom the high chair and head up the stairs to bathe him. He left Ginny who was scribblingfuriously on a notepad a list of things to do to prepare for the wedding.

The next day, Ginny found herself walking along Diagon Alley towards her job at the DailyProphet. On the way, she stopped at the Quality Quidditch Supply Shop and looked for any signof Cho. Spotting her in a corner of the shop, near a rack of new Firebolts, Ginny almost ran toCho, squealing in delight.

Im so happy for you! She embraced her friend with a crushing hug. Cho took a deep breath,

trying to replace the air that Ginny had squeezed out of her. Is there anything I can do for you?

No, not really, I think weve pretty mu

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