Harry Potter and the Wrath of the Fallen

Chapter 4: Nightmares and Happiness

The Weasleys, with Harry and Hermione, arrived at the Burrow, appearing through the green flames in the fireplace next to the kitchen. They found Percy asleep at the scrubbed oak table. It looked as though he hadn't moved since they had departed several hours earlier. Molly gently shook Percy awake.

"Percy, dear, has George come home yet?"

Percy looked groggy and he rubbed his eyes, "No Mum, I don't think so. I may have missed him while I was asleep but I didn't hear the door open."

"Alright, Percy, why don't you head up to bed? You can take George's old room for tonight," said Molly kindly.

Percy mumbled his thanks and headed off towards the upstairs bedroom.

Molly began making tea for everybody as they took seats around the kitchen table, a solemn atmosphere descending within the Burrow, the events of the evening having pushed the pain of Fred's death to the backs of their minds. Now the absence of George reminded them all of the tragedy that had befallen the family.

After the tea had been poured for everyone, Molly sat and regarded Harry for a minute.

"Harry, love," said Molly, "I know we have agreed not to repeat any of the details of your mission, but I would like you to consider telling George what you three had been doing. It may help George start to come to terms with Fred's death."

Harry looked confused, "How would it help, Mrs Weasley?"

Molly blinked back tears as she answered, "It would give George some perspective of what he and Fred had fought for. I was appalled by your story, but it also helped me to understand why it was important that we fight. It doesn't make losing Fred any easier, but it helped me to understand why he had to fight. For that I am grateful to you, and I think George would appreciate knowing the whole reason why they fought as well."

Harry considered this. He looked at Ron and Hermione and received small nods. "If you think it will help, then I will tell him what I have told you," said Harry weakly, looking back at Ron and Hermione, "But I would appreciate some help telling the story this time."

"Of course, Harry," said Hermione. "How about tomorrow night? That will give everyone a chance to get some rest."

 "Okay," agreed Harry, already starting to dread having to deflect the inevitable questions about his journey to the forest again.

The family sat quietly and finished their tea, each lost in their own thoughts. Ginny rested her head on Harry's shoulder as she tried to stifle a yawn, but Mrs Weasley had already seen it.

"Right you lot, bed time." Molly stood and began clearing away the mugs. "Harry, you're in with Ron, Hermione with Ginny. Charlie and Bill, one of you can share with Percy and the other gets the sofa."

"It's okay, thanks Mum," said Bill as he stood, "I'm heading back to Shell Cottage to make sure Fleur's okay. We'll come over for dinner tomorrow though, if it's not too much trouble."

"Of course not, dear," replied Molly, giving her eldest son a hug before he stepped into the fire and disappeared with a whoosh.

Ron and Hermione bid everyone goodnight as they headed up the stairs. They exchanged a long kiss outside Ginny's room before parting for the night, both feeling a little dreamy following their kiss.

Charlie followed soon afterwards and joined Percy in Fred and George's old room. There was a loud crash as he knocked over a box of novelty joke products which the twins had stored at their parents home. Percy's indignation at being woken so rudely briefly rang throughout the house and Harry found himself smiling. For an instant his world had felt so normal, so comfortable.

He stood to head up to bed, Ginny by his side, when Molly presented him with a spoonful of clear liquid.

"It's Dreamless Sleep potion, dear. I think you could use a night off. Here we go, open up."

Harry did as he was told and drank the potion. It felt cool as he swallowed the liquid, and tasted vaguely of peppermint. Harry thanked Mr and Mrs Weasley as he headed up the stairs to bed.

On the landing, Harry and Ginny held each other for a long while, taking comfort from the closeness they had both been missing for so long. Ginny looked up into Harry's eyes before giving him a tender kiss. They parted as they told each other to sleep well and headed to their beds.

In the kitchen, Molly sat down with Arthur, a worried look on her face.

"Arthur, I'm worried about the kids, particularly Harry."

"I know what you mean Molly. I had no idea Albus had left them such a dangerous task. I would never have let them go if I'd known. At least Harry will sleep tonight." Arthur tried to keep his voice calm, but he felt his own anger rise as he thought of the suffering his children had endured.

"Did you notice that Ron and Hermione didn't even know everything Harry told us tonight? I wonder how much more he is carrying on his own?" said Molly, feeling her throat tightening as her voice began to rasp.

Arthur reached out and took his wife's hand. "I think we may also have a problem with Ginny. I know she suffered at the school this year, but when Harry spoke about the diary in the Chamber of Secrets, I thought she was going to run out of the room. The poor girl just realised she had been writing to a piece of Voldemort, and not just a memory."

"Oh, Arthur, how do we protect them?" Molly started to cry as her heart broke for her children.

"All we can do is be here for them if they decide they need to talk, but they will probably talk to each other before coming to us, so we should give them some space. They're good kids, and in time they will start to recover. In the meantime, I will talk to Kingsley tomorrow and inform him that Harry, Ron, and Hermione will be staying out of the public eye for a while. They don't need to be paraded around the country and put on public display, or have any reporter's yelling questions at them right now."

Molly looked at her husband. She knew she ruled the roost, but when a crisis threatened the family Arthur would lose all trace of his eccentricity and fun loving nature, and take control without hesitation. She loved both sides of her husband, and she marvelled at his ability to see clearly when others panicked. He made her feel safe when she was at her most vulnerable, and for that she had devoted her life to this man. She stood and smiled down at Arthur.

"Come to bed love. I think we could use some sleep too."

                                                               *

 

As Molly and Arthur turned in for the night, Kingsley Shacklebolt and Minerva McGonagall sat in the Headmistresses office at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. They were deep in conversation, trying to determine the best way to help Harry, and inform Molly and Arthur Weasley of their concerns without Harry feeling that he was being betrayed.

Minerva McGonagall suggested that they should also question Hagrid, as he had been the one who carried Harry back to the castle during the battle, and he may know what had happened in the forest. Kingsley agreed and headed back to the Ministry, asking Minerva to notify him of an appropriate time in the morning for a meeting with Hagrid in her office.

Minerva then retired for the evening, her sleep fitful as Horcruxes and Harry Potter haunted her dreams.

                                                               *

 

"GINNY... Nooooo."

Ron was startled as he looked wildly around his pitch black bedroom. He had been woken from his sleep by a scream which came from inside his room. Harry, he thought, alarmed that his friend was in apparent danger and had screamed Ginny's name.

He could hear running footsteps heading towards his room from all over the house, and knew his family was on the way. Ron lit the lamp and turned to face Harry. The colour drained from his face as he saw Harry thrashing in his bed, his face contorted in agony.

Molly and Arthur Weasley came through the door and immediately knew something was wrong. They pulled the sheet covering Harry off and were shocked by Harry's appearance. He was wearing only a pair of jeans, his body deathly pale as his back arched and the sweat glistened over his face and chest. Arthur and Molly were both visibly shaken by the sight.

Arthur moved to the bedside and tried to hold Harry still. He was afraid Harry might hurt himself if he continued to thrash so violently.

"Ron," shouted Arthur Weasley, "try and hold his legs still."

Hermione and Ginny came into the room; Ginny's face was ashen and she was having trouble drawing breath. Hermione tried to help Ron hold Harry's legs down as Harry's body convulsed violently. Hermione began to cry as she held onto Harry's ankles, unable to think clearly. None of her books had prepared her for this.

Charlie and Percy entered the room last and instantly went to assist their father. Molly remained by the doorway with Ginny, terrified for Harry. She knew he had taken the Dreamless Sleep potion, but it had not been enough to stop the nightmares. Molly looked at Harry's chest and felt her body go cold.

"Arthur, he's bleeding."

"I know," Arthur growled from the effort of trying to restrain Harry. "If I can wake him up I'll fix his chest. Go and contact St Mungo's, I think we're going to need some help here."

Molly nodded, her eyes wide, but she didn't move. Instead she watched as Ginny walked slowly to the side of the bed and placed her hand on Harry's chest. Harry instantly stopped thrashing and became calm as he fell back onto the mattress. The Weasley's and Hermione all exchanged looks, disbelief etched on all of their faces. Charlie and Percy let go of Harry and moved back to the door with Molly, unsure of what had just happened.

Arthur stepped back over to his wife, "We'll need a healer, Molly... and some Dittany if we have any." Molly took a deep breath and started to leave the room.

"No," said Ginny forcefully, stopping her mother in her tracks. "We already tried Dittany and it didn't work."

Ginny began using the sheet that had been pulled off the bed to dab at Harry's chest. A small amount of blood had started to ooze out of the wound on his chest.

Molly was suddenly angry, "Ginevra, you knew about this and you didn't tell me?

Before Ginny could respond Harry suddenly sat up and opened his eyes. The assembled Weasley family and Hermione recoiled in alarm as Harry's eyes shone unnaturally brightly for a second, before returning to their regular green shade. Harry looked around at the people in the bedroom, finally bringing his gaze to Ginny.

"Ginny," whispered Harry, "you're still here."

Ginny put her forehead against Harry's. "I'm here my love."

Molly and Arthur looked at each other, concern in their eyes.

"Alright, everybody out," ordered Molly, "I need to have a look at Harry."

Ginny looked at her mother, defiance in her eyes. "I'm not leaving."

Molly was going to object but Arthur leaned over to her and spoke softly into her ear. "Ginny should probably stay, Molly. She can keep Harry calm while you have a look at him."

 Molly scowled for a second before reluctantly nodding. "You send for the healers, Arthur, and I'll get started here."

"No," rasped Harry. "No healers...  Madam Pomfrey, get Madam Pomfrey." 

Arthur left the room, taking Charlie, Percy and Ron with him. Hermione remained at the door, tears falling from her eyes. She knew now she should have said something to Mrs Weasley earlier, but she had not seen anything like this coming.

Harry lay back down as Molly moved to him. Ginny held his hand and mopped his brow, trying not to show the fear in her eyes as she looked at Harry.

"Alright, Harry, dear," soothed Mrs Weasley, her demeanour now that of the caring healer. "Can you remember what you were dreaming about?" she asked, as she began to inspect the wound on Harry's chest.

"Only fragments," replied Harry. "I remember red eyes and a green flash, Ginny standing in a forest clearing." Harry tried to concentrate but the images were already fading from his memory.

"Would you care to explain how you got this?" asked Mrs Weasley, indicating the ugly burn on Harry's chest.

Molly noticed the fear flicker in Harry's eyes, but for the life of her she could not think of any reason for Harry to be so scared of talking about his injury. The bright flash in his eyes was a far more concerning event to Molly than the chest wound, but she didn't even know where to begin with that troubling issue. There was something strange at play here and she would not rest until she found out what was going on.  She had already lost one son; she would not lose another if she could help it.

Harry hesitated, unable to answer Mrs Weasley. He looked up at Ginny and could see she was frightened. Harry also knew what Ginny was about to ask. He gripped her hand tightly.

"For you," whispered Harry, seeing tears well in Ginny's eyes, as he felt a lump form in his throat.

Harry faced Mrs Weasley as he tried to force the words out.

"Voldemort hit me with a curse," he said weakly.

Molly was not shocked by this revelation, but she didn't know of any curse that left this type of mark. She hoped Poppy Pomfrey would be able to help when she arrived. Hermione also didn't seem surprised as she remained standing in the doorway.

"Did this happen when you went into the forest, Harry?" asked Hermione, biting back on her anger at Harry and at herself.

"Yes."

Molly continued to examine the wound. "Do you remember what curse Voldemort used?" she asked.

"Yes."

Molly looked sharply at Harry, ready to berate him for making this so difficult, but she held her tongue as she saw the tears running down his face as he and Ginny looked at each other. The poor boy is terrified. Arthur was right; she would have to let him talk in his own time.

"Harry dear, it's alright," soothed Molly, "take a moment to calm down and then tell me when you're ready."

Arthur Weasley popped his head into the room. "Molly, dear, have you got a minute?"

"Of course," Molly replied to her husband, before turning back to Harry and Ginny. "Look after him Ginevra. Make sure he stays calm." Ginny nodded at her mother's words, her eyes never leaving Harry's.

Molly moved out of the bedroom, taking Hermione by the elbow as she passed. "Come on, dear."

Once in the corridor Arthur looked at his wife and Hermione, worried by the troubled expressions on their faces. He led them downstairs to the kitchen and gave them both a cup of hot tea. He poked his head into the lounge room and found Ron, Percy and Charlie all reclined to various degrees as they tried to get a little more sleep. Arthur ducked back to the kitchen.

"I have spoken to Madam Pomfrey," began Arthur, "but she cannot leave Hogwarts tonight as her hospital wing is still half full of the injured from the battle. I also contacted St Mungo's and got much the same response, except they are completely full until tomorrow at the earliest. They said if we take him to St Mungo's they'll fit him in as he is Harry Potter."

Hermione rolled her eyes and huffed. "That's the least they could do."

Molly put an arm around Hermione. "Well the bleeding has stopped and he doesn't seem to be in any physical pain at the moment," said Molly. "I'm more concerned that whatever nightmare he was having was powerful enough to break through the Dreamless Sleep potion, and I can't begin to imagine what caused his eyes to flash like that."

Arthur nodded, "I've only seen eyes flash like that once before. Voldemort's eyes flashed red during the battle at Hogwarts."

Molly gave an involuntary shudder as the thought settled into her mind. "We'll leave Harry be for now as St Mungo's would be swamped with reporters if we took him there. Tomorrow I will go to Diagon Alley and get all the books and supplies I can find for treating cursed wounds. Hermione, I'd appreciate it if you would accompany me." Hermione sniffed, as she nodded.

Arthur thought his wife's desire to treat Harry herself was a good idea; after all, Molly had been an excellent healer before Bill was born; and he knew Harry would be far more comfortable here than at St Mungo's. But he still wanted to cover the bases.

"I'll get Kingsley onto it as well. In his work as an Auror he might have seen something like this before," said Arthur as another thought crossed his mind. "Every time we ask Harry about that injury, he draws a little further into himself." Hermione and Molly looked at Arthur curiously. "We should try and avoid mention of any problem unless Harry brings it up himself. If we can make him feel safe and comfortable he may be more inclined to let us help."

Molly agreed and returned to Ron's bedroom to finish her ministrations over her first patient in twenty years. She stopped at the doorway of the bedroom and almost smiled at the sight that greeted her. She quietly walked back down the stairs until she could see Arthur from the first floor landing.

"Arthur, honey, come and have a look at this," whispered Molly as she waved for her husband to join her.

Arthur came up the stairs, a quizzical look on his face, followed by Hermione. When they reached the door to Ron's room all three of them smiled at the scene before them.

Harry and Ginny were laying on the bed, holding each other in their arms, their foreheads resting together. Arthur, Molly and Hermione could see the tracks of the dried tears on both Harry and Ginny's faces; however they both appeared to be perfectly calm as they slept peacefully.

Arthur walked quietly into the room and pulled the covers off Ron's bed, then laid them over Harry and Ginny. As he left the room he turned the lamp down and began to shut the door behind him.

"Leave the door open, Arthur," said Molly.

                                                               *

 

Kingsley Shacklebolt sat in his office at the Ministry of Magic. He was already tired as only his second day as interim Minister began. His late night with Minerva McGonagall had left him troubled and he would have to resolve many problems today, not just Harry Potter's worrying psychological state.

Kingsley looked at the large pile of paperwork in front of him, mildly surprised that the previous administration had even bothered with paperwork. He was eyeing the fireplace in the corner of his office, thinking that a clean slate on the paperwork could be achieved with only a minor blaze. His brief daydream was interrupted when one of his secretaries knocked on his door.

"Come in," he called, wondering what could have happened that would require him to be notified.

"Minister," began his secretary, "Arthur Weasley has requested a moment of your time. He wishes to discuss a matter of some importance with you but would not provide any further details. Should I put him through, sir?"

If Arthur Weasley wanted a moment of his time it probably wasn't going to be for a good reason.

Kingsley stood and started making his way over to his fireplace. "Put him through," he said as he dismissed his secretary with a wave.

The fireplace erupted into green flames and Arthur Weasley's disembodied head appeared before him. Kingsley was concerned as he looked at his friend. Arthur's face looked tired and grim, and Kingsley had a sinking feeling Arthur was about to add to his already considerable worries.

"Morning Kingsley," said Arthur.

"Morning Arthur, what can I do for you this fine morning?"

"It's about Harry, Kingsley," began Arthur, and Kingsley felt his stomach drop. "We had an incident at the Burrow last night and I need some assistance trying to determine what our course of action should be."

Kingsley was suddenly very worried. Should we have contacted Arthur and Molly as soon as we learned Harry's secret? thought Kingsley.

"What happened, Arthur?"

Arthur explained about Harry's nightmare through Dreamless Sleep potion and the mark on his chest, but most troubling of all was a bright flash in his eyes when Harry finally awoke. Once Arthur had finished, Kingsley considered his answer carefully for a minute.

"Arthur, Minerva and I watched Severus Snape's memories last night and we think we know what has traumatised Harry so badly. I need to gather a few more facts today to confirm my suspicions. I think it would be best if Minerva and I visited you tonight, along with Hagrid, and explained everything to you." Kingsley paused for a moment before continuing. "As for the matter of flashing eyes, it is not something I have come across before but I will ask some of our researchers in the Records Department to look into it."

Arthur looked relieved. "Okay, Kingsley, I'll tell Molly to expect three more for dinner."

As Arthur's head disappeared from the fireplace Kingsley walked out of his office and spoke to his secretary, "Please contact Minerva McGonagall at Hogwarts and inform her I will be arriving there in twenty minutes."

                                                               *

 

Harry stirred from a restful slumber. He felt warm and comfortable, like somebody was holding him. He opened his eyes.

Ginny was lying next to him, her arms wrapped around his body, her big brown eyes watching him intently.

"Good morning, my sweet Harry," said Ginny softly, caressing Harry's cheek.

Harry smiled at Ginny, hoping he didn't look too startled.

"Good morning, beautiful girl," he said.

Ginny leaned over and gave Harry a long kiss good morning. Harry felt his heart begin to race as he kissed his beautiful Ginny. Something felt amiss to Harry but he decided whatever it was could wait a little while longer.

Ginny broke away. "How do you feel?" she asked with concern in her eyes.

Harry thought about it for a second. He remembered having a terrible nightmare and waking to find the Weasley's and Hermione crowded around him. He recalled Mrs Weasley examining his chest and he recalled the blood. Most of all he remembered Ginny, focusing on him as he drew comfort and strength from her touch. After that he remembered only the warm embrace of sleep.

Harry looked at his chest and saw that the burn was still there, but no pain emitted from it for the first time since he had been struck by the curse.

"I feel... good," said Harry in amazement. "I feel really good."

Ginny smiled as she felt the tension leave her body. She knew her touch had calmed Harry last night, and she was glad he had been able to finally sleep peacefully. She thought back to last night and to Harry's distress.

Her mother had asked Harry about the curse that had hit his chest and Ginny had worried that Harry might be falling apart as he cried and looked to her for reassurance. Then her mother had left the room and she had laid down next to Harry and held him. They had both cried for several minutes, exchanging tender kisses as Harry tried to build his courage to answer her mother's question.

Eventually the tears had stopped and they had gazed at one another. Harry had told her he loved her before he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep. Despite her concern, Ginny felt elation run through her and had closed her eyes to join Harry in blissful sleep.

Ginny remembered waking to someone gently shaking her shoulder. She had opened her eyes to see Harry and she thought her heart might burst with joy. Harry was really there and he was all hers. She had rolled over and was horrified to see it was her father who had been shaking her awake. Her eyes had widened in alarm but her father had only smiled kindly down at her.

Her father had told her to stay there with Harry, let him sleep and make sure he was alright. The rest of the family were heading out but would be home in time for lunch. That had been two hours ago and since then she had lain beside Harry and listened to him breathe, watching his chest rise and fall, and marvelling as her own breathing began to match the rhythm of Harry's.

As Ginny was lost in her thoughts, the niggling concern in the back of Harry's mind suddenly became clear to him.

"Gin, why are you in bed with me?" he asked, looking at the open bedroom door and wondering if Mrs Weasley's wrath would be worth being found in bed with Ginny.

 "Because that's where you are," she answered innocently, although Harry thought he could see mischief behind her sparkling eyes.

He decided Mrs Weasley's wrath was indeed worth this. He had woken up to find an angel next to him and he would remember that feeling forever.

"Your parents may become somewhat angry if they find us like this," said Harry a little shakily.

Ginny nuzzled Harry's neck. "It's okay Harry, Dad woke me before he left and told me to stay here in bed with you." Ginny giggled as she looked at Harry and saw his surprise. "I was happy to do as I was told."

Harry sat up in the bed, taking the covers with him. He looked back and saw Ginny was wearing only her flannel pyjama top and a pair of cotton shorts. Harry was slightly alarmed to find he was only wearing a pair of jeans.

"I think we had better get up before your mother decides we need a wakeup call," said Harry, still a little doubtful that Ginny had been allowed by her father to share his bed. While he may be of age, Ginny still had a number of months to go before turning seventeen and this was her parent's house.

Ginny put her hand over Harry's shoulder and gently pulled him back down. Harry suddenly found he had no great desire to resist.

"It's okay, my sweet Harry, nobody is here but us, and I have been told to look after you, which I have every intention of doing."

Harry grinned, "Does that mean you'll get me breakfast?"

Ginny responded with mock indignation before pulling a pillow out from under Harry's head and dropping it across his face.

"You prat," said Ginny as she rolled on top of Harry. She lifted the pillow off his face and felt herself melt as she looked into his grinning face, his emerald eyes penetrating into her very soul. This was the joyful Harry she had loved every summer, watching from her bedroom window as he had played Quidditch with her brother's in the nearby field, and she was glad to see him again.

Ginny decided a small amount of revenge was in order for Harry's bad joke.

"I would have given you anything you wanted," her voice sultry and full of promise, "and you chose breakfast, my sweet fool," sighed Ginny, enjoying watching Harry's eyes widen as he realised he may have just made a big mistake.

"Ah... well," Harry was suddenly lost for words.

Ginny gave Harry an impish grin as she leant down and began to kiss him tenderly. Soon the tenderness was replaced by her yearning as she felt Harry respond to her touch, wrapping his arms around her body. She knew they should not go too far right now, but as they both started to lose themselves to the moment she wondered if she could stop; or if she wanted to.

A loud crash from downstairs caused both Harry and Ginny to flinch. They both looked at the bedroom door and then back at each other, grinning as they hastily rearranged themselves to their former sleeping position. Ginny let out a snort as Harry made very sure the blankets covered him completely from the waist down.

They had waited only a minute before Mrs Weasley appeared in the doorway.

"Good morning, dears," she said brightly, "why are you still in bed? Have you had anything to eat yet? Ginny, let the boy get dressed and come and help me in the kitchen. Harry dear, you can borrow some of Ron's clothes until we can get you some of your own." Molly left as quickly as she had arrived, leaving only the echo of her words in her wake.

Ginny and Harry looked at each, both feeling somewhat bewildered.

"What just happened, Gin?" asked Harry, as he sat up in the bed.

Ginny shrugged. "I think that was Mum's way of coping with me being in bed with you."

Harry laughed nervously. "Maybe we should go down and talk to her about this."

"Yeah, that's probably a good idea, but I would get dressed first if I were you Mr Potter."

Harry gave Ginny a quick kiss, before rolling out of bed and making his way across the room to open Ron's cupboard. Ginny looked at Harry as he started his search for clothes that might fit him. He was still very pale, and his body looked almost gaunt. A number of bruises covered his back which Ginny hadn't noticed before. What did they do to you, my poor sweet Harry?

As Harry pulled a clean shirt out of Ron's cupboard, he turned around to see Ginny looking at him from the bed. Ginny looked deep in thought, as if she were far away, looking through him rather than at him.

"Gin, are you okay?" asked Harry softly.

Ginny's eyes swam back into focus. "I'm fine," she said, getting up from the bed and heading to the door. "I'll see you downstairs in a minute."

Ginny blew Harry a kiss and left the room. Harry suddenly felt cold and he was sure the room had dimmed a little.

                                                               *

 

In the kitchen, Molly was making a very late breakfast for Harry and Ginny. She had not been surprised to find them still in bed and she fervently hoped they had not succumbed to any other desires while she was out. Molly knew love when she saw it, and she was reminded of her initial romance with Arthur many years ago.

They had only been sixteen themselves when they fell in love, and while she would tell her only daughter to wait until she was of age before starting a full physical relationship with Harry, she also knew she would feel like a hypocrite as she said it. She and Arthur had barely made it a week before giving into temptation but she had always contended that they were made for each other and it was inevitable, so why stand in nature's way?

Molly's main concern was that she felt the same sense of destiny and inevitability about Harry and Ginny. They would make each other so happy, and support each other without question. But Ginny was her baby and her only daughter, leaving her with some conflicted emotions. She had decided she would not interfere with their relationship, but first, she was determined to make sure Harry was going to survive long enough to enjoy it.

Molly had returned from Diagon Alley, Ron and Hermione in tow, carrying bundles of medicinal wares and books on healing. She would start to treat Harry today but she would need to talk to Ginny first and explain what she and Arthur were going to try and do. It would be hard enough to treat an unwilling patient, let alone an unwilling patient who was abetted by the girl he loved.

Molly would start simply by feeding Harry and trying to put some weight back onto him. She had started up the stairs to rouse Harry and Ginny for breakfast before she had stopped, an unsettling thought occurring to her. She had returned to the kitchen, picked up the pile of newly acquired books off the table, and promptly dropped them onto the wooden floor. The books made a resounding crash and Molly gave a satisfied smile. That should ensure I don't see anything I have enough trouble just thinking about, thought Molly to herself as she again made her way up the stairs.

After Mrs Weasley had dropped the books onto the floor, Ron and Hermione had come running back into the kitchen from the lounge room, having been startled as they cuddled on the couch. They had arrived to see Mrs Weasley traipsing up the stairs, and Ron looked to Hermione with a confused expression on his face.

"What the bloody hell was that all about?"

Hermione merely smiled. "I think your mother was just making sure the coast was clear."

"Coast... what are you talking about, Hermione?" asked Ron as Hermione took his hand and led him back to the couch in the lounge room.

"Oh, Ronald, you really are such an innocent boy, aren't you?"

It took another minute before finally; Ron could be heard voicing his disgust at what Hermione had been suggesting.

                                                               *

 

Half an hour later Harry and Ginny sat at the kitchen table, quietly eating breakfast as Ron hovered nearby, picking bits of food randomly off the table as he indulged in a second helping of breakfast. Mrs Weasley stuck her head in through the back door, holding a large white chook in her arms.

"Ginny, dear, could you give me a hand for a minute?"

"Yes Mum," said Ginny as she stood up from the table. She gave Harry a kiss on the top of his head, glared at Ron as he made a gagging noise, and stepped out the door into the warm sunlight.

Ginny saw her mother across the garden by the chicken coop, unceremoniously throwing the chook back into the enclosure.

As Ginny reached her mother she became nervous as she saw the serious look on her face. This can't be good.

Ginny was apprehensive, but she decided she would try and hold her composure and listen to whatever her mother had to say.

"How's Harry feeling, Ginny?" asked Molly.

"He said he felt good when he woke up, and I haven't seen him wince in pain or hold his chest at all today," replied Ginny, realising it was true as she said it.

"Ginny, Harry needs treatment for that burn, among other things, and I would very much appreciate your support." Ginny nodded as her mother continued, "Whatever happened to Harry was obviously very traumatic for him and he seems to be terrified of even discussing it."

Ginny could feel a flicker of fear as she listened to her mother. She had not expected this.

"What do you want me to do, Mum?"

"I need you to support Harry, and to reassure him that what we are doing is going to help him. I know you want to protect him, but right now he may need to be protected from himself. Do you understand, love?" asked Molly, concerned that she might be asking too much of her daughter as she saw Ginny's eyes harden.

"I will do everything I can to help Harry," said Ginny, determination in her voice.

Molly was pleased. "Good girl. Your father has informed Kingsley about last night's events and he thinks the Minister may be able to help. We shall learn more tonight when Kingsley arrives. For today, I will feed him and patch up his chest, and you make sure he stays calm. We could be in for an awkward evening." Molly gave a small smile and rubbed her daughters arm.

Ginny knew her mother was right. She also knew she would do whatever it took to help Harry.

"Yes, Mum. I'll look after him."

Molly hugged her daughter and then started leading her back to the house.

"Now, about you sharing a bed with Harry last night..." began Molly. Ginny froze on the spot as she began to panic

"Nothing happened, Mum, I swear," interrupted Ginny quickly.

 Molly turned to face her daughter and gave a sigh as she saw Ginny blush furiously. Nothing indeed, young lady, Molly thought to herself. She smiled to herself as she realised she had finally found a subject Ginny didn't appear to be able to lie about so easily.

"Ginny, your father and I discussed this earlier and have decided we shall let you and Harry share a bed providing I can rely on you to show some restraint while you're under this roof, do you understand?" she said sternly.

Ginny could feel her face burning and she didn't trust herself to say another word. She nodded and gave her mother a hug.

Molly chuckled as she held her daughter, "I don't think I could be bothered trying to catch you and Ron as you tried to sneak about the house. And this morning Hermione was telling me about the charms they used to hide while they were on the run. Apparently they could host a Quidditch match in Ron's bedroom and I'd never know a thing about it."

Ginny looked at her mother and smiled, "Thanks Mum, you're the best."

"Come on Ginevra, let's go and make sure your Harry has been missing you already."

Molly and Ginny walked back into the Burrow, Ginny almost skipping as she went.

                                                               *

 

"Thank you Hagrid, I know that was very difficult for you," said Kingsley Shacklebolt kindly, as Hagrid blew his running nose into a large cloth handkerchief.

So that's it, Kingsley thought to himself as he sat back and looked around the Headmistresses office at Hogwarts. Hagrid had confirmed the last piece of the puzzle for Minerva McGonagall and himself. It had been difficult as Hagrid had promised Harry he would never tell anyone of what he had witnessed in the forest, but Hagrid had broken down and told the whole story after learning that Harry was in some kind of trouble.

Minerva stood and paced to the empty fireplace. She suddenly felt cold as she tried to comprehend what Harry had done. He had come to the school to find and destroy Horcruxes, and instead ended up in the middle of a battle. Half way through the battle he had discovered that the only way to stop Voldemort was to let himself be killed because a piece of Voldemort was inside him. So he had walked calmly into the forest, stood before his enemy without defending himself, and let Voldemort kill him. That he had lived appeared to be down to some sort of an anomaly and not something Harry knew would happen.

The image of Harry crying on the floor following the battle came back to her, and she now understood his trauma. He would be very reluctant to discuss what he had done because it would mean acknowledging that Voldemort was a part of him, and that he had decided to die without saying goodbye to anyone. She feared Harry may come apart soon.

Minerva let out a breath she didn't realise she had been holding. Molly and Arthur would be informed in a few hours and they would all work to put Harry back together, before he became the war's final casualty.

                                                               *

 

The peaceful morning slowly passed into the afternoon at the Burrow. Molly and Hermione had been reading the Healers books looking for ideas to assist Harry, while Ron caught up on his much needed home cooking.

Arthur had returned to the Burrow with Charlie, Percy and George. Molly had put George to bed in his old room as he had apparently not slept for over two days and looked as if he could barely stand.

After George was asleep, Percy had announced his intention to go to the Ministry, but had promised to return for dinner. Arthur and Charlie sat at the kitchen table with Ron and began to discuss the arrangements for Fred's funeral.

Meanwhile, Harry and Ginny sat together on the grass under a shady tree by the pond beyond the garden. The leaves of the tree made a gentle rustling sound in the soft breeze as Ginny lay back against Harry, her head resting on his chest as he leant against the tree. They sat in silence, both enjoying the peace and quiet.

They had talked briefly about Harry's injuries, but after assuring Ginny that he felt alright, Harry had been reluctant to continue discussing the subject, so Ginny had dropped it. She had worried that her mother's prediction of an awkward evening might have been a little optimistic, as Harry would not even discuss the matter with her. She was now becoming afraid that Harry might react very badly at the dinner tonight. So she lay here with Harry, feeling him start to relax and hoping she had the strength for tonight.

Harry could sense something was amiss. Mrs Weasley and Hermione were reading medical books and Harry didn't for a second believe it was a coincidence. He had decided he would compromise and let them try and treat his injury if they would not ask any more questions about it.

The afternoon crawled by and Harry began to feel a calmness come over him. He was with a young woman who loved him and today that was all he needed.

Mrs Weasley finally broke their solitude as she came wandering out to the pond. When she had left the house she had been sorrowful as she thought of George and Fred, and then she had seen Harry and Ginny together as she walked slowly towards them and she had felt such joy for them. They were so content to be in each other's company, and looking at them, she had briefly wondered why it had taken them so long to find comfort in each other.

"Ginny, Harry," called Mrs Weasley, hoping they didn't feel like she had been keeping an eye on them, "It's time to come inside, dinner will be served soon and you need to get cleaned up."

Harry and Ginny both rose from their place by the pond and walked slowly back to the house. Harry felt tired but happy as he made his way in through the back door of the Burrow, the sun setting slowly behind him.

As Harry entered the kitchen he saw Hermione trying to hide the Healers books under a copy of the Daily Prophet.

"It's alright Hermione," said Harry as he turned to Mrs Weasley, "I think we should try and treat the burn. I just can't answer any questions about it yet."

Mrs Weasley nodded as she shared a look with her husband, who remained seated as he smiled at his wife. Hermione looked relieved as she launched into a spirited speech about the various curse remedies she had been studying, and which she felt were the most likely to achieve the best results.

Harry and Ginny both grinned at Hermione as Mrs Weasley tried to calm her down.

"Yes alright, dear. We will get to all that a bit later." Mrs Weasley turned to Harry, "Are you ready to talk to George, love? I think we should do it before dinner."

Harry felt his breath catch in his throat for a second.

"Yeah, okay. Let's get this over with," said Harry tightly. As he headed towards the stairs with Mrs Weasley he noticed that Hermione, Ron, Ginny and Mr Weasley all followed, and at the base of the stairs they were joined by Charlie and Percy from the lounge room. Harry stopped and looked at everyone around him.

"You didn't think we'd make you do it alone, did you Harry?" asked Charlie, a small smile on his face.

Harry felt so relieved. This family would protect him as if he were one of their own, even while he tried to justify why one of their number was dead. He made his way up the stairs to George's room and stood outside the door with Mrs Weasley. She gave him an encouraging smile and knocked on the door. Without waiting for a reply she opened the door and stepped into the room. Harry followed Mrs Weasley into the bedroom and felt his heart skip a beat as he saw George.

George was standing in the corner of the room, his back to the door, looking at his own reflection in the wall mounted mirror. His face was a mask of agony as tears rolled down his cheeks, as he looked at Harry and his mother in the mirrors reflection. George dropped his head and began to sob as his mother went to comfort him. Harry didn't move, unsure if he should stay or go.

"George, dear," soothed Mrs Weasley, "it's alright, George."

Mrs Weasley turned her son around to face her and embraced him tightly. Arthur Weasley stepped past Harry and went to help comfort his distraught son. George opened his eyes and looked directly at Harry.

"Get him out of here," George almost spat, venom in his voice.

"Who, sweet heart?" asked Mrs Weasley, confusion spreading across her face.

"Bloody Harry Potter," snarled George.

Harry felt his blood run cold. He wanted to run but his feet wouldn't move.

Arthur Weasley stepped between George and Harry.

"What's gotten into you, son?"

"He killed Fred," George was almost screaming, the tears streaming down his face. "He could save Ronnie and Ginny. He could even save you, Dad. But he didn't have time for Fred. Why not Fred, Harry? You didn't care if he died, did you?"

Harry couldn't think. He felt his world crashing down around him as the guilt almost forced him to his knees. He felt hands on his shoulders as he was pulled gently from the bedroom and led back downstairs.

He felt himself lowered onto the couch in the living room. He didn't know who was helping him as his eyes could no longer see properly. Rage and guilt ran through him as the faces of the dead flashed before his eyes.

"Harry, drink this," said Charlie, thrusting a glass of Firewhiskey under Harry's nose.

Harry didn't respond. His was falling into his own despair, praying only that it would claim him quickly. Somebody took his hand but he remained motionless, staring into nothingness. All of his fears and doubts were finally realised; he had caused so many deaths and now everyone realised he was not a saviour. He was a curse on all those who he came into contact with.

Harry didn't notice as Ginny wrapped her arms around him. She was terrified as she looked at Harry's face. He was gone where she could not reach him.

"Harry, my love, stay with us please, stay with me," pleaded Ginny as her tears flowed onto Harry's shoulder.

Harry's body lurched as a new wave of agony ripped through him. His chest felt like it was on fire and he could feel warm liquid running down to his abdomen. He was bleeding again and his sudden terror brought his mind back to the present.

An emerald green fire erupted in the fireplace, and Kingsley Shacklebolt stepped from the flames, his arms spread wide in greeting.

"Hello Weasley's," boomed Kingsley before he felt the smile on his face falter. Something was very wrong. He looked at the group of people before him. Ron and Hermione were holding each other in the corner, clearly shaken. Percy sat on a small chair with his head in his hands, and Charlie stood in front of Harry, his rough hand on Harry's shoulder. Ginny had her arms around Harry, and Harry looked as though he was about to be sick.

"Harry, what's happened?" he asked as he quickly knelt before the young man, "Talk to me Harry."

Harry gave no response.

"Harry," continued Kingsley, who thought he might know what the problem was, "you're not a Horcrux any more Harry. It's okay."

Harry's head snapped up to look at Kingsley, horror on his face. They knew. Harry's world spun as he stood up abruptly, his eyes darting from person to person, registering their shock and confusion. Kingsley tried to steady Harry and noticed the dark stain that had started to appear on Harry's shirt.

"Oh, no. Harry, sit down."

Harry followed Kingsley's alarmed eyes and peered at his own chest. The dark red stain was spreading fast and he could feel his shame and rage building. Harry ran.

The front door of the Burrow nearly came off its hinges as Harry charged through the door, several Weasley's along with Kingsley and Hermione running after him. He sprinted to the boundary of the property, ignoring the repeated shouts for him to stop.

As he reached the boundary he stopped and turned, seeing the others stop running as they came to within a short distance of him. Ron came to the front of the group and started pulling people back.

Hermione was incensed, "Ron, what are you doing?"

"Look at his hands Hermione. Everybody back off," said Ron urgently.

Harry saw all the eyes looking in his direction widen as they looked at his hands. He looked down and saw sparks in the air around his hands. When he looked up again he could see they were all moving slowly away from him, Ginny being dragged by Charlie. So now they know what I am, and they will fear me. He touched the dark stain on his shirt and held his fingers up in front of him. He was bleeding heavily now.

"Harry, no. Please don't go," Ginny was almost hysterical as she called for Harry. "I need you... please... for me"

Harry looked at Ginny, feeling the hot sting of tears in his eyes. The door to the Burrow opened again as Molly and Arthur came running towards him. He couldn't think clearly as he began to tremble, feeling the blood flowing from his chest.

George appeared in the doorway.

"Harry, I'm so sorry," shouted George across the property, "Don't..."

Harry didn't hear any more words as he felt his rage surge. The assembled crowd was startled as they watched. Harry's eyes suddenly glowed brightly and waves of energy emitted from his hands, setting the grass around him alight. They watched horrified as Harry began to roar into the night, before he spun on the spot and with a loud 'crack', he was gone.

Ginny ran to the spot where Harry had been. She turned on the spot as she screamed Harry's name, but nothing happened, Ginny was still unable to apparate by herself.

She ran back to Ron and Hermione and grabbed them.

"Take me to Harry," demanded Ginny, fire in her eyes.

Hermione looked devastated as she drew Ginny into a tight embrace. "We can't follow, Ginny. I'm sorry."

Ginny began to sob and collapsed to the ground.

It took several moments before anybody moved. Arthur and Molly came to Ginny and lifted her to her feet, taking her back into the Burrow as the rest of the stunned group followed.