Harry Potter and the Wrath of the Fallen

Chapter 29: Fallout and Freedom

The dark street in Bath was soon full of muggles trying to learn what had happened to the still smoking house. They were also trying to discover who these strangely dressed people were who were preventing them from getting too close to the damaged house.

Harry still stood in the middle of the street, standing over the unconscious form of Lucius Malfoy. He was starting to receive some very curious looks from the muggles, and he knew they had to get the situation under control quickly. He glanced around, wondering where the Ministry officials were, when he realised they wouldn't be able to get passed the wards.

He could see Ron standing with Felix as they guarded the smouldering house.

"Ron," called Harry, waving his arm as he indicated Ron should join him.

Ron came ambling across the street. "What's up, mate?"

Harry pointed down at Lucius. "Watch him for a minute. I need to go and tell Kreacher to lower the wards so we can get some help."

Ron nodded his understanding. Harry turned on his heel and ran down the street until he could no longer see any muggles.

"Kreacher."

The little old house-elf appeared in front of him. "Yes, Master Harry."

"It's over, Kreacher. Can you lower the wards for us?"

Kreacher closed his eyes for a second. "The wards are lifted, Master."

"Thanks, Kreacher," said Harry, as he realised he could now hear the sounds of approaching sirens. "You had better get out of here before you are seen by a muggle."

Kreacher grinned before he bowed and snapped his fingers, disappearing with a 'crack'.

                                                               *

 

Two hours later, Harry found himself sitting in the Auror's conference room within the Ministry of Magic. He felt drained as he recalled the events that had occurred since Kreacher lowered the wards.

Ministry officials had arrived instantly, and had immediately begun speaking to the muggles who were milling around on the street, and the emergency services crews that were responding to the calls for assistance. They had all left wearing vague smiles, returning to their homes or getting back into their vehicles and departing the scene.

Lucius and his followers had been bound before they were transported to Azkaban. None of them were awakened until they were securely shut behind the walls of the wizard prison. The body of Lucius's deceased follower was sent directly to St Mungo's.

Draco had been allowed to return to the Ministry building with a Magical Law Enforcement agent, as he needed to be debriefed by Gawain before any further decisions were made regarding his immediate future.

The Healers had arrived and began to patch up Gawain's team. Dawlish and Kraven were back on their feet in no time, while Tamesa had emerged from the upstairs room dazed but uninjured.

Sam had suffered more serious injuries when one of the falling timbers had slammed into her ribcage, breaking several ribs and puncturing her lung. She had also received a nasty blow to the back of the head when she was struck by falling debris. She was taken to St Mungo's, but she was expected to make a full recovery.

Foster Portney had not been so lucky. He had borne the brunt of the explosion, and his body had suffered a devastating series of injuries from the shockwave and when he hit the wall. Despite the Healer's best efforts, he had died shortly after they began trying to treat him, never regaining consciousness.

So now Harry sat at the wooden table with Ginny beside him, his emotions running high as he tried to balance his feelings of elation and despair. They had achieved their goal tonight, but again the cost had been high, another Auror lost to the fight against the dark arts. Harry was fervently hoping this was not an experience to which he would become accustomed.

Harry lifted his head and looked around at the group that sat with him. Besides Portney, of those who carried out the raid, only Sam was absent. He gazed at Gawain as the Auror stood at one end of the table, his face looking drained having just returned from visiting Portney's family to deliver the news of his death.

"I wish to pass on my thanks to all of you for your efforts tonight," began Gawain, his voice heavy with exhaustion. "We have dealt the enemy a decisive blow with the capture of Lucius Malfoy and his followers. Lucius will now serve his sentence in Azkaban, but rest assured, he will still be tried for the crimes he has committed throughout his year on the run. One day he will have to answer for Portney and the muggles he killed."

Harry pondered this for a moment. He knew Lucius had already been sentenced to a very lengthy stay in Azkaban, and if further time was added to his sentence in the future, it was highly likely that Lucius would never leave Azkaban alive. While Harry could never feel glad that somebody would be subjected to the presence of Dementors for years without end, he certainly felt relieved knowing that Lucius was now being held where he could no longer pose any danger to the Weasleys or himself; at least not personally.

Gawain had noticed the looks of satisfaction that appeared on the faces of many of those seated at the table. Lucius had been a considerable thorn in their sides for a long time, and despite the loss of Portney, they were proud of what they had achieved tonight.

"I think it is high time we all got some sleep," suggested Gawain. "Aurors, we will meet here tomorrow to start organising our cases for the Wizengamot. Harry, Ginny, Ron, I will rejoin you at Hogwarts in a few days. We will need to collect statements from you all about your actions tonight, but your participation in the raid will not be reported to the media."

The three friends all nodded, but Harry suspected that tomorrow's issue of the Daily Prophet would contain a story about their involvement in the raid anyway. Too many witches and wizards already knew they had been a part of it.

The meeting broke up as everybody exchanged handshakes, Harry thanking the Aurors individually for helping to ensure his family's safety.

Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione then travelled by floo to the Burrow, providing a still very much awake and nervous Molly with proof that they were all safe and well, before returning to Hogwarts and making their way to bed.

                                                               *

 

The next morning, the Great Hall was buzzing as Harry and Ginny made their appearance, running very late for a Potions lesson. Harry instantly knew that Gawain's intention to omit their involvement in the Auror raid had failed. Besides the louder than normal chatter and the handing around of copies of the Daily Prophet, Harry noticed that Ron was sitting at the Gryffindor table, surrounded by other students clamouring for further details.

Harry took Ginny's hand as they tried to make their way to the table without drawing attention. It was a futile attempt as they suddenly found themselves besieged by students offering them their congratulations, before starting to barrage the couple with questions.

Minerva McGonagall's voice cut through the din being made by the students that were trying to get more information out of Harry and Ginny.

"What is the meaning of this ruckus?" The silence was immediate as everyone turned to see their Headmistress glaring at them. "Don't you all have lessons to get to?"

Harry heard a number of students mumble "Yes, Professor" before the group dispersed. Harry and Ginny both gave Minerva a grateful look, as they saw a quick smile on her face.

"Well done last night, both of you," said Minerva quietly. "I have explained the events of last night to Horace and he has agreed to reschedule your Potion's class for after lunch, so why don't you go and have some breakfast with your classmates, and then get some rest."

"Thanks, Professor," said Harry wearily.

Harry and Ginny joined Ron at the Gryffindor table, and were quickly joined by Seamus, Lavender, Neville, Anthony, Terry, Michael, and Cho.

Seamus leaned forward eagerly. "So, what was it like?" he asked, as he dropped a copy of the Daily Prophet on the table in the middle of the group.

Harry was startled to see the cover contained a picture of him and Ron standing over the prone figure of Lucius Malfoy, the headline proclaiming 'A New Breed of Aurors Have Arrived'. He couldn't remember anybody taking a picture last night, or a reporter being anywhere on the street. He must have been tireder than he realised by the time they had wrapped things up in Bath and returned to the Ministry.

He looked up from the paper and found Ron was also wearing a stunned expression on his face. Harry shook his head. There was nothing they could do about it now. He looked around the table at his friends and noticed they were still waiting for an answer.

Harry collected his thoughts for a moment before he answered.

"It was really fast," he began. "Way faster than the mock battle felt. The sense of danger and fear became so strong... and I was scared," said Harry honestly.

"Me too," agreed Ron, "and I didn't even have to go into the house. But it felt different to anything I have done before. Walking into danger willingly was not a pleasant experience."

Harry and Ginny both nodded in support of Ron's words.

Seamus looked a little bewildered as he listened to Harry and Ron talk. He had always thought going on a raid would be exciting and fun, but now his imagination was being given a harsh dose of reality to think about.

"The Prophet said the house exploded. Is that true?" asked Lavender.

"No, not really," answered Harry. "Lucius cast a spell that exploded inside the house, but the house itself did not explode. Trust me; I was inside when it happened."

"I saw it from out the front," added Ron. "There was so much smoke and glass flying everywhere. At first I didn't think anybody could have survived, but eventually people started coming out. We lost Portney though."

Ron hung his head, while Ginny held onto Harry's arm for comfort. Her wish that she wouldn't have to attend another funeral because of violence was already shattered. She was upset that another Auror had died, and she was beginning to understand her mother's fear of the decision she had made to join the Aurors.

Harry looked at the group sitting around him. "Portney was a great Auror too, but he still got hit. It's just so fast in the real world, and the enemy doesn't use stunning spells. They aim to kill."

Harry's words had a sobering effect on the group as they all considered what he had said. They realised now that the fun of Auror training was not a true reflection of what their jobs would be like, and it was giving some of them a moment's pause.

Harry was also shaken as he thought of how easily it could have been Ginny that was killed. They both had so much to lose now if anything went wrong.

"But we all fought in the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry. We know what it's like to fight," said Lavender, to the accompaniment of nods from the others.

"I know you have all fought before, but this was different," said Harry. "We weren't fighting to save the world, or each other. If we had died in the fight against Voldemort, it would have been a sacrifice worth making. But to die in a house in Bath because we were trying to apprehend a man who was in hiding; somehow it just seems like such a waste."

"Added to that was the constant fear. When we fought Voldemort, I never really thought that much about what could go wrong; I just did what I had to do. But yesterday I had plenty of time to imagine all the worst possible results before we carried out the raid, and the thoughts stayed with me the entire time."

The mood around the table was now rather sombre, and many of the group now had plenty to think about before they made any final decision to become Aurors.

"At least you caught the Malfoys though," said Terry, brightening up.

Harry shared a look with Ron before he turned his attention to the paper lying on the table.

"Is that what it says in there? That we got the Malfoys, both Lucius and Draco?"

"Yeah, why?" replied Terry nervously. "You did catch them didn't you?"

Harry shrugged his shoulders. "I suppose so."

"What does that mean?" asked Terry, slightly baffled now.

Harry looked around the Great Hall to make sure nobody else could hear their conversation. He didn't know if he should even say anything now, but these people had fought with him before, and had earned his trust.

"Keep this to yourselves for now," began Harry, receiving murmurs of agreement from around the table. "We only discovered where Lucius was hiding with Draco's help, and in the end it was Draco that took down his father."

Silence and looks of disbelief greeted Harry's revelation. It took a minute before anybody spoke again.

"Are you serious?" asked Seamus, the doubt clearly etched on his face.

"Yeah, I am," said Harry as he smiled. "Funny how life goes sometimes."

"Bloody hell."

                                                               *

 

As Harry now had some free time following breakfast, he made his way to the Owlery after writing a note for Dudley. He knew his cousin would already be aware of what had happened last night if Arrabella Figg had given him a copy of the Daily Prophet, but he still wanted to send a letter to Dudley letting him know he was alright.

Once he reached the Owlery, he attached the letter to his owl's leg and sent her on her way, leaving him with a strangely happy feeling that he now had a blood relative who wanted to receive letters from him.

With his task complete, Harry made his way back to the castle, looking forward to concentrating on his lessons and his teaching without any other distractions for the first time in months. Despite his exhaustion, he was suddenly feeling light and free.

                                                               *

 

Draco was biting on his bottom lip as he tried to avoid looking at the man that sat across the desk from him.

On the other side of the desk, Gawain drummed his fingers on the hard surface as he regarded the devastated young man before him.

"It's time to go, Draco," said Gawain as kindly as he could.

Fear flashed across Draco's face. He knew this moment was coming, but it still came as a shock when it arrived.

"What's going to happen to me?" asked Draco weakly, his voice wavering.

"The Minister has agreed to hear an appeal on your behalf," explained Gawain. "This may see your sentence reduced in light of your efforts to assist us. In fact, I'm sure it will be reduced. But for now, you will be held in Azkaban until the new hearing is arranged."

Draco hung his head as he contemplated Azkaban. He wondered how long it would take before he lost his mind in that place.

"Can I see my mother?" he asked desperately.

Gawain nodded. "That had already been arranged, and as per your request, you will be placed in a cell next to hers."

"Thank you," said Draco miserably.

With that, Gawain stood and escorted Draco from the room, conflicted thoughts running through his head as he led the young man off to prison, despite the help he had provided to the Ministry.

                                                               *

 

Harry and Ginny were running through the corridors as they raced to get to their Potions lesson. Following breakfast they had returned to their room and both promptly fell asleep, waking only ten minutes ago. The reason for their current haste was that their Potions lesson had also started ten minutes ago.

The couple came to a halt outside the door to the Potions classroom; both drawing deep breaths as they took a moment to recover from their mad dash through the castle.

Harry looked at Ginny as he grabbed the handle to the dungeons door.

"Are you ready?"

Ginny grinned back at Harry. "We're about to step into a classroom while still breathless and sweaty from running, but you know what the others are going to think we were doing, don't you?"

Harry laughed. "Let them think it. If only it was true," he sighed.

He turned the handle and stepped into the classroom, only to be left gasping as a pungent odour enveloped him. He tried to cover his nose as he made his way over to his usual desk with Ginny.

"What happened in here?" asked Ginny, before she started to cough as she sat down next to Harry.

Hermione looked at the couple and they could see her eyes were watering. "Seamus happened."

"Ah," said Harry and Ginny together.

Harry looked at the desk which Seamus was sitting at, which now appeared to be dissolving as a thick purple liquid oozed across its surface from the upturned cauldron that lay on top of it.

Professor Slughorn reappeared from the storeroom at the front of the room, carrying a large jar of clear liquid in his arms and moving at a brisk pace despite his size. He made his way quickly to Seamus' desk and poured the contents of the jar over the potion that had spilled on the desk. A cloud of steam rose up to the ceiling as Harry saw that the potion had stopped flowing, its surface appearing to be rock hard now.

"Well, my boy, perhaps you should exercise a little more caution when you set up your equipment in future," said a flustered Professor Slughorn.

Seamus looked down at the mess his partially destroyed desk had become. "That potion took six months to make," he said forlornly.

"Yes, and only six seconds to eat through the desk, Mr Finnigan," observed a now chortling Professor Slughorn. "I commend you on the strength of your potion, lad."

Seamus ignored the muffled laughter coming from around the room. "But how can I make an antidote now?"

"Why don't you borrow some of Mr Potter's and Miss Weasley's potion," suggested Professor Slughorn. "They're not here today anyway, and they have more than enough. I'm sure they wouldn't mind."

Harry cleared his throat loudly as his eyes started to sting from the fumes in the room.

"Actually, we are here, Professor."

Professor Slughorn's head spun around to face Harry.

"Oho, Harry my boy, I'm glad you could make it," said a beaming Professor Slughorn. "My congratulations to you for your performance last night. You have done much to help bring an end to the tyranny that still plagued our world."

Harry gave Professor Slughorn an embarrassed grin, wondering where his Professor's sudden whimsical manner had come from. Harry saw Ron chuckling behind Professor Slughorn as he felt his face go red. Ron was obviously enjoying his discomfort at being singled out again.

"Don't forget about Ron, sir," said Harry. "He helped to plan the raid."

Ron started to choke on his own laughter as he suddenly found himself the centre of attention.

"You failed to mention that earlier, Mr Weasley," chastised Professor Slughorn. "Honestly, I don't know why you all try to dismiss the glory that is rightfully yours. It could open many doors for you in the future."

Ron glanced at Harry and Ginny before he answered. "We know that, sir, but the glory belongs to those who died fighting with us. We are just the lucky ones."

Professor Slughorn regarded Ron intently for a moment before he acknowledged Ron's comments.

"Well said, Mr Weasley, but I believe you are far more than just lucky." Professor Slughorn made his way back to the front of the classroom. "Let us continue with our lesson. Harry, my boy, would you be so kind as to provide Mr Finnigan with a portion of your potion?"

"Of course, sir," said Harry happily, making his way to the storeroom to retrieve the potion he would need for today's lesson.

The lesson continued on without any further unfortunate incidents as they worked in pairs. As Harry worked with Ginny, he could feel the last of his anxiety falling away, and he was enjoying himself again as the good-humoured banter began to fly around the classroom.

                                                               *

 

The following morning found Harry awake very early as his enthusiasm had now returned to him. He padded around his room quietly, letting Ginny sleep as the sun started to stream in through the window. Harry lit a fire in the fireplace, noting that the weather was beginning to turn, and he would not need to light too many more fires before summer arrived.

He walked to his desk and checked his schedule again, confirming that he was indeed due to teach a class first thing this morning. With nothing else to do until breakfast, Harry made his way into the shower, starting to hum happily to himself as he looked forward to his day.

Harry didn't notice Ginny was now propped up on one elbow, smiling softly as she watched him disappear through the bathroom door. The smell of the fire burning in the grate had awakened her, and she was delighted to find that Harry was obviously in a good mood. The capture of Lucius Malfoy had taken away the final worry that had hung over Harry for so long, and she was relieved that it was behind them now.

Ginny could hear Harry humming a tune to himself over the sound of the running water. This was too good an opportunity for her to pass up, so she slid out of bed and tiptoed into the bathroom, glad to have Harry all to herself again.

                                                               *

 

Minerva McGonagall watched Harry from her place at the staff table in the Great Hall. For the first time in months she had seen Harry in a happy state, and she, like Ginny, was relieved to see it. After the attacks and deaths over Christmas, and the never ending hunt for Lucius Malfoy, she had been worried for Harry as he had started to fall back into the dark moods of his past.

Minerva understood Harry's frustration and gloomy mood of late, but as she saw his students approach him and drag him off for their first lesson of the day, it was evident to her that even his students had spotted the change in their teacher today. She suddenly realised just how much of the burden Harry had once again taken upon himself as the problems dragged out.

As she made her way back to her office, she decided she should discuss a proposition with the other Hogwarts Professor's.

                                                               *

 

"Allo, 'Arry," roared Hagrid as he spotted Harry walking towards him, his students following behind him babbling excitedly.

"Morning, Hagrid," said Harry cheerfully, as he came to a halt outside Hagrid's hut.

"What can I do for yer, this fine mornin'?" asked Hagrid.

"Well, my class has been discussing giants this morning," said Harry, looking back over his shoulder at his students. "As they have never met a giant before, I was wondering if Grawp was about?"

Hagrid let out a throaty laugh as he looked down at the little students. He rubbed his hands together, before he brought them up to his lips and blew into them, creating a high pitched whistle that echoed around the grounds.

"Tha' should get his attention," said Hagrid, wondering why Harry and his students had covered their ears with their hands. "He's off looking for some food in the forest. Been gone a while, now that I think about it."

The five students shared some curious looks with each other before turning their attention back to Hagrid.

"What does a giant eat?" asked Jack, as he tried to peer into the dark forest before them.

Hagrid scratched his bushy beard. "Oh, you know, this and tha'. Little critters mostly, but sometimes deer if they can catch one."

"Ewww, they eat animals?" uttered a disgusted Vicky.

Hagrid shook his head. "Where do yer think bacon and mince pies come from, miss?"

Harry was now struggling not to laugh as he saw the dismay spread across Vicky's face.

"Don't worry, Vicky," said Harry. "Grawp would eat vegetables if you gave them to him."

Vicky nodded, but still looked a little put out. "I don't think I'll eat bacon anymore."

Beside her, Jack laughed. "More for me then."

His laughter was cut short as the sound of branches snapping and the thumping of footsteps reached them from the forest.

Grawp emerged from the forest and stepped towards Hagrid, grinning happily as he patted Hagrid on the back, almost knocking him to the ground.

"Settle down, yer big brute," yelled Hagrid. "Yer got some company. You know, friends."

The kids shrunk back behind Harry, and he couldn't really blame them as Grawp peered down at them. Even he was fighting the urge to take a few steps back.

Grawp suddenly sat down beside Hagrid, the ground shaking beneath him as his childlike face broke out into a toothy grin.

"Friend," rumbled Grawp.

Harry's students stopped retreating, their fear starting to ease as they watched the giant before them.

"He seems nice," said Mary.

Hagrid put himself between the kids and his giant half-brother. "Come on then, you lot. Don't be shy," said Hagrid as he beckoned the students forward.

Harry's class started to inch forward, pushing Harry in front of them as a shield against the giant. Harry meanwhile, was already feeling safer now that Grawp had sat down.

"Alright, kids," whispered Harry as he turned to face his students, "do what Hagrid tells you to and you will be perfectly safe."

Harry received some doubtful looks from his students, but they kept moving forward inch by inch until they stood next to Hagrid. Hagrid beamed at Harry's students.

"There you go. See, he doesn't mean yer no harm." Hagrid looked at Grawp. "Say 'allo Grawpy."

"Lo," rumbled Grawp's deep voice, the giant obviously pleased with his efforts to communicate.

Harry's students then spent the next half an hour talking to Hagrid about his giant half-brother, their fascination with Grawp overcoming their fear as time passed.

Harry stood back and marvelled at his students. They had now met elves and giants, along with Firenze the centaur when they studied astronomy. Harry felt renewed hope for the future if these kids could ignore the prejudices of the past and marvel at all creatures, regardless of their race. Maybe there was hope for true peace yet.

                                                               *

 

That afternoon, Harry, Ginny, and Ron had attended an Auror training class which had been led by John Dawlish.

While the training remained fun, Dawlish couldn't help but notice the intensity of the students as they practiced duelling. He wondered how much of it had to do with the experience Harry, Ginny, and Ron had been through so recently. This group of teenagers was certainly very serious, and he didn't envy anybody who crossed them in the future.

As Dawlish watched, he had been astounded by the skill he witnessed. These future Aurors weren't holding anything back as they practised, and the ferocity of their duels was something he had never seen before; not even during the war. Even limited to stunning spells, they were a formidable group.

                                                               *

 

As April passed by peacefully, Harry was enjoying his last few months at Hogwarts, all too aware that his time at the castle was coming to an end. As Harry and his friends worked steadily towards their final exams, May the 2nd arrived with little fanfare.

Everybody was conscious of the date's significance, but they had also been trying not to think about the day they would remember all those who had fallen during the war.

The sky was overcast and a gentle breeze pulled at Harry's robes as he made his way across the grounds towards the lake, to take his place for the memorial service. To his discomfort, he was expected to sit before the assembled crowd, a beacon of light for the wizarding world to focus on now that a year had passed since the fall of Voldemort. He took solace in the fact that Ron and Hermione were going to be sitting with him, so at least he wouldn't be alone.

Harry reached the low platform that had been constructed for today's service. As he looked at the ten or so chairs positioned at the back of the platform, he realised each chair had a piece of parchment bearing a name sitting upon it. He quickly found the chair which bore his name, and sat down to wait for everyone else to take their places.

As Harry watched the gathering crowd, he glanced to his right and saw the tomb of Dumbledore not far away, its white marble still luminous despite the cloudy skies above.

Hermione's voice brought Harry's mind back to the moment.

"Hi, Harry," she said softly. "Ginny and Ron are on their way down with Molly."

Harry nodded as Hermione took a seat, leaving a chair in between them for Ron.

"How are they holding up?" asked Harry, his heart aching with the grief he felt for the Weasley family.

Harry saw Hermione's bottom lip tremble before she answered him. "They're okay. It's George that worries me. He looked awful when he arrived."

Harry blinked back sudden tears as he thought of what George must be going through. To have lost a twin was something Harry couldn't comprehend, but he imagined the pain would be almost unbearable.

"Here they come," said Hermione, pointing back up the slope towards the castle.

Harry looked in that direction and he could see the line of redheaded people now making their way towards the hundreds of chairs that had been set up for the students and the families who had lost a loved one to the fight.

Harry smiled sadly as he saw Andromeda walking beside the Weasley family, a struggling Teddy in her arms. Teddy had grown considerably since Christmas, and Harry felt a moment of regret that he had not seen his godson for several months. He promised himself he would spend the rest of the day with Teddy after the memorial service was over.

The group reached the chairs and sat down towards the front of the crowd, Molly and Andromeda sitting together, sharing the terrible bond of having lost a child to the war.

Harry gave Ginny a small smile when she looked his way, which she returned for a moment before turning her attention back to her mother. As Harry looked at each Weasley in turn, he finally noticed that one of them was missing. He leant over towards Hermione.

"Where's Bill?" whispered Harry.

Hermione shook her head. "I don't know. Ron said he was supposed to be here."

The mention of Ron's name heralded his arrival.

"What did I say?" asked Ron, as he sat down between them and put his arm around Hermione's shoulders.

Hermione laid her head on his shoulder. "We were just wondering where Bill was."

"He'll be here," said Ron. "He's probably just making sure Fleur's alright."

Harry thought Ron was probably right. Fleur was due to give birth in a couple of weeks, and Bill was becoming very protective of his wife of late.

The sound of a giggling toddler caught the three friend's attention. They all watched as Teddy escaped from Andromeda's arms and began to waddle slowly towards them, his hair turning black as he grinned at Harry. Teddy's attempt to reach Harry came undone when he reached the edge of the platform Harry was sitting on. It was slightly too high for Teddy to climb up, and his little face fell as he realised he could get no closer.

Harry stood and made his way to the edge of the platform, leaning down and scooping a delighted Teddy up in his arms. Harry grunted with the effort, not expecting the much increased weight of his godson.

"What have you been eating, Teddy Lupin?" asked Harry as he stood back up.

"Teddy," burbled Teddy, surprising Harry as he looked at his godson.

"So you can talk now, can you?" asked Harry, as he made his way back to his seat.

"Teddy," said his godson again, clapping his hands together and giggling as Harry sat down.

Harry chuckled softly. "Ah, only the one word is it?"

Harry looked back over at Andromeda and received a grateful look from her. Harry knew she could use a little time to herself today as she dealt with her own grief. She had lost her husband, daughter, and son-in-law to the war, and she needed to take a few minutes for herself today.

While Harry, Hermione, and Ron quietly played a game of peek-a-boo with Teddy, Minerva took her place on the platform as Kingsley made his way to the dais at the front of the platform.

Kingsley kept his speech rather short as he once again paid tribute to those who had sacrificed their lives to secure the freedom of the wizarding world. Following his speech, a procession of young students made their way across the platform, each one stopping to read out two names of those who had died a year ago today.

Harry felt his chest constricting as he looked out over the crowd. He was able to tell who the family members of each of the deceased were, as their heads dropped at the mention of their fallen family member's name. Harry was almost overcome with despair and his head swam as the names of Remus, Tonks, and Fred were read out. He glanced at Ron, seeing the tears in his eyes as he remembered his brother.

Finally the list of names was completed, and Kingsley took his position at the dais again.

"Thank you, students," said Kingsley, his voice sounding raw and strained. "It is now my honour to unveil the memorial which will be dedicated to those who gave their lives for us."

Kingsley turned in the direction of Dumbledore's tomb and drew his wand. As Harry watched, a large slab of white marble, very similar to the stone used in Dumbledore's tomb, rose up from the ground beside the tomb of his former Headmaster.

When the stone stopped rising it stood six feet tall and six feet wide. The names which had just been read out were carved into the stone in two columns, and beneath the list of names were three simple words.

'For Our Freedom'

Harry thought it was a fitting tribute to those who had lost so much more than he had. It was simple and elegant, leaving Harry with a feeling of peace as he looked at the white marble. This would remain here forever, a reminder to all of what it had cost to secure their freedom.

Once the formalities were over, Harry, Ron, and Hermione made their way to the Weasley family, Harry still carrying a now turquoise haired Teddy. Harry gave Molly a one armed hug, before he stepped over to join Arthur and Charlie, who were supporting a despondent George between them.

"How are you, George?" asked Harry, mindful that George probably wasn't in the mood to talk right now.

George raised his head and stared at Harry for a moment before he answered.

"It's a hard day, but we'll get through it."

"Did Bill ever show up?" asked Harry, as Teddy started trying to take his glasses off.

Arthur looked troubled as he regarded Harry. "No, I'm afraid not. I think I had better go and check on him."

"I'll come with you," said Harry, as Ginny joined him.

Whatever response Arthur had been about to make to Harry's offer was drowned out by a gasp from Molly.

They all turned to see a large silver wolf land on the ground before Molly. Harry knew it was a Patronus, and the wolf told him it was most likely Bill's.

The wolf's mouth opened wide and Bill's voice filled the silence that had fallen as they all watched the silver animal intently.

"My daughter was born this day. Victoire."

                                                               *

 

Harry sat at the Gryffindor table as the afternoon slowly gave way to the night. Beside him sat Kingsley as they talked quietly amongst themselves.

"The Weasley's certainly know how to lighten the mood," observed Kingsley with a raised eyebrow.

Harry chuckled as he recalled the response to Bill's message. Molly had jumped as she let out a shout, and Harry had seen the sudden joy in her eyes as she glanced at Arthur. Harry had looked around at the assembled Weasley family, feeling a smile spread across his face as he saw that even George was grinning.

Molly had then grabbed Arthur and started dragging him towards the castle, calling back over her shoulder for her family to follow her.

The Weasleys, including Hermione, had all followed in Molly's wake. Harry meanwhile, had stayed behind to look after Teddy while the Weasleys used the fireplace in Minerva's office to floo to Shell Cottage.

Ron, Hermione, George, and Ginny had returned a few hours later, babbling excitedly about the beautiful little baby that Fleur and Bill had welcomed into the world. They had all been adamant that the baby looked just like Fleur, but Harry had his doubts as he thought all babies looked much the same when they were born.

Now Ron, Hermione, and Ginny had gone to Hogsmeade with George to buy a present for Victoire, while Harry had returned Teddy to Andromeda before sitting down with Kingsley in the Great Hall.

"It's a strange coincidence," remarked Harry.

Kingsley merely shrugged. "Who knows? Perhaps it was meant to be; a joyous counterpoint to help balance out the tragedy of this anniversary."

As Harry mulled the idea over, he fervently hoped Kingsley was right. As he pondered the possibilities, a random thought popped into his head.

"What's happening with the appeal for Draco?" asked Harry, leaning forward to make sure they were not overheard.

Kingsley regarded Harry for a moment. "I think we had better discuss the matter somewhere more private," said Kingsley as he stood from the table. "Let us adjourn to Minerva's office, as I believe she also wanted to discuss another matter with you anyway."

"Really? What does she want to talk about?" asked Harry, standing from the table and beginning the long walk to Minerva's office.

"I'm afraid I don't know, Harry. She was very reluctant to provide me with any further details for some reason."

Harry smirked as he saw the look of bafflement on Kingsley's face. "Let's find out then, shall we."

                                                               *

 

Minerva welcomed her two guests into her office, wondering what had prompted this unexpected visit.

Harry and Kingsley took a seat by the empty fireplace and picked up their conversation from the Great Hall.

"As for Draco Malfoy and his upcoming appeal," began Kingsley, "it is only two weeks away, and I must advise you to prepare yourself, Harry. I believe Draco is intending to ask you to provide evidence on his behalf, attesting to the assistance he has provided you since Christmas."

Harry nodded his understanding. He had expected that Draco would do just that, and this time he would willingly support a Malfoy before the Wizengamot. While Draco had still done terrible things in the past, like letting Death Eaters into Hogwarts, Harry thought he had done enough recently to earn some assistance.

"So that's all he wants, is it?" asked Harry. "He didn't ask for anything else?"

"Not a thing. I believe Draco is a changed young man," said Kingsley, rubbing his chin. "There's hope for him yet."

"So why all the secrecy then?" asked Harry. "I thought his appeal was going to be a public hearing."

Kingsley nodded. "Indeed it is, but we have to make arrangements to keep Draco safe after the role he played in his father's downfall is revealed. Many people are now in Azkaban because of Draco and the assistance he provided us."

Harry felt a moment of panic run through him. As soon as this meeting was over he would catch up with all the people he had informed of Draco's involvement in capturing his father, and make sure they didn't pass the information any further along. He hadn't even considered the implications of Draco's actions as being capable of generating more problems.

As Harry experienced the strange sensation of worrying about Draco Malfoy's welfare, Kingsley had turned his attention to Minerva, who was sitting at her desk as she listened to the conversation between Harry and the Minister.

"So, Minerva, you had something you wished to discuss with the young Mr Potter here?" asked Kingsley.

As Harry looked up at his Headmistress he was puzzled to see a moment's panic in her eyes, before she stood and started to walk across the office towards the sofas he and Kingsley were sitting on.

"I think that is a matter best discussed with Harry privately," said Minerva, her voice sounding strained.

Kingsley regarded Minerva with concern for a second. "Is everything alright? Harry's not in any trouble is he?"

Minerva could see the concern on Kingsley face, and she also noticed that Harry was now clearly bewildered. She knew now that she should not have said anything to Kingsley earlier, as she felt cornered now, not willing to leave Harry wondering if another threat was facing him. She sighed deeply before focussing her stern expression on Kingsley.

"Well, if you must know, I was going to make Harry an offer."

Kingsley looked from the serious face of Minerva to the confused face of Harry before realisation dawned.

"You wouldn't," he stammered.

"I certainly would," replied Minerva. "Like you, I am only trying to secure the best people for my institution, and of course, its students."

Harry shook his head, already feeling lost as Minerva and Kingsley appeared to be in some sort of silent battle before him.

"What are you two talking about?" demanded Harry.

Kingsley turned his head towards Harry. "Minerva is intending to secure your services for Hogwarts by offering you a teaching position within the school next year."

"Oh," was all Harry could come up with. His eyes were wide and his mind raced as he looked at Minerva. "You want me to teach again?"

Minerva sat down opposite Harry as she regarded him with warmth.

"Harry, I want you to do what makes you happy," began Minerva. "If, by any chance, it is teaching that appeals to you, then I have a position available on the school's staff next year, and I would be delighted if you consented to fill it."

Minerva cast a glance at Kingsley seated beside her before she continued. "If, however, your desire to become an Auror remains, then I wish only the best for you, and I'm certain you will excel in that field."

Harry looked between the two friends, flattered and embarrassed by the desire they both possessed to have him join their offices. Harry knew he wanted to be an Auror, but he couldn't hide his curiosity as he thought about teaching again.

"What would the teaching position be?" he asked, seeing Kingsley's face fall at his question. "Just out of interest," he added quickly, hoping to assuage the Minister's fears.

  "The post of Defence Against the Dark Arts will once again require filling after Professor Stonely vacates the position at the end of the school year," explained Minerva.

"Is he alright?" asked Harry, thinking of the curse that had befallen all who taught that subject since Voldemort was refused the position many years ago.

Minerva chuckled, knowing what Harry was thinking. "Yes, Professor Stonely is fine. He is, in fact, joining the Ministry's Magical Law Enforcement office due to the chronic shortage of staff they are currently suffering. If you do not wish to accept the position after Professor Stonely departs, I will be offering it to one of the extra tutors we have been using this year to assist the older students make up for last year's interruptions."

Harry sat back on the sofa and considered this. While he was tempted to think the offer over for a little while, he knew his heart's desire was still to join the Aurors.

"I'm sorry, Minerva. I appreciate the offer, but I still want to be an Auror," said Harry cautiously.

To his surprise, Minerva beamed at him. "I understand, Harry. If you ever change your mind, my offer will still be open to you."

"Thanks, Minerva," said Harry gratefully, feeling himself relax again as he saw Kingsley smiling at him.

Kingsley looked at Minerva, knowing that while she was happy for Harry; she would be secretly disappointed that Harry had not accepted her offer. Now that he was certain Harry would be joining the Ministry, he didn't see why he couldn't try and help out his old friend.

"Perhaps we can come to an arrangement, Minerva," said Kingsley.

"Go on," said Minerva, raising her eyebrows at the Minister.

"The Ministry is still going to be desperately short of Aurors for a number of years, and Harry may be just the inspiration we need to draw other talented youngsters to the Auror's office. Perhaps Harry could visit Hogwarts a number of times each year to deliver a lesson on the subject of being an Auror. This way, Harry could help the Aurors attract new recruits, while also giving you the chance to make him a new job offer each time he is here."

Minerva smiled at Kingsley's gentle jibe. He was trying to be gracious in victory, but Minerva could sense the relief in the Minister. But she was nothing if not sensible, so she decided not to waste the opportunity presented to her.

"If Harry consents, I would gladly accept," she said, shifting her gaze to Harry.

Harry, meanwhile, was grinning happily at the prospect of still being able to visit Hogwarts in the future. Beyond being able to visit the school, it would also provide him with the opportunity to catch up with his muggle born class students from time to time. He had become very fond of them over the past year, and he was determined to keep an eye on the progress of all of them in the future.

"I'd be glad to," said Harry eagerly.

"Excellent," boomed Kingsley.

Following this, the discussion turned back to the upcoming appeal of Draco Malfoy, and just what Harry intended to say on behalf of his former enemy.

Finally, as dinner beckoned, Harry asked Minerva and Kingsley if they could assist him in returning Dumbledore's wand to its rightful place with its former master. He did not explain the significance of the wand to Minerva and Kingsley, but they were both more than willing to assist, know that the wand had been removed by Voldemort and should now be returned.

                                                               *

 

Over the next two weeks, Harry enjoyed his happiest time ever at Hogwarts. He and Ginny were able to sit under the tree by the lake again as the weather warmed, with Hermione and Ron joining them occasionally as the four friends discussed the future.

Ginny, Ron, and Hermione had all been interested to hear about the job Harry had been offered at Hogwarts, with Hermione revealing a similar offer had been made to her to take up the post of History of Magic Professor. Like Harry she had declined the role, but she had not ruled out a return to Hogwarts one day in the future.

Harry had also started to assist Neville and Ginny as they worked with Professor Sprout to create a remedy which may assist Neville's parents. As predicted, it turned out that Harry had little aptitude for Herbology, but he had enjoyed being able to work with Neville and Ginny on their project. In fact, the project's scope had now been widened to treating all those who were suffering from afflictions of the mind.

                                                               *

 

Draco Malfoy sat in his grimy cell, trying to block out the mind numbing and misery inducing effects of the Dementors as he contemplated his appeal which was to be heard tomorrow.

He knew it may yet come to nothing, but he consoled himself knowing that Harry Potter had consented to testify on his behalf, and he believed Harry would say nothing but the truth before the Wizengamot.

As weariness started to creep into his mind, Draco swallowed back on his nervousness. His father would shortly learn of his treachery, and he knew he could do nothing to prevent it. He had made his choice, and now both he and his father would have to live with it.

Before Draco lay down to get some sleep, he knocked on the wall of his cell. As he lowered himself onto the thin, lumpy mattress which lay on the floor of his cell, he heard the knock returned from the next cell.

"Goodnight, Mother," called Draco.

"Goodnight, Draco," came the muffled reply through the wall. "Good luck tomorrow."