Categories > Books > Harry Potter > Love Has No Age
Chapter 21:- Flight of the Chosen
A/N: Thanks Malehorntaildragon for your help.
Ginny awoke and as normal listened to the noise of the house before opening her eyes. The sounds of the house drifted into her ears and she heard the familiar noises of her parents moving around downstairs making breakfast. As she relaxed into the familiar noises her mind wandered back to the previous evening. The knowledge of Harry being under attack and Dumbledore not being able to help had shocked her but the reaction of Gabrielle had worried her even more. But the thoughts of what the pair of them had done came flooding forward to chase these nasty images away.
She could remember sitting on the floor and trying to reachout for Harry. She had never been able to do it on her own as yet but that didn’t stop her from trying every time she was alone. As she thought of Harry and of Love she tried to reach out once more. She then felt the soft pressure of Gabrielle’s fingers, but as she tried to reach Harry she could clearly feel the second presence with her, especially as it started to pull at her magical power. She felt her magic flow from within her to the younger girl, more and more magic was drawn but she didn’t care. Inside of her she knew that it could help Harry so she just kept giving, and then she felt herself flow with her magic. Whether it was Gabrielle or herself that caused it she didn’t know.
She couldn’t remember how long that she had travelled with her magic but eventually she had sensed something new, something different. Her magic connected against something forceful and then she felt Harry. Her magic told her that it was him and that he was in pain. All most at once she had started to draw him back, she could feel his desperation, his pain and longing to return and she helped. As they flowed she sensed Gabrielle move over and around Harry’s conscious stroking and soothing, trying to remove the pain. Ginny felt her magic’s response and allowed it to follow suit.
She felt herself dance across Harry trying to relive him of his pain she didn’t know if it worked but then she was back in her room. Her magic returned to her body but she knew that they had succeeded. She had opened her eyes and looked at Gabrielle, and then it hit her. The utter magical exhaustion had caused her to faint; never had she used so much magic before.
Opening her eyes slowly she started to feel around as unusual sensations flowed into her mind. The image of the ceiling was different than normal and she realised that she was still on the floor from last night. The warm duvet around her told her that someone had looked after her once she had fainted. She tried to snuggle closer into the duvet for a moment but felt stiffness in one of her arms so she slowly looked that way. Gabrielle was lying next to her curled up tight against her. Ginny’s arm had somehow worked its way around the younger girl the two of them had obviously slept like that. A small moment of panic raced through Ginny about what would people say if they saw her lying under a duvet with her arm around Gabrielle, but then her mind brought up more.
She was feeling the best she had ever felt. Whatever had happened had given Ginny the most refreshing sleep that she could remember having all summer, gently pulling the girl closer to her to give her a final hug. She heard Gabrielle moan slightly.
“You Ok?” she whispered.
“Humm…yes.” Sleepily replied Gabrielle unconsciously rubbing her bum across Ginny’s side.
“We really should get up.”
“No Harry… not yet.” Continued Gabrielle still not opening her eyes but continuing to rub herself against Ginny.
“Gabrielle it’s me, Ginny not Harry.”
“Oh!” came the startled reply from Gabrielle as her eyes flashed opened and she realised what she had been doing.
“I’m sorry Ginny…I…um…”
“It’s alright honestly.” Replied Ginny seeing a blush creep across the girls face.
“But I almost…” said Gabrielle turning her face and burying it into her hands.
Ginny sat up and noticed that at least she was wearing some clothing so it didn’t look as bad as it could have been. Pulling the girl close again she felt the warmness return to her.
“It’s alright I think I’m understanding a bit more now.” Soothed Ginny holding the girl.
“But…but...”
“What we did to bring Harry back was magical wasn’t it.”
“Yes…but.”
“It’s alright honestly, I know your need drives you. I don’t mind, you saved Harry if this is the penalty then I think you should save Harry more often.” giggled Ginny.
“What?”
“That was the best I’ve slept since returning from school.”
“That’s because of Harry.”
“Maybe but I think that you had something to do with it as well.”
“I…I…Never.”
Ginny gently held Gabrielle chin in her hand and tilted it upwards. She lowered he face and felt her lips brush Gabrielle’s. She had kissed girls before but never like this, never lips onto lips. Her mind was racing at what she was doing. Ginny didn’t know if it was her magic forcing her or something else but she continued with the lightest of kisses. Ever so slowly she pulled back and saw that Gabrielle’s eyes were closed and a look of contentment was on her face.
“We had better get up and see if Harry’s awake.”
Gabrielle opened her eyes and nodded before she said.
“Thank you Ginny, I needed that.” Without waiting for a reply Gabrielle rose to her feet and crossed to her bed to start the day and gently called out. “Love can be shown in many different ways.”
**
Harry felt the soft bed under him first. He had spent so much time in a sleeping bag recently that a bed was a different experience for him. The softness around him reminded him of the hospital but then his mind brought back last night. The images started to come of what had happened. Snapping his eyes open he didn’t want to relive them again no matter whom or what told him too.
“Your awake mate, good!” came the voice of Ron as soon Harry had opened his eyes.
Harry feared turning his head but did so anyway. He saw the Ron sitting on his bed eating a sandwich. Before Harry could open his mouth the image started to transform Ron face broke out in cuts and bruises. The hands hold his sandwich crumpled and bleed. Fearing what he would see Harry closed his eye rapidly.
“You OK?”
“Yeah.” Replied Harry not wanting to open his eyes.
“You sure?”
Harry carefully opened his eyes and tried not to look directly at Ron.
“Yeah it was…a…bad night.”
“Dumbledore said you were under attack.”
“Something like that.” Replied Harry still not looking at his friend.
“I’ll get him and Professor Lupin. They’ve been waiting for you to wake up.”
Harry nodded and closed his eyes. He tried to calm his mind but the images of the previous night still threatened him. The noise of people entering caused him to open his eyes again. He saw that Dumbledore was moving close holding out his wand. There was an unspoken question on his face that Harry readily nodded too. Behind him Remus seemed to almost fill the doorway blocking the entrance. He looked far paler than Harry could remember.
“Rough?” Remus called as Dumbledore started to wave his wand over Harry.
The bile in Harry’s stomach started to come forth but he fought it down.
“Yes.” He quietly replied.
Dumbledore stood back and lowered himself down on Ron’s bed before he spoke.
“There’s no physical damage Harry yet you seem different?” Questioned the old man.
Harry didn’t know what to answer and so just laid there composing himself.
“What happened Harry?” asked Dumbledore.
“No sir.” Replied Harry. He had never stood up to his headmaster before but he wasn’t going to relive this one. It wasn’t like after the tri-wizard tournament this had been a personal attack one meant for him and him alone and he wasn’t going to relive it for all to hear.
“Come now Harry it’s difficult but we must know.”
“No sir I won’t do it.”
“Harry.” The tone in Dumbledore voice got slightly harder. Harry could feel himself slightly shudder at the steel in the voice yet he wasn’t going to move and just shook his head.
“Dumbledore he doesn’t want to.” Called Remus from the doorway. Whatever had happened wasn’t going to be pleasant and he felt that Dumbledore was asking too much right now.
“I know Remus but we, I, must know.”
Before Remus could reply Harry spoke up.
“No sir, not this time it was just a message. A message to me, you’ve probably found them anyway.”
“You were there?” asked a shocked Remus
“Yes.”
Dumbledore closed his eyes as he remembered what he had seen. He had visited each location early that morning as soon as he was happy that Harry was safe. Letting out a long breath Dumbledore looked back at Harry.
“Very well Harry I’ll respect your wishes I need to go anyway and so do you Remus…” Said Dumbledore looking sharply at the man in the doorway. “…Harry I think it’s best that you stay here. I’ll arrange to have to things moved.”
“It’s alright sir. I can do that myself.” Blurted Harry not wanting Dumbledore to find out about the shed, but also for a second reason one that he didn’t want to say just yet.
Dumbledore paused and studied Harry he knew that he was hiding something from him but as yet didn’t know what.
“Ok then, just be careful” he replied walking out past Remus.
Remus walked in and closed the door behind. Somehow he knew that Harry didn’t need the rest hear this just yet. He had only read the report in the paper but if it was close to the truth Harry was going to have a more than few serious problems with his friends.
Harry just looked at Remus as he slowly crossed the room and sat on the bed very much like Dumbledore. He was still having trouble containing all of the images but was glad for the moment of peace, eventually Remus spoke.
“They know anyway Harry.”
“What?”
“It was in the Prophet this morning; it covered it in enough detail that they guessed the rest.”
“So they know everything?”
“No only you and…him know everything.”
Harry continued to look at the man. The conversation was getting too close to what happened and he didn’t want to talk about it.
“Remus, Dumbledore said you have to leave?”
Remus dropped his head. The call had come at almost the worse time, Harry looked bad and he felt that he was for once really needed here.
“Yes but I don’t have to go. I’ll stay if you want me to.”
“No you must go. You said it was important, when do you leave?”
Remus almost shook his head at Harry. It was still obvious that the boy didn’t realise that he was the most import thing out there. This mission meant nothing compared to that, yet Harry couldn’t see it.
“I should leave today. In fact I should be going soon.”
Harry continued to think his mind was a whirl with everything that was still happening to him but he knew what he had to do.
“I can’t stay here.” He whispered.
“What?”
“I have to leave.”
“But Dumbledore said…”
“NO I have to go, if I stay….” Harry left the rest unsaid but swallowed hard at the thought.
“You’ll be safe here Harry they’ll look after you.”
A flash of magic lit Harry face for a moment as he quickly replied.
“That’s just it. That’s the reason I have to go, will you help me?”
Remus nodded once before asking.
“Where are you going?”
“Back to the Dursley’s.” Instantly replied Harry. He didn’t want to lie and especially to Remus but he had too. Voldemort had made that clear last night, to protect his friends he had to join Voldemort. The only other way was to distance himself from them. He wasn’t sure how he would do that at school but for the rest of the summer he knew what he could do. He knew where he had to go and he would go there without his friends.
He wasn’t going to be alone he also knew that he was going to need a little help but he knew the exact person to help him. That person would be safe he would make sure of it. If he worded it right no matter what Voldemort tried to do his only companion would be safe. All he had to do now was speak to him.
**
Ginny was feeling more and more nervous as the time passed by. She and Gabrielle had gotten up early and waited for Harry. It had been made very clear by her mum that they were going to have to wait until Harry came down, even Ron and Hermione had been stopped from going up to him since Dumbledore had left.
When she saw the paper she understood her mothers concern. As she read article after article he stomach churned at the reports. It had been clear that the paper had edited out most of the more gruesome details but she knew that Harry had witnessed it all. It was weird reading about the probable torture of a man dressed like her brother, but she was more surprised at how Ron was taking the news. He seemed to take it in his stride and was itching for Harry to come down so that they could play Quidditch.
She glanced over first at Hermione and saw with relief that she was back reading one of her books. After Hermione had read the paper she had been quiet, unusually so. She had sat in a chair and just looked at the table nothing anybody said had gotten through to her until Ron started to talk. The pair had whispered to each other for over and hour before they separated but Ginny had seen the gleam in Hermione’s eye return from then onwards.
As she continued to look round she saw the Gabrielle hadn’t moved much. After breakfast the young girl had curled up in one of the chairs and was waiting. Ginny didn’t understand how someone could just sit there and wait with no visible sign of emotion but Gabrielle did just that.
Dumbledore had left them after a brief whispered conversation with her mum and by the sounds of it there was now movement on the stairs. She desperately wanted to turn but forced herself not to move. She suspected the Harry would be a little shaky in front of his friend and did not want a lot of people looking at him right now. As she glanced over at Gabrielle she saw that the girl has slightly repositioned herself. She wasn’t looking at the stairs but Ginny was certain that she would still be able to see who was approaching. The small smile that spread across Gabrielle told Ginny before she even turned that it was indeed Harry who had appeared.
“Um…Hello.” Called Harry.
Hermione’s head sprung up from the book and saw Harry. Jumping to her feet she rushed across the room and flung her arms wide to grab Harry. Ginny felt a moment of jealousy when she saw this but fought it down. Harry stiffened as Hermione approached, he raised his hand to stop her and took a small step backwards. Hermione looked at Harry with the unspoken question in her eyes.
“I’m alright Hermione.”
“I know I was just glad to see you.” Sniffed Hermione wiping away a forming tear.
“You beat him again then.” Called Ron from one of the doorways.
“Yeah just but I needed…” faltered Harry as a small lump formed in his throat as his eyes washed over Ginny and Gabrielle.
Ginny felt the instant pull of the green eyes and was finding it more difficult to sit still. As Harry’s gaze passed she looked over at Gabrielle. She too seemed to shudder as Harry was looking at her but she also tilted her head slightly. Ginny didn’t know if this was to make her look more beautiful because it did or, was there an unspoken question in it.
“So Dumbledore told me you’re staying. I will be so nice to have you here Harry.” Chimed Molly walking in drying her hands.
“Um…no Mrs Weasley I’ve got to go back to the Dursley’s.”
“Why?” asked Ron and Hermione at the same time.
“The protection.” He lied
“But Dumbledore said it was all done for the year?” said Molly looking closer at Harry.
“Yes...um…but I need to check it and pick up my stuff.”
“I could get Bill or one of the twins to do that Harry you don’t have to go …”
“No its fine I must really do it myself, I also need to have a quick word with my Aunt and Uncle.”
“Oh…alright then so you’ll be back for tea?”
“Yes.” Replied Harry hating even more lying to Mrs Weasley but knew it was for the best.
“Its fine Molly I’ll take him.”
“What about coming back? You should be gone by then Remus.” she demanded
“I…um….” Stammered Remus. He didn’t know what Harry was up to but the way he was acting almost reminded him of his James and when he and Sirius were up to something.
“We’ll go!” instantly called Ron indicating himself and Hermione.
Molly wanted to instantly say no but the thoughts of Ron during the Diagon Alley attack made her realise the he could do this small task.
“Alright then.”
“What time mate?” called Ron seeing a chance to get out and with Hermione.
“Oh about eight this evening.”
“Isn’t that a little late?” questioned Hermione
“I…I’ve got to wait until my Uncle is in.”
Ron looked at Hermione and wondered why she was suddenly so suspicious. Turning back to Harry he said.
“OK then see you there.”
Harry smiled a small smile and nodded to all before heading to the fireplace. Ginny wanted to jump up now and rush to him but the way he walked showed his determination. Fearing his departure but knowing that he would be soon returning caused too differing emotions that made her almost miss the interaction between Harry and Gabrielle.
Gabrielle looked at Harry with a more quizzical expression; she could feel his emotions even though he was doing a very good job of hiding them. It was only due to their close contact over the past week and this insight to his emotions that she could now see that he was not telling the truth. She was about to ask about the next lesson when Harry shook his head very slightly, suddenly she knew.
Harry calmly stepped into the fireplace and looked round slowly. He suspected that he might not be returning here for a long time. It didn’t sadden him as he thought it would he knew he was doing it to protect them, protect them all. Casting the powder down he announced “The Cattery” and was gone in the flash of green light.
**
Harry climbed out of the fireplace and dusted himself off slightly. The place was empty but he could almost feel the familiar surroundings of Privet drive.
“I’ll walk you to the House.” Called Remus as he climbed out after Harry.
Harry followed Remus out of the house and into the sunlit day. The quietness of the area soothed Harry a little, for some reason he liked the quiet it allowed him to think. The pair of them slowly walked the short distance to the front gate without speaking. As Harry moved to open the gate Remus spoke.
“I don’t have to go. I can stay and talk or whatever.”
“No you go, I’ll be safe.”
“I’ll see you when I’m back.”
“How long will that be?”
Remus looked of into the distance, he didn’t even know if he would be back.
“I don’t know.” He replied as Harry pulled open the gate and walked into the house.
He continued to stand there for a long time before he turned and slowly walked away. Everything was telling him not to leave Harry alone but he had to go. It was important that he did but Harry looked so vulnerable at the moment he almost stopped and turned. No Harry had made his decision; he had said he would let Harry make all of his own decisions from now on. Surreptitiously he pulled out his wand and looked round, with a faint smile he was gone from Privet Drive.
Harry stood away from the window as he saw Remus depart. He had been watching him until he had eventually moved off. His Aunt had questioned him when he had walked in but Harry had refused to answer. His feelings were telling him that Gabrielle at least knew what he was doing. The rest would find out soon but by then it was too late. Turning to his aunt who was still waiting he said.
“I’m going now. You will be safe.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, a couple of friends will be round after for me tell them that I’ve gone.”
“Are they those two girls?”
“No but they are my friends so it’s best not to mention the shed and give them this letter.” Said Harry passing his Aunt the brief note he had written waiting for Remus to leave.
Petunia nodded at Harry as he walked past her and out into the garden.
Harry pulled open the shed door. He was not surprised to see his owl sitting on the fork handle watching him enter. Time was not pressing but he wanted to go now, soon people might realise what he was doing and try to join him.
“You’ll have to fly there on your own Hedwig.”
The bird hooted once.
“I’ll meet you at Grimmauld Place.” Said Harry offering his arm to the bird. The Owl hopped across onto the arm and was taken outside; she looked around once at Harry and then with a gentle grasp of his arm took flight. Harry continued to watch the fly bird until it was out of sight.
“Good luck Hedwig.” He breathed before entering the shed.
He didn’t need much; most of his belongings would be picked up later if all went ok. Rummaging around in his truck he found the cloak and broom compass he was after. He unclipped his broom from the outside of the trunk and left the shed. It may take him a long time but he had done it before. He was going to fly to Hogwarts. Flinging the cloak over himself he mounted the broom. Quickly he arranged it so that everything was covered.
Slowly ever so slowly he kicked off from the ground. Up and up he went until the house looked like a small dolls house and with a tight smile he lent forward. The broom shot forward and he was on his way.
**
Gabrielle silently watched each of the Weasley’s. The rush departure of Harry had stunned them all, every single one of them was still looking at the receding flames from Remus’s departure. She could see almost every emotion plastered on their faces. Sorrow, loss, confusion were easily seen but she knew more than they did. As Harry walked into the fire she had wanted to jump up and run to him but she kept herself firmly in the chair but now she didn’t know if that was right.
“Well…I’ll…How about…” stammered Ron as he could not believe Harry had actually wanted to return to say goodbye.
Hermione crossed over to him and Gabrielle could see that there was a sign of a tear on her face. She may not like Hermione but it was obvious that Hermione cared for Harry in her own way. Gabrielle just wished that she would not be so nosey about it.
The two teenagers looked at each other and then as a pair walked out into the garden with their thoughts.
Molly looked at her son leaving to walk the garden again. As she watched the pair walk she knew it was getting more and more difficult to keep them apart, every time there was trouble or worry those two always found each other. Shaking her head she knew that before the summer was out she would have lost her battle, whatever she thought should happen those two thought very differently.
As she shuffled into the kitchen she glanced at the two girls. All morning they had been waiting quietly. This had surprised her of Ginny, she had expected to be having a running argument about her going to Harry, but it never came. Gabrielle was also sitting silently but Molly saw that she was watching everybody, she was doing it very discreetly but still she was watching her family. She entered the kitchen and thought about Harry, the way he was acting almost reminded her of the twins when they were up to something. She just hoped that she was mistaken.
Gabrielle waited until Mrs Weasley had left before getting up. Ginny still looked a little lost just looking into the fire place but this was not a time for her. She had to follow her feelings. Now was a time for Harry. Like a ghost she crossed the room and ascended the stairs. Once she entered Ginny’s bedroom she felt a moment of sadness, soon very soon she would be leaving. A small piece of joy was fluttering in her stomach at the knowledge that when she did leave she would be closer to Harry but the rest of her emotions were mainly of sadness.
She had only been staying here a few weeks but she had come to think of it as a sort of home. It was nowhere near as large as the Chateau back home but there was still a warm feeling here for her. She knew that she would most likely be leaving Ginny behind. Gabrielle suspected that Mrs Weasley would not want her to leave but ultimately she couldn’t be stopped but Ginny was completely different. Ginny wanted to go to Harry as much probably more than she did but Mrs Weasley would never agree to it.
A she glanced over the room, Ginny’s bed, the floor where the pair had slept last night, and the set of drawers that Ginny had emptied for her she had to sniff back a tear. She would miss Ginny more than she thought possible. Living with her she had come to more than like the girl. In her mind she knew that both of them most probably would have to live together if they both wanted to be with Harry and so she had tried to like Ginny. She found that it was too easy to like the girl and parting from her was going to be hard, but she had little choice.
Turning back to her bed she opened her rucksack and started to pile in the extra clothes that Ginny and surprisingly Luna had gotten her. What ever happened Gabrielle would repay them somehow. As she took out item after item she saw that not all of it was going to fit. So as she packed she slowly sorted out what she was going to leave behind.
“What are you doing?” asked a voice behind her.
Gabrielle spun round, as she had been thinking about the future she had not heard Ginny walk in. By the look on her face Ginny had obviously been there for sometime.
“Packing.”
“Why?” asked Ginny crossing the room and sitting calmly on her bed, but calm was far from the truth.
“I’ll be leaving soon.” Answered Gabrielle stopping and sitting on her bed.
“But Harry will be here soon, why do you want to go now? Don’t you want to be with him?”
“You know that answer.” Whispered Gabrielle.
“But…but…”
“He’s not coming.”
“But he said.”
“He’s scared, I could feel it. Also Remus was hiding something both of their emotions were difficult to read but Harry’s running.”
“Why didn’t you stop him?”
“I don’t think anyone could, whatever happened last night has affected him badly.”
“We must go to him.” Stated Ginny standing up and talking a step towards the door
Gabrielle face broke into a wide smile as she met Ginny halfway.
“I know, but you can’t your mum...”
“I don’t care, he’s was here hurt, and she stopped me from helping him then. If he’s still hurting I’ve got to go.”
“Not yet it wouldn’t be the best.”
“But your going!” accused Ginny
“Not yet.”
“Why not?”
“I’ve got to wait until he stops somewhere. At the moment he is moving.”
“How do you know?”
“Close your eyes.”
Ginny did so and felt Gabrielle’s hand take her own.
“Remember last night and think of your love.”
It was easier for Ginny this time and she began to feel the change in herself as she calmed and started to feel the bond.
“Open you eyes and see.”
Ginny did so and could make out her ribbon it flew out of the window and into the distance. She had the urge to try and follow it but didn’t as she continued to study it she saw that it was moving ever so slowly to the right.
“It’s moving.”
“Yes, he’s moving we will just have to wait until it stops, then at the very least I can go to him.”
Ginny looked back at the young girl and tried to smile but what would the summer bring her next?
**
Ron looked up and down the road. It seemed a little busy as people were rushing about into and their houses but he really only had his eye on one house. He could feel Hermione walking next to him and he still didn’t understand why she was there with him. They had spent the afternoon sitting quietly reading, the paper had shocked him but it wasn’t the report about either of the men it was the report of woman that he caused him the most distress.
The pair had briefly talked about it but had tried to talk about anything else. Now they were walking down the road to pick Harry up. Hermione had seemed a little agitated with this but hadn’t spoken to him up until now.
“We shouldn’t have let him go.”
“Why?” asked Ron turning his head but continuing to walk.
“It was odd wasn’t it Ron, Harry wanting to go back?”
“Yeah a little.”
The pair paused at the gate and looked at the house. It was hard to tell this one from any of the others it just looked so normal. Ron pushed the gate and continued to run what Hermione had said through his mind. He raised his hand and pushed the button. Almost at once Harry’s Aunt answered the door.
“We come for…” started Ron
“He’s not here he left and told me to give you this.”
Ron quickly took the letter tore it opened and quickly read.
Ron, Hermione.
I sorry; I can’t stay near you anymore. Your friendship means everything to me but I can’t let what happened last night happen to you. I’m going to stay some where safe until school starts.
Please enjoy your summer and don’t worry about me.
Your friend
Harry
Ron looked up and Hermione.
“Mum’s not going to be happy.”
“Nor is you sister.” she replied without thinking.
**
A/N: Thanks Malehorntaildragon for your help.
Ginny awoke and as normal listened to the noise of the house before opening her eyes. The sounds of the house drifted into her ears and she heard the familiar noises of her parents moving around downstairs making breakfast. As she relaxed into the familiar noises her mind wandered back to the previous evening. The knowledge of Harry being under attack and Dumbledore not being able to help had shocked her but the reaction of Gabrielle had worried her even more. But the thoughts of what the pair of them had done came flooding forward to chase these nasty images away.
She could remember sitting on the floor and trying to reachout for Harry. She had never been able to do it on her own as yet but that didn’t stop her from trying every time she was alone. As she thought of Harry and of Love she tried to reach out once more. She then felt the soft pressure of Gabrielle’s fingers, but as she tried to reach Harry she could clearly feel the second presence with her, especially as it started to pull at her magical power. She felt her magic flow from within her to the younger girl, more and more magic was drawn but she didn’t care. Inside of her she knew that it could help Harry so she just kept giving, and then she felt herself flow with her magic. Whether it was Gabrielle or herself that caused it she didn’t know.
She couldn’t remember how long that she had travelled with her magic but eventually she had sensed something new, something different. Her magic connected against something forceful and then she felt Harry. Her magic told her that it was him and that he was in pain. All most at once she had started to draw him back, she could feel his desperation, his pain and longing to return and she helped. As they flowed she sensed Gabrielle move over and around Harry’s conscious stroking and soothing, trying to remove the pain. Ginny felt her magic’s response and allowed it to follow suit.
She felt herself dance across Harry trying to relive him of his pain she didn’t know if it worked but then she was back in her room. Her magic returned to her body but she knew that they had succeeded. She had opened her eyes and looked at Gabrielle, and then it hit her. The utter magical exhaustion had caused her to faint; never had she used so much magic before.
Opening her eyes slowly she started to feel around as unusual sensations flowed into her mind. The image of the ceiling was different than normal and she realised that she was still on the floor from last night. The warm duvet around her told her that someone had looked after her once she had fainted. She tried to snuggle closer into the duvet for a moment but felt stiffness in one of her arms so she slowly looked that way. Gabrielle was lying next to her curled up tight against her. Ginny’s arm had somehow worked its way around the younger girl the two of them had obviously slept like that. A small moment of panic raced through Ginny about what would people say if they saw her lying under a duvet with her arm around Gabrielle, but then her mind brought up more.
She was feeling the best she had ever felt. Whatever had happened had given Ginny the most refreshing sleep that she could remember having all summer, gently pulling the girl closer to her to give her a final hug. She heard Gabrielle moan slightly.
“You Ok?” she whispered.
“Humm…yes.” Sleepily replied Gabrielle unconsciously rubbing her bum across Ginny’s side.
“We really should get up.”
“No Harry… not yet.” Continued Gabrielle still not opening her eyes but continuing to rub herself against Ginny.
“Gabrielle it’s me, Ginny not Harry.”
“Oh!” came the startled reply from Gabrielle as her eyes flashed opened and she realised what she had been doing.
“I’m sorry Ginny…I…um…”
“It’s alright honestly.” Replied Ginny seeing a blush creep across the girls face.
“But I almost…” said Gabrielle turning her face and burying it into her hands.
Ginny sat up and noticed that at least she was wearing some clothing so it didn’t look as bad as it could have been. Pulling the girl close again she felt the warmness return to her.
“It’s alright I think I’m understanding a bit more now.” Soothed Ginny holding the girl.
“But…but...”
“What we did to bring Harry back was magical wasn’t it.”
“Yes…but.”
“It’s alright honestly, I know your need drives you. I don’t mind, you saved Harry if this is the penalty then I think you should save Harry more often.” giggled Ginny.
“What?”
“That was the best I’ve slept since returning from school.”
“That’s because of Harry.”
“Maybe but I think that you had something to do with it as well.”
“I…I…Never.”
Ginny gently held Gabrielle chin in her hand and tilted it upwards. She lowered he face and felt her lips brush Gabrielle’s. She had kissed girls before but never like this, never lips onto lips. Her mind was racing at what she was doing. Ginny didn’t know if it was her magic forcing her or something else but she continued with the lightest of kisses. Ever so slowly she pulled back and saw that Gabrielle’s eyes were closed and a look of contentment was on her face.
“We had better get up and see if Harry’s awake.”
Gabrielle opened her eyes and nodded before she said.
“Thank you Ginny, I needed that.” Without waiting for a reply Gabrielle rose to her feet and crossed to her bed to start the day and gently called out. “Love can be shown in many different ways.”
**
Harry felt the soft bed under him first. He had spent so much time in a sleeping bag recently that a bed was a different experience for him. The softness around him reminded him of the hospital but then his mind brought back last night. The images started to come of what had happened. Snapping his eyes open he didn’t want to relive them again no matter whom or what told him too.
“Your awake mate, good!” came the voice of Ron as soon Harry had opened his eyes.
Harry feared turning his head but did so anyway. He saw the Ron sitting on his bed eating a sandwich. Before Harry could open his mouth the image started to transform Ron face broke out in cuts and bruises. The hands hold his sandwich crumpled and bleed. Fearing what he would see Harry closed his eye rapidly.
“You OK?”
“Yeah.” Replied Harry not wanting to open his eyes.
“You sure?”
Harry carefully opened his eyes and tried not to look directly at Ron.
“Yeah it was…a…bad night.”
“Dumbledore said you were under attack.”
“Something like that.” Replied Harry still not looking at his friend.
“I’ll get him and Professor Lupin. They’ve been waiting for you to wake up.”
Harry nodded and closed his eyes. He tried to calm his mind but the images of the previous night still threatened him. The noise of people entering caused him to open his eyes again. He saw that Dumbledore was moving close holding out his wand. There was an unspoken question on his face that Harry readily nodded too. Behind him Remus seemed to almost fill the doorway blocking the entrance. He looked far paler than Harry could remember.
“Rough?” Remus called as Dumbledore started to wave his wand over Harry.
The bile in Harry’s stomach started to come forth but he fought it down.
“Yes.” He quietly replied.
Dumbledore stood back and lowered himself down on Ron’s bed before he spoke.
“There’s no physical damage Harry yet you seem different?” Questioned the old man.
Harry didn’t know what to answer and so just laid there composing himself.
“What happened Harry?” asked Dumbledore.
“No sir.” Replied Harry. He had never stood up to his headmaster before but he wasn’t going to relive this one. It wasn’t like after the tri-wizard tournament this had been a personal attack one meant for him and him alone and he wasn’t going to relive it for all to hear.
“Come now Harry it’s difficult but we must know.”
“No sir I won’t do it.”
“Harry.” The tone in Dumbledore voice got slightly harder. Harry could feel himself slightly shudder at the steel in the voice yet he wasn’t going to move and just shook his head.
“Dumbledore he doesn’t want to.” Called Remus from the doorway. Whatever had happened wasn’t going to be pleasant and he felt that Dumbledore was asking too much right now.
“I know Remus but we, I, must know.”
Before Remus could reply Harry spoke up.
“No sir, not this time it was just a message. A message to me, you’ve probably found them anyway.”
“You were there?” asked a shocked Remus
“Yes.”
Dumbledore closed his eyes as he remembered what he had seen. He had visited each location early that morning as soon as he was happy that Harry was safe. Letting out a long breath Dumbledore looked back at Harry.
“Very well Harry I’ll respect your wishes I need to go anyway and so do you Remus…” Said Dumbledore looking sharply at the man in the doorway. “…Harry I think it’s best that you stay here. I’ll arrange to have to things moved.”
“It’s alright sir. I can do that myself.” Blurted Harry not wanting Dumbledore to find out about the shed, but also for a second reason one that he didn’t want to say just yet.
Dumbledore paused and studied Harry he knew that he was hiding something from him but as yet didn’t know what.
“Ok then, just be careful” he replied walking out past Remus.
Remus walked in and closed the door behind. Somehow he knew that Harry didn’t need the rest hear this just yet. He had only read the report in the paper but if it was close to the truth Harry was going to have a more than few serious problems with his friends.
Harry just looked at Remus as he slowly crossed the room and sat on the bed very much like Dumbledore. He was still having trouble containing all of the images but was glad for the moment of peace, eventually Remus spoke.
“They know anyway Harry.”
“What?”
“It was in the Prophet this morning; it covered it in enough detail that they guessed the rest.”
“So they know everything?”
“No only you and…him know everything.”
Harry continued to look at the man. The conversation was getting too close to what happened and he didn’t want to talk about it.
“Remus, Dumbledore said you have to leave?”
Remus dropped his head. The call had come at almost the worse time, Harry looked bad and he felt that he was for once really needed here.
“Yes but I don’t have to go. I’ll stay if you want me to.”
“No you must go. You said it was important, when do you leave?”
Remus almost shook his head at Harry. It was still obvious that the boy didn’t realise that he was the most import thing out there. This mission meant nothing compared to that, yet Harry couldn’t see it.
“I should leave today. In fact I should be going soon.”
Harry continued to think his mind was a whirl with everything that was still happening to him but he knew what he had to do.
“I can’t stay here.” He whispered.
“What?”
“I have to leave.”
“But Dumbledore said…”
“NO I have to go, if I stay….” Harry left the rest unsaid but swallowed hard at the thought.
“You’ll be safe here Harry they’ll look after you.”
A flash of magic lit Harry face for a moment as he quickly replied.
“That’s just it. That’s the reason I have to go, will you help me?”
Remus nodded once before asking.
“Where are you going?”
“Back to the Dursley’s.” Instantly replied Harry. He didn’t want to lie and especially to Remus but he had too. Voldemort had made that clear last night, to protect his friends he had to join Voldemort. The only other way was to distance himself from them. He wasn’t sure how he would do that at school but for the rest of the summer he knew what he could do. He knew where he had to go and he would go there without his friends.
He wasn’t going to be alone he also knew that he was going to need a little help but he knew the exact person to help him. That person would be safe he would make sure of it. If he worded it right no matter what Voldemort tried to do his only companion would be safe. All he had to do now was speak to him.
**
Ginny was feeling more and more nervous as the time passed by. She and Gabrielle had gotten up early and waited for Harry. It had been made very clear by her mum that they were going to have to wait until Harry came down, even Ron and Hermione had been stopped from going up to him since Dumbledore had left.
When she saw the paper she understood her mothers concern. As she read article after article he stomach churned at the reports. It had been clear that the paper had edited out most of the more gruesome details but she knew that Harry had witnessed it all. It was weird reading about the probable torture of a man dressed like her brother, but she was more surprised at how Ron was taking the news. He seemed to take it in his stride and was itching for Harry to come down so that they could play Quidditch.
She glanced over first at Hermione and saw with relief that she was back reading one of her books. After Hermione had read the paper she had been quiet, unusually so. She had sat in a chair and just looked at the table nothing anybody said had gotten through to her until Ron started to talk. The pair had whispered to each other for over and hour before they separated but Ginny had seen the gleam in Hermione’s eye return from then onwards.
As she continued to look round she saw the Gabrielle hadn’t moved much. After breakfast the young girl had curled up in one of the chairs and was waiting. Ginny didn’t understand how someone could just sit there and wait with no visible sign of emotion but Gabrielle did just that.
Dumbledore had left them after a brief whispered conversation with her mum and by the sounds of it there was now movement on the stairs. She desperately wanted to turn but forced herself not to move. She suspected the Harry would be a little shaky in front of his friend and did not want a lot of people looking at him right now. As she glanced over at Gabrielle she saw that the girl has slightly repositioned herself. She wasn’t looking at the stairs but Ginny was certain that she would still be able to see who was approaching. The small smile that spread across Gabrielle told Ginny before she even turned that it was indeed Harry who had appeared.
“Um…Hello.” Called Harry.
Hermione’s head sprung up from the book and saw Harry. Jumping to her feet she rushed across the room and flung her arms wide to grab Harry. Ginny felt a moment of jealousy when she saw this but fought it down. Harry stiffened as Hermione approached, he raised his hand to stop her and took a small step backwards. Hermione looked at Harry with the unspoken question in her eyes.
“I’m alright Hermione.”
“I know I was just glad to see you.” Sniffed Hermione wiping away a forming tear.
“You beat him again then.” Called Ron from one of the doorways.
“Yeah just but I needed…” faltered Harry as a small lump formed in his throat as his eyes washed over Ginny and Gabrielle.
Ginny felt the instant pull of the green eyes and was finding it more difficult to sit still. As Harry’s gaze passed she looked over at Gabrielle. She too seemed to shudder as Harry was looking at her but she also tilted her head slightly. Ginny didn’t know if this was to make her look more beautiful because it did or, was there an unspoken question in it.
“So Dumbledore told me you’re staying. I will be so nice to have you here Harry.” Chimed Molly walking in drying her hands.
“Um…no Mrs Weasley I’ve got to go back to the Dursley’s.”
“Why?” asked Ron and Hermione at the same time.
“The protection.” He lied
“But Dumbledore said it was all done for the year?” said Molly looking closer at Harry.
“Yes...um…but I need to check it and pick up my stuff.”
“I could get Bill or one of the twins to do that Harry you don’t have to go …”
“No its fine I must really do it myself, I also need to have a quick word with my Aunt and Uncle.”
“Oh…alright then so you’ll be back for tea?”
“Yes.” Replied Harry hating even more lying to Mrs Weasley but knew it was for the best.
“Its fine Molly I’ll take him.”
“What about coming back? You should be gone by then Remus.” she demanded
“I…um….” Stammered Remus. He didn’t know what Harry was up to but the way he was acting almost reminded him of his James and when he and Sirius were up to something.
“We’ll go!” instantly called Ron indicating himself and Hermione.
Molly wanted to instantly say no but the thoughts of Ron during the Diagon Alley attack made her realise the he could do this small task.
“Alright then.”
“What time mate?” called Ron seeing a chance to get out and with Hermione.
“Oh about eight this evening.”
“Isn’t that a little late?” questioned Hermione
“I…I’ve got to wait until my Uncle is in.”
Ron looked at Hermione and wondered why she was suddenly so suspicious. Turning back to Harry he said.
“OK then see you there.”
Harry smiled a small smile and nodded to all before heading to the fireplace. Ginny wanted to jump up now and rush to him but the way he walked showed his determination. Fearing his departure but knowing that he would be soon returning caused too differing emotions that made her almost miss the interaction between Harry and Gabrielle.
Gabrielle looked at Harry with a more quizzical expression; she could feel his emotions even though he was doing a very good job of hiding them. It was only due to their close contact over the past week and this insight to his emotions that she could now see that he was not telling the truth. She was about to ask about the next lesson when Harry shook his head very slightly, suddenly she knew.
Harry calmly stepped into the fireplace and looked round slowly. He suspected that he might not be returning here for a long time. It didn’t sadden him as he thought it would he knew he was doing it to protect them, protect them all. Casting the powder down he announced “The Cattery” and was gone in the flash of green light.
**
Harry climbed out of the fireplace and dusted himself off slightly. The place was empty but he could almost feel the familiar surroundings of Privet drive.
“I’ll walk you to the House.” Called Remus as he climbed out after Harry.
Harry followed Remus out of the house and into the sunlit day. The quietness of the area soothed Harry a little, for some reason he liked the quiet it allowed him to think. The pair of them slowly walked the short distance to the front gate without speaking. As Harry moved to open the gate Remus spoke.
“I don’t have to go. I can stay and talk or whatever.”
“No you go, I’ll be safe.”
“I’ll see you when I’m back.”
“How long will that be?”
Remus looked of into the distance, he didn’t even know if he would be back.
“I don’t know.” He replied as Harry pulled open the gate and walked into the house.
He continued to stand there for a long time before he turned and slowly walked away. Everything was telling him not to leave Harry alone but he had to go. It was important that he did but Harry looked so vulnerable at the moment he almost stopped and turned. No Harry had made his decision; he had said he would let Harry make all of his own decisions from now on. Surreptitiously he pulled out his wand and looked round, with a faint smile he was gone from Privet Drive.
Harry stood away from the window as he saw Remus depart. He had been watching him until he had eventually moved off. His Aunt had questioned him when he had walked in but Harry had refused to answer. His feelings were telling him that Gabrielle at least knew what he was doing. The rest would find out soon but by then it was too late. Turning to his aunt who was still waiting he said.
“I’m going now. You will be safe.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, a couple of friends will be round after for me tell them that I’ve gone.”
“Are they those two girls?”
“No but they are my friends so it’s best not to mention the shed and give them this letter.” Said Harry passing his Aunt the brief note he had written waiting for Remus to leave.
Petunia nodded at Harry as he walked past her and out into the garden.
Harry pulled open the shed door. He was not surprised to see his owl sitting on the fork handle watching him enter. Time was not pressing but he wanted to go now, soon people might realise what he was doing and try to join him.
“You’ll have to fly there on your own Hedwig.”
The bird hooted once.
“I’ll meet you at Grimmauld Place.” Said Harry offering his arm to the bird. The Owl hopped across onto the arm and was taken outside; she looked around once at Harry and then with a gentle grasp of his arm took flight. Harry continued to watch the fly bird until it was out of sight.
“Good luck Hedwig.” He breathed before entering the shed.
He didn’t need much; most of his belongings would be picked up later if all went ok. Rummaging around in his truck he found the cloak and broom compass he was after. He unclipped his broom from the outside of the trunk and left the shed. It may take him a long time but he had done it before. He was going to fly to Hogwarts. Flinging the cloak over himself he mounted the broom. Quickly he arranged it so that everything was covered.
Slowly ever so slowly he kicked off from the ground. Up and up he went until the house looked like a small dolls house and with a tight smile he lent forward. The broom shot forward and he was on his way.
**
Gabrielle silently watched each of the Weasley’s. The rush departure of Harry had stunned them all, every single one of them was still looking at the receding flames from Remus’s departure. She could see almost every emotion plastered on their faces. Sorrow, loss, confusion were easily seen but she knew more than they did. As Harry walked into the fire she had wanted to jump up and run to him but she kept herself firmly in the chair but now she didn’t know if that was right.
“Well…I’ll…How about…” stammered Ron as he could not believe Harry had actually wanted to return to say goodbye.
Hermione crossed over to him and Gabrielle could see that there was a sign of a tear on her face. She may not like Hermione but it was obvious that Hermione cared for Harry in her own way. Gabrielle just wished that she would not be so nosey about it.
The two teenagers looked at each other and then as a pair walked out into the garden with their thoughts.
Molly looked at her son leaving to walk the garden again. As she watched the pair walk she knew it was getting more and more difficult to keep them apart, every time there was trouble or worry those two always found each other. Shaking her head she knew that before the summer was out she would have lost her battle, whatever she thought should happen those two thought very differently.
As she shuffled into the kitchen she glanced at the two girls. All morning they had been waiting quietly. This had surprised her of Ginny, she had expected to be having a running argument about her going to Harry, but it never came. Gabrielle was also sitting silently but Molly saw that she was watching everybody, she was doing it very discreetly but still she was watching her family. She entered the kitchen and thought about Harry, the way he was acting almost reminded her of the twins when they were up to something. She just hoped that she was mistaken.
Gabrielle waited until Mrs Weasley had left before getting up. Ginny still looked a little lost just looking into the fire place but this was not a time for her. She had to follow her feelings. Now was a time for Harry. Like a ghost she crossed the room and ascended the stairs. Once she entered Ginny’s bedroom she felt a moment of sadness, soon very soon she would be leaving. A small piece of joy was fluttering in her stomach at the knowledge that when she did leave she would be closer to Harry but the rest of her emotions were mainly of sadness.
She had only been staying here a few weeks but she had come to think of it as a sort of home. It was nowhere near as large as the Chateau back home but there was still a warm feeling here for her. She knew that she would most likely be leaving Ginny behind. Gabrielle suspected that Mrs Weasley would not want her to leave but ultimately she couldn’t be stopped but Ginny was completely different. Ginny wanted to go to Harry as much probably more than she did but Mrs Weasley would never agree to it.
A she glanced over the room, Ginny’s bed, the floor where the pair had slept last night, and the set of drawers that Ginny had emptied for her she had to sniff back a tear. She would miss Ginny more than she thought possible. Living with her she had come to more than like the girl. In her mind she knew that both of them most probably would have to live together if they both wanted to be with Harry and so she had tried to like Ginny. She found that it was too easy to like the girl and parting from her was going to be hard, but she had little choice.
Turning back to her bed she opened her rucksack and started to pile in the extra clothes that Ginny and surprisingly Luna had gotten her. What ever happened Gabrielle would repay them somehow. As she took out item after item she saw that not all of it was going to fit. So as she packed she slowly sorted out what she was going to leave behind.
“What are you doing?” asked a voice behind her.
Gabrielle spun round, as she had been thinking about the future she had not heard Ginny walk in. By the look on her face Ginny had obviously been there for sometime.
“Packing.”
“Why?” asked Ginny crossing the room and sitting calmly on her bed, but calm was far from the truth.
“I’ll be leaving soon.” Answered Gabrielle stopping and sitting on her bed.
“But Harry will be here soon, why do you want to go now? Don’t you want to be with him?”
“You know that answer.” Whispered Gabrielle.
“But…but…”
“He’s not coming.”
“But he said.”
“He’s scared, I could feel it. Also Remus was hiding something both of their emotions were difficult to read but Harry’s running.”
“Why didn’t you stop him?”
“I don’t think anyone could, whatever happened last night has affected him badly.”
“We must go to him.” Stated Ginny standing up and talking a step towards the door
Gabrielle face broke into a wide smile as she met Ginny halfway.
“I know, but you can’t your mum...”
“I don’t care, he’s was here hurt, and she stopped me from helping him then. If he’s still hurting I’ve got to go.”
“Not yet it wouldn’t be the best.”
“But your going!” accused Ginny
“Not yet.”
“Why not?”
“I’ve got to wait until he stops somewhere. At the moment he is moving.”
“How do you know?”
“Close your eyes.”
Ginny did so and felt Gabrielle’s hand take her own.
“Remember last night and think of your love.”
It was easier for Ginny this time and she began to feel the change in herself as she calmed and started to feel the bond.
“Open you eyes and see.”
Ginny did so and could make out her ribbon it flew out of the window and into the distance. She had the urge to try and follow it but didn’t as she continued to study it she saw that it was moving ever so slowly to the right.
“It’s moving.”
“Yes, he’s moving we will just have to wait until it stops, then at the very least I can go to him.”
Ginny looked back at the young girl and tried to smile but what would the summer bring her next?
**
Ron looked up and down the road. It seemed a little busy as people were rushing about into and their houses but he really only had his eye on one house. He could feel Hermione walking next to him and he still didn’t understand why she was there with him. They had spent the afternoon sitting quietly reading, the paper had shocked him but it wasn’t the report about either of the men it was the report of woman that he caused him the most distress.
The pair had briefly talked about it but had tried to talk about anything else. Now they were walking down the road to pick Harry up. Hermione had seemed a little agitated with this but hadn’t spoken to him up until now.
“We shouldn’t have let him go.”
“Why?” asked Ron turning his head but continuing to walk.
“It was odd wasn’t it Ron, Harry wanting to go back?”
“Yeah a little.”
The pair paused at the gate and looked at the house. It was hard to tell this one from any of the others it just looked so normal. Ron pushed the gate and continued to run what Hermione had said through his mind. He raised his hand and pushed the button. Almost at once Harry’s Aunt answered the door.
“We come for…” started Ron
“He’s not here he left and told me to give you this.”
Ron quickly took the letter tore it opened and quickly read.
Ron, Hermione.
I sorry; I can’t stay near you anymore. Your friendship means everything to me but I can’t let what happened last night happen to you. I’m going to stay some where safe until school starts.
Please enjoy your summer and don’t worry about me.
Your friend
Harry
Ron looked up and Hermione.
“Mum’s not going to be happy.”
“Nor is you sister.” she replied without thinking.
**
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