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Hi Heather! Here for our swap (a bit later than I intended, between site downs and busy life, but here I am... :P)
This was another, really nice chapter! :) I enjoyed the change of scenery (I forgot they were all headed to the Delacours' for Christmas... but I've been away from this story for a while, so no surprises here...)
Honestly, the idea of Cora getting custody of Eyla is a very good one! Hermione's parents are obviously not in the state to care about her, especially when she influences negatively their recovery (not the child's fault, of course, but given the circumstances it's the best for everyone...) And while it would've been interesting to see Hermione and Ron embarking in this sort of parenting adventure, they are way too young and have already too much on their plate... I wasn't sure if Cora would be completely on board with this, considering she started the conversation in a concerned way regarding Eyla getting so attached, but I'm glad they all seemed happy with the idea! And it's lovely to imagine Eyla and Sirius growing up together as siblings of sorts! <3
I really loved the way you incorporated the idea of familiars, too! The bond between Hermione and Crookshanks does feel right for that! And Harry adopting a new snowy owl seems just right and is a very sweet image! Loved the conversation between Hermione and Ginny, btw! Harry has some pretty unique instincts... and his rescue-mania is still kicking in at every chance, lol! :P
Oh... I had forgotten about Hermione writing to Dudley as well... I didn't get at first what the letter was about, then I made two plus two... :P Was it Dudley who wrote to Harry as well? I'm sort of looking forward to some kind of reconciliation between the two cousins, if you decide to go down that route! <3
Lovely chapter! Thank you so much for the swap! :)
Big snowball hug,
Chiara
Author's Response:I'm so glad you enjoyed the chapter!
As I was writing and saw that Sirius James and Eyla were getting close, I just saw her with Cora, it seemed natural and was definitely best for everyone. Cora was only hesitant becuase she didn't want anyone's feelings hurt.
I also wasn't expecting to write in a snowy owl sequence for Harry yet, but it seemed like he was missing a companion and I miss Hedwig!! :( I can't handle reading or watching that part of the series... Anyway, I thought it was interesting to include some differences in magical education between Beuxbatons and Hogwarts, we don't really see that in the books.
It is more Petunia Hermione wrote to. Dudley hasn't reached out. We read more about it in a later chapter when they exchange gifts :) Glad to see you continue the story, it's very close to my heart!
lots of hugs back,
Heather
Ah, poor little guy! He’s so excited about his ideas that he can’t give Harry a minute to wake up.
“It’s been LOADS of minutes!”
LOL!
Oh yes, seeing a Hippogriff is a great birthday present! I’d definitely be up for that myself! And doing it again for Teddy’s first birthday sounds absolutely perfect!
The scene where Cora greets Buckbeak was so touching. I can tell she and Sirius had a wonderful relationship, and Buckbeak must know it. It must have been such a thrill for her son to see her taking off on Buckbeak’s back, after all the stories she’d told him, too! What a wonderful little scene!
And what a fantastic story she had to tell about Buckbeak! I have never seen Hagrid so shocked before! It was sad she had to leave the herd behind, but it’s a fantastic idea that Sirius is the one who ended up with her in the end.
Pix
Author's Response:Sirius James is just the cutest.
I cannot wait until I can start adding Cora to my story, "With Sirius Black". I'm still writing about him in Harry's 3rd year so I'm not there yet but I have a lot written for it that just needs editing. I loved writing Hagrid's reaction here, it was so fitting with how he feels about Buckbeak too and gives much needed backstory to Cora. It's hard for me to not write in her POV more often, I love her character, but the story isn't about her right now anyway, I suppose it could change it the future and she definitely gets more scenes in the Christmas Chapters coming up.
I'm really glad you enjoyed this one, it's a favorite of mine!
-Heather
Oh gosh! The breakfast with Hermione and Ron was so lovely and sweet, and a needed break after everything they’d been through. Hermione’s job sounds super tedious, but I’m sure she’s going to be aces at it. That’s going to be a lot of work!
Ah yeah, that does seem like an awkward situation Ron got himself into. I hope that girl is just being friendly, but I can’t be too sure. It’s good Hermione is right across the street and Ron was planning to see her soon.
Oh! That’s a great idea, Hermione! I love the magical idea that the books are drawn to what people are thinking about and it’s a charm used for bookstores to match the books to their new owners! Sounds like a handy spell to have, too. Wish I had one!
Aww, the poor girl WAS flirting! Well, there’s no help for it now. At least she knows that Ron is attached now, and maybe she can become friends without the awkwardness. Ron’s thoughts on emotional girls isn’t off the mark, even if it did sound a bit shallow. It’s been his experience, so it makes sense and seemed totally in character for him.
Oh my goodness! Is that a Fond Memory of Aunt Petunia I spotted?? Those are so rare, and it was so nice to see one, even though it was unexpected.
Pix
Author's Response:I really loved this chapter. It's a bit of normalcy in their crazy world with jobs, flirting, a walk down memory lane. As much as Ron has developed a bit. It might have gone from "teaspoon" to "tablespoon" for his Emotional Range LOL.
I can't help but think there must have been a LITTLE something she could have been nice about. I doubt it would last long, but there HAD to be, at least in my world.
Thanks!
Heather
There’s nothing like a hot cup of tea to warm you after being out in the weather! Molly is doing some serious mothering in this chapter, and also being a congenial hostess as well! I’m so happy to see McGonagall outside of the castle for once! I never see her in a role other than at Hogwarts, so it’s a nice surprise to have her out in the wild like this. Also nice to see her taking an interest in people other than students. She is so kind to Hermione, putting her at ease with no blame.
You know, it’s always easier to appreciate the time you have with your parents after the fact. I can understand Ginny’s thoughts on this, and I’m glad she’s old enough to appreciate her mother now. Oh wow! If Molly gets her certification, it would give her a much-needed purpose - I mean, not that I think Molly doesn’t have a purpose, but I’m sure she feels it when her children are no longer in the house. It’d be good for her, as well as for the Grangers, and help Hermione as well.
Uh oh! That information about the Japanese is not going to make things easy! I hope they figure out what to do about that!
Pix
Author's Response:Thanks so much for the reviews! Yes, a hot drink after/while being out in the cold is soo comforting. I actually did that this morning :)
I liked adding McGonnagal to this, to be fair, Hermione would technically still be her student, Hogwarts is just taking time to reorient itself. I thought it was sweet to add her here and it was appropriate.
I think, especially after the last few years, Ginny would appreciate her family and especially her mom now. Actually, that reminds me I could do some writing for mother's/fathers day for a future chapter, especially after becoming one myself last year!
I liked the idea of Molly continuing to focus on something important, and yes, now that everyone is out of the house more or less, it will certainly help to keep her busy and definitely help the grangers for sure :)
The secret society is definitely going to be a new mystery! We will see!
Thanks again,
Heather
Howdy!
I'm sorry for the long delay on the review. I realize it's been over a month, but I am here as promised.
First off, I really like the story as a concept. So often we drill down on a character or a ship or both but getting a look at post-war life through the eyes of a lot of different people is rather unique and the fact that you're incorporate OCs seems like it will make it even better. I'm not sure if you plan to have a unifying overall arc, but regardless it's a cool idea.
Now to the body! At first I was not sure about the pacing of the emotions, but the more I read of it, I actually came to appreciate it. In traumatic times emotions rise up rapidly - even positive ones to try and anchor on or that can pull you up even if it's only a little. It will be interesting to see if that's something of a theme or just used here, where the characters already have such a strong familiarity.
Anywho, I enjoyed the first chapter and if you like I am happy to carry on from here. Just let me know!
Author's Response:Thanks so much! I thought there was a swap missing but it's been an insane month for me so I wasn't going to track it down :P I appreciate it.
I'm so happy you mentioned emotion pacing. I wondered about it too but in my own experiences, so many emotions can turn up and you never know when you can accept a happy moment when you thought you could only cry. Often it's unexpected. I try to incorporate moments like that throughout so if you're up for it I'd love to know more of your thoughts!
As far as a unifying arc... I'm trying! Lol Mostly, trying to incorporate Canon with ideas of my own and some original characters show up here and there. For this story, I really want to give the main cast a chance at some normalcy. Obviously, it takes a while and also still has their own abnormal issues, I mean, it's HP how normal can you really be? lol. But the glimpses of it I'm having lots of fun with.
Thanks so much for the swap! I hope to see more of you :)
-Heather
Hi there! Back for another!
It must be nice to have magic in the kitchen! I’d certainly have more than one or two different dishes for dinner if it didn’t take so long to do them all, lol! Can I borrow Molly’s wand?
Aww, and Ron is so sweet! He really cares about Hermione, here. And double awww, the kids are being so sweet too!
Ah, JOBS!! That sounds like an excellent way for them to start feeling useful again. And it’s a big, NORMAL part of growing up that they weren’t able to do before.
I can totally see Hermione in Flourish and Blotts, though I imagine she will be destined for greater things eventually. But yeah, the sight of the stores after the war must be a big shock. I love that Harry found something cool for Ginny to apply to! That sounds like just the thing for her to try! And Harry definitely has the right idea to not get such a public job. He’s thinking clearly about this. I’m glad to see it!
Hermione has some good advice for Ginny. I hope she takes it and talks to Harry about her insecurities. I’m sure he will settle her doubts. Ah, and that last little scene showed that Ginny is able to set aside her insecurities!
Pix
Author's Response:I definitely need magic for cleaning my kitchen LOL
It was so fun to think up starter jobs for them and giving them something normal and not life threatening for them to do. It felt so good to put Hermione in a bookstore and Ron in the quidditch store :)
I'm glad you enjoyed the character growth here, it's sometimes hard to remember and incorporate into a story well.
Thanks again for the review!
Heather
I like how you start with the last moment we see Ginny in the book (sans Epilogue) with her head on her mom’s shoulder.
The moment with the Slytherin was touching. I hope it’s a bit of foreshadowing for a more peaceful future together.
Then the Wingardium Leviosa up the stairs was a nice bit of comic relief in a tough chapter. I can see Harry sending her dagger looks as his head hits the wall.
The yelling match was painful, but probably necessary. Both of them had so much on their chest. I hadn’t thought about Ginny’s perspective and then having to fight again immediately after realizing he was alive. (Although, perhaps she should have at least considered it. How many times has Harry almost died, but not quite?)
You were spot on with Andromeda’s words and reactions. She’s so overwhelmed and doesn’t want to blame anyone but part of her can’t help it. (I love the toy wolf that squeaks.)
I know this was a tough chapter given the setting, but you did a nice balance of crying and laughter.
Author's Response:Thank you! To be honest, it was Bonnie Wright's best acting, her head on Molly's shoulder at the end. The look on her face is heartbreaking.
I'd like to think it's foreshadowing better things to come. It was based off a very hard time in my life and had to add it.
I loved adding that bit of comedy, it still brings a smile to my face.
I hated having to add the bit of conflict, but it was less than I had in the original version. It was later that summer but it was more intense. I liked that I kinda got them over it relatively quickly.
The toy is cute, I almost forgot about it. Ugh, it still hurts my heart they died...
I'm glad you thought the chapter well balanced, it's not easy here.
Thanks so much for the review!
-Heather
Yes, this was quite a surprise that Harry had planned for Ginny. I wasn't expecting a Quidditch game with all these alumni players, who might be a little rusty on their Quidditch moves, but they do pretty well, nevertheless. I asked myself if it was normal for the Delacours to have a Quidditch pitch on their grounds, and I decided that at least they were rich enough to have one, though I'm not sure who routinely played Quidditch there.
So we'll never know who would have won, the guys or the gals, because of the shocking interruption caused by the disappearance of Eyla.
This strange womn in white who says, "The prophecy is already working" and "...we will get her back" was a big surprise. What is this prophecy? Who is this woman? Who are "we"?
This story has come a very long way from the opening chapters!
Vicki
Author's Response:I'm glad I surprised you!
Yes, maybe it's a little convenient to have the quidditch pitch there, but we don't know if Monsieur Delacour played or not do we?
The story has come a long way, which is funny considering it hasn't even been a year since the battle, I'll try and move it along, but like I said, there's valentines day!
Thanks for your constant reviews :) They mean a lot!
-Heather
“It felt if he just held her, she would have to wake up, and everything would be ok”
Ah, Ron. He’s so drained by everything. Don’t we all wish it could be that easy? I, too, cannot believe the backstabbing of the Malfoys, the way they (specifically Lucius) had to go and make things worse so quickly. I suppose that Lucius still thinks he’s with the Dark Lord, or some other nonsense, even though Voldemort is clearly dead. Some people just can’t let things go.
Ron is a smart man. He knows what Hermione needs and how she needs to hear it. I am so proud of him for having such a mature attitude towards all of this. It’s clear that he loves Hermione a great deal and is only thinking of what’s best for her.
It’s adorable how the children have already bonded to Hermione so much.
Gosh, Hermione has so much on her plate! I’m so glad that Ron is supporting her and loving her through all of these hard times. I like Mr. N, and it was great to see him give her an additional sense of comfort, even though so many things are still up in the air. Stubbornness does have a way of keeping people pushing through things, so maybe it’s going to be a driving factor in her recovery.
Yes, there was a lot going on here, but it made the chapter feel weighty, the way the other chapters did. There was still so much plot here. I wouldn’t call it a slow chapter at all!
Pix
Author's Response:Yep, we do all wish it could be that easy. My mom was in the ER recently and I can really feel for Ron here. Thankfully both my mom and Hermione will be ok.
Malfoy... well, Lucious' ego and pride is badly wounded and I couldn't help but think of HP5 when Hermione was hit with an unknown spell and I brought that back. To be fair, I think Draco would be pissed at his dad for ruining their only chance for a little redemption by helping break the curse... Nobody is happy with Lucious at this point.
Oh Ron. Yeah, like him, I also learned that I couldn't afford to be emotional or freak out in a crisis. It also helps distract from the situation so it helps in a couple ways, not because we're so mature, but because we needed to be.
I also really like Mr. N and I'd love to bring him back if I can figure out a chapter to do it, I will. Stubbornness suits Hermione. After everything they've been through she wasn't going to all of a sudden let this stop her :)
I'm glad the chapter felt substantial and still moved along well!
Thanks so much for your reviews, they mean a lot.
Heather
Hi Heather!
You’ve built up a lot of tension in this scene, as Ginny and Harry explain to Kingsley about Hermione and Ron and what happened during the war. It’s so easy to just push forward through whatever is happening Right Now and ignore the specifics about what these characters have already been through, but I’m glad that Ginny and Harry see the issues and are warning Kingsley of things that he wasn’t previously aware of. It’s true, when you’re running around the world trying to pick up the pieces, it’s easy to let these details slip through the cracks. They’re still in “get it done” mode, and might even be unaware themselves of how they feel about everything.
Ha, it’s good to see that Harry is “learning how not to be a git”. ????
This curse lifting is so nervewracking, and then to compound it by Lucious being a total git about everything, with payback… you’d think he’d be ready to comply, but NOOOOO!!! We need MORE COMPLICATIONS! Ugh. Okay. I get that.
Also, Eyla is FREAKING OUT here. I think she knows something is terribly wrong.
A shot to the abdomen!!! Taking away Hermione’s dreams!!!
You are evil. I mean, you know. We have to do these things, but still.
pix
Author's Response:Woohoo! I wasn't expecting more reviews :) Thank you! Yes, unfortunately, "get it done" mode hasn't turned off yet... But, of course, we can't have them be perfect about it so Harry has to learn not to be a git still lol
Lucious is entirely a git and unapologetic. I don't think it's about Voldemort so much as his ego and pride has been taken away from being on the "wrong side", being bested by muggleborns and blood traitors etc...
I'm not necessarily being evil... I just wonder why it took so long for Hermione and Ron to have children and I'm still astounded no one in the trio died or got seriously injured (not counting Harry's brush with death). It's kinda abnormal for a series. Anyway, yes, Eyla has a special sense that something is happening.
I needed a cliffhanger! don't hate me too much, there's another chapter already posted lol. You don't have to wait long for answers.
Heather
Hi, Heather.
A St. Valentine's Day chapter coming up soon? Heather, you outdo yourself! Your Christmas chapters are so full of celebration that we will all now think of our holidays as pretty slim pickings compared to what the Delacours come up with. (Of course they have house-elves to help make this lavish celbration come together.)
The only disturbing thing that happens in this chapter is Mr. Granger's sudden reversion to being Wendell Wilkie for a relatively brief time. Too bad it had to happen, but it didn't last long, and it didn't affect Mrs. Granger at all, so I guess that's progress. The conversation between her and Ron was really good. She says, among other things, that she is angry about a lot of things that occurred during the war, including the fact that Hermione thought it was necessary to alter her parents' memories just for the purpose of keeping them "safe." She doesn't specifically say that there ought to have been a better and less drastic way of protecting them, and that she and her husband should have had some say in the matter, both of which are true, but she's not blaming Hermione, who was only eighteen at the time and who knew the dangers of he war much better than the Grangers did.
There were certainly lots of gifts exchanged that had very special meanings, so kudos to you for thinking of all these things. And I was really happy to see the photograph of James and Remus on the roof of the house at the time of Harry's first Christmas. That was a great little story -- as I recall I nominated it for something (maybe an Inky, I don't remember) -- but it's always nice to see little tie-ins between one story and another from the past. My daughter calls them "Easter eggs."
Looking forward to reading more of this fine story as you post the chapters one by one!
Vicki
Author's Response:One more Chapter with the Delacours to go before we move on lol, not technically Christmas anymore, but still holiday. I'm so glad you're enjoying it as much as I have writing it. Holidays are so special. Yes, there needed to be a little drama. It would be odd if her parents didn't have any episode, it would have evoked a lot of memories of Hermione as a child, but I thought it'd be more interesting if one of them did not have an episode. It gave Ron time to connect with her parents more. We all know the Weasley family, it's nice to give Hermione's parents a little more personality and talk a bit more about her childhood maybe! It was so fun to come up with all the presents. It won't be something I do every year, but the first after the war made sense and it was good for the Weasley's to get away, I think it would have been too hard at their house without Fred.
I really appreciated your nomination for that story one year and this was a great time to tie it in with when Harry receives it. Maybe someday I'll do an 'Easter' chapter lol
your reviews are so sweet, I love that you do every one for this story, it keeps me motivated to post more!
-Heather
Hi, Heather! Here for some research and development :D (and because I've been away from your fic for way too long... :P)
Christmas chapters are always pleasant to read :) Poor girls, finding the right present is hard and can be very stressful... but I think cooking a dinner is a very great plan :D And I'm very curious about how writing to the Dursleys will go... :P it's a very cute idea, too, giving Harry something he would have desired as a child but never got... and maybe Dudley could indeed help? Guess we'll see! ;)
Parents can be indeed embarrassing when certain subjects come up, lol! But yes, Molly is a great mum! :)
And good for Harry for finding a job, and a house! :) And for this idea of studying from home... I think it's a great plan that could work really well for a lot of people, and yes, it would be nice to see some old faces this way! I'm very curious to see where you take this new plotline! :D
Very cute little chapter, my dear! I'll try to be back soon! :)
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Author's Response:D'awww, my fic has missed you too!
I'm glad you enjoy Christmas, there's many more to come lol. I couldn't help it. I won't do it for future years for nearly so long, but after the war seemed like the time to do it. Personally, baking something has been my go to Christmas presents because I've been broke :P But! It means a lot to people so I still win for presents. It'd be interesting if Dudley was involved. He did shake hands with Harry at the end. I had to give Molly an embarrassing mom moment! We don't see much of it and I'm sure with so many boys it MUST have happened more often than we see.
I love what Harry's been up to also and look forward to writing more about that too. A lot of people could have been traumatized at Hogwarts, they want to finish their degree and see people but not want to go back. This is a good solution for that and fun to write.
Thanks so much for including me in your research :)
-Heather
There truly is nothing like the feeling of going home! Of course Molly would fuss all over the new child and set up something special for her in her home! It’s so sweet, and I can tell that Ron and Hermione especially, appreciate all the effort.
Okay, I know this has come up before, but I love the idea of just tapping on the menu and having the food appear. Like, there’s no waiting! I would love, love to go to a restaurant like that! But it’s the Leaky Cauldron, so I shouldn’t be surprised by such service!
Oh. Oh no! I did NOT see that coming! Dark Marks for walking through the wall?!? Ok, no. There cannot be a catch. This cannot get worse.
Okay, so I have to tell you that I needed to re-read that part. Draco is trying to help them figure out what’s going on with the dark mark thing, and possibly reverse it was to find someone without a Dark Mark who isn’t innocent. Kingsley sounds like a good choice, but the way they’re talking about, or rather, what they’re not talking about - the means to reverse whatever this is - is ominous. I know they probably wouldn’t get into the details here at the Burrow, but it sounds like Kingsley needs to do some kind of self-sacrifice to remove the curse from the wall.
This is horrible. It has also intrigued me. I am a sucker for story mechanics, and my mind just went into overdrive to try to figure out what it’s going to take to make this better, and what horrors await the people who try to solve this. And yet, I am so, so relieved that these guys aren’t running headfirst into the thick of it to try to do it themselves. Because you’ve loaded them up with so many other concerns. I’m happy to see that the adults of the story are stepping up to do the adult thing, giving them a much needed break.
Picturing Ron with a cute little three-year-old is adorable. He seems like a natural with her, which is understandable since he’s had a little sister. But Kingsley has a lot on his plate too, so the utterance of “goblins” better be a major concern. I gather it is. It’s super hard to prioritize all these surprises, though.
I just wanted to stop and point out how you’re working the setting to set the mood in this story. I noticed the floorboards creak under Kingsley’s heavy pacing. That was AWESOME!
Okay, back to the story. So! It’s GOBLINS! I love how you’re pulling the threads together here, connecting the bits you dished out from before. I didn’t have to wait too long for it, either. (sometimes I let threads dangle too long, and people get a bit impatient, lol) I see it now. The goblins are out for revenge, so they were eager to help with Voldemort’s plan. I wonder if it had been set up beforehand, or if someone, after the fact, went to the goblins when they already had a reason to comply? Hmm…
Okay. Hold on. Lucius and Draco are going to take down the curse, but they still need Kingsley, who hasn’t been marked… but Kingsley is at the Leaky Cauldron with the goblins, so that means… unless Lucius and Draco already have whatever they need from Kingsley… a shuddering thought… Okay. I’ll just wait and see what’s going to happen here.
Yay! They prevailed! I love writing action scenes, there’s so much movement in an action scene!
Pix
Author's Response:I have to say, this is one of the best reviews in the world because you hit on most every single thing that's important to me when I write this story! Yes, they had a sweet homecoming but also, unfortunately, the Goblin thing is still happening. Story mechanics were so important to me here! It took a long time to figure it out but I think it was really worth it! Adults need more key roles in stories! They're ADULTS and should be taking care of things... it's a pet peeve lol. I know, Ron in a kind of "daddy mode" is SUPER cute <3 I really appreciate the notice of the creaky floorboards. Details like that are good for building tension and moving the story along a little. Unfortunately... the next chapter is still a struggle for them... :P SORRY!
This whole review made me sooo happy, THANK YOU
I left you a review too, let me know if you'd like to continue our review swaps :)
-Heather
Hi, Heather.
This chapter is just a lot of fun. People constantly arriving at the Delacour estates so that the happy throng gets even larger.
The business with the tree-cutting -- that was exciting and frightening. It's just like a guy to act before he thinks, to assume he knows it all, and to show off his physical prowess by making a fast action with more violence than finesse. I see this all the time where I work -- the women take the time, patience, and skill to do something the right way, thus not destroying anything, while the men are quick tko pull out their pocket knives -- "We'll just cut this sucker open." *Big sigh*
Other than the tree-cutting fiasco, this Christmas Eve seems to be a whirlwind of preparatory activities -- last-minute ensuring that gifts are all ready, introductions, food and drink, tree decorating, Christmas carols, Santa Claus stories, many activities with a touch of French culture and Delacour tradition. And a hint of sparks flying between Charlie and Cora? But they hardly know each other yet!
I can only imagine how much more dazzling and celebratory Christmas Day itself will be. The Delacours are the perfect hosts.
I ccan ell that you had fun with this chapter. Thank you for writing!
Vicki
Author's Response:Hi there! Thanks for the review!
I think it's more the Delacours fault for not telling them about the family tradition and why before they left. But, since it's something they just do every year, sometimes you don't think about explaining it. Charlie, nobody, would have done it if they'd known lol. This was also to highlight Eyla's powers to protect who she loves even if she doesn't realize she's doing it.
Sparks WOULD fly if you knock someone over after arriving in a Fireplace LOL Charlie literally fell for her and he happened to be nearby when she felt exhausted after the tree cutting. He's also the first person to look at her that way in a long time. It helps she pretty much knows he's nice since he's a Weasley son.
Yes, actual Christmas should be fun!
Thanks again :)
-Heather
Hi, Heather. So, this is the last posted chapter of What Matters Most,, and the Snowlodge closes tomorrow, and I think we ar finishing the Snowball Fight just perfectly. Thank you for all your reviews on Crofter/Snake, and it has been a pleasure writing reviews for your chapters of What Matters Most!
This chapter was charming from beginning to end. There are several scenes -- the snowball fight, the surprising revelation about Eyla's apparent special powers, the fun cooking scenes, and the plotting about Christmas presents. I wondered if the things being cooked and the instructions Fleur was giving were special treats that you yourself had made, so that you knew the techniques and could put the sentences into Fleur's mouth.
I liked the detailed description you gave of the snowball fight, the strategies Harry was trying to use, and what Eyla did. It was like a play-by-play of a sporting event. Easy to envision the action.
The developments about Eyla arre intriguing. Apparently she's not just some random little orphan girl. There's some mystery here. I hope it won't spell trouble for Cora and Sirius James.
I've been readiing your stories ever since you started postiing them here. That's how long? A few years? And it seems to me that your writing is getting steadily better and better. You have always been a good stooryteller, but the prose seems to be steadily more polished as the years go by, and the imagination is top notch!
Hopefully we will be seeing more chapters of this story soon!
Vicki <3
Author's Response:I'm so glad you got to review the snowball fight during the snowlodge event! That was my wish when I posted it that someone would review it during the snowball fight :D
Yes, there is much more to Eyla than meets the eye and much more about her to come... when I can write it lol, the next few chapters are more Christmasy fun because I just can't help myself :)
Well, I do bake. I haven't tried chocolates myself but I've seen it done on shows pretty often. The pie crust is definitely something I do and was easy to imagine. I really enjoyed coming up with the spells that would help most while cooking/baking.
Yes! You have been such a loyal reader and reviewer over the years and I am so encouraged each time. I'm happy to hear I've been getting better because I'm in the process of applying to an MFA for Creative Writing this year! I'll need to improve for that! :D
-Heather
Hi, Heather! Another review for your charming story about our favorite characters after the end of the war.
Thanks for remiinding me that they were all going to spend Christmas holidays with the Delacour family. A good choice because it shows us a new setting and gives us much more of an introduction to Fleur's family.
I was happy to see the conversation with Hermione, Cora, and eventually Hermione's parents about the future for Eyla because I had been concerned, as probably other rreaders were also, about how that was going to play out. Eyla does need a definite and stable home and family, and the best solution was also the most obvious one. It was good that everyone saw it that way and agreed that Eyla should remain a part of Cora's immediate family.
The ride through the snowy forest was so well written that I felt as if I were there with them, seeing new sights (the French forest might look different from the forests in England) and then being surprised when Harry suddenly stopped the carriage and took off through the forest with Crookshanks. What could it possibly be?
I would not have guessed a little owl. Again you wrote the scene beautifully as they went back to the carriage and showed the others what they had found. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation with M. Delacour (well, he did most of the talkiing). He seems like a cheerful, friendly, kind fellow, and I also thought you reproduced his speaking style well. He really did sound like a Frenchman speaking English, and I could follow it with no difficulty at all.
As for the chocolate-covered cherries, I seem to have a very vague remembrance of a mention of them, though I couldn't say whether it was in any of the books or in old fanfiction. I guess this means that Hermione really did write to the Dursleys and, surprisingly, they actually did answer!
A very enjoyable chapter. Your chapters often hold unexpected turns of events, and that is good. :)
Vicki
Author's Response:I'm so glad you enjoyed it!! Yes, I mention it in another Christmas themed one shot of mine and I mention it briefly in a previous chapter here when Harry is in the village looking into the shop he ends up working in. :)
I am convinced this was just Petunia, the other 2 wouldn't have known.
I love that Harry has an owl now. I was so heartbroken when Hedwig died. It's so satisfiying to read your reviews because you enjoy reading what I really enjoyed writing.
Thank you so much!
-Heather
Hi, Heather! I'm back to pick up with this cute story again.
The eternal quandry -- buying (or making) gifts for men. The idea of asking the Dursleys what kind of toys Harry would have liked as a little boy is so unexpected and off-the-wall that I'm really curious about what will come of this idea. Of course the Dursleys never gave Harry any new toys, but perhaps he was allowed to play with old, broken, discarded toys of Dudley's, and as I recall from the books, Dudley broke his toys pretty quickly.
Cute (maybe that's not the right word) little conversation about the "potions for dessert." Molly and the girls speak openly about when they learned how to brew the potion and how they manage to keep their brewing skills current, but I notice that none of them says outright what the potion is for! We all just know. I guess there's still a little modesty left in 1998.
So now Harry has a part-time job in a Muggle store to support himself, along with the work he does for Kingsley. Interesting way you are progressing his story. Many other authors have him working right away in a full-time Auror-type job in the Ministry with a lot of fanfare. But not you. You have avoided the obvious and taken his story in your own direction. And your final idea is also original (and modern, given the pandemic of the last few years). The girlsl, and maybe some other people also, will look into finishing their final academic year by remote learning. I can't say 'online learning' because nobody, not even the Muggles, had a lot of that then, although it was on its way.
So there are a couple of new ideas cooking, and I look forward to seeing how they turn out.
I enjoyed this chapter. :) Thank you for writing!
Vicki
Author's Response:Oh darn! I tried responding to this but it didn't go through :P
No, Harry did not always get to play with what he wanted, but I like to think Hermione looks on the potential bright side of things. She would want to hope someone remembered something. Also, Harry did make sure they were safe during the war and she might think they were grateful for that.
Yes, Molly was discreet but to the point. They are teenage girls and she would know, after months of living in closer quarters, that this might be something to address. I personally like the idea of how this might have been handled at Hogwarts. Again, not discussed, but I like addressing it here, it makes sense for their age group.
I like to think Harry will move to full time Auror work when he's older but would like to take some time off to do something "normal". He has a real chance to keep to himself now and Kingsley would fully support that. Though, Harry being Harry, wouldn't want to stay completely on the sidelines, so this works perfectly.
There were some ways to remote schooling back then, certainly there are ways to homeschool, so, considering how many people would want to finish but might have been traumatized by the previous year, this would be the perfect option for everyone :)
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
-Heather
Hii! I'm here for our review swap. I'm sorry it took me so long. Things got unexpectedly busy ::hides::
I loved coming back to this story though. Post-Hogwarts trio is hard to write but I feel like you do such an amazing job not only nailing their characterizations but also the sort of problems they would be facing after the war. Because, yeah, they might have defeated Voldemort but the reality is that there's a lot of consequences they're going to face.
I do understand where the goblins are coming from. I have the feeling they have a history of getting the shitty end of the stick when it comes to the wizarding world. That being said, I also have the feeling like they can get pretty mean themselves when they feel the need to do so and I worry about what that might might end up looking like in here :/
Awe but I absolutely loved all the moments between Hermione and Ron. I'd go from awwwing (like when she rested her head on his shoulder) to giggling (No, Ron, it really wasn't the time to get randy) but all throughout I just loved their dynamics and how they're able to find happiness with each other despite the chaoticness that surrounds them.
This was another wonderful chapter. Thank you for the swap opportunity. <3
Quilly
Author's Response:That's okay, I'm just glad for the review and that nothing was wrong on your side :)
My favorite compliment is getting the characterizations right! They are so important to me. Yes, unfortunately all magic has a price and so does war. It's interesting I wrote about Goblins because that's what the Hogwarts Legacy game highlights too. In a different way, but both would have been written simultaneously. I love writing Hermione and Ron in Australia, I'm glad they get time to themselves, it really is their first time as a couple with no Harry or Ginny around. One thing I've found over the years, happiness doesn't always happen during calm times, sometimes it comes when everything else seems wrong.
So glad you enjoyed it! Let me know if you'd like another swap :)
-Heather
Hi! Here for more swapping, sorry for the wait, but I had a list of things that popped up and they’re all done now, so here we are!
I can so relate to Hermione here, filling her head with things so she doesn’t emotionally implode about her parents’ predicament. And ahh, Ron steps up again!
“Eww.. Aunty Ginny!! The fireplace threw up!”
Haha! Thank goodness for magic, because that would be so gross! And I love Ginny’s advice about the date! You’ve clearly thought through the trickiness of international floo conversations, because it makes sense that she’d feel so disconnected and sick after something like that. Great job showing the consequences of magic. And I really want to take one of those calming baths, too! I love the details you’ve added about the magical bath. It sounds so lovely!
The care they show each other in this chapter is so touching and bodes well for them working together in the future. They’ve basically agreed to help raise a child, after all! The tension in the airport was palpable, with Hermione and Ron waiting and waiting, it felt like a real airport situation, indeed!
Pix
Author's Response:I'm so glad you enjoyed the read. I feel like Ron hasn't had too much opportunities to step up because there were always others to do it who were "better suited" either older or it was something Harry really needed to do that no one else could have... Or Hermione and her knowledge. In this situation, Hermione is emotionally exhauseted and Ron needs to focus on something else besides his own grief and Hermione clearly needs help, no one else will.
LOL Sirius James. This was so silly to write, I don't know what made me do it but it occured to me I'd want to throw up if I floo'd that long LOL OMG I want one of those baths too!! It was at least relaxing to write about :)
The airport scene was originally longer but I had to edit. I still think "airpot" is funny :D
So glad you enjoyed it, let me know if you'd like another swap :)
-Heather
Hi Heather. Here's another snowball for you - it's a little wet though cause it's warming up, so you might want to duck!
I liked how you brought in your new characters in this chapter. Cora was a little understated, but you've got time to develop her later and you had a lot going on. With the way it appears to be heading (Hermione and Ron off to Oz to find the Grangers), you'd probably have had a jumble on your hands if you'd spent too much verbiage on Cora in this chapter. You did get enough time on young Sirius to establish him as a likely chip off the old block, though. Well done on the time management, I'd say.
Hermione and Ron both got some good exposition and development in several ways. The relationship elements were front and center, of course, but you did a good job with bringing out the ways each of them discovers themselves and how they understand each other - what's the expression these days? Love language? Showing how each of them react to the other's love language was cute. It made for a fun read.
Nice job on this chapter. Thanks for sharing it.
George
Author's Response:Thanks so much! Ooof, wet snowball... lol right in the ear...
In my original version, I had a lot more in Cora's POV but before editing, I would switch POV's way too often it would get jumbled. With Sirius Black, my other story, will eventually feature Cora and there's a chapter later on that focuses on her story too. I had to start the story with our main cast, so I'm really happy you're enjoying Ron and Hermione's love language. It's hard for some people to understand why they work so well as a couple so it's important for me to make sure that's conveyed well! Thanks so much, I'm glad you're having fun reading :)
-Heather
Hello! *throws snowball*
Your descriptions in this opening scene sing a beautiful tune! Ginny is looking at all the homey things, but she realizes that life is not as she remembered it. The melancholy hangs heavy here as she’s trying to kill time.
The repercussions of the goblin thing are really coming down the line now. Bill’s job is in jeopardy, but OH! Harry is back, and Ginny is trying not to jump him with questions.
Ginny’s frustration has had months to fester, no wonder she’s testy about everything. And she has no outlet, so Harry gets it thrown at him. I don’t blame them, it’s just sad to watch it go down like that. I like the spirit you’ve given her. And OH!!! More surprises! No wonder the trigger words are “little girl”! That is definitely going to complicate things even more than they already are! I hope St. Mungo’s can help Hermione’s parents stabilize so they don’t go back and forth between two different lives. That would be horrible!
Pix
Author's Response:Ugh, snowball splat!
Aw, I'm so glad you like my homey descriptions :) Yes, Ginny wishes she could get all her answers at once, who could blame her?!
Unfortunately, Ron mentioning Bill didn't help his brother...
I had originally a much more intense scene with Ginny and Harry arguing on brooms in the orchard, but I had to move things along a little quicker.
Yes! There will be another addition to the family :) it is going to complicate things for sure, but it definitely introduces another cute dynamic like Sirius James. I'm so glad you're enjoying this, thanks so much for all the swaps!
-Heather
This is so touching! I wasn’t aware that in this story, Hermione’s parents knew Ron, but I love the idea that they do! It makes sense though, since I bet Hermione’s been talking to her parents about school all these years.
Oh no!!! Apparently, Hermione did something really, really powerful to her parents, and now it’s not going to be an easy road to recovery, if at all! For the story, I’m glad you didn’t make it easy, but you started with false hope, and that always makes it sadder when things go wrong.
That was such a wonderful thought, that Hermione is thinking of Ron as her family now.
I loved the plot twist!
Pix
Author's Response:Well, in the beginning of year 2 they somewhat meet in Diagon Alley and yes, she would have talked about him.
Yes, I had to make this more difficult... It sounded like so much more than a simple spell. They definitely work with it however. I can't wait for you to read future chapters and see what more happens on their journey. And yes, Hermione is very grateful she has more people in her life that are family. As someone who comes from a small family, it's very important.
Get ready for more plot twists to come! :D
-Heather
Naps! These guys certainly need them after everything they’ve been through! I thought it was rude how Ron didn’t get his, though. Poor thing!
“Red-headed wand-user”
Haha, that was a funny description, and fitting for the goblins to use! But on a serious note, I really like how you are bringing some consequential action into this Post-War story. It makes a lot of sense that other entities would have reasons to go hard at these characters after the war. So much was upturned, and we never get the sense of justice from any other side but the wizards. It all makes great sense, and I’m happy to be reading about it. Though I still feel sorry for Ron, who didn’t get his nap!
I like how menacing you have these goblins, too. So far, things have been low-key relaxing, so the tension is warranted, especially since these goblins are calling the actions a ‘massacre’.
Your description of the seaside locale is beautiful and calming. I also enjoyed watching Ron get breakfast and listen carefully to the people in front of him so he could order without looking out of place. Good going, Ron!
But also:
“”Uh, sorry, I think I need the Loo before we go.”
Yes, Ron. Yes, you do. I love that he’s taking care of her with the little things, and after all they’ve been through, it’s nice to see that Hermione doesn’t have to do all the heavy lifting in their budding relationship, and I agree that she needs someone to take care of her too, from time to time. From their experiences, it seems that Ron has gained a lot of maturity in this sense. He knows what it’s like to be apart from Hermione, and he’s made his choice that he’s better with her than without her.
I very much enjoyed the appearance of the Australian bird, too!
And oh! Hermione’s mum recognized her! That bodes well… I hope!
Pix
Author's Response:Thanks so much for the lovely review!
I know, Ron needs a rest, but I think it's sweet he's stepping up to care for Hermione and what she's going through. In my mind, it helps to distract from thoughts about his own loss as well.
The Goblins are very upset and I picture the ones who don't directly work at Gringotts to have rather crude language, especially since English is their 2nd language. The movie certainly depicted the Gringotts break in like a massacre when Voldemort killed so many of them. It's been a while since I read the last one, so I don't remember if that's book Canon, but, in this case, it makes sense that V-man would do that, so I kept it.
After all the time on the run, it works that Ron would think of something so subtle like listening to other people's orders.
Lol, yep, Ron might need the Loo every once in a while. He's definitely matured, but I keep a lot of the silliness and bantering.
I mustn't say a thing about her parents!
I'm so glad you enjoyed the chapter, thanks for the swap!
-Heather
Here's a snowball for you! This chapter is really well done - it has good narrative flow and it fits well into the framework of canon, while providing a new perspective. Your character study of Ginny and Harry is really fine, too - Ron and Hermione, although not as detailed, are also fun to read.
The developments the morning after - especially with Teddy - are charming, too. Overall, the chapter does a fine job getting the reader's attention and commitment to the story to come. Good job - I look forward to reading the rest of this tale.
George
Author's Response:I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I really wanted to do justice to JKR's characters and continue the story because I know there's so much more that happens in 19 years than we get to see. I hope to see more from you as you read. The last chapter I posted even has a snowball fight lol. Thanks!! :)
Hi Heather, here to leave you another review!
This chapter definitely felt like we as readers were getting a little R&R (that is, rest and relaxation) from the previous one, which was so action packed. I think that totally makes sense and it was for everyone to sort of reassess the current situation and take a pause from the forward action of the story.
I really think you capture the Ronmione dynamic in a very realistic manner. He's there for her, teases her, and she remains steadfast in her opinions regardless hah. It's just very nice to read, even when she is in the process of recuperation.
I especially loved the line: "Oh great, now you're telling me I have an incompetent Healer, Ron." That made me snort.
I think the way you detailed all of her visitors and their reaction to her situation and her reaction to it was all very believable. And yeah, with Eyla wanting to stay and not fully understanding...definitely a difficult thing to explain to a kiddo that hospitals just aren't the place to be. Kids don't understand boundaries in the way we do, and when they get emotionally distract so do we.
Dr N is a great character. And I have always been a fan of blending magical healing with Muggle practices in HP fan fiction, so I am excited to see that happening here.
Great job with this one and thanks for the swap opportunity!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:I'm so glad you're enjoying it :)
This was definitely a break from the action, a lot happens even after the war. It was a similar thing after the first war, there's always more to do than ppl think. An injury will definitely slow things down. Romione is a tough relationship for some people to find believable so I do my best to do that. The war changed them both a lot and most of the silly things that would get them worked up wouldn't anymore, they had to mature a little, but still keep the teasing. The kids and Dr. N really help give the story more dimension so I'm really glad you're enjoying them!
Thank you for the review swap, they were great:)
-Heather
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