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Dan! Yay another chapter.
The entire first half with Harry, I loved — so much happened, and it was all so fluid and nicely paced. I like how there was a lot going on but not much action, per se, for Harry himself, yet he was still so busy and involved — more learning how these things work in addition to the action and adventure part.
I enjoyed your take on how the talking Patronus charm took a lot out of him physically, but it made a lot of sense, like it wasn’t just, “This is hard magic and it tired him” — it made sense how he had to really use his energy to corral his Patronus in order to be able to then cast the speaking spell.
Specifically, it had been used by Fred and George to enchant all of the toilet seats in the castle to sing God Save the Queen half an hour after Saturday morning breakfast.
Ahhh of course they did. Perfect Fred & George detail. <3
The scene at the shack in Wales was so sad and grim, it felt like a Law & Order: SVU episode. And Olah’s comment to get there before the next full moon suddenly made a lot more sense and was more horrifying. And it was a good move to separate out one child who developed a sort of attachment and trust with Harry, and get to zero in on his interactions with her, and lead us to that really lovely scene with Molly (though I question Harry’s judgment, not in leaving a child with Molly, but in leaving a child recovered in a raid and rescue of a bunch of abducted children, who is essentially now in the custody of the state, with someone unattached to the operation who’s not actually responsible for her welfare. But then Harry may have a bit to learn yet about how these things work.)
On to Australia. I just really, really love your way with plotting things and bringing things together at just the right moment, like where Ron and Hermione have each made some good progress here in the people they’ve found or met, and then the stars align in just the right (or wrong) way and Hermione reacts in panic to the Australian witch, which makes her dad scram, and now they’re in crisis mode again.
Poor Mr. Granger, hiding in the toilet. This is a lot for him. But I was so happy that Ron was able to get through to him. IDK, I think Ron’s probably got a slightly more reassuring demeanor than Hermione when it comes to stuff like this. I also lol’ed at his reactions to the gym. And that whole exchange between him and Mr. Granger, the dialogue was lovely and the bit at the end was SO sweet.
Yay for this chapter, I was enthralled throughout!
Melanie
Hello, Dan! Here for our swap! Always a joy to come back! ;)
Wow! This was surely a heavy chapter! So much going on! It's so intriguing!
Let's go with order...
The opening scene had me very envious... imagine having magic and doing chores by simply waving a wand... :P Also, the idea of Ron deceiving the wait and blowing off steam that way is so amusing and cute at the same time! I love that he's sort of absorbed Molly's coping mechanisms (and some of her magic tricks as well :P) And I also absolutely adore how much he cares for Hermione and wants to protect her and support her! He's really a sweetheart, Hermione is so lucky to have him! Except for the laundry mess, I guess... :P
The bath scene... well, let's just say that they've made some progress in their sexual life... it was pretty intense!
Moving to Harry's training... I love that he managed to defeat three full-fledged Aurors! Even if he went against protocol to do so... but that's typical Harry, isn't it? :P I loved how you paralleled the "duel" with Harry's childhood experiences with escaping Dudley's gang. It was a pretty fitting analogy! I can also totally imagine the other Aurors putting bets on the outcome! I hope Harry won't make himself hated too much... :P
The interrogation was interesting. Again, it seems fitting that Harry would feel annoyed by Dawlish's soft approach. But it makes so much sense from a practical point of view. If you want someone to collaborate, putting them at ease is going to pay off much more than a threatening approach, I guess. And also Proudfoot's explanation as to why it would make sense to go for a lenient sentence in a situation like this. It's all very logical, even if I can see why Harry would find it confusing at first. I love how much thought you're putting in all this, btw!
Back to Ron and Hermione... okay, I wasn't expecting this outcome at all! It's terribly sad, and a bit scary, the idea that her father is travelling alone and possibly in a state of mental confusion... I mean, I guess it also means that her memory charm didn't completely erase her memory from their minds, which might be a good thing in the long run... and at least, they've managed to make a first contact (again, bless Ron for his quick thinking! Hermione needs to work on her stress-management skills... although I really can't blame her for panicking in a situation like that... who wouldn't?) I'm so, so curious to see how their lunch will go, and if/when/how they'll break the news to Hermione's mum. It's going to be so hard, but I'm sure they'll find a way to solve this whole mess eventually! I'm still a bit worried...
This was another, absolutely brilliant, chapter! And now I'm only 2 chapters away from being caught up! :O I'll need to come back here soon!
Snowball hug for now!
Chiara
This is the best HP fan fiction out there! Please continue!
Hey, Dan, here I am! Sorry if it's a bit late, it's been a busy day... :P
Ooooh! Wait, has she just seen her mother??? :O This is so exciting! I really need to find out what they'll do now... I suppose they'll follow her? It's going to be risky seeing what just happened, but they can't exactly lose this chance... especially when Hermione made such a stupid mistake not writing down the address (not blaming her, I completely understand not thinking straight and not having quick reflexes when you are in a panic, still...) The fight was so well written and so believable, btw, if a bit harsher than what I expected, but they made peace, so it's alright ;) I can totally understand how they are both so frustrated and nervous... poor kids...
TEDDY!!! Finally we get to know him! He's so cute! I really, really adored the first part of the chapter! <3
I can't blame Harry for being nervous about meeting Andromeda... their first encounter in DH wasn't too promising, and of course he still feels guilty about everything that happened during the war (although it seems that he's starting to overcome the guilt a little, or at least that all the people telling him he shouldn't blame himself are starting to have some effect on him... I'm glad!) Of course his worries were unfounded, but all his thoughts about meeting Teddy, wondering if he is/will be a good godfather for him, hearing from Andromeda all the struggles that the baby is going through without his mum and wondering about his own life as a baby with the Dursleys... it was all so painful to read, I swear I was close to tears a few times...
By the time Mrs. Tonks was buttoning Teddy's pyjamas back up, the idea of shagging, at least for the moment, was less appealing than usual. Ahahah! Okay, this bit instead made me chuckle! :P But I loved later when he, Ginny and Teddy were sitting together on the bed, almost like a family... it was such a cute and touching image! I can't wait to see Teddy spending more time with his godparents! :D
Andromeda's reaction when Harry suggested to provide for Teddy using the Blacks' money was... interesting, I guess. I can totally see where she's coming from, though. She's been so hurt by her family and she doesn't want her grandson to have anything to do with them. I suppose that's also the reason she doesn't want Teddy to go to Grimmauld Place, even if the house is nothing like what it used to be... I think Harry has a lot of money even without counting Sirius' inheritance, though? He should be able to provide for his grandson just the same? I really liked the way you wrote Andromeda's pride, in ny case! I think her characterization was really good! :)
One last thing... I absolutely adored how Teddy imitated the hair colour of the people around him! It's so cute and such a clever idea! And I loved the little mentions of the reseblances to his parents! (I'm just super soft about babies... and you know I have a special love for the Lupins, too... so everything about this just made me super happy!)
Thank you so much for the swap and for another absolutely delightful chapter! We need to swap again very soon! :D
Big snowball hug,
Chiara
Hi, Dan! Here for our swap! :)
This was another great chapter, I really enjoyed it! :D
I guess it was only a matter of time before Ron attracted unwanted attention... I love how you wrote that whole scene, the suspicious-looking woman, his concentration drifting from the game, his opponent's irritation and the confusion when he just surrendered, the escaping among the crowd... it was all written so well, I could really feel Ron's tension through the whole thing... the bit about the Ladies toilet made me chuckle, especially when he thought about what his mother and Ginny would say... :P
And, oh my! I can't believe that Hermione sort of blew up their cover at the same time! On one hand, it was Ron's salvation, he didn't need to convince Hermione to leave or to explain what he'd been doing... I think it's hilarious that he would feel irritated about what she did, considering everything he'd been doing, but I can sort of see it, too? On the bright side... they've found a real trace! Yay! I really hope their quest will be successful! Adelaide, here we come! :D
You are definitely much better than me in writing the investigation process :P I loved to see Harry and Proudfoot analysing the pictures of the crime scene together. Harry seems to be quite good at this already, even if he clearly lacks experience.
"You need to be careful, Potter. As an Auror, you will spend far too much time investigating the perpetrators and the victims of unspeakable crimes. If you allow yourself to become emotionally attached to the cases you work on, sooner or later it will break you." Well, this is definitely something Harry needed to hear, emotional attachment is his fatal flaw... :/
It was an intriguing twist the bit about the safe house, and sort of unsettling. You would think that after the war ended things would be safer, but it looks like it's far from it. I'm very curious to see how things will develop from here.
Aww, Neville and Luna! I absolutely loved Neville's wandering thoughts as she planned out their trip! All of the places they are planning to visit sound fascinating, btw... central America must be beautiful... anyway, I absolutely love how much love and admiration Neville feels for Luna, it's just so sweet! And all his thoughts about his parents and his gran... I do hope they'll reconcile eventually, even if I'm still a bit angry at Augusta for the way she treated them...
The conversation between Kingsley and Proudfoot was so good! It always amuses me how much of a mystery Harry is to everyone! :P And this: He wasn't sure when he'd come to be regarded as an expert on Harry Potter. Ahahah! Yes, that must be weird for poor Kingsley... :P
I'm surely missing something (as usual) but (as usual) this was brilliant! So much is going on and I love the way you keep all the storylines on track and the wonderful detail of your worldbuilding! I really should come back soon (I'm almost caught up!!! :O)
Thank you so much for the swap, always the biggest pleasure!
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Hi, Dan! Here for our swap! :)
I have to admit that I've missed Ron and Hermione in this chapter... but on the "bright" side... are we going to meet little Teddy soon??? The memorial is going to make me so sad, I know it already, but if it means meeting Teddy it'll be worth the heartbreak! I'm so looking forward to it...
But maybe I should review this chapter? :P
The meeting between Ginny and Romilda was so much fun! I mean, I felt so bad for poor Ginny... how embarrassing and frustrating... and I also felt bad for Romilda, locked up in the house like that... I found it so weird that her father would still be so paranoid, but if the war is truly ended only two weeks earlier... how is it only two weeks? It feels like ages! :O
Anyway, I love that Ginny was reunited to Arnold! Such a cute moment! <3
Harry's first day as an Auror trainee was interesting. At least there weren't any reporters, but I thought it was hilarious how they "tricked" him into meeting the Wizengamot members... :P "Harry, someday I'm going to teach you to stop being so naive. But not today. Go on, then." Ahahah! Loved this line! I wonder if Ginny will be successful... :P
I love how Ginny freaked out about the Unforgivables! Can't blame her, to be honest... I also thought it was really interesting the bit about the "edited" Compendium on Combat Magic... I love how you sneak in these little details about the Ministry's corruption.
Ahahah! The way Ginny managed to get Harry to say no to Romilda visiting! :P That was brilliant! Harry with his good heart almost ruined her plan... I love it! :P
Also, Kreacher's resignation when Harry blew up that snake statue... I just love all your little details so much! :D
The conversation between Kingsley and Robards was so well done! I loved their bargaining! I can almost sympathize with Robards' frustration, to be honest... Kingsley's request does sound a bit unreasonable... and Harry is a bit of a contradiction, isn't he? But Kingsley makes some fairly good points, too... they need to take the risk if they don't want all their efforts to be in vain... In any case, I'm very curious to see how Harry's training will go! :P
Wonderful chapter as always! I love this story so much! I'll try to be back again soon! :D
Snowball hug,
Chiara
whoa, i think i need a bit of a kip, too, after reading this chapter. i feel emotionally drained. but i'm not surprised. i think this was always meant to be and will forever remain one of the most difficult days Harry and Hermione and especially the Weasleys had to go through.
Of course, with all that adrenaline mixing with the intense grief, some conflicts were bound to arise, emotions unravelled in an overwhelming fashion, and tempers flared. A lot of mean things may have been said but we know none of it was truly meant, i think. people just started breaking around the edges, even collected characters like Bill. I was shocked to see him so angry and vicious toward Ginny, but I guess it was difficult for him to withstand her fiery attack, either. It was offense and defense all around, a proper family row born out of an unbearable sadness gnawing at all of them. I think the trouble with Mrs. Weasley as opposed to Fred's loss that there is fear in it. And while grief is mostly numbing, fear makes people go a little feral sometimes. Losing Fred is horrible, but losing Mrs. Weasley to possible drug abuse and crippling depression of grief must be just simply terrifying for everyone. I don't agree with Bill's insistence of not telling Ginny and Ron the truth, of commanding them to ignore/forget it, but I also see where he's coming from. He doesn't want them to think less of or worry for Molly. I guess it's his protective instinct guiding him to be this way.
Bless Kreacher and the understanding he has for Harry's needs, that was really sweet of him, even I felt exhausted by Bill in that scene.
I NEED CAPSLOCK TO EXPRESS HOW MUCH I SIMPLY ADORE AND CHERISH YOUR ADDITION OF FLEAMONT AND EUPHEMIA INTO THE STORY! THEY ARE SO PRECIOUS, I LOVE THEM, I AM SO SO HAPPY HARRY HAS THEM IN HIS LIFE A LITTLE BIT.
They are so wonderfully written. Fleamont kills me, he is perfect, his language, his voice, his antics, he's proper amusing but kind at the same time. Euphemia is just lovely, so gentle with Harry, her character, that little bit of magic that was poured into her portrait, transcending across generations to pass on kind words onto Harry. Omg it kills me with how beautiful this is. I can't wait for them to speak to Harry next, share the stories, be there for him, even if they're not really there, just their portrait imprints, it's still something for an orphan boy who spent most of his life without any adults that would love and care for him.
Oh Ron...you who are so much more sensitive and prone to heartache than you let on, I know how much you must be hurting. I can see why he wants and needs to get away. I don't want them to part from Harry, but also I want them to go on this adventure together. I'm very excited for this trip they're about to embark on. It will probably be difficult for Harry in the beginning, but it will be perhaps a necessary and good start to them becoming more independent.
Harry and Ginny being there for each other make me so happy! Thank you thank you thank you.I love this story, I really really do!
Eli
RvG
I think this review will be a short one. I hope you don't mind.
You wrote this chapter beautifully. I can imagine it wasn't easy at all. I feel truly moved, I felt my throat going raw and actual tears sting my eyes. The pain felt so real, the absolute un-reality of the situation. Everyone reacting to it in their own unique way was a nice touch. Charlie taking the difficult responsibility of trying to manage everyone was a nice touch. Someone had to do it. I was also glad for the brief moment of levity, when the guys laughed a little through the heartbreak, remembering Fred and how ultimately he just wanted to make people happy. It was almost magical (and devastating) that in that moment he could still make them happy, if only for a moment, even from beyond the grave.
The brothers and Ginny all kneeling by his grave and saying their goodbyes, oh my god that was so gut-wrenching. I'm emotional again writing these lines. Oh Fred :(
You know, the tempest Molly's grief has conjured doesn't surprise me. For a parent to lose a child is something terrible and unnatural.
I need to read on now, just to see people move on a little bit, see them recover a fraction after this terrible but necessary ordeal. Your writing, by the way, is exquisite. It flows wonderfully, it describes the emotions so well without going overboard. I enjoy every bit of it.
Eli
RvG
Oh wow...this was very beautiful. Let me try and give this a coherent review:
Bahahaha, firstly I completely understand Ginny's flabbergastion upon discovering the many kinds of nightwear there are, and how ridiculous some of them are. When Hermione entered the scene, that whole section just had me in tears. Mentioning Viktor as Ron's code name again, suggesting Harry is now buying expensive lingerie for everyone down to Hermione's paranoia of Sirius nodding appreciatively at her being sexy for Ron in his afterlife. Only you could think of something like that, lol, exactly, Hermione you need to let the wild woman knock a little sense into you, but being so young I completely understand all her thoughts. Lucky for me I'm past that point now and I can just snigger gleefully. Great scene.
Again, I just love how well you write Ron. He can still be very goofy and argumentative and stubborn, but there are times with Harry when he knows exactly the right thing to say, words that can ground him and make him feel better, lighter. When he mentioned the Mirror of Erised, I cheered inside because it also showed what Ron truly thinks of Harry - he sees and recognizes him exactly for the amazing, sefless boy that he is. Loved it! <3
My heart ached a bit for Hermione when she realized that things were going to be a bit different for the trio now, that she and Ron will no longer be a part of everything Harry does, that someone else will take that place (which makes me think is partly the reason Hermione worries H and G are going too fast, she just doesn't want to lose him), while at the same time she knows that it's completely fair, because her and Ron will also go their separate way from Harry when it comes to their relationship. It's just sometimes hard to grasp this fact of adulthood.
Ron breaking down in the middle of the street---i-i can't even properly comment on that. It surprised me, it broke my heart to see him finally give way to grief a little bit, and I loved seeing Hermione put aside her annoyance and just hold him tight and take him literally away. This is exactly how grief can just sneak up on us.
THE VAULTS! OMG THE VAULTS this was such an amazing, exciting and fascinating section!!! Wow, so Harry's basically a millionaire now. I wonder what he'll do with all that gold. I can see him donating a lot of it, using it for good causes. But anyway, all the objects, and potential mysteries and stories these objects and old books are hiding. I was also impatient with the goblin who was subtly rushing them, lol, because I would've been glad to just keep reading about everything in great detail, especially things from the Potters' family vault. THE GRANDPARENTS' PORTRAITS OMG I ALMOST SCREAMED because like, it is so incredible that Harry can now have a connection with the past, with his family, and even if it's still just a portrait, an imprint of the person who had actually been alive, it's still so much more than he'd ever got, and I love that he found them there and is taking them with him. I honestly felt so emotional just reading about him being there, and finally feeling a bit of a thrill, a bit of joy from reconnecting, even though it's only through objects. Family heirlooms have a certain power to them, though.
Agh, Ginny is so great for Harry, she is so gentle with him, patient, she can nudge him if he needs to, and I totally believe, from the way you're writing them, that they love each other very much !!! I'm so happy for him, so glad he feels a little better and has so much to discover now, finally things that are of a nicer nature and will hopefully begin bringing him closer to feeling well again.
What a wonderful chapter, Dan. I really loved it!
Eli
RvG
Hi Dan, I'm back, hopefully for more than just one chapter. RL has been kicking my butt lately!
This chapter was so awesome, and I mean really really awesome. At first, I was again heartbroken when Harry had the nightmare, but especially after reading this line: She'd never heard anyone cry so quietly. And it's so true, too. Harry has quite a few heavy emotional moments, but he is so quiet about them, they're sometimes difficult to pick up even for the reader. There have been different moments that I noticed only after my third or fourth reading of the series, that in some spaces Harry is good and proper heartbroken, but he barely even acknowledges it himself. This one line really perfectly encompasses it, how he puts so much into being strong, for himself, for everyone else. Beautifully written scene, Dan.
I mean, oh my God, the entire scene with the goblins was ridiculously fantastic! I was on the edge of my seat reading it, not because I didn't know how it would end, but because you wrote it so convincingly, all their arguments, their indignation, and all the words were chosen so wisely that one can almost understand their rage, especially when they say Voldemort was of the wizards' making, not theirs. But their hypocrisy is thick as well, and both Bill and Kingsley react to it swift and very well. I honestly LOVED that section, it was so well done, I can't repeat that enough! Of course Harry chooses to react when they bring in Griphook, and he hates the violence of it, the mercilessness so much he can't stop himself and goes into full Harry i-don't-give-a-shit-about-diplomacy Potter, and I loved it. Again, just perfect characterization of this boy.
At the end, when he speaks to Griphook in cold, detached tones, despite having just saved him, shows this tough Harry - 'yeah i saved you but i don't want much else to do with you'. Because Harry doesn't need more needless death, same as when he wouldn't let Draco die, but he's not going to fake anything beyond that for a second.
It was a nice breath of fresh air when they were all together, having a meal and a good laugh, provided by both Ron and Hermione who definitely seem to be more confident in each other's presence after their previous evening spent together :D It was great to read.
The later one, where Ginny tries her best to comfort Harry was once again touching. And Harry's conflict of the mind and his good good heart rages on. He understans it, but part of him still has a long way to go. The loss of his friends will forever linger on, and so also the doubts and the guilt, no matter how much he can rationalize against them.
The conversation with Proudfoot Harry had at the end was also another cool exchange. This is what I love about this story, is that with all these big wordcounts, every word counts, every sentence is interesting, every scene totally exciting. I really enjoy reading this story and feel really bad for taking so long to get through it, but it's always such a pleasure to come back to it. I love how you take such good care with the emotional lives and aftermath of the characters as well as the ever-flowing and moving reality of the world, of things that have to be taken care of, like the goblins feud, and it creates this perfect balance between everything. I'm really excited to see what's in the vaults :)
Eli
also for RvG team RED :)
Hi Dan, back here for more! I'm sorry it's been taking longer this past week, just RL getting in the way. Oh my God but this chapter sure was worth waiting for. It was so funny, but also really really well-written and true to the characters as well as a very cool depiction of young people discovering their sexuality.
I think Hermione with her overactive technical mind was really brilliant in this chapter, even if she felt frustrated and bad most of the time. I can imagine how difficult it must be for her to let go of that constant need to be in control, to just KNOW exactly what to do, as well as what is the right thing to do. She believes they need to move slow, but also she wants Ron, and this is a really valid conflict for a young person to have. What's the right thing to do, where's the balance? It's so easy to get lost in it, and it shows how much they are both invested into not crossing any lines, into perserving absolute respect of the other, but this constant carefuleness can rob them of nice things, too, and just drive a wedge of awkwardness between them. Hermione's talk with Ginny, who put things into perspective for her, was awesome. Also, absolutely HILARIOUS. Poor Ginny, having to go through the conversation about Hermione and....Viktor really proved that she's an amazing friend.
And just that first interaction between Ron and Hermione...it was hilariously cringey almost, but like in a good way, because it's so realistic, lol. No one is born a sexual god/goddess! I laughed out loud when Ron grabbed her breasts as if they were eggs, and then later when she mentioned he was holding her like quaffles. Lol, poor guy, though, poor Hermione too :D But you just have to go through this, and then it'll get better and better.
But her coming back with her newfound determination and confidence, once again taking a risk, throwing the endless analysis to the wind, got them both some hopefully wonderful results and I'm happy they managed to overcome all the stress and frustration from before. They are SO SWEET I can't....!
Props to Ginny for her sarcifice, lol. Luckily they have all time to get together and discover it all. This was indeed such a pleasant and funny chapter, you did a brilliant job with it!
Eli
RvG
Yes, thank you so much for giving them this pleasant evening. It was so nice to read about them having this...normal experience for once. A bit of dinner, a bit of a stroll, a bit of a relationship discussion. It was so needed for them all I bet. And Ron! raving about Chinese food and having a nice time was so nice. I really like reading things from his and Harry's perspective.
His conversation with Hermione was so sweet and also enlightening about where they both stand with each other. It's so wonderfully obvious they want to be together, I love that they are both able to express this, both in their own way, and they're past struggling to communicate. It actually looks like they're both actively doing their best to communicate as much as possible. Hermione is of course going all the way, solicting Ron's thoughts on everything, which maybe flusters him but actually showcases a nice equality and respect between them. When Ron's honest about his desires, and intentions, it seems to lift some pressure off of him, even if there's a bit of a price of awkwardness to pay, lol. I love how you write the romance between them, the physical contact as well as the tender thoughts they have for the other! <3
YAY for Harry and Ginny! Again, how nice and refreshing to see people actually TALK (mwahaha, i am being very hypocritical because in my own stories i am super guilty of people refusing to talk, oh well!!!!) , and of course I totally know this is nowhere near being a happy ending, and that a lot of complications are still just waiting to show themselves, just for the here and now it was really great that Harry and Ginny both reconnected and found their way again, and that Ginny told harry exactly what was holding her back, and just...ah, the kiss and the old couple commenting on it was so sweet.
Coming back to Grimmauld, Bill is there to put a bit of a damper on the pleasant evening. A little bit of back-to-reality to unsettle the sleep, which feels very realistic. God, there must still be SO MUCH to deal with it, practically and eventually also psychologically. Your portrayal of Bill was great, he is nice but has this edge of 'let's just cut to the chase straight away' about him, like this adult but understanding honesty. I really like him.
HAH! I am not convinced for one second that that's actually Ginny's hair, poor soul tired because she didn't get a nap, yeah right, she's in Harry's bedroom and we all KNOW IT! I guess Hermione's too distracted with her own desires and thoughts to notice, haha.
Again, I am loving the gentle romance between Ron and Hermione, and the way you've set it up, them waiting, creates this cool slow-burn within an established relationship sort of, and I can't wait to see where and how it goes.
Ah, lovely chapter, thank you for sharing!
Eli
also for RvG :)
Author's Response:Hi, Eli!
I usually do my best to answer reviews in some semblance of the order they were left, but this one really struck me as needing a faster answer. If you enjoyed the subtle, sexy dynamics of our two leading couples in this chapter, you're really going to enjoy the next one. It's a wild ride. Hermione, in particular, goes through some highs and lows. And it's funny, or at least people tell me it is. I hope you agree.
Poor Ron is riding a roller coaster in this chapter. Things are going so very well and he's terrified that he's going to mess it up somehow. Hermione is struggling with that same anxiety. I think my favorite thing about the two of them at this stage of the game is how each of them feels like they're the lucky one. But they do communicate, after their own peculiar fashion. Hermione is feeling kind of obsessive about Ron's prior relationship because she's worried that they're not moving fast enough where the physical side of things is concerned. While it's not as though Ron wouldn't like for that to progress faster, he knows Hermione well enough to know that he can't push her. It's an adorable little dance they're doing.
It felt very, very good to write that scene with Ginny and Harry. I kind of feel like they've earned it after all they've gone through to get to this point. Ginny opens up a little bit to Harry about what's troubling her, although there are still more things she's still holding in. For the moment, though, they're over the moon.
Bill kind of straddles the line that separates our teenaged protagonists from the older adults. At times, I have to remind myself that Ron, Harry and Hermione are adults and Ginny is not far from it. They still feel so young. Bill often takes on the role of "the cool uncle" who can play both sides of the age gap.
You have... good instincts where Ginny's hair is concerned. Stay tuned. And yes, Hermione is very distracted. So is Ron. This really works well for Harry and Ginny.
I really love reading your thoughts and reactions! Thank you for reading!
-Dan
Hi Dan, this was another chapter I read yesterday before bed. The great thing about that is that it literally feels to me like I was reading the 8th HP book and it's so precious. What bothers me about this method that there is a million little things I loved and then forget to mention in my morning review. Like last chapter, I forgot to mention how I liked Harry making a list of things that need to be done in his head. It's a nice hint of potential normalcy entering his life again, as normal as Harry Potter's life will ever be. But yes, I thought it was a good sign that part of his mind was able to actively focus on the future rather than the losses that are now in the past.
This chapter was very sweet. I liked how it had this air of a 'homecoming' almost, at least for Ron, Hermione and Harry. Grimmauld place was probably the last place they had felt safe and comfortable, before the business at the Ministry thrust them into literal and figurative wild. I was very glad that Kreacher managed to keep it safe and also did his best to make it cozy for Harry.
I like what you're doing with Kreacher and am very curious to see where you take it. I admit I've never explored the house-elf situation in any of my stories, but I believe it's an integral part of the Wizarding World that needs to be addressed. One fic I read some time ago dealt with it wonderfully, history of house-elves, the nature of the binding magic, it all has the potential to be really fascinating, not least because it's going to be a big part of Hermione's career. Not that I'm not hooked on this story already, but you're really hooking me more and more in with every little bit that happens in every chapter.
I was a bit exasparated with Ginny for pushing for sharing rooms, I mean, hello? but a part of me gets it. I think they're still all traumatized and no one has had proper time to deal with it, and sleeping alone in a big old house at a time when nightmares have it easy to invade your mind, I'd also rather be in a room with a friend than alone. I'm sure she'd prefer to be with Harry (and will very soon find a way how to achieve that), but I see how in that moment it wasn't exactly an option. Poor Ron, though, his frustration was very palpable, and Hermione's too hahaha. <3
Their talk was amazing, a real good girl talk but between girls that have lived through more than most girls their age, and still have their age-appropriate troubles to deal with. Ginny-Hermione friendship is not often showcased in the books, it's very subtle, and I love seeing it here in full form. I think that even if Ginny is tomboyish and very tough, she's still a girl and needs that kindred spirit feeling from another girl. It was also funny, the way they broke into fits of laughter over Ginny's comments, it was just so wholesome and I was glad to be feeling very light and happy for a number of paragraphs instead of heartbroken, so yay! :D
I'm also super glad Ginny and Harry decided to hang back to talk. We didn't get them to say to each other the 'let's just be together' but perhaps more important things have been said. I really hope they can go out and have a nice evening, they sure deserve it!
Great chapter, excited for more!
Eli, rvg
Author's Response:Eli,
I know the feeling. I have enough time and energy at the end of the day to read a chapter, but not enought to write a good review. So then I come back the next day and struggle to remember all of the things I wanted to say. It's a challenge. At any rate, yes, Harry is experiencing some of the mundane aspects of planning for both a short-term and a long-term future and these are very new things to him.
The comecoming scene was one that I enjoyed writing because, again, I was trying to show a semblance of normalcy that none of these characters have been able to enjoy for a very long time. Grimmauld Place was a sanctuary for the trio during the war and especially now that Kreacher has cleaned it thoroughly, it feels a bit like home to them.
I really like Kreacher as a character. There are several redemption arcs in the Harry Potter series and I think Kreacher could be one of the more interesting ones. His head was twisted around by so many terrible masters for so long, yet he really warms to Harry once Harry starts being kind to him. I wanted to explore that and take it farther. I don't know that I'll get too deep into the magical bonds between house elves and wizards -- other authors have done really good writing on that topic and this story is already so long -- but I do want to grow a very genuine, affectionate relationship between Harry and Kreacher.
You can't lay all of the rooming situation at Ginny's feet. She and Hermione share a moment of unspoken communication where both of them feel like it's a good idea to share a room, but for different reasons. Ginny wants to maintain appearances in the event that her father or her older brothers stop by. She has zero intention of spending her nights anywhere other than Harry's room. Hermione, on the other hand, isn't quite ready to take that next step with Ron. Part of her wants to, part of her thinks it's too soon. She's very caught up in this worry that it's bad if their relationship progresses too fast, and also a little scared of letting "the mad woman in the mirror" have complete control.
I'm really pleased that you liked the "girl talk" between Ginny and Hermione. Having never been a teenage girl, myself, I'm obviously at a disadvantage writing that. Fortunately, I had some good help from beta readers and others to muddle my way through it. You're correct that neither of them has been able to have much of that type of interaction in the past. Hermione was never particularly close to Lavender and Parvati and Ginny was always closer to people in Hermione's year than people in her own.
If Harry and Ginny could just open up and talk about everything, all of their problems would be solved. Of course, this story wouldn't be nearly so long or so interesting, so we're going to need to do some things the hard way.
Thanks so much for all of your amazing reviews!
-Dan
Oh my God Dan how dare you
i am so choked up after reading this chapter
Years later, when he’d had time to properly think things through, Harry came to realize that he had a peculiar relationship with the concept of death. So many people he cared about had died in his short life. His parents. Sirius. Dumbledore. Remus. And in each case, whether through enchanted mirrors or Priori Incantatem or the Resurrection Stone or merely the strange workings of Harry’s own mind, he had seen them again. Perhaps it was no surprise that it took Harry a bit longer than most people to accept the finality of death. Perhaps he’d just been too consumed with other problems to think about it. Or perhaps he just didn’t want to face the truth. Whatever the reason, it was in that moment, standing in the Entrance Hall with Mr. Weasley, that Fred died in Harry’s heart.
This is just...I have never thought about this...it's such a deep, meaningful observation, I applaud you, but also curse you, because this ruined me. I don't want to say that all the other deaths were less horrible, but there was something...something so extra cruel about Fred dying, and here in this paragraphs is one of the reasons why it was so, why it was just so terribly and deeply heartbreaking. For Harry to realize the true finality of death with Fred's being gone is brilliant writing. I live for moments like these when it comes to stories. When something blows my mind and makes me just feel.
Ok now that I can rally my thoughts a little bit...every single chapter is such a powerful journey. The aftermath of it all is so raw in this story, so deeply carved into everybody's soul, and I'm really starting to feel just how much of a long way everybody still has to go. Why does Harry have to blame himself so much? Why?? Harry, no, this was a war, you did what you had to do, it's not your faullllt. He's still reeling from it all, himexpecting the Weasleys to blame him. It's so typical, though, it really makes me recall clearly how he did this to himself quite often, assuming the worst just to protect himself. This boy that was raised by selfish bullies who is still, years later, shocked to find compassion and love. God my heart hurts for him. Him crumbling underneath Mrs. Weasley's affection, almost unable to handle it in his anguish, was so sad.
As he was making his way down to dinner, and he realized Ron and Hermione were going to leave him for a while, it's also almost unimaginable for me to think of them as separated. Like, I've done it in my stories, but that's kind of...a fanfic, and for some reason I am so invested in this that it reads like canon and so feels all the more real! How is he going to handle that? I mean, for what it's worth, it will be a useful exercise for them all, Harry needs to become his own man, the trio has to separate for some time to be able to remain together in the long-term, but still the thought makes even me feel terribly lonely.
But Dan, Daaaan....those portraits bickering was SO FUNNY. It was such a good contrast to Harry's inner turmoil, again a light inside this sad chapter that balances out the emotions, and it was much needed, and made me laugh.
George telling off the curious nosy students was great. Thank you, George.
Obviously you probably know how I feel about the conversation between Harry and Arthur. It's such an honour for Harry what Arthur's asking of him, while at the same time it's grim and difficult, but right at the same time? Also very glad Arthur voiced very firmly to Harry that he IS family, and always has been. Bless him.
Argh, the reporters again! This makes me so angry. Though I really liked how that entire scene was full of action. Like, the evil has been banished but there are new enemies on the horizon, of the more mundane kind perhaps, but still ready to torture our heroes. But it led nicely into the next scene that happened within the castle walls somewhere and it was just another fantastically written moment between Mrs. Weasley and the rest of them. Firstly, I was so happy to see a spark of life in George's eyes. Movement is one of the things that always help to forget.
Ron, again, my wonderful boy, I thought it was brilliant of him to step in between his sister and mother and risk both of their 'thunderous demeanor' just to make them stop fighting. He doesn't usually get involved in these fights, much like Arthur, but we've seen that he steps up to the plate when it really counts. I love the way you write him here. I'm starting to feel like Ginny has suffered much more trauma than she's letting on, and to her, Hogwarts must feel like a grave and a prison both. I'm glad she's leaving, for her sake. She's been left behind and alone quite enough.
I really love this story so much already, Dan. Thank you for writing it.
Eli, rvg
Oh wow, this was a tough one. My eyes are a little blurry again and I feel an intense urge to hug Harry, Ron and Hermione and just hold them for at least a month.
I applaud your gift for making me read through what was basically a summary of the seventh book but making it so worthy, so amazingly expressed by the three characters, reliving these experiences, battling with them through sharing and having it all told through Ron's perspective is a gift I'm not sure I even deserved today, but boy am I grateful for it. He is such a great character. He's smart, he's so caring, but in these small instances he can still spark joy and a conjure a smile on my face even through such a dark chapter. I think it was a great choice to pick him to oversee this tale.
I really enjoyed, although in a rather painful way, the trio telling their account of it all. Perhaps it was again an act of releasing a bit of the darkness, sharing the truth so that moving on can begin. Ron's tenderness and care for both his friends were wonderful to read. I was sorry to hear he still feels inadequate when he compares himself to Harry, but I think that the fact he's left them that one time will still haunt him for years to come, no matter how much he's redeemed himself. Somehow, Ron judges himself the harshest I think. His absolute agony over Hermione reliving her torture broke my heart. His observations of Ginny, though, and later holding her at arm's length so he wouldn't get punched made me laugh. Love to see these two interact on any given occasion, their sibling-ness is perfect!
Kingsley and McGnagall were perfect. I reather enjoyed Kingsley's dry, almost darkly humorous way of communication. I think it added a much needed element of lightness to the conversation. Minerva was still prim and snappy, which was greatly done throughout the chapter. You can see and feel how heartbroken she is over the whole thing, but she's still pragmatic about it all and can't stop herself from being ironic in places where its due.
Hermione pushing the issue of the fountain at the Ministry was a brilliant touch. I love that Kingsley is both amused and shocked by her nerve. yes you go Hermione, the time to start dismantling the deeply ingrained, even pre-Voldemort prejudices in the Ministry is NOW!
Kingsley's "I never would've guessed" directed at Ron made me giggle out loud through my despair, thank you for that.
Just one little thing, I think when they recount the Gringott's tale, Ron mentions it was Hermione whose idea was to escape on the blind dragon, but I think that's the movie version and in the book it was actually Harry who came up with it? Anyway, it's not important, I'm just asking if there was something else Hermione might've done in that moment that I missed?
You are doing a great job of portraying the level of physical and mental exhaustion everyone is feeling, especially Harry, pushing himself to do this through all his injuries and pain, because he simply knows that it must be done and that it's best to do it while everything is fresh. I can almost imagine how absolutely drained he is thanks to Ron's observations.
McGonagall raging out at Albus at the end was great because I think you've brilliantly put into words all of our feelings as well. Like, we have maybe partly forgiven Dumbledore, perhaps like Harry we kind of understand him, because otherwise what other choice is there? To be bitter? But there is still the anger there that needed to be stated and expressed. Minerva's rage is so honest and raw, bringing up his ruthless recruitment of such young people for his war. And it's so conflicting, because didn't they have a right to choose to fight for a better world? I guess you have to be ruthless if you're going into battle and trying to win a war, so it's not that simple to completely blame Dumbledore, but even though McGonagall is as tough as tough gets, I still think she had a rather soft spot for the Potters and just like everyone else was gutted to see so much young life extinguished. Somehow we always look for someone to blame. James and Lily made choices that made them targets and perhaps Dumbledore should've stopped that, but then again...they were still their choices. War is full of sacrifice, it can't be another way. All of this, at least for me, was so perfectly encompassed in that chapter ending. You want to scream at Albus's portrait with Minerva, but you also kind of get him as well. And you end up just feeling sad. There is nothing amazing about this, just sadness and loss, and the way you write it all is so realistic in this sense. Am I making sense? I feel like I'm rambling, lol, but I'm just feeling so many emotions right now!!
As always, your writing of this tale, the characters speech and reactions, the very aesthetic of the writing itself, is a treat and a joy to read. Thank you for sharing this.
Eli, rvg
Hi Dan, back for more swap and this wonderful story!
oh my god i'm all teary-eyed again. That ending was just...it was brilliantly written, how you built up the tension and emotion of the moment. Including the tear slipping down portrait-Dumbledore's nose. You are giving so much depth to this whole affair, something that wasn't properly explored in the books. Finding out Harry was a Horcrux was frankly so grim and terrible, and I am only now fully realizing that we never witnessed him telling anyone, Ron and Hermione for example, and everyone is reacting so horribly to the knowledge of there being more horcruxes, it's no wonder Harry feels scared to tell them he was one, too.
And yet I'm so happy he did it, proving his courage once more, proving the desperate desire to be good and honest, and I believe that shedding this huge secret will help him in his healing.
Agh, the reporters at Hogwarts made me so angry. You did a great job on portraying the selfish greed and disregard of some press. Skeeter being back just nearly unhinged me, and you know they're going to be around all the time now and just annoy these poor people and ugh...
Neville's section in this chapter was such a nice surprise. I rarely read things from his perspective. You gave him such a cool, reserved mind, there is such subtle strength to his thoughts, it was lovely to see a glimpse of his relationship with Luna, how she makes him happy, and even the way you describe her is lovely, not too over the top but still so...unique and distant from the regular, I really liked it. I love how he finds her quirkyness soothing, how she reaches for his hand softly and gives him a smile when everyone else's face is in a deep frown.
I'm sorry for this review being so short, I just really and terribly wish to read the next part. Can't wait to read everybody's reaction, mostly McGonagall's, I guess.
Eli, rvg
I really enjoy your writing. I love the world building that you have started in this story. This is one of the first fanfics that I have ready that even touch on the other races as well as the politics and dificulties of rebuilding after Voldermort. Also really enjoy the stronger wand, and possible Riddle memories. Can't wait to keep reading!
Author's Response:Hi! I appreciate you sharing your reactions with me. Working on the next chapter now.
Thank you,
Dan
Hey Dan, back again :) This story really has me feeling so many emotions. I love the journey you're taking me on with each character and their thoghts. I absolutely am in awe of how well you're writing both Ginny and Harry. Their feelings are so valid, deep and make so much sense. I loved reading Ginny's reminsicing about how she had come to truly love Harry only after she's seen the real him, the boy who cares and is modest and amazingly brave. But also this thought struck me:
It was one thing to say that he prized the lives of others above his own. Quite another to give your heart to such a person.
Because she is so right. It must be difficult and dangerous to love him, no matter how much he deserves it. It's such a valid sentiment on her part, especially since she's lost him once and thought he was dead on so many occasions. hell, the sheer self-preservation instinct of going into a relationship with such a force, even though Ginny is a force herself, is definitely something she has to consider when thinking about her own healing and happiness. But the fact that she goes to him, as if she felt he desperately needs her as well, melted me completely. I was so happy.
Especially since we find Harry lying awake in bed, haunted by it all, his mind preoccupied with a million things and mostly of why had Dumbledore been so sure he'd make it? I have ideas, but I'm really excited to go on this journey of discovering the old man's motives with Harry and see your interpretation of it. I really love that Ginny was the first person he confided in about himself being a Horcruxes. I think that of all people, regardless of their feelings for each other, she deserved to know, even though the truth probably opened up that old scar and might cause some more damage, but the truth is the truth. It was difficult to read her reaction, because her having had been possessed all those years ago, to finally learn the true nature of that possession makes an already terrible thing even worse.
Them being able to understand each other because of it, bond over it and help each other, is very sweet, though I have wondered at times whether this is actually a healthy connection to have. Though I believe that with proper tending, and just generally them being so in love with each other, it can be.
A little later you have perfectly shown why Harry adores Ginny. She is so fierce when she needs to be, and she can, I think, comfort him like no one else can because she's both understanding but honest and doesn't treat him overly delicately as perhaps Hermione would. Harry reponds to strength, after all. I'm glad she tells him...shouldn't you know by now that they will never turn on you?
Just the sheer raw honesty of their conversation was perfect even though it hurt, but I think it was a good hurt for both of them, if that makes sense.
Ron and Hermione being cute yet still a little careful together will kill me in the best way. Ron trying so hard to think over the possible outcomes of how she's forming her opinions and what it means for their relationship and how he can work with that was really funny. It's like he's devising a chess strategy based on the moves and facial expressions she makes. I do feel for him and his dilemma of being stuck between Harry and Hermione and their differing attitudes toward certain things. It draws nicely on the Hallows vs Horcruxes conflict Harry and Hermione had had in the last book. Though I kind of want to snigger at him because the level of frustration Harry had had to experience because of them two bickering...well, I guess it's a bit of karma, lol.
I'm really confused about why Hermione's making a big deal about this Harry/Ginny thing. She always seemed a big Harry/Ginny shipper herself, haha, and I don't think she's like, a prude when it comes to sex and stuff. Her attitude toward Rita Skeeter's rumors about her, even though they had to be hurtful somewhere deep down, she seemed to take with a very progressive stride, but maybe that was just an act? Part of me thinks that maybe she's already way ahead of everyone and she had figured out Harry was a Horcrux and Ginny's soul was possessed by one and maybe she fears that this can be a dangerous rope to walk on for both of them right now, being so fresh out of a horrible battle and year. I'm curious to find out. I guess Hermione can have her irrational moments when she just ends up being stubborn about something, so we'll see. I love Ron's attitude, though. The way you've briefly written him so far, I feel like he just matured so much from the beginning of the seventh book, and all he wants is for Harry to be happy. Bless him! I swear I love that kid with every fibre of my being.
Very excited they're going to Australia together. I'm sure the Weasleys need him, but they all have each other, and Hermione currently has no one really, besides Harry and Ron, and to have that support, the knowledge she won't go on this difficult journey alone must make her feel just so much lighter.
Great chapter, and great story. Can't wait for more.
Eli
DAN!!!!
Wow! What a wonderful, wonderful chapter! I loved it so, so much! :D
First of all, it's so nice to see that Molly is doing better! She's not okay yet, obviously, but she was lucid enough to have that deep conversation with Arthur, and that makes me happy! Their love for one another came through so well, and all their worries for their children... I'm not a parent myself, but I can see all of that, the will to keep your children safe and the difficulty of accepting that they are their own people and letting them go... I loved the honesty of their exchange, their doubts and the reassurances they give each other that they've done their best as parents. And how they eventually come to accept that, even if they don't fully agree with some of the choices their kids are making, they need to trust them because they are adults now and probably know what's best for them anyway. Molly and Arthur are such great parents and you really showed it in that first section!
The idea of Ron's underground chess games amuses me so much! :P I'm not sure if Hermione would be so approving if she knew exactly what he's doing, but I loved her gratitude to him for taking care of money and food and letting her concentrate on her researches. They work so well as a couple, I really love them a lot! <3 I also absolutely adored Ron discovering the wonder of supermarkets :P He'll end up becoming a Muggle enthusiast like his dad... :P
George is reopening the shop!!! :O Or at least, he's starting to work in that direction, which is something... seeing all of them slowly healing is so wholesome! What a sad image, though, all the Pygmy Puffs dead... :( and the shop in ruins in general, I suppose... I hope Demelza did take good care of Arnold in Ginny's absence!
(Side note: the relief on Harry's face at the idea that Neville and Luna might be on their way soon was so hilarious! I can see it, though! :P)
The Dementors' attack was so scary! And, urgh, Dawlish! I've always disliked him a lot, I see I'm not the only one! :P Harry's Patronus was incredible! Did he imagine losing Ginny, is it that the reason his Patronus came out so strong after he locked eyes with her? (That, and his wand's extra power...) And poor Ginny, being reminded of that night... and then thinking that Harry would be disgusted with her if he knew... that's so sad! :(
Oh, Merlin! The way Harry kept downplaying himself and changing the course of Ginny's words... so frustrating, indeed... (but also it kind of amused me? Does that make me bad? :P) I guess that's just how Harry is, though... but I'm so happy that Ginny consented to Harry accepting the Auror training! She's right, he's made for the job! And it's so great of her to put aside her fears to do what's best for him! Also, the way she almost said "I love you" thrice, and caught herself right on time... it's so sweet! I love the way you are developing their relationship so much!
(Other side note: I hadn't thought at all about them possibly going back to Hogwarts in September... it is a bit sad that they'll be separated, but I'm sure they'll make it work!)
Great chapter as always! I love this story and your writing so much! Let's swap again sometime soon! ;)
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Hi Dan, I'm back for more swap and just generally because I'm starting to love this story. I read this on my table in bed yesterday, and it just feels like reading the books again, I love the long chapters because it really just pulls me in, and you write these characters so well!
I loved your take on the dynamic between Hermione and Ginny because I think it's so so right and accurate. They of course care for each other a lot, have been an emotional support to the other many times, I'm sure, but sometimes, just like sisters do, they just rub each other the wrong way. Hermione can totally be bossy and bitchy and a little hypocritical while Ginny's not-taking-your-shit attitude has the potential to go far. Plus, the situation is still so terrible and it's so difficult to make sense of one's own emotions and the emotions or actions of others, because everything is crazy and in disarray.
I love how Hermione, however, just runs back to Ron and starts promptly snogging him and realizes how they all have survived and are alive and now the longing to actually feel alive is bubbling to the surface and they all probably want to have these moments and take every opportunity to savor them, because what if it's all gone tomorrow? I guess it won't be a surprise that I loved the entire moment between her and Ron, how they clung to each other, how they thanked the other for being there, it brought tears to my eyes because just...it was so beautiful and romantic but there's all this terrible sadness attached to it as well. But yeah, I'm glad practical Hermione was overtaken by this wild woman, and I like her, too.
I love how even in the midst of these quite sad situations you use bits of humor that brighten up the reading, like when Ginny interrupts them and both she and Ron are like, pretending to be clueless and oblivious about Harry being missins, and Ron being very closely entwined with Hermione, and Hermione's suffering from this awkwardness is just hilarious to me.
That scene when they go upstairs and change!!! I really liked it, like Hermione said, if she and Ron were to be together, they had to start feeling more comfortable around each other, and it's these small things like underwear-handling, as silly as it sounds, that really shows if a has reached that intimate closeness, when you feel safe in front of the other person and I'm just so happy they're there for each other, being just so flustered and cute GAH help me i am having so many R/Hr feels!!
And then it's back to Harry, my poor child who could probably give Moody a run for his money in the mangled-by-magic-and-other-stuff department. Not to mentione he's practically been 'killed' twice, and it's terrible to see this teenager in so much pain, physical and mental. When Madam Pomfrey announced to him all his injuries, it was terrible, because it kind of shows how much he wasn't able to deal with due to the adrenaline and the intense course of events, and now it's crashing down on him, but it's still only physical, and so it shows that the recovery will be still very long when all the other things start catching up to him. Poppy kind of almost breaking down when she sees him so damaged really broke my heart, and I loved how you really highlighted that she doesn't do this, she is a professional that works with diligent hands and wears a mask of stone, but seeing Harry, this boy that constantly just keeps putting himself in the line of fire, cracks even her armor for a second.
The conversation at the end between the trio was very well done. They all made arguments that seemed a lot like them, and they truly are in a difficult position considering the truth of the matter. I like that Harry wants to be different than Dumbledore, to not adopt this tendency to keep a web of secrets, yet he sees how dangerous the truth can be when it comes to the Horcruxes and the Elder Wand. I'm very excited and curious to read where you take all this.
Hermione's words at the end ring very true. I hope Harry listens.
Dan, this is really really good. I'm so happy I finally started!!
Eli
Author's Response:Hi, Eli!
So you can probably tell that I had too much fun writing the scene in Ginny's dorm room. It was very entertaining to imagine how the events played out. For Ginny, it's like one of those slow-motion sitcom catastrophes where things just keep getting worse and worse. Does she really want to drive Hermione away? No. But in that moment, she just can't deal with the overbearing attitude.
You'll see Hermione cling to Ron for support frequently in this story. She really isn't doing as well as she leads people to believe. Underneath this hard exterior that she had to develop to survive is still the quiet, bookish, bullied girl who didn't really have any friends before Harry and Ron. She's dealing with a lot of raw emotions and also a lot of guilt because of the choices she made to help win the war. More on that coming in later chapters.
But, just like Harry and Ginny, Ron and Hermione redirect their sadness and pain into other directions. For the first time in her life, Hermione allows the "mad woman" to take control just a bit. And she likes it. More than she's prepared to admit, even to herself.
The changing clothes scene was also a lot of fun to write. I think anyone who's been in a relationship that progressed very far can relate. You spend a sizeable chunk of your life operating on the principle (and it's a solid principle) that certain aspects of your body and your clothes are private, not meant to be shared with others outside of maybe parents and medical professionals. Then that starts to change, and it's very awkward at first. Like, painfully so.
Harry is a mess at this point. Psychologically, physically... the works. It's a very good thing that he finds his way to Madam Pomfrey when he does, because all of his injuries were obviously catching up to him. For the first time in all the time he's known her, the matron lowers her guard quite a bit and we see the soft spot she has for Harry and all that he's done and endured. I really enjoyed writing that part.
Hermione's declaration to Harry was one of my favorite things I've written in the story so far. Finally -- and it's been far too long in coming -- somebody starts to drive the point home to Harry that none of this is his fault.
I'm also very happy that you started. Thank you so much for all the compliments and encouragement!
-Dan
Hey Dan, back for more swap reviews !
Wow, I am so overwhelmed with emotion right now. From beginning to finish, my heart was beating loudly in my ears because of all the heartache in this chapter.
That beginning was heartbreaking, how Harry walks through the quiet dreamscape of a shrine, and the trees start barring his way, bearing the names of the fallen, and he can't help but blame himself again, thinking if only it had ended differently. When he stumbled on Ron and Hermione's trees, it was weird for me, because I know Harry's dreaming, but it still like, got me, just the mere idea of them being dead totally struck me as so so painful and so I can't imagine what it must've done to him.
This chapter yet again reminds me of how...when i first finished reading Deathly Hallows, I felt happy, but then I slowly started to realize how much of the unbelievably difficult and traumatic aftermath was left out. I'm so glad to be reading a fic when you give these characters the real story they deserve, even though it's probably going to make me suffer! I was so glad when Harry found Ginny at first, I really expected them to have a sweet comforting reunion, but it didn't go that way, and I'm not surprised. The fact that Harry had gone 'missing' again for a couple of hours probably really terrified Ginny and now all the anger is flooding her soul, not just from now, but from before, and oh my god when she started shouting at him about the 'pretending to be dead' bit, I was breathless. Because, it hit me, she has no idea about the horcruxes, she has no idea about how precise the entire execution of those last moments had to be. She's angry, devastated and confused, and so while I was at first completely shocked by her reaction, I can really see where she's coming from. It's still so cruel, though, for Harry to be hearing words like this considering the mountain of guilt he's already feeling, and I felt it was right for him to fight back. You captured the fire of these two people together so well, even though it was one of the darker sorts.But then the passion and what I truly believe to be love, too, overwhelms them and they crash into each other and I loved that entire scene between them so much.
But the ending, Dan whyyyy. Again I was thinking to myself, okay okay, all's well now, they'll get back together, it won't be easy, but at least they'll deal with everything together -UGLY CRYING-
I love your writing, how you describe things, mostly the inside of Harry's head, his emotions, you're doing such a wonderful job there. Harry is such an underrated character in fanfic, it's brilliant to see our hero written in such beautifully complex way. I am really enjoying this so far and will for sure read more very soon.Thank you again for writing this.
Eli
Author's Response:Hi, Eli!
The dream sequence seemed like a good way to set the mood for what comes after. After a long, exhausted sleep, I was assuming that Harry's mental trauma would start to reassert itself.
I know exactly what you mean. I finished reading Deathly Hallows proper, then I read the epilogue, and my very next thought was, wow, things turned out really swell. I bet it hard to get from here to there. Broadly speaking, I've seen authors take two paths: the easy path where the sun rises the next morning and everything is just parties and happiness and kittens and puppies --- or the approach where everyone is a completely broken emotional basket case and nothing can ever be happy again. The latter approach always seems to focus on minor characters for some reason. At any rate, I felt like the correct answer would be a mix of the two, albeit shading closer to the emotional basket case end of the spectrum. I mean, there are obviously lots of things to be happy about, but those things came at such a high price.
Ginny is plainly an emotional wreck when Harry encounters her in the common room. As if everything wasn't bad enough, Harry, Ron and Hermione have disappeared, again. Leaving her by herself, again. While her words and actions were harsh, I couldn't imagine her reacting any differently. I surprised myself a little when I reread what I'd written and saw how intensely Harry fights back. But then the more I thought about it, the more sense that it made. They're both struggling with a mountain of pent-up emotions and a reunion that just isn't going the way they'd imagined it. So they both snap at one another and then they both get into this contest of "who's going to blink first". And neither of them blink, so they end up in bed.
The reason why is that I didn't think it could or should be that easy for them to get back together. They both want it, desperately, but Ginny is much too scared. She needs time to process. It's probably the only good decision she makes in this chapter.
Again, thank you so much for all the kind words. It means a lot coming from you because I know the kind of beautiful writing you're capable of.
-Dan
I am so so excited to read this. To think you're picking up RIGHT AFTER the last moment in the book is so cool as there are some tough scenes to follow, I'm sure. The very first one, your opening, is amazing, it feels so natural to just be pulled back in and thrust as a reader-ghost right next to the trio finally pausing to realize they made it out alive.
Harry breaking down was so well-written, letting go of all those intense emotions, feeling that momentary release. And we know things will haunt him for a long time, and this is far from over, that one small moment of realizing Riddle was finally gone was very powerful.
I love Hermione for bursting out laughing because they all smell terrible. It's such a her thing to do. She does this, finds some small detail funny and just is so heartily entertained by it, infecting everyone else with her laughter. It shows their friendship so well because this is what kept Harry alive, I think, having the two of them, and finding this light, this joy in the midst of all the darkness. I loved it.
But of course that doesn't last long because death is everywhere and you can avoid it, but can't really escape it. Overhearing the conversation about Lavender was so sad (I DON'T BELIEVE SHE'S DEAD, YES?? -CRYING- SHE IS WORKING SOMEWHERE OUT THERE WITH WEREWOLF CHILDREN AND DESIGNING JEWELRY ON THE SIDE AND LIVING HER BEST LIFE, OK??), and I was glad Harry decided to still hide himself with Ron and Hermione because he so needs to rest. I could almost feel the insane fatigue he must've been feeling in these moments. The way you blend description of the physical and the mental is really great, it reaches out and affects me the reader immediately.
That chest bruise is of course worrying and no surprise he'd be left with some dark aftermath of surviving the killing curse AGAIN. I was devastated to read that he had succumbed to the haunting reality an deat so quick, like he can't get a day's worth of release from all this shit. But like, he cares so much and that will always be the most wonderful thing about him, only not for him, and I can already sense he's trying to isolate himself. For now, Ron and Hermione are there beside him, but what will happen when they go off to do their own stuff? I'm loving (but also hurting) the bare vulnerable Harry you presented here, aaagh, I just want to hug him so bad!
And then of course, Ron being unable to even start processing Fred's death, sacrificing his need to grieve for Harry. I will never understand the fandom for hating on Ron, he is the most precious man.
“I can’t talk about him right now, Harry. You need me. She needs me. I can’t go there yet." of all the sadness that's within this chapter, this one hit me the most, because it's so terrible that Fred is gone, and yet so touching of Ron to really want to be there for his best friends, first and foremost, because they don't really have anyone else besides him. This is a wonderful way of showing how Ron has always been the glue, their rock, and I just...nkgjnksjgkjgnsgg so many emotions!!!
So I mean, one chapter in and I already feel as though I've been taken on an absolute roller-coaster of emotions!! Amazing beginning, Dan, I can't wait to read more!
Eli
Author's Response:I'm not going to get way behind on responses again. I'm not going to get way behind on responses again. I'm not going to get way behind on responses again...
Yeah, I probably will, though. Anyhow, let's do what we can.
When I started writing this, I really didn't want to skip over anything. This type of story, the post-war healing and recovery, is my favorite type of HP fan fic. So I really wanted to do as many of the details as possible and do them right.
After everything they've just been through, it was hard to imagine the trio not having to take a moment and deal with the overwhelming emotions. I didn't feel like it needed to be a long moment, but just enough time to acknowledge that something momentous had passed. From there, breaking down into laughter seemed like a very appropriate response to three teenagers dealing with such an intense emotional release.
I completely understand the desire (need?) to believe that Lavender survived the battle. It isn't clear one way or the other in canon. I had already written a short story (Monster) where she did not, so I kept it consistent. I'm really pleased that you could easily imagine the weight they're carrying by this point. That intense physical sensation is necessary, I think, to really get into the mood of the scenes.
In spite of his best efforts, the best part of Harry has always been kind of vulnerable, at least to his friends. A lot of his best moments in the books are the ones where he allows himself to open up and feel. With Ron and Hermione, I like to think that part of him is starting to compete on a more even footing with the part of him that always tries to pretend nothing is wrong.
It will be a while before Ron really processes the loss of Fred. That chapter is coming. It was not fun to write.
Gah! I really appreciate the feedback and the kind words. This story more than any other I've written is a labor of love, because I like the genre so much and I'm trying really hard to do a good job. I'm so happy you liked it.
-Dan
Hi, Dan! Here for our swap! Thanks for offering! :D
Oh, my... Luna and Neville are... wild? :O And the fact that Harry was so mortified about the whole thing and so worried that Ginny would be angry at him is so... cute? :P For a guy who faced down Death Eaters, the oddest little things seemed to send Harry into a tailspin of anxiety. Definitely...
Also, silly thing, but... "I saw them," Harry blurted out. "Luna and Neville. They were in the loo. The door wasn't locked." Ginny's hands involuntarily flew to cover her mouth. "I still need to pee," he finished lamely. My first thought here was, surely Grimmauld Place has more than one bathroom? :P Which fortunately it has, apparently... I don't know why I'm even focusing on this... :P
In any case, I really, really love the way you keep writing Harry and Ginny's relationship! I love their teasing and I love how well they work together! It's nice to see them at ease with each other, they deserve it! Also, that was a pretty intense intimacy scene!
Wow, Fleur! :O I must confess, I tend to not give her the credit she probably deserves... and I absolutely loved the fierceness (if a bit brutal) that you gave her here! I mean, of course I understand that it must be super hard for George, I can totally see why he would be so lost and overwhelmed and depressed... but sometimes a good shake is exactly what you need? At least she got a reaction out of him, and that's something already... he doesn't quite know what to do with that energy, but he pulled it out... that was a really powerful moment!
His talk to Fred's grave, though... :( I loved the vulnerability of it! George is really trying, but he's so used to have Fred by his side that now he just feels like a part of him is missing, and you showed that feeling so well... also, wait... six days??? From the funeral, I think, still, how has it only been six days??? It seems like months have passed, with everything that's happened! :O That gives a measure of how messy their lives are, they literally can't catch a breath... :/
"I mean, other people do this all the time. Bill does it. Charlie, Percy... bloody hell, even Ron can blunder along for a bit without Hermione or Harry to tell him what to do. Why can't I?" Am I a bad person if the bit about Ron made me chuckle? :P
Speaking of Ron, his fascination about the computers and internet was so hilarious! I loved that so much! :P
The humming machines, it seemed, were fantastic at providing massive amounts of information that wasn't quite what you were looking for. Come to think of it, that had always been Ron's impression of libraries in general. Although he would never risk admitting it to Hermione. Ahahah! This is such a Ron thought! :P He's not too wrong, either... :P
If it was tilted, why didn't things ever fall over? Okay, I adore Ron Weasley, that's all! Also, I really enjoyed your descriptions of Sidney, they were really nice! :)
I love the chess idea so much! I mean, I can't believe Ron actually played the man, that was a big risk... (thinking about it better, I can totally believe Ron did that...) And I also can't believe that he took the chess set from him and what he's planning to do... :O Of course, he's not going to cheat, but still... I have a feeling that Hermione won't like this idea at all... :P
This was another brilliant chapter! Thank you so much again for swapping!
Big snowball hug,
Chiara
Author's Response:Hi, Chiara!
Luna and Neville are sort of living the dream of all teenagers unencumbered by any sort of real-world responsibilities, expectations or adult oversight. They make travel plans. They stay up late and sleep in. They engage in light BDSM. We should all be so fortunate.
Grimmauld Place has several bathrooms, but Harry was too traumatized to search for another. Honestly, he was just terrified that Ginny was going to be mad at him.
To me, Fleur seemed like a good choice to administer a little tough love to George, for exactly the reasons she explains. It isn't especially awkward for her to be honest with him because talking to him is always awkward for her. She's something of an outsider, but one with a vested interest in the well-being of the family. Also, she's French, so people don't think much of it when she insults them. It's perfect.
You are not a bad person at all. If George ever loses the ability to make fun of Ron, you know that all hope is truly lost.
Yeah, Ron is both amazed and disappointed by computers. They excel at not quite giving you what you need.
You'll see Ron play a little more chess in the story. And, no, Hermione wouldn't be thrilled with the idea if she knew. But I was thrilled with the idea, so she doesn't get a vote.
Thank you for all of the kind words and thanks again for the swap!
Hugs back at you!
-Dan
Hi, Dan! :)
Wow, what a chapter! :O I wasn't expecting Ron and Hermione's trip to turn so dramatic so soon... definitely not the best start, attacking local authorities before they even left the airport! But like Hermione is reflecting at the end, at least Ron managed to give them a chance! I really hope their research will get them somewhere, after all this mess... :/
I really, really loved how you captured Hermione's psycology in that first scene, btw... Hermione felt annoyed about a lot of things. Everything seemed to bother her, which made it difficult to think clearly. Not being able to think clearly was also annoying. I loved this line so, so much! It just seemed so quintessentially Hermione! And the fact that she's sort of annoyed at Ron because he's managing to think out of the box and find solutions that make sense while she's unable to do so is... so interesting, but also so true to her character? You just understand them all so, so well! And I love it each time!
The scene at Grimmauld Place was so great! I loved your take about how charms work, all of Bill's explanations, the way he helped Harry to feel all the protective spells in the house and recognize them... it was so fascinating! Makes the job of curse breaker sound truly enthralling!
I love that Bill pretended that he couldn't do it himself because he wanted Harry to test his abilities! Although I'm a bit angry at Kingsley for putting that up... but also not, considering his later conversation with Doge... I'm already feeling a bit bad for poor Harry being dragged into all that political plot... :/ but I do understand how it is a necessity, and I'm quite sure Harry will see it, too.
And... oh, yes, Andromeda!!! :O I need to see little Teddy, too! Please, let that happen soon!!! (I can't blame Harry for being a bit scared at the idea of seeing Andromeda... their last encounter didn't go exactly smoothly... although I suppose the circumstances were different... but also, knowing Harry he probably thinks it's his fault if Tonks died, so of course Andromeda is going to blame him for that as well...? Ah, Harry...)
I really, really liked the talk between Harry and Bill regarding Ginny, too! Harry's nervousness was cute, and I loved how Bill was at the same time understanding of Harry's position but also not wanting to let it go. Of course he's worried for Ginny and wants to make sure she's okay. The relationship between Harry and Bill is a very interesting one so far!
Ah, poor Kingsley... so much to deal with... I think Doge's suggestions were pretty good ones, as much as he didn't enjoy them... I'm very curious to see how all the political stuff will go... also, how the conversation with Harry will turn out... :P
Such a great chapter! Thank you so much for swapping! :D
Chiara
Hey Dan!
I hope you don’t let it go TOO long before the next chapter like you were saying, because I need to know what happens next with Hermione’s dad! I thought she played that really well with him -- like you said in the narrative, walking a fine line between telling him everything and telling him nothing. I really liked how he didn’t know the name Hermione until she said it, but once she did, he knew without a doubt that was the name. Same with the information about her PE class. And I particularly enjoyed your descriptions of his physical reactions and expressions during that whole interaction; it conveyed a lot of emotion on his part even without being his POV.
And I was so interested by the scene with Ron’s captors. So… this is basically the Australian Dumbledore (maybe not exactly the same, but as like him as you could get) and his version of an Order of the Phoenix? Celeste’s enthusiasm over Potterwatch, and finding THE Ron Weasley and learning that he was there with THE Hermione Granger, was a fun touch, and I’m tentatively very happy for Ron that he made some allies there. I loved all of your title names for Dacelorisus, and the details about his brief work with Dumbledore, and also the tribal lore that may or may not end up being helpful in restoring Hermione’s parents’ memories.
While the chapter felt mostly focused on the goings-on in Australia, you pushed forward the narrative back in Britain just enough so we see things still moving there, new issues arising and new plans percolating. Fawley’s little it’s-really-hard-to-track-down-the-werewolves-and-giants-so-we’re-going-to-do-a-big-public-crackdown-on-other-creatures-so-we-look-good plan is so very… government.
Nicholas Nickleby Incident. LOL. So Luna.
Melanie
Gryffinclaw Take Flight Review Event
Team Tressym *mrow*
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