Moody,
For what purpose was this? I must go on to find out. The worst and the best is to come.
FoM
Author's Response: This is the counterpoint to the railway station scene earlier, chapter title "On the Wings of a Thestral", where we learn which other characters have arrived at the heavenly way station. Not to mention that I wanted to explore how Snape would have integrated himself into his new surroundings. His dissatisfaction is a sign of unfinished business in so many areas of his life.
Moody,
Lots to think about. But loads of wonderful parts. I do have a question. Why is Harry concerned about money? He should have more than enough, considering he inheirited everything from Sirius, and I think the Potters were well to do too?
FoM
Author's Response: I actually gave Harry's financial situation a lot of thought. We have Harry's estimation in PS/SS that his parents left him a mountain of gold in their, now his, Gringotts' vault, but can we really trust an eleven-year -old who has no real experience of the world? I found it noteworthy that when he gawks at the new Quidditch brooms in Diagon Alley a few years later, Harry resists the urge to empty out his bank account to have one. Conclusion: either he's very prudent with his $$ by nature, or there really isn't that much in his vault if the putchase of a broom would deplete his resources so much. When in comes to Sirius' townhouse, we all know that it's in a rather shabby state; perhaps funds were too low for Kreacher to do any upkeep while he was hanging about all those years. (He certainly had the capability as demonstrated when he took care of the trio at the start of DH.) Since Sirius, and most likely Remus, had been living in the townhouse during much of OotP, those funds would have been depleted even more. To me, Grimmauld Place gave the impression of a once glorious showpierce of a family who had since fallen on hard times.Now take into account that Harry has recently bought a flat in the most expensive city in the world (if I'm to believe what I've read about London). He has to shop around to find something that won't "break the bank." Is it too extreme to suppose that he will restrict himself to living within his means? That way, he will still have a nest egg for the future.
P.S. So pleased that this chapter made you examine a number of things.
Moody,
Oh how very cool. This was an unique view of Heaven. I am glad that Severus is part of the group now.
FoM
Author's Response: Couldn't resist catching up with the rest of "the gang." I think that's one of the things that made me write this story, i.e. I wasn't bound by the laws of nature as we know them. Therefore, so many of my favorite characters didn't totally disappear, they just relocated to a different reality.
Moody,
A very interesting chapter. To counteract an Imperious curse with a potion? Outstanding. It seems like a more modern idea than most that have graced the Wizarding World in a while. I have an idea as to what Hermione is up to, but again I'll defer.
FoM
Author's Response: Love potions used to be Molly's specialty at school; I clearly remember reading that in one of the books. As her student, Harry's determined to impress her with his ingenuity. He knows that Hermione's thirst for knowledge guarantees that she, of all people, will not discount his idea as being too far-fetched. I didn't think of Hermione as having an ulterior motive, but perhaps you're right about that.
Moody,
It's very hard to see Harry being ignored by Ginny. Or is it that the Harpies are not letting her letters through? Surely she put Harry on the list for personal mail that's accepted? At least he has his friends. Hermione and Ron would never let him down. I loved the memories of Ron being introduced to Muggle culture. He puts a different spin on it. Good chapter, But I've noticed that Dumbledores chocolate frog card has not been part of the story for a while. And when will Alistor be able to come back?
FoM
FoM
Author's Response: Dark days for Harry to be sure -- and Auror training's not a piece of cake, either. Makes him treasure those moments of silliness that he spends with Ron and Hermione. The contrast between our world and the wizarding world never ceases to make us see everyday things in a different light. Moody and Dumbledore will return, but you'll just have to let the story spin out as it will.
Moody,
And the plot thickens. Pranks and secrets. Surprises and so much more. I do have an idea as to what Minerva is leading Ron to, but I'll wait.
FoM
Author's Response: A view of life at Hogwarts, post-Harry. Ron would certainly be the one to note that Fred's memory was living on.
Moody,
I am of two minds about Mr Diggory. His thoughts after Lunas questions, made me a bit uncomfortable. But he did seem to be open to Hermiones enthusiasm when it comes to Magical beings and creatures. So I'll need to see a bit more before I completely trust him.
FoM
Author's Response: I imagined that Amos shared some of Cedric's fair-mindedness. As for Luna, she catches everyone unprepared; it's her trademark of sorts. ..
Moody,
This is a different Amos than I remember. Wasn't he the one who was cruel to Winky in GoF? I'm sure he has heard a lot about Hermione and her fighting for the rights of other Magical beings. He would be remiss if he didn't recruit her for his department. He does sound like he is looking for reform. He could only triumph with Hermione working with him.
FoM
Author's Response: I, too, felt that Amos toed the Ministry's view of elvish inferiority the first time I read GoF. On rereading, however, I came to see him more as a hapless civil servant trying to put on a good show in front of a Ministry bigwig like Crouch Senior. Then having to backpedal when Crouch insisted on Winky's innocence. Crouch then sacking Winky in the next breath left poor Amos reeling with the hypocrisy of it all. Can you blame him for wanting to make a few changes when he finally finds himself at the helm?
Moody,
Molly as Potions Professor, Brilliant! Having the Potions book that Lily gave Severus was a real surprise, yet it was simply right. It is a little strange that Ginny hasn't been mentioned. Usually Molly is all about what her family is doing. Yet here she is quite silent. All in all it was a wonderful chapter.
FoM
Author's Response: I can only imagine Ginny telling her mother to butt out. Besides, Molly will be too caught up in trying to manage her daughter's Quiddtich career to have any energy left over to straighten out her love life as well. Snape's legacy going to Lily's child made perfect sense after he shared his dying memories. Snape is by far one of the most complex and compelling characters in my opinion. IIn many ways, this story helps to keep his memory alive since I couldn't contrive a way to have him cheat death entirely.
Moody,
Oh dear. It looks like there was a misunderstanding. I wish Harry had been able to make his point with Ginny. She on the other hand, went full steam ahead thinking to prove herself to Harry. I believe she will regret it unless she had someone look at the contract. Which I'm guessing she didn't.I hope that Harry's trainng will take his mind off of their disagreement. Enough owls should smooth things out.
FoM
Author's Response: It would be too boring if things went smoothly all the time, not to mention unrealistic. Ginny's fiery temperament was bound to butt heads with Harry's temper sooner or later.
Moody,
As much as you gave us moments of Sirius and Remus that were silly and fun. My heart breaks for Andromeda.
FoM
Author's Response: Andromeda's one of the saddest characters in this series. Still, she makes a good mother figure for Harry as her background makes her so very different from Molly.
Moody,
You had just the right idea as far as giving Harry the information he needed, in a way that would satisfy him. Kingsley as always has a wisdom that will bring the Wizarding world to where it needs to be. I really loved the story of Daynelis Coltrane. Anyone who can outwit the Toad is a hero to me. Thanks!
FoM
Author's Response: I love the contrast of Kingley's easy going manner with Scrimgeour's officiousness and Fudge's obstinate insistence in ignoring unpleasant facts. Anyone who gets the better of Umbridge is a hero in my book; I'm certain her abrasive personality did not make her a great favorite among her co-workers at the Ministry, either.
Moody,
I see more and more details of what went on at Hogwarts during year of the DE. It's always different from author to author. There is some of same themes just different facts. I don't know if I can trust Percy fully, nor Dawlish. It will be up to Harry to discover. Got to go to the next.
FoM
Author's Response: I expect that most would want to forget the time they did in Hogwart's prison, aka under the thumb of those dreadful Carrows. You will get to see some more of that through Snape's memories in a later chapter. Harry's first impressions aren't always accurate, so it's great fun to flesh out some of those characters by taking the few facts we have in new directions.
Moody,
I have something to say, but am afraid you'll take it as a pun. This was an illuminating vhapters in so many ways. I loved the connection to ancient history as well as the interduction to the merpeople to Dumbledores "Disciple". It seems that the gifts Albus gave each of the three friends will reach far into the future. It will help Ron tremendously for Hermione to back him up. A very enjoyable chapter.
FoM
Author's Response: I, too, realized that the chapter title itself was a pun, a rather Freudian one at that! But I decided to use it anyway and ignore those who might add an unintended innuendo. The concept of transplanted species being irevocably altered or simply not surviving is a page from mankind's own imperialistic history. I can't imagine wizard's being any different in that respect.I have a thumb drive that looks just like a Deluminator; I suppose that's what keeps me devising of new ways to employ it. More on that in later chapters. I hope I suceeded in giving Ron some substance beyond just being Harry's side-kkick.
I just started reading this story, which I am enjoying greatly, and I wanted to say how beautiful I think this chapter is. Your description of at least the first stage of the afterlife based on what JKR imagined was really captivating for me, and I'm eager to read the rest of this story. Thanks!
Author's Response: Thanks for the compliments. I'm so pleased you discovered this story. I have to admit that one of the motivating factors is that I'm not shackled to our narrow view of reality. With that I could integrate many favorite characters who had been "written out" of canon. Even without having to resort to endless flashbacks, although I confess I use quire a few of those as it is. (Will someone please contact Mr. Rickman's agent?)
Moody,
Now that the veil of civility that comes (somtimes) with great tragedy is lifted, the gossipmongers have come out. I have to agree with The Head. As tempting as it is (to respond with vigor)they will take any response and twist it.
Ah Ha! The portait is a true Wizards portrait. It had to be driving the painted Dumbledore nuts to sit quietly. I must continue, as this is growing more intriguing.
FoM
Author's Response: After his defeat of Voldemort, I can only imagine Harry being even more sought after by the press -- and hating it that much more. As always, Dumbledore has his reasons for what he does, or doesn't do in this instance. He'll tell you when he's good and ready; I won't ruin the 'reveal' this early in the game. It's so satisfying to witness how this story has captivated your interest!
Moody,
This chapter took my breath away. Luna is one of the most brave of all who fought. Bravo!
FoM
Author's Response: So pleased that you approve of my take on Luna. This was by far the most difficult chapter to write, to get her unique voice just so. She may be eccentric, but she's not really looney; that's just a brush-off from those who don't want to take the time to know her. I couldn't resist having her confront Draco in her own inimitable way.
Moody,
Wow! Simply Wow! Some of what was revealed was expected (Privet Drive Exploding, Vernon being a A, Dudley being not only cooperative, but involved). But I never thought that Marge would die, or the Dursleys being relocated to Greece. I have got to continue.
FoM
Author's Response: There was so much potential in Dudley's goodbye handshake to Harry that I knew I'd have to elaborate about the Dursleys'' fate. The pompous buffoon which is Vernon is so much fun to write. Seems natural that the Death Eaters would want to get even after Harry slipped through their fingers. Since the Dursleys were evacuated first, then Marge would be the ideal instrument of punishment.
Moody,
I truly enjoyed this chapter. It's great that Harrys "story" will come to be put on "paper". But first I must finish this one. Though as much as I enjoy this one. I am surprised how quickly Harry has adapted to the relaxation of the isle. He went from an angst ridden teenager to a calm intraspective young man. That happened very quickly. Perhaps the next will enlighten me.
FoM
Author's Response: The poor kid was in dire need of a holiday. He certainly didn't get anything but more strife during his summers with the Dursleys -- even if they weren't trying to kill him outright. Besides, he enjoys Lexxie's company so he's more likely to adapt just to please her.
Moody,
Absolutely one of the saddest chapters yet. But the strength of Andromeda came through. I believe her healing is beginning. Yet how difficult was it learning the wicked shell of your sister is the one who cut down your daughter? Oh how I felt sorry for Dawlish. But he needs to leave the search for the wand Harry took from Riddle alone. Or maybe someone should just tell him that it was Dumbledores wand, that the snake broke into his tomb to steal and just leave it at that.
FoM
Author's Response: No doubt about it, the end of DH left Andromeda's life in shambles, more so than anyone else's. Lots of material to explore here.