Chapter 30 - Retribution
The sun dipped below the horizon unnoticed. The unlikely group had remained nearly silent; each had the icy cold feeling of despair tormenting their souls. The sparse accommodations of the subterranean dwelling added to the hopelessness shared.
Hermione Potter had been left alone to recover in the small bedchamber; Harry left to console their remaining child. Radulphus held his young sister as they grieved a new, fresh loss. Two ancient wizards, each opposite in appearances, remained in council out of ear-shot of the others, one revealing secrets long since lost to the other.
"According to these documents they had, the facts are clear that the woman you knew as your grandmother was the spouse of Godric Gryffindor, and a direct descendant from Harry and Hermione. These facts are irrefutable based on the abilities you and Benjamin share," Albus Dumbledore said while still studying the folder. Several manuscripts remained open on the table before them.
"I still find it difficult to comprehend that Aurellia Hoth, came from the future," Abraham said.
"When Minerva arrives, I would be interested to know how she acquired this book, and knew enough to pass it onto you," Dumbledore added.
"She should arrive in a moment; I will have to meet her at the entrance to the cavern, or she could get lost," Abraham replied, and stood with difficulty. He relied on his twisted cane more with each passing hour.
His departure allowed Dumbledore time to review the translations Harry and Hermione had maintained, still attempting to piece together how they landed in the Potter's position. The wait was brief; the click of a wooden cane on the stone floor accompanied by a set of lighter footsteps announced their arrival. The tall, white-haired wizard stood and smiled widely as he waited.
"Minerva, my dear, it has been a long time," Dumbledore sang out as he reached for her hand.
"Albus?" she asked puzzled, and stared at him, as if examining him closely. "You can't be…"
"… from this world, no. I have been told of my… demise… here some fifteen years ago. I can assure you I am who I appear to be. This business the Potters of your world have stumbled on has put into doubt the validity of not just this world, but all worlds. I have come to learn I have not faired well in a good number of them. But to the point, Abraham Kristensen here has informed me that the manuscript that seems to be the key to this adventure came from you by way of a Slytherin with the initials EP," Dumbledore related in a familiarly firm but sincere tone.
"Eileen Prince, she was a third year when I was a sixth year," McGonagall answered.
"Prince?" Dumbledore asked slightly surprised.
"I'm certain you would have remembered her, she was Severus Snape's mother, I believe," she confirmed.
"Yes, I remember the girl," he replied quickly.
"I was tasked to retrieve that volume from her and inform her it would be kept safe from misuse. I later delivered it to Abraham to fulfill the instructions," McGonagall added.
"Who gave you these instructions?" a voice from the door asked. Harry stood just outside the entrance, and had heard enough of the questioning to step in.
"I received a letter written by my grandmother some time before I was born. I was lead to believe she was a seer and didn't question the request," she replied to Harry.
"This sounds too convenient, it could have been an event manyfactured by Myrddin," Harry said defensively and quickly crossed the room.
"Myrddin? That is Merlin's Welsh name," she said suddenly.
"Yes, it is, and that is who has been at the heart of this, Myrddin Wyllt. Somehow fate deemed it necessary for your grandmother to intervene and instruct you to recover that manuscript. Personally, I find this too convenient. Please tell us about her," Dumbledore insisted.
"I never knew her. She and my grandfather died several years before I was born; it was the year my parents met. I thought it strange they never knew me but still trusted me with this task. Mum said they were driven by a purpose to stop a union, but never told anyone more than that," McGonagall relayed.
"Can you describe them?" Harry asked.
The headmistress shook her head, "No, I never saw a portrait or photograph of them. They seemed equally obsessed to ensure no images of them existed. All they left me was that note and an old tarnished coin. I still carry the coin," she replied and placed a medallion on the table.
Harry picked it up and rubbed it in his palm. His face paled as he examined the coin. Without saying a word, he retrieved the parchment they used to trace the children to the ruins and held it. A pair of dots appeared, one a short distance from where they were, and the other directly in front of them. Much like the Marauder's map he acquired as a student, two names appeared under the dots. Ben's name was on the further dot, and the other read Annie Lily Potter Little.
"What was your grandmother's name?" Harry demanded.
"Little, Lilith and Gerald Little were my mother's parents," McGonagall answered.
Harry stared at his old school teacher, thinking back to all the moments she helped him overcome seemingly mundane problems, how she risked her life in the conflicts with Voldemort. How she always felt like family.
He picked up the letter of instructions; on the envelope he read the words 'ipsa scientia potestas est' and made a mental note to translate the phrase. Knowledge is Power
"May I keep these? I may know where they are from," Harry asked, but resisted the temptation to expose this knowledge.
"Certainly; I also brought along a few other family mementos," she answered and laid several additional items on the table.
Harry inspected the objects, one he recognized as something he and Ron had discussed. Harry gently picked up the small wand.
"That was my grandpa's spare, he never went anywhere without it, from what mum said. They all thought he was slightly paranoid, but after the incidents with Voldemort, I began to rethink that impression," McGonagall answered to Harry's silent question.
He picked up a small diary, with exceptionally thick parchment pages. He opened the book to a random entry. He was not surprised to see a familiar hand had authored the text. The entries mostly dealt with her feelings for her husband, in an abstract way. He turned a page, and felt the thickness of each sheet.
"Grand-mum kept a detailed diary for years; I have several others in my quarters at the school. Mum also kept with the practice, and that habit stayed in the family," McGonagall explained.
"I'll wager her mum kept a journal," Harry said with a light smile.
"She and my grandfather were orphaned when they were both quite young; they never talked of their families to anyone. Mum was especially curious, researched what she could but never found any additional details of her parents' families. All we know, or rather assumed, was they both were purebloods from families that had existed for centuries. They both had extraordinary abilities and knowledge of magic," McGonagall added.
"May I keep these?" Harry asked as he scooped up the remaining objects.
"Certainly, I trust you with them, I know you'll keep them in good order," McGonagall said confidently.
Dumbledore watched silently through this exchange, and smiled. "I trust this alleviates some questions in your mind? I would suggest informing Hermione as soon as she awakens, it would put her heartache to rest," he said softly to Harry.
Harry held the artifacts and left to reunite his family. Ben had remained alone in the hall outside the bedroom, still grieving for his sister.
"Ben," Harry said firmly, "Come with me, I have some news."
Ben looked up; his face was still as moist as when Harry left him a few moments earlier. The boy took his father's hand, feeling a sense of comfort in the physical touch. Silently they joined the boy's sleeping mother.
Harry gently sat at her side, and stroked her hair. "We told you and your sister what we went through, but what we never really told either of you was how much you all mean to me. Your mother, you, and you sister, you are more important to me then my own life," Harry said to his son while looking at his wife.
"Then why did you let Annie die?" Ben ranted.
"She didn't die, I had a…premonition she would be safer with Jerry than here. Your mother, however, was in danger. I had to act without hesitation to save her," Harry replied softly.
"If Annie's not dead, then why can't we retrieve her?" Ben asked harshly.
"She and Jerry were trapped in a different time; I couldn't risk further damage to our past or future by saving her. They were safe and I have proof they were happy together. I have some information they had married and had a family," Harry said. His voice seemed to have comforted Hermione; a faint smile shattered the mask of grief that remained in her unconscious state.
"But I still don't understand, why couldn't we have saved them when they first went through?" Ben asked.
"Time isn't a trivial thing to meddle with; the slightest change in the past could have far-reaching effects. Your mother and I learned that first-hand once, when we were Annie's age. If we tried to bring them back, we could alter what they changed, and that family they raised wouldn't exist. From what I know, certain future members of her family held important positions in our society; they unknowingly altered our and her past. So there was little we could have done. She had to remain or the paradox we could have created might have changed everything we know," Harry explained. Hermione stirred, and mumbled Harry's name.
"Dad? Is mum starting to wake?" Ben asked at her slight movements.
"I don't know; she is still quite weak. She never should have tried to save Lucy," Harry replied. He leaned closer to her and gently kissed her forehead.
"I had to," Hermione mumbled.
"Love? Did you hear us?" Harry asked softly.
"Yes," she said, and winced before slowly opened her eyes. "But you could stand a shower, darling," she said and smiled weakly.
"Aye, but I was more concerned for you," he cooed back.
"Mum, Dad said he's learned Annie is all right but we can't get her," Ben exclaimed.
"Not exactly, I said she was safe. She and Jerry had a good life together in our past. When they had died together…" he tried to explain.
"Died?" Hermione asked and tried to sit up.
"Approximately one hundred-twenty years ago. I recently had a chat with a woman I believe to be their granddaughter; she had a number of Annie's personal artifacts. One was this," he said, and produced the medallion.
Hermione recognized it on sight, "Where's this woman? How can you be certain she's telling the truth?" She insisted.
"When you learn who she is, you'll know she's beyond reproach. She's in the other room, but it might be best not to let her know this, she isn't aware we are related to her, and I think for now that is best. It's possible Dumbledore has known all these years and has kept that a secret," Harry said.
"But, dad, only the headmistress is here. Whom are you talking about?" Ben asked.
Hermione's eyes opened sharply with a newfound wave of energy, "Minerva McGonagall? She's here?" Hermione asked, and hoped he would tell her more.
Harry held her head in his hands as gently as he could and concentrated.
'Yes, Minerva brought these, and a dairy Annie kept that warrants your keen eye. If you think about Minerva, it makes a lot of sense; she was the one to save the manuscript and gave it to Abraham. We also know Abraham is related to Godric, and now it seems Annie is Minerva's grandmother,' Harry thought into Hermione's mind.
"Minerva?" Hermione said out loud.
"Yes, mum, she's out in the outer room talking to the others," Ben answered, puzzled at her outburst.
"Ben, you are not to say a word of this to anyone, do you understand?" Harry ordered.
"Yes, father," Ben replied confused. His father's tone left little doubt this was one of those rare moments obedience was strictly required and disobedience would not be tolerated.
"Dad? What does the Headmistress have to do with Annie?" Ben asked meekly.
"At the moment, we are not certain; she returned some of your sister's things and may have been in contact with her family," Harry replied.
Ben nodded his acceptance to this brief explanation and left his parents alone to give them some privacy and joined the larger group in the outer chamber. The hushed whispering stopped when the boy entered the room.
Ben had become use to the insulting way others treated him, as he was the son of the great Harry Potter and the son of the Lost Witch. All expectations of him becoming the next greatest wizard proved fruitless on his entrance to Hufflepuff, a house not known for producing stellar leaders. Even with his sister sorted into Slytherin, expectations were high he would be placed in Gryffindor.
Benjamin Potter ignored them all and walked past the group of adults to sit next to Arty and Radulphus.
"Are you feeling better?" he asked the young girl.
She turned away from her brother, her red and swollen eyes told the story of her continued grief. "She's doing bloody well, for someone that's lost nearly everyone she loves," her brother snapped.
"Stop, Rudy, stop!" she screamed and threw her arms around Ben's neck. She held him tightly, so tightly he could feel her heart beat a violent rhythm in her chest. He laced his arms around her waist, and gently guided her to sit at his side. He felt her chest hitch as she continued to grieve.
"It's going to be better soon, Arty. I won't leave you again, I promise," he cooed in her ear. She responded by holding on to him that much tighter.
It was the comfort she needed, something he understood. He also knew his parents were doing much the same, but privately. The open and innocent signs of affection they displayed were simply the outer signs of a couple that had been together for a long time. Their private moments were far more revealing of the depth of their mutual commitment. This was a lesson taught to Ben and his sister of how a family should act. Parents should be close and allow little to interfere with their love; children were a natural by-product of that love. In the case of this family, the absence of children in their early years and Hermione's obsession with the curse preventing a family cast a dark shadow over them, that shadow was ripped open by the spark they shared.
Ben understood that untaught lesson. His treatment of Arty expressed the knowledge gained.
She continued to weep in his arms.
Ben stroked her hair.
Radulphus felt uncomfortable watching his thirteen year old sister cuddle with any boy, even Ben. But he also knew this was the best therapy she could receive, and quietly left the young couple to their fate.
"Ben," she whispered softly, a tone of intimacy easing into the conversation.
"Yes?" he replied in a softer, loving voice complimenting the moment.
"Ben, I know you care, but you can't promise something you can't keep," Arty whispered.
Ben loosened his embrace to eye her face to face. "I meant what I said; I'll find a way to stay with you."
She stared at him for a moment, her eyes heavy and ready to burst. She fought her grief and nuzzled into his shoulder, and reluctantly nodded. "Why did this have to happen to us?" she asked rhetorically.
"I wish I knew; Mum and Mad have been forced into this since they were first years," Ben answered.
"This war has been going on for at least four generations. Every time it seems to be resolved, something happens and it begins all over again," she replied.
"There's always a pause of at least ten to twenty years between each re-occurrence, just after a massive conflict," he said, seemingly reciting from memory.
Arty sighed heavily and twisted a lock of Ben's hair around a finger. "What of your sister? Is she really gone?" she asked.
Ben smiled and thought, his hesitation speaking volumes before he could utter a word. "She is, or was, fine; she was with Jerry and they took care of each other," he said.
"Can't we can try to find them again?" she asked, her confusion in his reluctance to search for his own sister made her wonder about his new motives.
"Dad said if we try, we could put her in further jeopardy. She's safe and content according to the information we have," Ben replied, his intent to reassure his companion.
"Don't you care about your own sister?" she asked bluntly.
"I do, I care about her deeply, but if we try anything, she could be discovered. And dad said they, she and Jerry, have influenced our time in some fashion. If we go after them, that could change, and there's no telling what else could be altered if they are rescued. I do miss her, but…" he said stopping abruptly.
Arty stared at him, still confused.
"But we have to remain together. All of us, if we are to survive," Ben said.
"Lucy was with us and look what happened!" she hissed.
"No, she left us for a moment. Uncle Ron was alone and apart from the group when he..." Ben paused but wasn't able to continue.
"My mum wasn't alone when she was killed," she continued.
"No, but as far as we know this Myrddin bloke wasn't the one that did that. Everyone he's affected has been alone. He won't take the chance of being caught with others around. Lucy was several paces away, too far from anyone to stop him. Dad and the others were quite some distance, only Rudy was close enough to her, and he wasn't prepared," Ben rationalized.
Arty opened her mouth to reply, but realized Ben was correct.
"We have to stay together; we have to protect each other. I promise I won't leave you alone, ever," Ben vowed and leaned closer to her lips. But he opted for a tender kiss on her cheek.
She smiled warmly, and gently pulled his face closer for a proper kiss.
Harry remained at his wife's side as if he were afraid she would vanish again. She hungrily read through the diary Harry handed her earlier, cherishing each word. She read through the entire journey in less than an hour, carefully noting the dates.
"Annie and Jerry ended in the past; the dates of this diary span five years beginning in 1885 on what she said had been her forty-fifth birthday. From that we can assume they arrived in 1860 when she was fifteen. She writes mostly of Jerry and his occupation as a craftsman, and mentioned their early struggles to survive as Muggles, I assume to avoid detection," Hermione finally said as a brief summary.
Harry nodded a reply, and let her continue.
"It appears Jerry discovered working with his hands most rewarding. They lived in the Muggle community in Bristol until their first of three children was born. They moved to Diagon Alley in the spring of 1875. It seems their son began showing signs of his abilities and they were forced to rejoin the wizard community. Jerry found employment making custom brooms, but they maintained a level of anonymity, to avoid disturbing time," she added.
"So except for their family, there's no outward trace of them," Harry commented.
"Right. She was careful not to reveal much, but I can tell her writing. And she did make reference to a conversation we had just after her birthday," she said.
"The discussion that bridged the rift between you, I assume?" Harry asked not needing a reply.
Hermione nodded. "She had issues with their middle child, a daughter that seemed to have some curiosity as to why her parents never tried to excel. Seems Annie and the girl were at odds for some time," Hermione said while flipping pages. "Here, in 1890, she was excited at discovering she was pregnant with their third, but that's where this diary ends. What is interesting is the thickness of these pages," Hermione noted.
She also carefully rubbed the thick pages as if feeling them, searching for an answer to an unknown question. She licked her fingers and rubbed one page between her fingers. "Harry, give me your pocket knife," she instructed.
He reached into his trouser pocket and produced a perfect replica of the knife he was given as a boy by Sirius. Hermione pressed the edge of the blade against the edge of the page, as if trying to slice the sheet in half. To her satisfaction and Harry's surprise, the blade cleanly split the sheet revealing two inner pages.
"Clever, she wrote another hidden diary in these pages," Hermione said and carefully set to task of splitting the other pages.
After a few minutes and only a couple pages successfully split, she read the writing. "She wrote in Parseltongue; she must have known we would discover them at some point. This page talks about meeting with the Head of the Magical Law Enforcement Squad, a Mr. Ogden, and trying to convince him to watch the Gaunt family closely," she said and flipped to the next page she separated.
"Now she mentions trying to prevent Marvolo Gaunt from settling in Little Hangleton. Harry, she tried to prevent Merope from being born!" Hermione exclaimed.
"That could have altered the past; does she say anything else?" Harry asked with a keen interest.
"No," she said, and flipped several pages to one more she successfully split. "This page seems to be an argument she had with herself over whether she has the right to interfere. She was quite torn," Hermione said as she skimmed the pages.
"This proves the past is unchangeable; had she prevented Merope's birth, and prevented Tom Riddle from gaining his power, none of this would have happened, and she might not have existed," Harry said thinking out loud.
"Exactly. She came to that conclusion herself. I would like to review the other diaries Minerva has when this is over. Should we at least tell her what we've learned?" she asked.
"No.I If we even mention to her about these inner pages she might be able to deduce the truth of her grandparents. It's best she is unaware," Harry warned.
Hermione sighed deeply and replied, "You're right, but knowing Annie and Jerry lived a good life does help ease losing her."
"You and Annie were more alike then you realize You both are clever and loving people, and you both traveled to the past to try and protect someone you love," Harry said and stroked Hermione's cheek.
"Yes, she must have realized these would fall into our hands at some point. The information she acquired about…" Hermione said but the moment was cut short by a light knock on the door.
"Excuse me for interrupting, but we must return to London. Abraham has received an owl from Hagrid. The Ministry is conducting an investigation into Mr. Weasley and Miss Malfoy's deaths," McGonagall said through the door.
"Of course; two Aurors killed on an unofficial mission would raise some questions," Harry replied and whispered to Hermione, "Are you strong enough to leave?"
"I believe so; although I should refrain from attempting to use magic for a while," she said, and stood from the bed. With Harry's supporting arm, they joined the others still in conference.
"Ben, you and Arty come along," Harry called to his son.
"Yes, father," Ben replied dutifully.
"I wish I could have given you both more time, but the Ministry is up in arms over the deaths. Apparently, the bodies were discarded at the front door in full view of the Muggles in the area. With the recent incidents, some people have jumped to the conclusion a new dark wizard has tried to gain control," McGonagall said apologetically.
"We'll all be fine, please don't worry about us, Minerva," Hermione replied.
"Hermione, I do worry about you and Harry; you've been like family to me since you first came to the school," McGonagall said.
Hermione smiled, and glanced at Harry. He shook his head ever so slightly reinforcing his decision not to disclose the new information.
"Harry and I have always felt the same, even after the detentions you've rendered to us," she said with a smile.
"You said we've received an owl, who sent it?" Harry asked to change the subject. Ben and Arty joined them as they walked down the short hall into the lounge.
"Hagrid. I left instructions with him to send an owl should any incidents arise. And I would say this qualifies," she answered.
"Harry," Hermione said suddenly and stopped, "When did you bring them back to London?"
"I didn't. I never left you or Ben," he replied.
Hermione looked into the other room from the hall, and pondered. "I thought we all came back together, who…?" she asked.
"Mum? We all didn't arrive here together. That man arrived soon after we did, you were asleep and dad wasn't paying attention to him," Ben said pointing to Albus Dumbledore.
"You don't think he…" Arty began to ask but was stopped by Harry's hush.
"There's only one way to find out," Hermione said and pushed Harry's arm aside. She weakly took a step on her own, and steadied herself. She summoned her Gryffindor courage and marched into the lounge followed by her family.
"Albus," she said firmly," We need to know…"
"How your closest friend and his niece arrived at the Ministry, yes, I knew that would be your first question, and how I came to find you so easily which would be your second," he said to finish her thought.
Hermione stood firm in her spot and pondered his statement. A glimmer of a long past memory wove through her thoughts. She nodded and raised a corner of her mouth ever so slightly. That slight movement was noticed only by the man that knew her best; he stood behind her and put his hand on the small of her back. Their silent, personal interaction lasted only a moment, but it was enough.
"Exactly, I assume you had something to do with recovering their…bringing them home. And as for you finding us, it is easy to understand a wizard of you abilities would be able to find us easily," she said.
"Then we should be off to the Ministry, to clear this and your names," Dumbledore answered.
"Then we had best hurry. Ben, you stay with Albus and your father. The tunnels are narrow and if we split up, we may stand a better chance. I'll be along in a moment with Professor McGonagall and Abraham," Hermione ordered, firmly placing her son's hand in his father's hand.
"I think it best we remain as a group," Albus said.
"No, we discussed this earlier. Ben and I will leave with you, and the others will follow in smaller groups," Harry confirmed for Hermione.
The others, confused at this shift to split up, waited until Harry, Ben, and Albus Dumbledore left the dwelling to negotiate the tunnels to the ocean.
Radulphus broke the uneasy silence, "I thought we were to remain together, that passageway isn't so large we all couldn't fit."
"Myrddin is attempting to set a trap, to catch all of us together. If we say in smaller groups, he won't be able to act. Everyone he's always attacked were those isolated from a group," Hermione said while she motioned for them to move along.
"Then why send Ben ahead first if you believe it's a trap? Won't he be in danger?" Arty asked. She finally voiced her fears of losing another person she cares about.
"Myrddin has a weakness we can exploit. There are certain individuals that are immune to his ability to shift time, one is Abraham and the other is Ben. I believe Annie also shared that ability with her brother and that may be what saved Jerry's life when they were taken. We have to hurry; I doubt Harry can save them both, should he try to strike," Hermione related.
"He shouldn't have to, Albus is with them," McGonagall added.
"No, he's not. That was not Albus Dumbledore," Hermione stated as she grabbed the elder witch's hand pulling her to the door.
The winds blew from the ocean; cold tendrils of fear embraced the three. The youngest in the group felt the effects more. He held his father's hand tightly; the fear of being lost to the sea below grew more intense due to the proximity of the fortress prison on the island above them.
"Dad, I'm scared," Ben hissed quietly.
"He won't do anything here. I'm counting on you to stay with me once we arrive at the ministry," Harry hissed back.
"Parseltongue?" Dumbledore asked.
"Yes. Seems both my children inherited the trait," Harry replied.
"Interesting; but no matter, we should be near the apparition point. Ben, would you like to accompany me?" Dumbledore asked the boy.
Ben looked at his father and shook his head. "Dad? I would rather stay with you," Ben answered to Harry.
"I think it best he remains with me. Now, the apparition wards inside the Ministry have been altered to trigger any arrivals by those identified as deceased. I suggest an alley near the Leaky Cauldron, on the Muggle side. It's only a couple blocks from the Ministry," Harry suggested.
"Yes, that should do nicely. I believe I know the one in question. Now take my hand and we'll stay together," Dumbledore replied.
"Stay with me Ben, and we'll both get through this; your mother and the others will be along in a moment," Harry said, and reached for the ancient wizard's hand. The elderly wizard snapped his fingers and he and father and son vanished with a soft pop.
The three reappeared holding hands tightly in an empty dark alley; the shadows in the far corner seemed to shift as they appeared. Harry realized he was no longer in physical contact with the old wizard. Ben held his father's hand as if it were a lifeline, afraid if he released his grip one of them would be lost forever like his sister.
Ben stared into the darkness, "Dad, where is he?"
Harry held Ben's hand, and positioned the boy behind him, "You can stop your cat and mouse game, Myrddin; step out where we can see you," Harry commanded, his hand raised and ready.
Albus Dumbledore stepped from the shadows of the alley and grinned. "Clever, Potter, I didn't expect you to see through this charade so easily, or was it your wife that gave me away?"
"I would like to take the credit, but I have to admit it was my daughter that first warned us to only trust family. And you tipped your hand when you admitted bringing the bodies back to the Ministry. I know they never would have allowed Professor Dumbledore to leave, so you must have changed your identity and unceremoniously discarded them like so much trash. Albus would never have disrespected them in such a way. And when you worded your reply to her, you said the same thing to her in the past, when you manipulated her to aiding Hermia Madison some five hundred years ago," Harry said while shielding his son.
"I see," the man said; a hand waved over his face. His beard and long hair shrank back, his wrinkles smoothed and his features became apparent. His smooth, clean shaven face seemed quite out of place in the long flowing robes of the former professor. His wand was prominent in his hand, pointed at Harry.
"So it's magic now? No Muggle weapons?" Harry taunted.
"That was tried once before, seems you and your wife have an immunity to knives," Myrddin chuckled back.
"No," Harry began and started to step out of the alley, back into the street. "No, seems neither of us would fail the other, that's where you misjudged us. You see, we have a bond no one can break."
"Yes, I know of that silly emotional tie you have; a silly by-product of Riddle's failure to end this game some twenty-five years ago. Pity 'The Lost Witch' seems to be lost. Last thing you said to her was to meet at the Ministry. Unfortunately they will be searching a long time," Myrddin sneered.
"Yes, that was the last I said to her, but not my last message to her. Our bond is one you nor Riddle could understand, it's one Albus knew and help build over the years, love," Harry replied, now fully in the light of street. The dark corners of the alley seemed to follow Myrddin as he kept pace with Harry and Ben.
"Dad? People are starting to stare," Ben hissed quietly from behind his father.
"'Hissy hissy, little snakey, Slither on the floor; you be good to Morfin or he'll nail you to the door.' Ahh, but you were not the Potter that heard that rhyme of Morfin's with old Bob Ogden. That was in another version of this life. No matter, your family will replace the Gaunt's in this life, having inherited Salizar's vocal traits," Myrddin grinned and tapped the alley wall with his wand. The stone walls shimmered and brightened revealing a scene from a world long since passed.
The images of a country lane bordered by high, tangled hedgerows appeared on the walls, with a wooden signpost stuck out of the brambles that read 'Little Hangleton, 1 mile'.
Harry stared at the name on the sign; his eyes widened just enough to betray his emotions.
"Know the name do you? It was difficult to turn the father against his daughter, and ultimately push the worthless bitch into Riddle's arms. But it was an enjoyable task. Having him believe she was a worthless squib. The benefits from that union were equally unexpected bringing the likes of 'Lord Voldemort' into this world. His soul was fertile and longed for my teachings," Myrddin stated in a proud voice.
"Gloating? That's such a human trait. We have been aware of you and a number of your actions in the past. I assumed you had a hand in Riddle's rise to power, but we never knew when and where you interfered," Harry replied. A small crowd of Muggles began to gather to watch the unusual argument.
"Dad, the people…" Ben started, but his father tightening his grip on Ben's hand stopped the thought.
"Trained your whelp well to respond to hand gestures? Well done. And as for your pitiful insult, humanity has been quite nourishing for me, and I expect it to continue," Myrddin said, and flicked his wand into the crowd. Several screams and the distinctive thud of a fallen body disbursed the on-lookers as they ran for protective cover. Myrddin reeled with pleasure at the suffering of an innocent.
"My son can be impetuous at times, but I commend his sense of justice," Harry replied, noticing the change in Myrddin. Ben remained safely behind his father.
The scene behind Myrddin shifted to a wooded vista, one that remained unspecific until a cottage appeared. The same cottage young Ben stumbled upon.
"Dad, that's…" Ben started.
"…the same cottage where I caught that brat of yours sneaking about," Myrddin spat and pointed to Ben.
A bolt of red flashing from Myrddin's wand raced toward Ben, who was still protected behind his father. Harry effortlessly blocked the stunning spell, deflecting the bolt into the wall behind Myrddin.
Harry's out-stretched hand barely moved, a bright blue flash streaked from him toward his adversary. Another flash from Myrddin's wand deflected most of the spell harmlessly into the wall. But enough struck the wizard's wand hand to blacken the tips of his fingers.
"Expelliarmus!" a voice called out from behind Harry, unexpectedly striking Ben with a dazzling flash of scarlet light, hurling the two back into the alley.
Ben lay motionless less than a meter from his father. Harry rolled to his knees and glanced at Ben's body. A tiny trickle of blood leaked from the corner of his mouth. Harry barely moved, and silently blasted a spell back at the second assailant. The bolt found its mark as a masked and cloaked figure in the crowd fell.
"You can't win, Potter. With each moment of suffering, with each stroke of pain administered, I grow stronger," he taunted.
Harry's eyes remained fixed on Myrddin while he reached to his son. Ben managed to roll to his side and moaned, telling Harry the boy would be fine, given time to recover. Harry hoped to give his son that time.
That time was not to be this moment. Myrddin muttered the Cruciatus Curse, sending a bolt at Harry.
Instinctively he countered, shielding himself and his son. The torture spell hit the invisible shield and split, striking a couple onlookers that had the misfortune to attempt to hide in the debris of the alley. But the effects of blocking a strong spell continued to wear down Harry's abilities for defense. Two Muggles in the crowd writhed from the pain of the spell, fortunate in the fact the bisected beam lost potency.
Another pair of spells glazed past Harry and his son, striking the walls to the side and behind them. Large chunks blew from the spot of impact, sending additional debris into the alley. To Harry's surprise his shield held; neither he nor Ben were injured.
Myrddin turned away from Harry and scanned the surrounding street. The remaining Muggles could be heard whimpering from behind typical street objects and trash receptacles. A few unidentified masked and cloaked individuals approached and nodded to their master.
Harry shifted his stance to better protect them, but had to momentarily drop his guard.
"Attack now, kill the boy first!" he commanded and stepped aside.
Another spell hit Harry in the back, a stunner that would have dropped any normal wizard. He quickly re-cast his protective shield around them but the damage had its desired effect; his shoulder ached from the direct hit.
Blasts from their wands flashed at Harry, who still remained behind his shield. He grimaced from the strain at deflecting the new attack. Each direct hit weakened him, but his resolve to protect his son gave him that extra endurance to hold on.
Another beam flashed from behind them, just over Harry's head and struck the farthest assailant. He fell unnoticed.
More beams flashed from many directions, a number striking Harry's protective shield, each blow weakening him. Many more spells seemed to miss their marks; the ensuing chaos seemed structured and well planned. Myrddin turned to face Harry in what he knew to be Harry Potter's last moments alive, "Now, finish them; the boy must die!" he shouted.
The street glowed from the massive magical forces used, the blinding rays made the view behind Myrddin virtually indistinguishable. He grinned with the same contentment he felt that day more than a thousand years before when he stood on a fresh grave and planned his destiny.
He raised his wand to deal the final blow, to succeed where so many others failed; Harry covered his son with his own body, unable to give any further protection from the magical bombardments, his own abilities nearly gone. He was weakened to the point of defeat. Myrddin pointed his wand at Harry Potter's back, "Avarda Ka…"
The wand exploded into a thousand shards of wood before Myrddin could complete the incantation, splitters of the shaft peppered his face. Emotionally stunned, he sought the source and could see a dim figure in one of the fresh holes blasted in the wall early in the battle.
"We've come to 'elp, 'Arry," a voice called from behind the two huddled on the ground. Ben managed to open his eyes to see a woman with wild, crimson hair grinning at them. Harry weakly looked up and recognized her face from behind his cracked glasses.
"Dad," he hissed in Parseltongue, "It's Aunt Tonks."
Harry couldn't reply.
Myrddin turned to his force, only to see one assailant after another fall, this time struck from street-side: reinforcements had arrived. McGonagall led the attack from the south side of the street closely followed by the rest of their group in support, while Radulphus rallied with a contingent of Aurors from the north end.
"What form of treachery is this?" Myrddin screamed.
Harry managed to stand, supported by Ben, and turned to Myrddin; the pain in his face evident of the attacks he endured. He held out a simple coin and said, "You didn't think only the kids had one?" Harry tossed the coin to Myrddin's feet.
A single figure remained standing near the dark wizard. Myrddin lunged for the last remaining masked wizard and sneered, "I still have the last laugh, try to track me now!"
His hands glowed where he grabbed his henchman to make his escape, but the pair remained where they stood. Myrddin changed his grip and repeated his spell, expecting to fade into time.
They remained steadfast.
"What is this?" he snarled and ripped the mask from the figure, an ancient face appeared. His withered features could not hide his smile.
"Abraham Kristensen, but my friends call me Gnome. It's time to return you to your prison," he said and held onto the wizard to prevent his escape.
A woman broke from the group and rushed to the father being supported by his son. She held her arms out, "Ben, Harry, you're safe!" Hermione called cheerfully.
Harry pondered at her amazing rejuvenation, "Hermione? What happened?" he managed to ask, his legs barely able to support his weight.
"It was him," she said and pointed to Myrddin, "His presence had an affect on my powers. Once we figured out he was an imposter I waited until he left. My strength seemed to return quickly, but my powers haven't returned yet. I can only assume he was watching us at our home these past weeks, which caused my condition. He could have been following us, possibly a fraction of a second out of phase. We wouldn't have noticed." Hermione replied.
"Mum, I thought I had seen a man outside the cottage several times, I mentioned it to Annie before…" Ben said and drifted off once he mentioned his sister.
"Harry, we have to leave immediately, I have no idea how long Abraham can hold him," she added sharply, before she realized his condition. "You need to rest for a moment while the others handle this, darling," she added.
Harry nodded and with the support of his wife and son, managed to limp away. They half carried and half supported Harry to a set of steps where he could comfortably sit.
Gnome held fast to the dark wizard as the others surrounded them.
"Kill the bastard, end this now. He doesn't deserve to live after what he's done," Radulphus called.
"Go on, do it… Kill me if you have the stomach for it," Myrddin taunted.
"He deserves no less, Harry," Tonks added.
Ben and Hermione supported the weakened Harry. He raised his hand, to prepare the final blow.
"I have… to… do this," he said, and pushed his family back to stand alone in this task. His arm glowed a faint green, and he began the incantation.
"Do it, or are you a spineless whelp like your father?" Myrddin jeered at Harry.
Harry stood fast and summoned all the magical strength left in his body for the final burst.
"Stop, Harry, he wants this. He's too willing to end this. Something's wrong," Hermione yelled, braking Harry's concentration.
"She's right, Harry," McGonagall said in support.
"If you kill him, all this will never exist, and he'll win," Hermione said, and grabbed Harry's arm.
"You had proof he was alive in the future, and escaped and in the distant past. As far as we know he's remained in a continuous timeline since he escaped," McGonagall added.
Harry blinked hard, his focus shattered, "He has to escape? I don't understand."
"Don't you see? He's created a foolproof paradox! If he dies here before he escapes, this timeline ends. Remember the other realities? They may be fractured timelines where events played out differently. He never existed in any of them while we were there, because he can't physically exist in them simultaneously. The only safe place to hold him is between realities," Hermione quickly rationalized.
"We have to return him to the Arch; that is his prison. Bind us quickly; I can't hold him long," Gnome ordered.
Tonks and another Auror both bound the two together to prevent them from becoming detached. Radulphus pointed his wand at the odd bundle and levitated them.
"You'll have to use brooms to fly him to the Ministry; forget about secrecy, this man is far too dangerous to risk his escape," Hermione ordered.
"I don't understand," Harry began, but she stopped him.
"I'll Apparate us there; we'll have some time to wait until they can arrive. I'll explain what I know," she said. Without another word, she held his hand and her son's hand and the three Potters vanished.
"Potter, Minister Scrimgeour is waiting for you to report directly to him, the Wizengamot is convening as we speak to deal with the deaths of Aurors Ron Weasley and Lucia Malfoy," a young Auror announced. He had been waiting at the main entrance, apparently for a long time.
"I'm afraid he'll have to wait: we have a dangerous prisoner in route," Hermione replied. Harry remained silent, supported by his son.
"Healer Potter, you have no authority in this matter, and to be precise, you have been implicated in those murders as well," the Auror answered. His assumed an offensive stance at Hermione's refusal.
"Stand easy, Eastman. If they have a reasonable explanation I'll hear it now," an order came from the entrance.
"Chief Robards, sir. I'm acting on direct orders from the office of the Minister…" Auror Eastman started to say.
"The last I heard, you are employed by the office of Magical Law Enforcement, not by the office of the Minister. Unless you desire a permanent change in occupation, then stand aside," Robards barked.
"Yes, sir," Auror Eastman conceded.
Robards pushed past the younger Auror to face Harry and Hermione with outstretched hands. "Forgive his youthful enthusiasm; he is fresh from training and his first assignment came directly from the Minister's office. I doubt the Minister himself is aware of him, let alone his assignment," the chief Auror said in greeting.
"The prisoner is due here shortly; he is responsible for Ron and Lucia's deaths. He's also responsible for the deaths of many others, including the former Minister, Albus Dumbledore," Hermione reported.
"You finally caught him? Weasley would have liked to know. Pity he was killed," Robards replied, bowing his head slightly in remembrance.
"We… have to take him to the Arch, that's the…" Harry started, but tired before he could finish.
"Imprisoned without so much as bringing him before the Wizengamot? That will prove to be impossible," Robards said, shaking his head.
"Chief Robards," Hermione said in reply to Harry's weakened condition, "Could you have Eastman retrieve this list of potions from St. Mungo's? Harry's been through a difficult afternoon." She handed a slip of parchment to the head of Aurors.
"Of course; he should be only a few minutes. Eastman, make certain this is carried out to the letter," Robards ordered. A simple nod of submission and salute had been the reply before the Auror vanished. Hermione flicked her wand and produced a stool for Harry to rest on.
"The Arch was designed as his prison, not as a means of execution. It's the only thing that could or will hold him," Hermione insisted. She reached into Harry's rucksack and removed a folder of documents. She flipped through them, removed one sheet and handed it to the Chief Auror.
Robards read the document, before commenting further. "Are you certain of this?" he asked.
"Absolutely. He's a time-shifter; able to alter time around others. He's used that ability to his benefit over the centuries to escape and strengthen his powers by 'feeding' from the suffering of others. I have corroborating reports stating that he has been observed in periods of strife, primarily for Muggles. All he required was a simple history text to pin-point his targets." Hermione reported.
Harry looked up at her with a raised eyebrow, but she answered before he asked.
"We were given this document hidden in a diary provided by Minerva McGonagall. The pages held a secret I was able to decipher. The book was authored by a gifted woman and her husband to track this prisoner through time. She detailed the clues they followed and referred back to other evidence," Hermione added.
"Why us, mum? Why are we so deeply involved in this?" Ben asked.
"Yes, that's an interesting question that I would like to know as well," Robards added.
"He feeds off the suffering of others. Where best to find someone suffering then manipulate the actions of a heroic type, to put those around him in positions where he would have to take action. My guess is he stumbled on Harry and his parents through his manipulation of Merope Gaunt into seducing Tom Riddle Sr. and having his child. That child became Voldemort, who sought to become master of the Wizarding world. People like your grandparents stopped him, and in doing so, your father became 'The Boy Who Lived'," Hermione explained.
"Wow, I haven't heard that in years, 'The Boy Who Lived'," Harry repeated.
"You brought hope back to our world, and an end to suffering. I assume if he can eliminate the world's heroes, he can regain his source of power," she added.
Eastman returned carrying three vials, and handed them to Hermione. "Here, drink these," she ordered Harry who dutifully complied.
"We, all of us, have been used for years by him - what he did to your sister was intended as a trap. He wanted us to mount a rescue and possibly create further damage to the fabric of time. Your father did what he had to do; he chose to save me, although he should have left me, because of some doubt to Annie's future. The information we had first stated she died some eight months from now, but this document changed to simply state she had vanished without a trace," she said in explanation.
A distant howl broke the conversation, leaving some unanswered questions in Robards' mind. Harry stood at the signal, knowing he could have another confrontation before the day was done.
"They're here," Hermione announced and pointed to a dark, fast moving cloud.
Harry stood; the potions his personal healer prescribed lifted his spirits and energy to see this through completion. An odd-shaped bundle remained suspended between three brooms with their riders approached the Ministry.
"Harry, he's trying to free himself, Gnome's unable to hold him," Radulphus called out as they approached.
"That spell, the one you used on Voldemort," Hermione shouted.
Harry pushed his son to the side into his mother's arms. Harry stood alone in this task. He shifted his weight and braced himself, pointing both hands with his fingers outstretched toward Myrridin, closed his eyes, and began his spell "CONTEGOOPERIRE HOSTIS". He concentrated as hard as he did the time he vanquished his first real foe. His arms began to glow as they did when he first rehearsed this spell. A dome of pure blue energy shot from him and surrounded the odd bundle suspended from the three brooms.
The bonds that held Myrddin and Gnome tethered to the three captors severed, as did the bonds that held the pair together. Gnome maintained a death grip on his captive, unaware neither could escape the sphere.
Harry maintained his focus, his arms weakened from the strain of the magic that flowed through him. His arms started to shake, but he maintained the spell, keeping the pair trapped.
"We must get them into the veil, that's the only place Myrddin will be held safely," Hermione ordered.
Harry nodded to acknowledge her instruction, but the strain wore on him.
"Dad, you have to stop," Ben yelled, being the first to notice his father's health decline.
"Stay… back… Ben," he managed to say, the anguish evident in his voice. Radulphus rushed to Harry's side, followed by Tonks and the young Auror that assisted them, but Harry waved them off.
"You can't do this alone, let us help," Tonks added, pointing her wand to the orb.
"We can at least help transport this to the Department of Mysteries," the third Auror offered.
"For Merli… mercy's sake, let them help, Harry, you're not a young man anymore. Think of your family," Minerva begged.
"Harry, do it… do it now… I can't… hold…" Abraham begged, his voice was barely heard over the crackle of Harry's spell.
"Tonks, Rudy: levitate them while Harry contains the field," Hermione commanded.
The delicate ballet approached the main entrance; Harry maintained the containment field, while the others focused on bypassing the Ministry's security. Hermione held her son close as they followed. She remained a bystander in what could be her husband's last effort.
"'Oy! What's this, then?" a burly wizard barked as they entered the main entrance to the atrium.
"Stand back, this is official business," Radulphus commanded back and flashed his Auror's identification.
"Bugger this," Tonks yelled, her wand flashed away from her task momentarily as a flash of red engulfed the guard. The diversion of her power was minute, barely noticeable in assisting Harry to contain Myrddin in the sphere.
"Ben, stun anyone that tries to stop us. Don't ask, just do it," Harry commanded and maneuvered the sphere through the halls. Wizards and witches in the Atrium stared at the unusual sight. Harry Potter was again involved in a battle with evil.
"Dad, Gnome can't last much more," Ben called out.
"Stay your course, young man; I can hold until we breach the jail for this fellow," Abraham called out.
"Give up now; nothing you have will hold me. As soon as this thing no longer has any control over me, I will escape," Myrddin jeered.
Abraham replied by jabbing his elbow into Myrddin's face, the crunch on cartilage displayed a spark of fight left in the ancient wizard.
The few minutes they needed to traverse the Ministry's halls and stairs draining all involved, Harry's hold on the sphere seemed to wane the closer they came to the chamber that held the portal they sought. The massive door remained the only barrier to them; it quickly fell open at Hermione's hand.
"Abraham, you'll have to hold him until Harry releases the Orb," Hermione ordered.
"No, I haven't the strength left; send me through the portal with him," Abraham pleaded, "Destroy the token that binds me." He called back. His voice faded with fatigue as he spoke.
"We can't, we have to destroy the opening, you'll be trapped," Harry replied.
"No… from the other side destroy it you must," he answered back.
"Dad, his speech…" Ben said pointing to Gnome.
"He no longer has any control over me. You have lost. It was only a matter of time," the dark wizard laughed.
With the last effort of a man about to die, Abraham released his death grip on his prey and forced his meager weight to the opposite side of the sphere. Off balance from the shift, Harry's concentration faltered. The orb and its two inhabitants fell into the Veil. The tattered cloth that remained over the opening fell with them as the orb passed into the portal.
A single scream from the pair accompanied with the laugh of one man's victory escaped from the portal, the veil no longer flapping in an unfelt breeze. The ground beneath them quaked and dust drifted from the ceiling. The stones of the arch cracked and one by one, fell from the positions they held since the beginning of time.
Harry fell to the floor the instant the blue sphere vanished from view, his head hung down from exhaustion. Hermione ran to him, followed by their remaining child.
Harry weakly lifted his face, his cheeks now shallow, his eyes were haggard and cavernous. His hands, visible from under his cloak, appeared emaciated. His face was gaunt and skeletal as if he had been deprived of nourishment for years. The reduction in muscle mass and his weakened state became obvious when Hermione held him. His tailored clothes appeared as baggy as the clothes he had been forced to wear in his childhood.
He managed a smile as his life's mate held him steady. He no longer had the strength to stand.
"Mum? What…" Ben started to ask, but a kindly touch from Radulphus froze his question before he spoke.
"Harry, you should have stopped," Hermione cried into his bony shoulder.
She closed her eyes and held him as tightly as she dared. Her hands began to glow. The magical aurora that binds all wizards together flowed from her hands into Harry's body. Those nearest to her felt a drain, as Hermione focused on returning Harry's health.
She held him tightly, sharing all she could, but he pushed her away after only a few moments. "I can't let you do this, you can't sacrifice them," he managed to say, and weakly fell back, his wife and son remaining at his side.
"And I can't let you die," Hermione replied while tenderly caressing his face.
"It was after Harry revealed the information he received…"
"Stole you mean."
"Semantics; let her finish Minister Scrimgeour," the Chief of Aurors said in Tonks's defense.
"Thanks, Chief Robards. As I was saying, they acquired those documents from some point in the future, and they alluded to the fact that it was our future. The documents stated Annie died later this year, but Harry showed us that page. He said she simply vanished and was never seen or heard from again. Apparently she and Jerry ended up in the past where they survived their ordeal," Tonks said.
"So there's no further word of the two? They simply vanished?" Scrimgeour asked.
"As far as we know they received a cryptic message, I assume from someone that knew of Annie and Jerry in the past, and Harry refused to divulge the details of that message," Professor McGonagall added.
"With Mr. Potter's failing health, we've been advised not to overly stress him. His wife's health, too, has suffered in this adventure. It has been suggested they permanently reside in St. Mungo's for…" a distinguished wizards stated before being interrupted.
"No, his only wish has been to return to his home where he can finally find peace. Hermione is with him and shares his desire for privacy. They both want to remain shielded from the public's eye: she said it was his last wish," Radulphus said firmly.
"And what of this Kristensen fellow? He appeared to be instrumental in containing… the dark wizard," Scrimgeour said hesitantly.
"Myrddin, or Merlin, or Wyltt. He was no better then you or I. He, like Tom Riddle before him, had a delusion he was destined for great power. He met his end, and his justice," Professor McGonagall replied. "As for Abraham Kristensen, I believe Mrs. Potter has seen to his personal effects, and has dealt with his home. He should not be of concern to the Ministry."
"Myrddin was responsible for the rise of those that have come to claim the right of a Dark Lord. My detailed investigations in your world, and those I have visited, have revealed his influences. It is a pity he was illusive in the past," A tall, dark cloaked wizard said with a silken voice.
"Yes, Pro… Mr. Snape, you are correct on that point," Professor McGonagall said to acknowledge his presence.
"We do, however, need to remain vigilant. The simple fact that this individual had escaped from one of our possible futures implies there may be a way for him to escape or be rescued from his imprisonment. Remember we are still within the time sequence when he existed; should he not escape from the future to return to the past, none of these events would, or could occur," Snape commented.
"Right," Minister Scrimgeour said as if in thought. "I will convene a committee to oversee the remains of the arch, and to take him into custody the moment he shows himself. The future generations must be aware of him."
"Your presence here does pose an interesting problem," Chief Robards said addressing Snape.
"No, actually, he has a position at Hogwarts his counterpart from this world had coveted for years, if he wishes it; Defense against the Dark Arts could use a new perspective. And since the revelations of the arch have been contained within those in this room, I would recommend you also be included in the group that will monitor the remains of the arch," Professor McGonagall said.
"Since the 'portal' has been destroyed, and there doesn't appear to be a reason for me to return, I accept the offer," Snape replied.
"As is seems there's little more to discuss on the matter of the Potter family, I have my sister's memorial to attend," Radulphus said coldly to his supervisor.
"Of course, we all will be there shortly. As for your future, I hope you intend to remain in the Auror Corps; your abilities will be an asset to the entire Wizard civilization," Chief Robards said, extending his hand.
Radulphus stared at the offered hand, and thought for a moment. Hesitantly, he took the man's hand. "If only to prevent others from loosing loved ones, but understand, my sister will be my main priority, until she is of age."
"Of course; with her fondness for the Potter boy, I expect she will be in good company," Chief Robards replied.
Epilogue - Together Forever
" Harry, it's getting a little chilly, I think you need to come inside."
" I will, I just want to remember this moment. The sky looks so familiar, but I can't seem to recall." He answered as his voice began to drift.
She helped him to his feet and put a supporting arm around his waist. She looked to the sky and remembered the same clouds and felt the same breeze as that morning she first kissed him. It was the first time he admitted his love for her. That was more then a lifetime ago; several lifetimes. They loved and cried, had adventures no other couple had the right to share. They had children and those children grew to have their own. She had no regrets; what they shared one fateful late spring day gave them far more than they lost later that same day. She never left him and she loved him unconditionally.
It was a day just like this one they began their lives together, and now he can't remember. She helped him leave the chair on the porch that overlooked the glen at Godric Hollow. It was his favorite view; a stream bordering the glen also ran past a well-manicured patch that bore a small handful of stone monuments. A noticeable gap between two of them still remained, waiting. The trees past the stream were reminiscent of the forest near the school where they were the closest of friends through their childhood; it was the same school where they shared their love. He couldn't remember those times either.
He stared into the woods, as he had so many years earlier when his son and daughter were children. His joy at watching her grow into a woman and marry was stolen from him. His son remained close for years, and his children also kept close ties. Thirty years after his sister vanished, he too was lost without a trace. Ben would not watch his own children grow and have their own families. Harry would have smiled if he could remember seeing his children or grandchildren at play.
His life's partner of nearly two hundred years helped him walk into the lounge of their home, the home where his parents live, loved, and died. It was the only place he wanted to live after they married. Their first few years had been marred by a curse that led them to an adventure past the reality of their world, where they encountered people of a kindred spirit. They made life-long friendships with those people, and in doing so, helped them as he helped his world. Those memories were lost to him too.
" Easy, Harry. One step at a time, love."
" I think I can remember how to walk; I'm not a child." He wheezed.
" I know, it's that I'm afraid you may slip again. You do remember the last time?" She knew he couldn't; time had physically ravaged him leaving the frail man that she held. She had no problem lifting him these days when he couldn't support his own weight. His memory left as his body began to wither.
" Here; sit by the fire, I'll bring you some tea." She cooed in his ear as she left a light kiss on his cheek. She covered him with a blanket over his lap, to help ward off the chills. She stood at the counter in their small kitchen and felt a tingle long forgotten; this began not from her palm as in their youth, but from deep within. She smiled and knew that this feeling was when he was at his happiest, when he was content. She felt this when their first child was born, and their second. Since then it was a constant sensation she experienced when they made love. She felt it again when their grandchildren were born, but that had been many years past. She wore a smile that always lit his face as she carried the tray to the room.
No one heard the teapot and cups shatter when they fell from the tray. She alone was there to hold him at that moment. That sensation she felt was him calling out to her one last time. He sat on the love seat, weakly clutching his chest, his breathing slow and pained. His emerald green eyes began to dull. She pulled him to her bosom and tried to pull him inside her. She wanted to share with him as she had done once before; she wasn't ready for him to leave.
" I…love you…" he whispered as his last breathe left him. His arms fell to his side, but she still held him. She sat next to him, holding him as they had comforted each other so many times in their youth. She cradled him in her arms; tears streaked her face as she lost the most important thing in her life. She sat there rocking him gently in her arms.
The morning passed into mid-day, mid-day passed to afternoon, the setting sun barely visible through the forgotten open door. She lost all memory of that day, except for that last feeling she had tried with all her skill to capture.
" Gram? You home?"
She barely registered the young woman's voice. Mara entered the dark room, to see her great-grandmother still gently cradling him. She dropped her bags at the doorway and quickened her pace to their feet, where she knelt and pulled Hermione's hands to hers.
" Gram? Is he?"
" He's gone," were the only words she could say. Mara put her arms around them both; she could still feel the love radiate between them. She stood and walked to the fireplace and called for her father to summon the family and relate the passing to the others.
His funeral the following day was a closed, private service with only their legacy attending: their two children, both grown and with adult children of their own, who then had children of their own. The oldest of the fourth generation, Mara, had been named for a long time friend's wife. She was the first to find them and she was the first of her generation to have her own child. She wished he could have lasted to see her son born, to know his legacy would continue.
As to his wishes and a promise made many years past, he was laid to rest in a space left between two pairs of ancient graves. A simple blank stone marked his resting place; he wanted his last place to be private and known only to a select few. There still remained one empty spot to his side. Hermione laid a lily on his casket as it was lowered into the Earth. She was the first to toss a handful of dirt in the open grave and added a handful of dirt from a pouch he carried for years; it was opened only once before. On that day that changed their lives, he saved a memory. That memory would forever be with him. She saved some of that special soil for when she too would join him.
" Soon, my sweet, precious love, soon." She whispered over his grave.
The name Hermione Jane Granger at one time had become as famous in her world as his; she shared his name for most of her life, as she also shared her life with him. He had left her that spring and she knew the emptiness she felt could never again be filled. Her days were spent in their home as she lived on without him.
She clutched an antique watch in her hand; the hands had long frozen to the moment he died. She opened it as she had every day since he left, and watched the memories he saved for her inside it. These were his fondest memories of her before he knew she was the one he would spend his life with. These images had become her obsession; she had watched them every day since he died.
Their youngest great-grand daughter, Mara Hoth, had delivered her first child that morning and was nursing her new daughter, Aurellia, when she felt a strange tingle from deep within.
Hermione had been found later that day holding her pocket watch, open for all to see with the image of a young girl kissing a boy on the cheek. That image repeated over and over. Around her neck an open locket that contained strands of jet-black hair and chestnut brown hair, and two words. Those were the only words allowed on the simple marker they shared.
Together Forever