Harry Potter isn't mine. JK owns every thing HP. But this plot… is mine…. Enjoy reading and please review. The long waited face off between good and evil also known as the battle of Harry Potter and Voldemort. Sorry for the errors just dying to get all of these out of my head and hopefully when I'm done I'll polish the wrong stuffs I've written. Would that be fair enough? Toodles and have fun!!!!!
Chapter 15: The Last Task
Ron, Hermione and Draco were going through the dark tunnel from the manor's dungeon. They had to give Harry the last page, which contained the incantation he needed to finally defeat Voldemort. They were trailing the dark passage, which had a higher ceiling, and with white hanging threads all over when they where face to face with a giant hairy spider to Ron's dismay.
"Ahh!!!!!" the three screamed and ran back to the other end of the tunnel but it was already blocked.
"I can't believe our luck!" Ron cried. They had to face the monster in front of them.
"Calm down, we have to figure out how to pass through that spider," Hermione said trying to gather her composure.
"You have to think fast that spider is getting closer," Draco stammered.
"I know! We have to get him to the steep edge under that big rock, there on top, then Ron have you ever tried moving a spider?" Hermione asked.
"You know I hate spiders! Of course I haven't!" Ron answered
"Ron we have to act quickly we can use a spell to move it back but you have to make sure he's under that rock then let that massive bolder fall on him. He'd fall off the edge then we can pass through. Got that? Come on he's right at us," Hermione instructed.
She and Draco used 'Arania Exsame' [n/a: I don't know how to spell it sorry] on the spider as Ron tried to move the massive creature further back at the right spot bellow the Rock.
"Now!" cried Hermione and Ron motioned the bolder to fall but it was stuck in the sticky web like things on the walls and ceilings.
"It won't come off. It's stuck," Ron said panicking.
"I'll block the spider, Draco shoot fire on those webs," Hermione ordered as she tried to ward the spider.
Draco shot flame to the surrounding web on bolder and it went straight to the spider's head and the creature fell on the edge into the dark pit.
"Goodness that was close," Draco said.
"This is the second time I came face to face with a bloody giant spider. Why can't it just be a cute caterpillar or a butterfly," Ron retorted.
"Let's hurry. We have to get to Harry," Hermione said not minding Ron's comment. She knew that they were getting closer.
"What do you reckon we will face next?" Draco asked them both.
"I don't know isn't this place part of your house. I can't believe your family keeps hideous pets like that," Ron commented.
"Actually I never thought we had a secret place in the house," Draco explained as they walked along the dark corridor.
"Keep quiet you two. I think there is someone in this room," Hermione commanded.
They peeked inside the keyhole of the door and they saw Mandungus Fletcher inside. They went in and talked to the old Auror.
"Thank goodness you three came through. Did Sirius and Remus made it in time?" Mandungus asked.
"They were just in time before we almost got killed," Hermione said. "Although we went face to face with a giant spider."
"You have awakened the spider? How did you get pass through it?" the old wizard asked.
"We had our ways," Ron said proudly.
"I waited for you three here but where are Remus and Sirius?" Mandungus asked.
"They were left with the other Aurors securing the death-eaters," Draco replied.
"We have the missing pages sir. We will help Harry defeat Voldemort," Hermione said and she showed the letter to him.
"The writings are changing. We have to make haste. Keep this with you Hermione. Have you read the contents of the last page particularly the incantation?" Mandungus asked her.
"Yes I have. Why?" she asked.
"You would know what to do," Mandungus said giving her a knowing look. "Let's continue on. I'll use my wand to lead is in a safer path."
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"Has any of you seen Hermione?" Arabella asked Bill who had just sent some Aurors out to get the injured. The giants outside the castle where fighting mountain trolls and Dementors were also making their way closer to the castle.
"She must be inside the castle. We have to go out. The Dementors are coming and we have to stop them," Bill said.
"Okay, call Charlie and a few other Aurors we're going out we cannot risk those dementors entering the school. I shall cast a Dementors ward around the school.
Ginny was helping in the tents with Madame Pomfrey and the Grangers being dentist with some medical knowledge tried to help. Annie McGregor was so happy to see her son safe and couldn't help but worry about the two boys who went and brought him back. Dudley was helping the younger female Aurors particularly Padma Patil in giving out food to the relocated Hogsmeade villagers. The Dursleys stayed in the Gryffindor common room and was hoping that they would be back in their normal home.
McGonagall was busy helping the villagers as well. She had to make sure of the safety of everyone inside Hogwarts' premises until Dumbledore and the others returned. Mrs.Weasley came up to her and told her about Fleur in Labor.
"We have to get her to Madame Pomfrey," McGonagall said. "Your grandchild Molly has impeccable timing."
Ginny with the other future Mrs. Weasleys and Charlie's wife were all helping Fleur. She had to go in Labor in one of the hospital tents. McGonagall had already owled for help from St. Mongu's Hospital.
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In the deep end of both tunnels lies the chamber which Voldemort himself dwells in. He was anticipating the final meeting with the boy who was brought him down of his reign.
"The attacks are taking place master. Death-eaters are now ambushing Hogsmeade and are still trying to enter Hogwarts. There are also some sent to the ministry office. A number of death eaters are also attacking key cities all over Europe you'll be back in power soon enough my lord," Lucius reported to the snake-faced Voldemort.
"Of course finally I have brought the wizarding world to chaos once again and the ministry thinks that a bunch of young and inexperienced Aurors can match my army of death eaters. Soon the boy who lived would be dead and so are those who would come and try to stop me," Voldemort said. "Nagini, my dear I think you need to eat something take on the left tunnel and a feast is waiting for you."
The giant snake, Nagini went slithering away and entered the left tunnel.
"Soon Lucius you'll come face to face with your son. Where is Peter? The McGregor boy had escaped. Where is that rat?" Voldemort asked angrily.
"He could be among those attacking the ministry." Lucius replied.
"Very well, that rat Peter wouldn't miss the death of Harry Potter for anything in the world.
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Harry and his two companions were still trailing the long tunnel.
"This place smells horrible," Harry commented.
"Burning Tar. Very poisonous you have to cover your nose and walk fast we have to get out of here and soon," Snape said.
A giant snake suddenly appeared in the passage to the next tunnel. They were now in the middle of a narrow passage with high ceilings and below were the tar pits.
"Snape take Harry I shall deal with that snake," Dumbledore ordered.
"But professor," Harry tried to say.
"Harry, made use of your special gift and you may combine the four elements and summon great powers," Dumbledore said.
"Let's go Harry," Snape said and they waited as Dumbledore fought with the giant Nagini. Harry tried talking to her in parsel tongue but Nagini responded only to her master Voldemort. Time was running out. Harry and Snape were getting weak from the Tar steam. Harry tried to summon the wind but being under ground made it hard for him. Dumbledore had no choice Nagini was protected by Voldemort she may even be Voldemort's guardian itself and so he leapt over the giant snake and dragged along with him to the Tar pits.
"Professor!" Harry cried as he watched Dumbledore his head master holding the giant snake and was swallowed by the deep burning Tar.
"Harry, we have to get out of here or we may not be able to face Voldemort," Snape said and he dragged Harry to the other end.
"The professor, why did he do it?" Harry said crying.
"He did what he thought was necessary. Now let's not make his sacrifice in vain. Let's finish what we came here for," Snape said trying to be confident even though he felt awful after what happened to Dumbledore.
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"What is this place sir?" Hermione asked Mandungus.
"I have no idea but I'm sure of one thing danger is close by," the old man answered causing Draco and Ron to stay close together.
"What's the smell? It's like rotting cabbages and eggs," Ron commented.
"That's disgusting what's in this place." Draco said.
"I know that smell," Hermione said. "Ron don't you remember?"
"Oh, no. It can't be!" Ron said.
"Yes, I think we are in the company of Trolls," Mandungus said.
"Trolls!" Draco said.
"I hate trolls," Hermione commented remembering what happened to her in her first year.
In front of them the figure of three mountain-trolls holding a club in one hand and a big torch in the other appeared.
"Hermione, stand behind me," Mandungus said. "Boys when I say run, you three go to the door. Leave me here to take care of these trolls Harry needs you. Hermione remember what I told you. When the time comes you know what to do."
As instructed by Mandungus they ran pass the stupid looking trolls and went to the other room.
"Sir Fletcher," Hermione cried.
"Don't worry Hermione, he's the best Auror I know and three gigantic trolls wouldn't stand a chance on him," Draco said trying to sound confident.
"Draco's right Hermione, for now we have to get to Harry," Ron said.
Hermione nodded and before they could get to the big oak door Lucius Malfoy was standing in front of them.
"The prodigal son has returned," Lucius said.
"I didn't come here to join you father. We're here to fight," Draco said sternly to his father.
"My son among those low lifes, a mudblood and a wizard that came from a mudblood-loving family," Lucius retorted.
"These people are my friends unlike you of course you don't have friends all you have are evil allies," Draco said.
"Hermione Granger, the famous girlfriend of the boy -who-lived," Lucius started on Hermione. "What would Harry feel if he found out that the love of his life is dead?"
"You can't kill me. You actually think you can harm me," Hermione said bravely.
"As brave as that boy are you? Well, what if I used this on you? Crucio!" Lucius said. Hermione stood still then suddenly the wings of a griffin covered her.
"Harry wouldn't let anything happen to me or Ron or even Draco. He got us all protected," Hermione said.
"Why didn't you tell us? You got us all panicky back there." Ron said.
"Didn't have anytime to tell you," Hermione said.
"I may not be able to hurt you but my master can," Lucius said.
He opened the big door and there they saw Voldemort seated on his throne.
"Ah yes, the friends of Harry Potter. Such an honorable act for you three to be here," Voldemort said mockingly.
Just that moment the other door from the left tunnel opened. Harry and Snape came in.
"Well, isn't this wonderful a little reunion," Voldemort commented. "Where is my precious Nagini?"
"Your snake is dead. Dumbledore sacrificed himself for us," Harry said.
"My poor pet you killed her. Wait, Dumbledore is dead you say? Too bad I thought I would have the honor of killing him myself," Voldemort replied. "My old servant Snape. I can't believe you have turned traitor to your master."
"I was never your loyal servant. You killed my brother and all of my family," Snape said.
"The Potters were never your family. I had great plans for you then. You could have been greater than the name Potter but you proved yourself weak," Voldemort said.
"My uncle isn't weak. He's was just confused before and now he is making things right and you, you filthy monster corrupted him," Harry said.
"Lucius take care of Snape for me. While I have a little chat with Harry and his friends," Voldemort ordered Lucius.
"Snape. I've always wanted to duel with you. You're the one who placed all those stupid thoughts in my son's head to turn against me," Lucius said.
"I shall duel with you then," Snape said. They moved into the room were Lucius found Hermione and the others. Voldemort locked them in.
"Now, shall we begin?" Voldemort asked.
"Why is he acting as if we'll just have a little chat?" Ron whispered to Draco.
"I don't know?" was Draco's only reply.
"Now Potter I'll make you an offer. You pick one of these three to live and then you can runaway and live as muggles. You will not be harmed if you leave the wizarding world for good," Voldemort said.
'He's offering you freedom? I don't understand this,' Hermione said to Harry telepathically.
'I don't understand it either,' Harry said.
"Think about it Potter, two lives is all you need to sacrifice so you and your girlfriend can live happily ever after," Voldemort said.
"Harry, you're not going to let him kill us are you?" Ron asked and noisily cleared his throat. Both him and Draco looked at Harry.
Thoughts were running through Harry's head. Ron and Draco in exchange for his life with Hermione free from Voldemort. He then thought he heard Dumbledore's word to him, 'You may have to choose between what is easy from what is right.'
"You actually think I'll give up my friends that easily Voldemort," Harry said.
Draco and Ron felt a sigh of relief come out of them.
"Foolish boy! I offered something that could have brought you happiness but still you chose to act so noble," Voldemort hissed.
"He's not foolish! He's just Harry loyal to his friends and he's willing to do anything for friendship," Hermione reasoned.
"Well, then all of you will die. You could have saved your girlfriend Potter but now all of you will see each other in heaven," Voldemort hissed and laughed out loud.
Ron, Draco and Hermione tried to move from where they stood but they couldn't.
"This battle is between us and I'll deal with your puny friends later," Voldemort said. "Let's finish our little duel from three years back."
Harry held his wand tightly it was pointed straightly to Voldemort.
"Master?" Peter came in. "Harry Potter is here!" Peter saw that his old master, Ron, Draco and Hermione was present in that room. And without even thinking, he threw a wand at Harry and the boy instinctively caught it. "It's your mother's use it wisely. I took…" before Peter Pettigrew could finish Voldemort cursed him with 'Avada Kedavra ' and was dead.
Harry couldn't believe what was going on. Peter Pettigrew gave him his mother's wand but why and Voldemort just killed him.
"Foolish Servant!" Voldemort said. "Let's get on it boy!"
Harry used his mother's wand instead realizing that his wand wouldn't work against Voldemort because their wands are brothers.
"You killed too much people. Now it's your turn to pay," Harry muttered.
Voldemort made his horrid laughter again. "Let's see about that."
Harry and Voldemort were shooting curses at each other and were shielding themselves from each other as well.
"I know what will end you for good," Voldemort said. "I summon the powers of Darkness. Come forth and serve your master!" The ground opened like a crater and the ceiling broke open revealing the dark skies. Clouds were rumbling from above.
'Harry, it's time!' Hermione said in her thoughts.
"You think that page will help you," Voldemort hissed. He saw the paper that Hermione held behind her back and the paper burst into flames.
Hermione couldn't believe what was happening. She remembered what Mandungus told her. She will know what to do. 'I know what to do!' she told herself again and again then she remembered the time she first read the book. She was referred to as the wise one. ' I should be able to do it. Prophecies only tell the possibilities but you would always rule your life,' she told herself remembering the time she gave up divinations.
'What will I do Hermione?' Harry started using the elements on Voldemort and the dark spirit like creature that was coming out from the crater.
Ron and Draco were shocked from the hideous monster in front of them. Neither of the two boys could move.
'Harry, say the things that I will dictate to you,' she told him through her mind.
"Earth, Wind, Fire and Water I summon the powers of all the four elements. Hear my call. Bring forth the power of light which shall destroy all evil!" Harry said as Hermione dictated to him. Hermione read a lot of books about the elements since the day she read about Harry learning to use it. There weren't any written spells or incantations that could bring all four elements together but she had to try and make one. She knew that it was the only way and she had faith that Harry would be able to summon great powers, she remembered Dumbledore saying it himself.
Harry repeated the incantation again. The wind was blowing hard, the floor was trembling they could here the waters in the other side of the cliff slamming on it. Harry wasn't sure if it was because of his summoning or if it was because of the black snake like creature that was coming out slowly from the crater.
"I think your little spell didn't work. I guess it's your time to die Potter," Voldemort said.
Then they suddenly saw a flying red bird hovering above. It was big but when it landed on Harry's side he knew who it was.
"Fawkes?" Harry said. He couldn't believe his eyes. The Phoenix was literally burning. It was bigger than it's usual size and was magnificent. From nowhere suddenly flew a ball made of water, then a substance that was swirling like the wind, and then raised from the ground a big ball of earth. It surrounded Fawkes then the Phoenix was blazing stronger and the three balls of different elements mixed into his flames.
"So that bird is your final weapon. We shall see about that," Voldemort said then he spoke in parsel tongue and the black creature attacked Fawkes. The Phoenix spread out its wings and fought with the black snakelike creature.
The snake was encircling Fawkes but the Phoenix was strong it's feathers were ablaze and soon the black serpent was getting weak. Harry was still standing on the other side and Voldemort on the other.
"Ron can you move your arm?" Hermione asked.
"Yes but I still can't move my feet. How about you Draco?" Ron asked.
"I can move my hands," Draco said.
"We have to protect Harry. Let's put a ward on him," Hermione said. "Ready?"
"Weardes!" All three said and a lion appeared and enclosed Harry, just that same moment, Voldemort sent an 'Avada Kedavra' curse on Harry. He was hit and he fell on his knees but the ward protected him in some way. Fawkes was winning over the back serpent.
Harry spoke in parsel tongue and he ordered the snake to return to the pits and never to return and he ordered it to bring Voldemort along with it. The snake made a last dive back to the crater but before it did it dived in the spot were Voldemort stood and it swallowed the dark lord.
"No!" was the last thing heard from the dark lord. The black serpent was back in the crater and a big explosion shattered the chamber. The griffin protected Hermione Ron and Draco but the lion protecting Harry wasn't strong enough and was destroyed. Harry fell to the ground. Fawkes was a little weak but it flew away.
"Harry!" Hermione cried as she ran towards Harry who was lying on the floor.
Ron and Draco came and followed her. Hermione was crying. Harry wasn't dead but he was unconscious. "I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you," she told the unconscious Harry.
"I'll check on professor Snape," Draco said. He left and looked for any sign of Snape or his father. After a while he came back to Hermione and Ron.
"They're both dead. Father and Snape they killed each other," Draco said almost in tears.
"We have to take Harry back in the castle," Hermione said. She was still crying.
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That night of the face off between Harry and Voldemort, on the same moment the dark lord fell in the pits a big number of his death-eaters were also mysteriously swallowed by the ground. Sirius, Remus got there in time to help Mandungus with the trolls. They helped Hermione, Ron and Draco to bring Harry back in the castle.
Harry finally won over Voldemort. The dark lord was no more. He died by the same powers he used to do evil. The wizarding world is finally at peace. There were casualties here and there and many wizarding homes were destroyed particularly in areas close to Hogwarts like Hogsmeade.
The Grangers and Dursleys were sent back but were still given posted Aurors to look after them. The Burrow was being rebuilt. Everyone was suppose to be happy and cheering but the wizarding world hasn't able to since the boy-who-lived who once again triumphed against Voldemort was in what muggles call a coma. He hasn't awakened since the day he got back from his fight with Voldemort. Dumbledore was still nowhere to be found.
It had been a week since Harry stayed in the hospital wing. Hermione was always by his side. Ron visited him often and so did Draco, Ginny and Lavender.
"You have to eat something Hermione?" Lavender said with concern.
"I have to be Harry's side when he wakes up," Hermione reasoned.
"You haven't gone to any of our classes. You haven't eaten anything. That is the same clothes you were wearing since you got here," Lavender commented.
"I don't want to leave his side. I can't, I don't want to," Hermione said. She had been crying that whole week. She looked like a wreck.
Ron couldn't let his friend whither away so he confronted her.
"Hermione. Listen to me. I know you want to see Harry when he wakes up. I also want to be there on that day but you have to live your life too. Harry wouldn't want to look at you for the first time and see that you have suffered so much while waiting on his side. You have to look well when he opens his eyes one day. He doesn't want to see you change Hermione. He would want to see the strong Hermione that he loves so much," Ron said.
Hermione hugged her best friend for the first time. "I'm sorry Ron. It's just that, I want to see Harry alive. The same energetic and happy person that I love so much," Hermione sobbed.
"He'll be back Hermione. He'll be back," Ron assured her.
Days, weeks and two months had passed. It was almost March and Gryffindor would soon be playing Quidditch but they didn't have a seeker. Hermione had gone back to normal since that talk with Ron but she still spent all her free time with Harry in the hospital wing. She was like Harry's private nurse. Taking care of him changing his clothes and cleaning him. She studied in the hospital wing instead of the library. Ethan and his friends as well as other Gryffindors visited Harry. A week before the game against Ravenclaw Ron spoke with Ethan.
"Hey you came," Ron said as Ethan came in the room.
"I just wanted to see if he's already awake. I mean the games are due next week he has to play Quidditch you know," Ethan said.
Ron smiled. "Do you want to be seeker just as substitute for Harry since his still sleeping," Ron offered.
"Are you kidding?" Ethan asked.
"Nope, I'm not. Hermione told me that Harry said you wanted to be the next seeker and well, it's your chance. I still need to ask professor McGonagall if she'd let you of course. So are you up for it?" Ron asked him again.
"You bet I want to be substitute. But when Harry wakes up he'll be the once playing," Ethan exclaimed.
"Let's just wait for Hermione. We have a very nice surprise for you," Ron said and just that instant Hermione got in the room holding Harry's Firebolt.
"Wow! I can't believe it," Ethan was awestruck. "Are you going to let me use it?"
"Well, a good seeker needs a good broom and we think Harry wouldn't mind if you borrow his Firebolt until he's up to play again," Hermione said. "Go take a spin. Ron, please come with him. Here's a note I got this from McGonagall so you can train him."
Sirius and the others always checked on Harry's condition but he was still unconscious. Sirius was the temporary Potion's master. Almost everything was back to normal. Bill's first baby was named Harold in honor of Harry. Aurors were relieved of their duties since almost all the death eaters were caught and there are only a few which where being hunted down. Many from the Slytherin house came back most were orphaned but just the same they were happy that the whole ordeal was over.
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The game against Ravenclaw came and it was Ethan's first game as seeker. He played like he was born to do it. Gryffindor won 180 to 170. The Gryffindor team was still shaken by Harry's condition but Ethan was able to save the team. Now they had to go against Slytherin to secure the top spot and it was coming in three weeks.
Hermione was still gloomy but she had put a strong face for Harry. She knew that Ron was right and that she had to be strong for Harry. She still cried at night by Harry. She tried to talk to him telepathically but even that didn't work. She was getting desperate. She even wanted to borrow the time turning so she could save Harry but she knew that Harry wouldn't want that.
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"Where am I?" Harry woke up in a very beautiful place that looked like a garden.
"Hi son. I'm glad you're finally up?" James said as he beamed on his son.
"Dad? Is that you? Where am I?" Harry asked all confused by his whole ordeal.
"You're in the world beyond son. You'll finally be with us," Lily came up to them.
"Mum?" Harry said and he hugged both his parents.
"It's over son. You're finally free from all the worries of life," Lily said.
"But? What about my friends? What about Hermione?" Harry said. He was happy to see his parents but he also missed his friends and he definitely wanted to see Hermione.
"There back in your old world. But you're with us now," James said.
"You have fulfilled your duty. Now you can live happily with us," Lily said and hugged her son tightly.
"Mum, dad this isn't how I intend my life to end. I'm not going to live behind my friends. I can't be happy here knowing Hermione, is there waiting for me. This life maybe convenient but I'd rather live there and have to deal with Voldemort again than to stay here knowing that she's lonely and sad because of me. Dad I know you understand me. You love mum the same way," Harry reasoned.
"Now, Harry you have passed your last test!" Dumbledore said.
"Professor!" Harry said and he hugged the old man.
"Come now. You have passed the test of the elders. Even Merlin agreed in bringing you back after all that you have gone through. You may come back to your friends but I have to say you will leave your parents behind," Dumbledore explained.
"Mum and dad are happy here because they're together and I wouldn't be sad knowing they'll be looking after me always," Harry replied.
"Then Harry your choice is to live the life filled with uncertainties and you chose it other than the luxuries of the after life," Dumbledore.
'Harry, when will you come back to us? When will you come back to me?' Harry heard Hermione.
"She's waiting for you," Dumbledore said and both he and Harry walked away. Lily and James waving goodbye to there son but they were truly happy for his decision.
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Hermione was asleep by Harry's bedside and when she woke up Harry was not in bed.
"Harry! Where is Harry?" Hermione couldn't believe what she was seeing Harry was out of bed but she couldn't find him inside the room. She was overwhelmed with happiness.
"Madame Pomfrey did you see Harry get up from bed?" She asked.
"No dear. I didn't," Madame Pomfrey replied.
Hermione went to the great hall to look for him there. She saw Ron and the rest and asked them.
"Ron, have you seen Harry? He's not in his bed when I woke up?" Hermione said.
"We have to look for him then," Ron said. "Lav, we'll look for Harry. I'll go and catch up with you later."
Ron and Hermione went to check on the Gryffindor common room, they checked all four common rooms. They went to every classroom and asked every student and professor. Finally they reached the grounds and Hermione was almost in panic.
"Ron, where could Harry be," she said in tears.
"He could be anywhere," Ron assured her putting a hand on her shoulder.
"I don't know what I'll do with him Ron. I don't want to lose Harry," Hermione cried and she buried her face in Ron's chest.
"Calm down Hermione. We'll find him," Ron said.
"Now why is my Hermione crying?" a familiar voice asked.
"Harry?" Hermione asked she stood up and threw her arms around Harry who was staring at the two of them.
"Mate! Where were you! Why did you pull a stunt like that disappearing in bed and not saying where you went," Ron said almost scolding. "But I'm so glad you're here and awake." And he hugged his two best friends.
"Before I forget. I'm here with the professor," Harry said as he pointed at Dumbledore who was approaching.
"Professor Dumbledore!" Hermione and Ron cried. "But we thought you were…" Ron tried to say.
"Ah but all of you had missed your dear ole Headmaster," Dumbledore said as he inspected the two under his half-moon spectacles.
Everyone welcomed Harry and Dumbledore. The headmaster was back and everyone was rejoicing for Harry had finally awakened after three months. Ron told Harry about Ethan being the substitute seeker and Harry wanted Ethan to play against Slytherin but the younger boy refused and he said he wanted to see Harry play for the last time before he finally graduates from Hogwarts.
The game against Slytherin was a close one. Gryffindor won with Harry catching the Snitch after 4 long hours of playing. Draco was a great seeker but the Firebolt gave Harry an edge. Gryffindor won 450 to 250.
The N.E.W.TS were coming in a few months and all the seventh years including Ron, Lavender, Harry, Hermione and Draco were busy studying in the library. Ginny was also there studying for her Defense Against the Dark Arts quiz.
"Remember what Bill and Charlie said, the N.E.W.TS would be a breeze after our training," Ron exclaimed as he stretched out his arms and placed one over Lavender's shoulder.
"Well, we can't afford to be all confident about it. They might only be joking and we really have to make sure that we'll do well at the N.E.W.TS or we can kiss our being adult wizards goodbye," Hermione replied.
"I don't think you of all people should worry about the N.E.W.TS you'd practically ace it without breaking a sweat. Remember our O.W.LS you were the first ever witch who got all 20," Harry said reassuring Hermione.
"The O.W.LS were easy but I think the N.E.W.TS aren't. I can't believe you aren't worried about it," Hermione scolded.
"I am it's just that when I look at you studying so hard it's like you've done enough studying for the both of us or you can even add Ron," Harry replied.
"Well, I'm just happy that I won't be taking that exam yet I have yet to pass my quiz on DADA tomorrow. Professor Figg or should I saw future Professor Black is giving us the whole Volume of how to distinguish a death eater," Ginny butted in.
"I guess you'll need my help in that," Draco offered and Ginny snuggled closer to him.
"Hey, no snogging on the library especially with a big brother present," Ron scolded throwing a crumpled piece of paper at Draco.
"Hey!" Ginny blurted and threw one at Ron, which accidentally hit Hermione.
"Hey! Watch it," Harry mockingly scolded Ginny and threw it back at her and they all ended up being kicked out of the library by Madame Pince.
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It was a day before graduation and everyone was excited. The N.E.W.TS were over and Hermione and Harry got the highest points.
Ron was with Lavender under their favorite tree in the Howarts' grounds.
"Hey Lav, can I go visit you everyday after graduation?" Ron asked as he held Lavender in his arms.
"Of course you can that is if you don't intend to work." Lavender said as she took Ron hands in hers. "What are your future plans for us anyway?
"I was hoping maybe I could play professional Quidditch like in the Chuddley Cannons or work in the ministry for my dad. Then when I have enough money I'll buy us a house and I'll ask you to marry me," Ron said.
"Good enough for me. I actually want to try and teach here at Hogwarts. Hopefully I can teach Divinations since Professor Trewlaney disappeared two years ago I thought maybe I could teach the subject," Lavender said.
"Well, if you want to teach then I guess I'll be looking for a place in Hogsmeade so I can visit you anytime," Ron exclaimed and gave his girlfriend a kiss. "I can't believe that tomorrow Hogwarts would just be a part of my childhood. I can't believe that seven years ago I went of the train not expecting to meet my best friends in the whole world and finally meet the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with." They said I love you and shared the most passionate kiss. "I think we ought to go to my room and celebrate?" Ron suggested and Lav just smiled and they made their way back to the castle.
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Draco and Ginny were walking by the lake. He held Ginny's hand as they strolled by the lake.
"I can't believe next year I won't see you here at Hogwarts. You'll be facing the world and I'll be stuck here still in school," Ginny sighed and leaned her head on Draco's shoulder.
"I already asked Professor Sirius if he's staying in Hogwarts to teach and he said he's just filling in until they found a replacement and I was hoping maybe I could come and teach Potions here," Draco said.
"Really? You'll teach here in Hogwarts!" Ginny exclaimed and she hugged Draco and they accidentally fell on the ground with her on top of him.
"I like it when you get excited. You always throw yourself at me," Draco commented remembering the time Ginny hugged him after knowing about her appointment of being a prefect.
"I'm just so happy that I'd still see you next year. I was thinking maybe when you're finally out there you would see a lot of beautiful witches and you'd forget about me," Ginny muttered while they sat beside each other.
"Ginn, there isn't any witch in this world and beyond that could ever replace you. You know I'm crazy about you. I'm actually staying here to make sure no one goes lurking around my girl," Draco admitted and it made Ginny turn as scarlet as her hair.
"Where are you going to stay when you get out of Hogwarts?" Ginny asked curiously remembering that the Manor was destroyed.
"Actually this is supposed to be a surprise but your dad and mom offered to let me stay in the burrow this summer and until I finally find a place to live in," Draco replied.
"I so love my mum and dad!" Ginny exclaimed and she threw her arms around Draco again and they twirled around, like a bunch of happy loonies.
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Hermione came in their own common room after a meeting with Dumbledore and McGonagall. When she got in she saw that the room was a bit dark and in the center was a table lit with three candles.
"What took you so long?" Harry said as he escorted her to her seat. "I wanted to make sure that the most special girl gets very special treatment."
"Harry, I…I don't know what to say?" Hermione was speechless. She then saw that the room was filled with beautiful bouquets of tulips. She didn't have any particular favorite but at the moment she realized that she already had one and they're all around her.
"You didn't have any particular favorite but I know you would like them. I thought they are like you, beautiful, tranquil, and yet they're fragile and sweet," Harry explained.
"They're so beautiful, Harry. I should have brought something for you," Hermione tried to say but Harry stopped her.
"Just having you here with me is enough," Harry said. "Will you dance with me?" Harry asked and they both stood up and held each other. The room was magically filled with sweet dance music, Harry's hand around Hermione's petite waist and her hands around his neck. Their faces were inches from each other. Hermione's brown eyes were lost in Harry's whirlpools of green. Time passed around them neither one of them wanted to stop. They held each other in the most loving and most tender way.
Hermione rested her head on Harry's chest. "I can't believe it's finally over. Now we can live a normal life," Hermione said.
"I have to warn you though. Life won't be very normal when you're with me. You'll have the Daily Prophet following your every move. They would want to know about the girl Harry Potter is in love with," Harry said and it made her blush.
"I've gone through that in our fourth year, remember? And even if they do I don't mind as long as I have you with me," Hermione replied and it was Harry's turn to blush.
"Hermione, what if I'm just a regular wizard and there isn't anything special about me. Would you still love me?" Harry asked looking intently at her.
"Harry, I never loved you because you're popular or that you're powerful. I love Harry, they boy I knew from my first train ride to Hogwarts, the boy who would do anything for his friends. I love you Harry because you're you and not because of the things they wrote about you in books and magazines. I love the boy who grew up right in front of me and shared the most wonderful years of my life with him," Hermione answered.
Harry didn't say anything he just kissed Hermione the most passionate and loving way he could and she responded to him longingly.
"Hermione, I know this is kind of sudden but I promised myself that I will ask this question to you as soon as I get the nerve to do it," Harry was stammering. " Hermione Kaitlyn Granger, I Harry James Potter would like to ask your hand in marriage. Will you marry me?" He brought out a black leather box and he opened it and inside was a nice diamond ring in a platinum and gold band.
"Oh, Harry, of course I'll marry you," Hermione answered and she kissed Harry on the lips. Harry slipped the ring on her finger.
"That was close, I thought you would say no," Harry sighed.
"Why do you think I'd say no?" Hermione asked him and she searched his face.
"Well, I thought maybe you wanted to do so many things being the smart witch that you are. You might see my proposal as a hindrance to achieving your dream of teaching," Harry explained.
"Harry, I don't see my getting engaged with you, let alone marrying you something that would hinder me from achieving my dreams," Hermione reasoned.
"We don't have to get married right away. We can have along engagement. You can teach here at Hogwarts and I'll find a place where I can be close to you," Harry said.
"That's a great idea Harry and one thing more though. I know you want to play Quidditch Harry and I have nothing against it," Hermione muttered.
"Really? It's okay with you if I play Quidditch," Harry said and he hugged Hermione and kissed her again.
"Yes, Harry. I saw the letters of a dozen Quidditch teams who want you to be their seeker. How can you pass out an opportunity like that?" Hermione exclaimed. "I love you Harry and I support you as much as you support me in fulfilling my dreams. But do you know what is my ultimate dream? I so want to be Mrs. Harry James Potter."
"We have the same ultimate dream Hermione. I love you so much," Harry replied and Harry carried Hermione to his room.
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The day of their graduation was an eventful occasion. Parents and relatives of the graduating students were present. Surprisingly the Dursleys attended the event. Harry and Hermione told the Grangers about their plans. Mrs. Granger fainted but knew that her little girl was no longer a baby and it took the ceremony before Mr. Granger had finally accepted that their little girl would soon be Harry Potter's wife.
Hermione gave out her graduation speech that made of most of the parents specially hers cry. She thanked the professors and the students and everyone who helped through all those years in school.
Harry gave out his speech. Thanking all the professors and the students he had met and had grown up with. He thanked Snape who he at the last minute found out to be his uncle. He thanked the Aurors and the Ministry for doing their job well. He thanked those people who sacrificed their lives at the recent battle. He thanked the Dursleys for taking him in. He thanked Remus, Sirius, Arabella Mandungus and the other members of the Order for supporting him. He thanked McGonagall and Dumbledore for their guidance. Lastly he thanked his friends, Ron, Lavender, Draco, Ginny and most specially the love of his life, Hermione who became his pillar of strength. Without her he couldn't have defeated Voldemort and all of them would still be living in fear.
The day ended with happy greetings and well wishes. They all got a wedding invitation from Parvati and Dean. Dudley asked if he could owl Padma during summer.
Ethan, Alice and Simon came to great Harry, Ron and Hermione.
"Bye you three!" Ethan said. "We'll all going to miss you."
"We'll miss you too," Hermione said. She each gave them a hug.
"We have little keep sakes for you. We made these when Simon accidentally mixed our potion into mud," Alice handed Harry, Ron and Hermione three mud like glowing objects and in them they saw the picture of them in their second year.
"Where did you get the pictures?" Harry asked.
"Colin Creevey, he said he has plenty," Simon replied.
"Well, maybe it would only be fair if we give something in return," Hermione said. "Accio, Hogwarts a History," and her book came flying towards her. She gave the book to Alice. "Take car of it it's my favorite book." Alice thanked her and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"I have something for you too since you're almost like me, I think," Ron said and he summoned his Chessboard. "Take good care of this it's my very first set," he handed the chessboard and Simon thanked him.
"You Ethan being the next Seeker for Gryffindor I think you should have this," Harry started then he called for his Firebolt. "This is for you. Take care of it."
"Wicked! Thanks Harry. I promise Gryffindor team will not loose a game as long as I'm seeker," Ethan declared.
"One more thing though. We have no more use of this very special thing and I hope you take care of it. Hopefully you'd pass it down to other future Marauders," Harry said. Ron gave him a mischievous grin while Hermione stared in disbelief.
"Here is the most precious Marauders' Map use it wisely," Harry exclaimed.
Life for Harry looked a lot brighter. He would soon play for England having accepted their offer. He's engaged with Hermione and after a year they would tie the knot. Harry Potter the-boy-who-lived was finally living his life. He would no longer be just remembered by his scar.
THE END
Author's note: There it's done…finished!!! Finally… I'm so delighted I've come to end my story. I know it isn't much but I tried very hard to make it a good story. I knew my story had gone through a lot of twist and turns. I myself got as little confused but I hope you like it… thanks to all those beautiful and wonderful people who read my story even for their imperfections. Lots of love to you all!!!!!!!! Sorry Snape died… I just had to do it….