Chapter 44
Soul Stones
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Hermione was dead…
He had failed. He'd failed to protect her and failed in his promise to Harry, "I'm so sorry, Harry, I'm so sorry… I… I messed up. Oh my God… she's… she's gone Harry, she's gone," Neville was barely able to finish. The look of anguish on Harry's face was finally too much for Neville and with tears in his eyes, he turned away.
Harry, still holding Hermione, pulled her up to his chest and closed his eyes as he whispered, "It wasn't your fault, Neville… it wasn't your fault." Harry truly believed that. It was his fault and he only had himself to blame, he was the reason she was here in the first place.
An evil laugh behind him caused Harry to open his eyes and turn around. Looking up, he found Voldemort with an evil grin staring down at him. Harry made no attempt to defend himself as he held Hermione with both arms tightly to himself. He was so angry, and yet so tired. In a calm voice completely devoid of any fear, Harry said longingly in a soft tone as he closed his eyes, "Go ahead… it doesn't matter anymore. I just don't care." Harry turned back and kissed the top of Hermione's head as he waited for the nightmare to end. His last thought, 'At least I'll be with her.'
Voldemort raised his wand and made ready to grant Harry's request, but before he could cast the killing curses he was forced to defend against an onslaught of hexes he found coming his way. Dumbledore, Sirius, Remus, and Tonks had all fired different spells at him. After blocking the barrage, he was forced to step back. Knowing that with Dumbledore back he was badly outnumbered, he gave them all a half bow, then laughed and Disapparated. It was finally over.
Luna slowly managed to stand up and look around. For her, the scene had played out as if in slow motion. Far over on her left was the Minister of Magic and about two dozen Aurors and ministry workers. Sitting by her feet, were Fred, Seamus, and Ginny. Remus and Tonks were standing defensively just in front of her, and a little further ahead of them was Dumbledore, who was looking back, or more precisely, Looking at Sirius who was kneeling down next to a crying Harry. No one moved, no one spoke, all for various reasons. Shocked, amazed, or just too plain worried. For some, it was all of the above. For the ministry group it was because only just moments before, Voldemort had stood before them. If there had ever been any doubt before, there was no doubt left now for anyone, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was back.
For the others, it was because of the unimaginable sight before them now… Harry, holding a lifeless Hermione in his arms. His face buried in the crook of her neck, silently crying.
Dumbledore took a couple of hesitant steps towards Harry, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. He was confused. She shouldn't have been here, she could have cost Harry his life… but she hadn't. Instead, she had given her life to protect Harry. 'How could I have been so wrong?' The all-important prophecy he had put so much faith in, had been false. Here, right before his eyes was the undeniable proof, Hermione was the one dead, not Harry. He had been blind to all the subtle signs and hadn't seen the lie for what it was… a trap. Dumbledore realized suddenly, it was more than a trap, it was part of a plan to break Harry, to weaken him, and he had helped. Hermione had been right, not only about this, but about his seemingly singular focus on Voldemort. Dumbledore felt twice his age as the whole reality of the situation made itself painfully clear. He dropped to his knees a few feet away, his legs no longer able to support his weight. "Harry…" his voice faint and wispy, "Oh Merlin, please forgive me… I was wrong… I made a horrible mistake."
Sirius turned and gave Dumbledore a scathing look. Raising his wand to the old wizard he once respected, Sirius growled, "Stay the hell away from them!"
Upon hearing the voice of his godfather, Harry looked up into the eyes of all the family he had left. They were full of both pain and sadness and Harry knew it wasn't because of his wounds. And yet, even though Sirius had somehow survived, Harry couldn't help but feel empty inside, like there was nothing good left in the world for him.
Shifting his gaze slightly, his eyes fell on Dumbledore. Suddenly it all made sense and in a flash of insight everything became crystal clear, Harry finally understood. Harry pulled back and looked down at Hermione and finally knew, what he had suspected for a while now, to actually be the truth. He knew why… She had done it all for him because Dumbledore had asked her too, convinced her somehow that it was all necessary… because of some stupid prophecy that wasn't even real. For all intents and purposes, it was Dumbledore who taken her from him.
With her gone, the reality of just how much she had meant to him astounded him. Of course, she had meant the world to him, he had loved her with all his heart. But that was only part of it. He had relied on her to keep him grounded, to see reason and logic when there appeared to be none. She was the one, the only one that gave him balance. Without her, he was just the "Freak," The-Boy-Who-Lived.
Without her wisdom and guidance he had acted recklessly, and in just one single night… one single battle, he had lost it all, just as Voldemort had predicted. He was a fool. Hermione, the girl he loved more than life itself, was gone. Regardless of what she had said before, or even what she might have done, in the end, she had given her life to save him. She had given him everything. The clarity of those thoughts were so stark, Harry found it hard to breathe. Squeezing his eyes shut in pain, pain of the worst kind, Harry whispered, "Oh, Hermione, what have I done?"
Sensing Dumbledore was still kneeling next to him, Harry slowly raised his eyes to him. Instantly, a wave of fiery anger welled up inside of him. It was a different kind of anger than the one he felt for Voldemort or even his uncle. With them, he had known that they hated him and had wanted to hurt him. But Dumbledore… He had never imagined that Dumbledore could be so cold and ruthless, that he'd sacrifice anyone or anything to suit his needs. Harry's anger towards him, now knew no bounds and someday he'd show him what he thought of his, "horrible mistake."
The anger and hatred were hard to miss as Harry spoke, "Is this, what you wanted… how you expected it to happen, Sir? Do you still think your secrets are so important?" His angry voice slowly rising in volume, "You don't know everything…" Looking back down at Hermione, his voice softened, "You don't know anything." Harry closed his eyes and hugged Hermione to him. Gently holding her head to his chest, he laid his cheek on top of her head and began to sob.
No one knew what to do, Harry just sat there holding Hermione while crying and gently rocking back and forth as he repeated softly, "Why you, why you… I can't do this without you… why you?"
So lost in grief, Harry didn't notice when Luna came over and sat down. "Harry… may I?" She asked gently.
Harry stopped rocking and looked sideways at her through bleary eyes, "What?"
Luna very slowly and with the greatest of care reached into Hermione's blouse and pulled out her necklace. Harry stared unbelievingly at it, even after all that had happened she had still chosen to wear it, he hadn't known.
Looking back at Harry, Luna asked softly, but frankly, "Are you still wearing yours?"
Harry wanted to scream, 'What the bloody hell difference does it make,' but somehow because it was Luna he held his tongue, and after a second simply nodded yes. Luna then did something that confused him, she took Hermione's hand that had been laying between her and him and moved it up to her outside shoulder. Then she took Harry's hand, the one that had been holding her near that shoulder, and placed it on top of Hermione's. Luna gave Harry's hand a gentle squeeze and then turned to look him in the eye and in the most serious voice Harry had ever heard her speak in, heard her say, "Harry, all is not lost, take her back to Hogwarts, to Madam Pomfrey."
Harry glanced down at Hermione, "Luna, what? What are you…?"
Cutting him off, Luna raised her voice, "Harry, look at me…" When she had his attention again, she finished with a warning, "Hold on to your feelings for her, Harry. Do not let go of them or her, Harry, no matter what! Don't let anyone separate you from her, understand? I'll be right behind you."
Harry didn't know what to think, Hermione was dead… wasn't she…? Was Luna playing some kind of game? 'No, she would never do that,' a dazed Harry quickly realized, 'well, then maybe she IS crazy.' But it really didn't matter to Harry at this point anyway, he had to get her out of here and out of the sight of all of these people who were beginning to stare. He'd take her back to Hogwarts, back to the only real home he'd ever known.
Harry glanced at Fred and Seamus, and then to a crying Ginny. With a look, he told them how sorry he was for all the pain and suffering they were going through. A half-smile also told them, he was glad they were all still alive. Neville still looked terribly distraught, so Harry ticked his head towards Luna. Neville nodded back in understanding.
"Harry, you need to go and you need to go now!" Luna said forcefully.
Suddenly in a hurry, Harry stood on shaky legs with Hermione in his arms and looked at Sirius, who quickly nodded, telling him he'd be right behind him. Harry started towards the nearest floo. Dumbledore, barely able to look at him, gave him a slight nod as he pasted letting him know it was okay, not that Harry would have stopped anyway. Knowing his floo would be open, Harry said quickly, "Hogwarts, Headmaster's office," and without looking back he stepped into the green flames and vanishing from sight.
~oOoOo~
Anxiety was running high as McGonagall and Snape patiently waited in Dumbledore's office for his return, or for any news. Learning that several students had left the castle had been bad enough, but then finding out that they had gone by themselves to the Ministry to look for Sirius had McGonagall's alarm bells ringing at full volume. Knowing Voldemort himself might have been there, McGonagall had feared the worst. However, she wasn't prepared for the sight that greeted her when the floo came to life and Harry stepped out, even Snape looked momentarily shaken.
As Harry stood there in torn robes splattered in blood, it was obvious he had been in a terrific battle. He had cuts and bruises on his arms and face, but it was the look in his eyes that they would never forget. Harry's eyes were empty, hollow… dead, as if the light behind them had been snuffed out. The reason was plain to see, Hermione lay limp in his arms. She too was covered in blood, bruised and broken. While Harry held one hand, her other dangled lifelessly at her side with blood slowly running down her arm, and already a small pool was forming at Harry's feet.
McGonagall put a shaky hand to her face and gasped, "No."
Harry wasted no time as he turned to the door and started to leave without explanation. He had no time or inclination to tell them anything. He had tried to warn them, and they hadn't listened. He was through talking.
Snape stepped in front of him, "Where'd you think you are going, what…"
Harry nearly growled as he cut across him, "Get out of my way!" The look on Harry's face left no doubt that he would use force if necessary. Snape only paused for a second, then as if realizing now was not the time, gave a quick nod and stepped aside.
As Harry was quickly making his way to the hospital wing with Hermione in his arms, the news that something horrific had happened was quickly spreading through the dorms despite the late hour. Harry turned down the last corridor and found the hall lined with prefects and several older students. Some were crying while others just looked confused, but most looked as though they couldn't believe their eyes. They all stood there in shock, staring as a real-life nightmare passed by. 'The-Boy-Who-Lived', was carrying his ex-girlfriend, 'The-Girl-Who-Died.'
~oOoOo~
As carefully as he could, Harry laid Hermione down on a bed in the infirmary. He never let go of her hand, partly because of Luna's warning, but mainly because he just didn't want to be parted from her. Madam Pomfrey had then tried to shoo him away, but after the look he gave her and the resounding 'No!' she relented. For now, he would trust Luna and stay with Hermione until his odd behaving friend arrived.
He didn't have to wait long, as a moment later, Sirius, along with Luna burst in, followed closely by Neville. The twins, Ginny, and Seamus were only a few moments behind.
Seeing the state that everyone was in, a very concerned Poppy asked, "Merlin, what on earth has happened?"
Everyone tried to answer her at once, all except Luna, who instead ran straight to Harry. Luna watched him for a moment until he finally looked up. Their eyes locked for a second before she glanced at their joined hands. Harry gave a slight nod to her unasked question.
Luna nodded back and smiled, then quickly turned round to take control of the situation, "Harry is carrying her soul, he'll need help. Professor McGonagall, please go and bring Professor Flitwick here immediately. Madam Pomfrey, you'll need a potion, 'Blood of the Soul.'
No one moved, they just stood there frozen looking at her as if she had lost her mind.
In an exasperated voice that would have made Hermione proud, she turned back to Harry and pulled out his necklace and then while pointing to Hermione's, said in a rather sharp tone, "They're both wearing soul stones," as if that explained everything. Then with a glare, she yelled, "We don't have much time, so MOVE!" All of a sudden there were people moving in every direction.
Harry found himself staring at the young Ravenclaw with more than a little trepidation, "Luna," he warned, "What the hell are you talking about?" With his emotions in overdrive, his patience was way past his normal limits and he wasn't in the mood for any whimsical nonsense.
Luna let go of Harry's necklace and sat down across from him and began to explain. "Harry, the necklace that both you and Hermione are wearing, have a 'Soul Stone' in them." Seeing his confused look, she held up her hand to stop his interruption and continued, "They are actually very rare, I was quite surprised when you found them."
Harry, after a quick glance down at Hermione's pendent, was still looking at her with doubt, "Well, the witch who sold them to me didn't make much of a fuss over them. You were there, remember?"
"Well, maybe she knew they were for you."
"Luna, what are you going on about… I mean… she knew what?"
"About you and Hermione of course," Luna said with a quick smile as if everything was plain as day.
Shortly after the last injured student had arrived, a healer from St. Mungo's showed up, probably sent by Dumbledore. After directing him to help the others, Pomfrey turned her attention to Hermione. Her initial scan had shown no signs of life, although her body was still in a form of stasis due to magic, which was normal for a wizard. She also knew that it would soon fade and her body would begin to decompose, not that it mattered, Hermione was already gone. She hadn't believed Luna and was now only preparing Hermione for transport to St. Mungo's.
As Madam Pomfrey attending to Hermione, she could see Harry was only getting more frustrated and upset, and so decided to speak up. "Actually, Harry, while the stones themselves are quite rare, that's not what makes them so special… it's their fabled abilities. You see, it is said that they can be used for one of two things. To help a couple form a soul bond, the rarest of all bonds, or…" she hesitated.
"What?" Harry suddenly felt nervous but was desperate to hear the rest.
"It is said, they can be used to temporarily hold a dying person's soul here, that is, anchored to this world… for a while." Pomfrey paused and raised a brow. Not wanting to take anything for granted, she ran another scan of Hermione only to receive the same results. Turning her attention to Harry she ran a more detailed scan of him this time and was completely surprised by it. Thoroughly shocked, she said in wonder, "And it appears as though they may have actually have done just that."
Harry looked down at Hermione then back up to Luna and Pomfrey, "Are you saying there's a chance she could be brought back. I didn't think anyone or anything could bring back the dead."
"There isn't, Harry, and you're right, no one can," Pomfrey said matter-of-factly.
Harry was ready to both scream and cry at the same time, "Well, then I don't understand, how can the stones help? Why are we…?"
Madam Pomfrey cut him off, "Because of the stones, Harry, she's not truly dead, not yet anyway."
Slowly tears began to run down Harry's cheeks, "But Neville said…"
"Yes, I understand. Look, it's complicated, she was hit with a terrible curse and her body began to fail, she was dying and at some point her soul left her body, to ah… move on." Poppy sighed as she gazed down at Hermione, "If she had, her body would've shut down completely and she would have most certainly have died. But instead, her soul stayed put, held in place by her necklace. It would have only lasted as long as her magic lasted, which probably would have only been for a few more minutes at most. That's where you come in, Harry. You see, when you touched her, your necklace connected with hers so to speak and allowed you to sustain her body with your magic, while at the same time allowing her soul to rest next to yours in your body until hers was ready to take it back."
Harry was stunned beyond belief, "I'm… carrying her soul. Is that why you're working so hard to heal her, err, her body?"
Madam Pomfrey glanced up and gave him a quick nod and a cheeky look that clearly said, 'Well, I'm not doing this for fun.'
Harry actually smiled, "Well… that's great, right… I mean, it's a good thing, you heal her body, and then we put her soul back…ah somehow and… and she's back… right?" Harry had the most hopeful look in his eyes. The look faded however when Harry noticed the solemn look on Poppy's face. "You can heal her body can't you ma'am?"
"Yes, Harry, I'm fairly certain I can… it's the second part I'm concerned about."
"Love, Harry, it takes love," Luna said with a dreamy smile, "love is what powers the stones. It is the love you have for each other that will save her, Harry."
McGonagall had returned with Flitwick and Dumbledore a moment ago and all three had heard the last part of the conversation.
As Harry looked around he noticed they too had troubled looks on their faces, everyone except Luna, of course, she just sat there with a soft smile as if she just knew everything would turn out fine. Harry looked from one to the other as his own concern grew, "What… what's the matter?"
Dumbledore sighed, "Harry, it is not that simple… I honestly wish it was, but unfortunately, that is not the case. It is an extremely old ritual, one that I have not seen or heard of being performed for a great many years. Dangerous to say the least and there may be a price to be paid. And you, Harry, would be the one to pay it if we were to try and bring her back."
Upset and a little more than just angry at what he was hearing, Harry started, "What price, what do you mean?" Then lowering his gaze to Hermione, Harry continued more forcefully, "NO! Never mind, I don't care what the cost is, we have to try." Harry reached up and gently stroked Hermione's face with the back of his free hand as he whispered, "I have to try."
"Harry…"
Turning to Sirius, Harry pleaded, "If there's a chance, then I have to try. I can't lose her… I can't."
Although worried for his godson's safety, Sirius knew how much she meant to him. He also knew what it would do to him if he lost her. Not to mention, not even trying.
Sirius nodded sadly, "I know, Harry, I know." Looking down at Hermione, Sirius wished there was a way he could try the ritual instead of Harry but he knew he couldn't. Then turning to Dumbledore, he said sternly, "It's my godson's decision and I fully support it."
Dumbledore didn't have the same faith in the stones that Luna had, but his warning about the ritual had been real. He actually believed the ritual to be nothing more than an old wives' tale and that maybe the stones merely held an echo of the person's soul. However, any magical ritual could be dangerous, especially one dealing with the dead. For now, he wasn't worried, he was quite sure that any procedure would show that the stone actually hadn't worked. That they were nothing more than just a pretty set of stones. He had only mentioned the danger in hopes of dissuading Harry from even trying. However, since Harry wanted to go ahead with it anyway, Dumbledore placed a sympathetic hand on his shoulder, only to have it shrugged off. Ignoring the slight for the time being, he said softly, "Very well, Harry." Dumbledore then turned to the others and gave a nod, effectively telling them to proceed.
Had anyone bothered to look, they would have noticed that before, both stones were a light blue. But now, Hermione's was a dull grey, while Harry's was an angry red.
With permission to proceed, Professor Flitwick came rushing over, "Please don't move, Harry, and don't let go, I'll just be a minute." Flitwick then began a series of some of the most complicated spells Harry had ever seen, while Pomfrey waited for conformation that Hermione was indeed still with them.
"Amazing," Flitwick said as he finished, while almost bouncing off the floor with excitement.
McGonagall looked hopeful, "Professor?"
"Yes… yes, it's true, the stones worked."
Dumbledore quirked a brow, clearly surprised by the turn of events.
Madam Pomfrey spoke next, "Well then, somebody had probably best go and fetch her parents, they should know the risk as well. Professor Snape, I'll need that potion."
"Risk, everyone keeps talking about the risk, what risk?" Harry asked, suddenly becoming alarmed again.
Ignoring Harry for the moment, Dumbledore asked, "How much longer till she will be ready, Poppy?"
Pomfrey closed her eyes for a moment as she counting in her head, "About two and a half… maybe three hours." Then without further comment went back to working on Hermione.
Still finding it hard to believe that the stones had worked, he was still never-the-less quite certain that the ritual to bring Hermione back would fail. Dumbledore was also certain that the ritual, real or not, now posed a very real danger to Harry. In the last few months, he had made some terrible mistakes, culminating with the fake prophecy. He truly wished there was a way to save Miss Granger, if for no other reason than for Harry's sake. However, he felt trying to do so using Harry and the ritual would be another big mistake and he couldn't afford anymore. He couldn't risk losing Harry. Things were happening too fast, he needed time to think.
Dumbledore turned to Harry and found him staring straight back at him, "Harry, stay with her. When I come back with her parents I will tell you both, as it is a rather long explanation and I would rather only have to tell it once. Peering over his glasses, his tone softened, "I know you are extremely angry with me right now and I do not blame you, but can you wait until then?"
Harry really wanted to know now, but he also didn't want to interfere, it seemed time was of the essence, "Fine, since I'm not going anywhere, I'll wait."
Dumbledore smiled sadly, then turned to McGonagall and said, "I'll fetch the Grangers myself." After a quick glance back at Harry, Dumbledore hurried out to use the floo.
Harry again took the time to look around. At some point, they had put up screens to provide privacy, only the Professors and of course Neville and Luna knew what was happening. 'Luna,' Harry thought, turning around, he was surprised to see she was still here. His voice was thick with emotion as he said, "Luna… thank you,"
Now with the adrenalin wearing off, the effect of her injuries were catching up to her. With a strained smile, Luna answered in a weak voice, "You're welcome, Harry." Luna looked down and she began to wring her hands, "Harry… I know you were mad at me, and Neville too." Luna noticed his eyes harden for a moment but she continued, "I, we don't blame you, Harry, you had every right to be. I hope someday…"
"Luna…" Harry interrupted, "There is still a lot I don't know about what happened or why, so for now, let me just ask you this, were you helping Hermione?"
Luna looked back up with tears in her eyes and simply nodded yes.
"Then let's wait until Hermione is back and then we'll see who should be mad at who, okay?" Harry said, hoping that, Hermione would indeed be back.
Luna smiled, "Okay." Sitting behind her, Neville smiled too.
"No offense, Luna, but you look like hell. Ahh, I mean you look like you've been through hell… maybe you should let one of the healers take a look at you."
"None taken, Harry, because actually, that's just about how I feel." Luna closed her eyes as she took a shaky breath. When Neville gently wrapped his arm around her shoulder, she smiled. "Now that I know for sure that you two are going to be alright, I think I'll take your advice, Harry."
'She may be a little… different,' Harry thought as he smiled back at her, 'but she's a damn good friend.'
Luna slowly stood up with Neville's help and asked, "Harry, can we come back?"
"Yeah, of course."
"Thanks," Luna said with a nod, then turned and left with Neville to get some help with her injuries.
Luna stopped at the edge of the screen just as the healer on loan from the Ministry stuck his head in. He gave Madam Pomfrey the status of the others who had been injured and let her know that he would be leaving shortly. Pomfrey was still very busy with Hermione and didn't look up as she acknowledged him, "Very well, thank you." Luna followed him out to finally have her injuries taken care of.
As Harry sat there watching the school healer work on Hermione while he held her hand, he took stock of where they were all at now. Fred's leg was healed but he will probably be sore for the next few days. Ginny was still in some mild shock, but that was actually good as it helped her to deal with the aftereffects of the curse and the pain. Thankfully, now that she was here and out of danger, Seamus and the twins could offer her all the support she needed. Neville was in the best of shape out of all of them and was taking great care of Luna. He had only sustained a sprained wrist and some minor cuts and bruises. The Ministry healer had told him he would be able to leave the hospital later tonight, although Harry was quite certain he wouldn't be going anywhere without Luna. Then there was poor Luna, several nasty cuts, a mild concussion, and two broken ribs, yet she had refused to leave him and Hermione until she knew they were okay. 'She is actually a lot more than just a good friend,' Harry thought. And then there was Sirius… he was alive. Harry still didn't know how he'd managed it and he couldn't wait to ask. But for now, both he and Tonks needed their rest, he'd just have to wait and find out later, or possibly when Remus got back after his interview with Madam Bones.
Finally, his thoughts turned to Hermione. She was still a fright to see as Madam Pomfrey was concentrating on her injuries first, she'd clean her up later. Harry began subconsciously running his fingers through her tangled hair trying to straighten it out. When that didn't seem to help, he picked up a damp cloth and ever so carefully started to wipe the blood and dirt from her face. With his attention now fully focused on Hermione, regret and guilt slammed into him so hard he found it difficult to keep a steady hand. "My God, Hermione… look what have I've done to you?" He managed between stuttered breaths.
"You didn't do this, Harry." He hadn't realized that he had spoken out loud until Madam Pomfrey answered him. As she worked on Hermione, the school healer stole an occasional glance at Harry, worried about how he was doing with all this. She would admit later to McGonagall how touched she was at the kind and gentle way he was trying to take care of her. He had tears in his eyes and a look on his face that nearly broke her heart. He held himself responsible and his remorse was plain to see. Although it was a different kind, Pomfrey was sure he was in as much pain as Hermione.
~oOoOo~
It had been a long night and Harry had lost track of time. A glance at the window told him it was not quite yet morning as it was still dark outside. Madam Pomfrey had done all she could for Hermione for now, so Harry waited. Thinking of Hermione's parents, Harry worried, 'How will I ever be able to face them?' Harry's anguished thoughts told him, Hermione's parents would hate him for getting their little girl hurt, 'But not as much as I hate myself.' Harry had wanted to be mad at her for the way she had been treating him, and even for following him to the Ministry. But he found he couldn't. Somewhere inside himself, he had been glad she had come, he had wanted her there, now… Harry didn't think he'd ever be able to forgive himself.
From behind him, Harry heard a gasp, quickly followed by, "My God." His thoughts interrupted, he turned to see Emma Granger staring at her daughter with a hand over her mouth, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. It was her father though who had spoken, he too was looking at Hermione with deep concern. He was standing just behind his wife with his hands on her shoulders for support. A part of Harry wanted so badly to run away and hide, ashamed of the misery he had caused… but he couldn't, he wouldn't leave Hermione.
As Harry watched the play of emotions flash across their faces; shock, horror, and finally, concern, he waited. He waited for it to turn to anger and for them to look at him with accusing eyes. When they finally did, all he could do was say, "I'm sorry… I'm so sorry." He had said it to each of them knowing it would make no difference but also knowing it needed to be said.
When Professor Dumbledore had finally shown up at the Granger's house to bring them back, all he had told them was that their daughter was badly hurt and that yes, Harry was involved. He hadn't gone into details as there was no time, he didn't even tell them how it happened, just that they were needed at the school. That they and Harry would need to make a very difficult decision.
Mr. Granger looked down at Harry and knew that somehow he was at least partially responsible for his daughter's condition. But seeing the look of grief on his face, he decided to deal with it later and so gave a brief nod to his apology. Mrs. Granger, on the other hand, knowing her daughter's stubborn streak figured it was probably as much her fault as Harry's, and until she knew the whole story she wasn't going to lay the blame on anyone.
Mrs. Granger looked at Harry and upon seeing his tear-stained face managed to give him a small smile, "Don't you worry, Harry, she's strong, she'll be all right."
As new tears threatened to fall, Harry thought, 'Her mom, that's who Hermione learned compassion from.'
The tense awkwardness of the moment was broken when the Headmaster, Professors McGonagall, Flitwick, and Madam Pomfrey entered the private area.
Both parents turned their attention to the group, "How is she?" Mr. Granger managed to get out before his voice broke a little.
Madam Pomfrey explained Hermione's physical injuries to them, then motioned for Flitwick to continue. After a fairly extensive explanation of the soul stones and how he understood them to work, he then explained what they believed to have happened to Hermione up until now.
Dumbledore had stood back waiting, let it all sink in as he examined their faces.
Emma sighed, "Well, there must be more to it than that, some kind of danger or something. Else wise, you would already be doing whatever it is you need to do, right?"
Dan nodded in agreement and added, "Plus, you mentioned a decision."
"I see now where your daughter gets her logic and insight from," Dumbledore answered with a weary smile and a nod towards Emma. "You are quite right, there is a risk here… a very real risk." Dumbledore conjured chairs for everyone and motioned for them to set, obviously, it was going to take some time to explain.
"As Professor Flitwick said before, Hermione's essence or soul if you will, currently resides with Harry's," he began slowly. "This was made possible by their magic and the soul stones. When Hermione was hurt, her body did what it could to fight back and to repair itself… just like yours would," Dumbledore said looking at her parents. "If an injury is bad enough, or if magic is involved, both in this case. Then her magic would try and help. Both would work together to fight back until there was nothing left to give. The particular dark spell she was hit with, was a very powerful one. Even for a witch as strong as Hermione, it was simply too much and it finally overpowered her. However, just before her magic failed completely, it reached out for help and found the soul stone she was wearing, and through it, Harry's." After another short pause he continued, "At this point, her body started to use Harry's magic to stay alive and her soul transferred to Harry's body to be held and protected by him… not an easy thing to do I might add. How long she can remain with him before moving on… I do not know. However, for the time being, she is still with us. Now here is where it gets tricky, although her body is now ready, Hermione is far too weak to find her way back by herself, so…"
"I have to take her back," Harry cut in.
Dumbledore turned to Harry, "Exactly."
"So the risk is to Harry?" Emma asked.
In his annoyingly familiar way, Dumbledore answered, "Yes, and no." Turning to the group again, he went on, "First, Harry must find her within himself, then help lead her back. He will need to stay awhile to help recharge her magic, ah so to speak, only then, once she is stable will he be able to leave. Finally, alone he must find his own way back." Dumbledore sighed, "Considering how very little is known about all this and more importantly, how it is actually accomplished, well, perhaps you can understand my hesitance." Dumbledore needed them to understand. For now, he would be completely honest with them. Nodding to himself, he went on, "While I am no expert on this, I have never heard of it working, in fact, I believe it to be nothing more than a myth."
At this point, Filius chose to speak up again. "Albus, I can understand why you might feel that way, but I do not think it's a myth. As part of my studies after Hogwarts, I spent a little time researching the stones and their so-called abilities. While rare, there are several written accounts of their use. Some successful and well, some not."
"Filius, are you suggesting the ritual might actually work?" Dumbledore asked, obviously annoyed.
Filius glanced at Harry's hopeful face for a moment before answering. Then with a nod, he said, "Yes, I am."
Dan, was still looking at his daughter when he asked the one question on everybody's mind, "Obviously all that won't be easy, what happens if he fails?"
At that moment, Dumbledore felt twice his age as he answered in a low sorrowful voice, "We could lose one, or the other… possibly even both."
Emma's hands had been wringing an imaginary rope as she listened to Dumbledore, now they flew to her face as the seriousness of the situation sank in.
Ignoring Dumbledore, Harry turned to Flitwick and asked in a soft voice, "Just what exactly are all the possible outcomes for us, Sir?"
Flitwick stood up and started slowly pacing back and forth as he collected his thoughts. "I don't claim to know everything about this ritual. However, if I am not mistaken, one of four things will occur. First, Harry, you could fail to find Hermione and we would lose her. Second, you find Hermione but then fail to return her to her body and we lose you both. Third, you manage to return Hermione to her body, but you fail to find your way back and we lose you." Flitwick looked around and finished by addressing everyone, "And of course finally, what we would hope to occur, Harry finds Hermione, leads her back and then manages to find his own way back. In which case they both should survive.
At his conclusion, Madam Pomfrey hesitantly added to their concerns, "I think you should also know, that even if Hermione is returned… there's still a chance she might not make it."
Harry quickly asked, "What, why? You said her body was ready."
"Yes dear, it is, but she must also be mentally and emotionally ready… But most importantly, she has to want to return. The pull to move on is extremely strong, she'll need an equally strong, if not stronger reason to return."
Emma's gaze shifted between her daughter and the young man at her side. "Harry could be risking his life for nothing." It was part statement, part question.
"Mrs. Granger," Harry said in a strong clear voice for the first time tonight, "It's not for nothing, it's for Hermione… I've known her for five years and she has always been there for me… always." He paused and looked down at the girl he had fallen in love with and with his free hand, he brushed a few hairs off her face and then gently rubbed her cheek, "Just like she was there for me tonight." Turning back he finished with determination, "I don't care what the odds are, I don't care what the risk is, I'll do whatever it takes to save her. I may not have always been there for her in the past as she was for me, but since last year, I've tried to be and I'm not going to stop now. If she ever needed me, she needs me now."
She had seen it before from both of them, but every time Emma Granger witnessed the fierce devotion that Harry and Hermione had for each other, it truly moved her.
"You should listen to him Emma," came Sirius's voice. He had woken only a moment ago and had been standing at the edge of the screen. After hearing Harry's passionate declaration, he knew his godson was right.
"I hate to be the one to ask," Dan said, looking a little uncomfortable, "But just what are the odds?"
"Daniel!" Emma scolded.
"Quite alright Mrs. Granger, he has a right to know as does everyone else." Dumbledore replied while stealing a look in Sirius's direction before turning to Professor Flitwick, "Filius, you are the most knowledgeable in this area, perhaps you should answer that."
The tiny charms Professor moved over by Harry. Although he was facing Harry, he spoke loud enough for all to hear. "I've read, the feeling is virtually impossible to explain, but the main thing is... when your mind is in there." He gestured to Harry's heart and then to Hermione's, "You must have complete faith and trust in each other, you both must believe. No matter what you think now, no matter what Miss Granger thought before… once you leave hereand go there, it will be harder. Doubt, anger, fear, all these things will be amplified and will gang up on you. The only way to do what you want to try, is to totally let go of all of those emotions. You will both, have to trust one another fully and without reservation. To do that, you both must also love one another in the most complete sense of the word." Looking directly at Harry the Professor continued, "However, I think we already know that last part is true, or we wouldn't be here now. Lastly, Harry, you must be strong, strong enough for the two of you." Flitwick put his hand on Harry's arm, "Do you think you can do this, Mr. Potter?"
Harry looked his Professor in the eye and without hesitation answer, "Yes, Sir."
Professor Flitwick nodded okay, then went on, "Knowing them as I do, I have no doubt that with the love that Harry and Hermione have for each other, that he will be able to find her within himself. Also knowing Harry's strength, I'm very confident he'll be able to lead her back. Now I know Hermione fairly well also and I believe she will have the necessary trust in Harry, to follow him and then to let him go so he can return." Flitwick paused and looked directly at Harry, "When you take Hermione back, you'll be able to follow the flow of your magic, but when it's time for you to come back, that flow will be gone, you'll have to depend on instinct and that is where your faith will be tested the most."
The Professor now turned to the group in general and stood a little taller, "You asked for odds… I'd say they're very good, except…" he took a quick glance at Harry and hesitated, almost as if he didn't want to say the last part. With his eyes he tried to tell Harry just how sorry he was, "Except for the final part, getting Harry back… probably fifty-fifty at best."
Harry paled at the thought.
Emma slowly walked over to Harry's side of the bed and knelt down beside him, "Harry, I love my daughter very much, but this… this is too much to ask, you can't do it."
Although the thought of being lost in some kind of limbo for eternity scared him no small amount, hearing Emma voice her love for Hermione reminded him of his, and it only hardened his resolve, "Mrs. Granger, you're not asking me to do this, no one is… I love her too… so you see, if anything I'm asking you."
They both stared into each other's eyes while each silently cried. Then, almost as if rehearsed, they both reached out to wipe away the other's tears.
Professor McGonagall who had been watching and listening to the whole exchange knew that without Hermione, Harry would never truly survive. He might continue on for a time trying to be brave, but he would be but a fraction of the man he was now. McGonagall knew no one could ever replace Hermione and that Harry would probably live the rest of his life alone until he finally just faded away. With that thought in mind she wasn't surprised when she found herself saying, "Filius, I think you underestimate their odds. I have known these two since their first year and they have never failed to amaze me with their courage or ability… if anyone can do this, they can."
Emma leaned forward and wrapped Harry in a tight embrace and just before releasing him, she whispered in his ear, "Bring her back, Harry." After another squeeze, she turned slightly and kissed his cheek. As she pulled away and began to stand, she added, "And come back yourself." Then looking at Hermione she added, "Because you know, you'll be the first person she asks for."
Terrified of the senseless risk he saw Harry about to take, Dumbledore felt he needed to be the voice of reason. "Harry, I don't think this is a good idea," he tried, "I am afraid I cannot allow you to do this. As much as I want Miss Granger back, it is just too dangerous."
Now knowing about Dumbledore's interference in his relationship with Hermione, Harry couldn't believe his ears. Who the hell did he think he was? Didn't he feel at least partly responsible? "With all due respect, Sir, I don't give a damn what you think. And if you really cared about Hermione, I don't think you would have put her through the hell that you did this term." For a moment Professor Dumbledore looked surprised, but then quickly realized that Harry probably knew about some of his manipulations.
Sirius smirked, he liked this side of Harry. He only knew a little of what had happened but it was enough for him to know Dumbledore was at fault here.
This was news to Dan. He had known that Hermione had broken things off with Harry and was having a hard go of it, nothing more. He'd never gotten a good explanation and now this. He glanced at his wife and was surprised to see she obviously knew what Harry was talking about. He briefly wondered why she hadn't confided in him and made a mental note to ask her later. Watching Professor Flitwick and Madam Pomfrey exchange questioning glances told him they didn't know what Harry was talking about either. However, it was obvious Professor McGonagall knew, judging by the murderous look she was giving the Headmaster. He'd hold his tongue for now and hope someone let something slip, but one way or another he was going to get answers before he went to bed tonight.
"Harry, there is more to this than you know."
"I seem to be hearing that a lot from you once again, Sir." Harry's expression turned angry, "Didn't your secrets cause enough trouble before? Frankly, I don't see how I can ever trust you again."
"I'm sorry you feel that way, Harry, but it does not change my decision."
Harry slowly stood up, all the while never letting go of Hermione's hand. He looked to the Granger's and then Sirius, before turning back to Dumbledore, "I believe the decision belongs to her parents and Sirius. As far as I am concerned, Professor, you forfeited your right to object by way of your actions." Harry paused a moment and narrowed his eyes as he continued to stare straight at Dumbledore, he wanted to make sure Dumbledore knew he was serious, "If you try to stop me… I will hold you personally responsible."
Sirius stepped the rest of the way into the area. Facing Dumbledore, he stood tall and said with conviction, "So will I." Then turning towards Harry, he added warmly, "And for the record, Harry has my permission to act as he sees fit in this matter."
Everyone was now looking at Dumbledore. As he stared back at Harry, he knew exactly what he meant by responsible. Harry would blame him for her death as sure as if he had outright murdered her. A quick glance at the others told him they all pretty much felt the same as Harry. Dumbledore looked down deep in thought. He had to admit, when it came to Harry, he had been wrong far more times than right. He could only hope that this was also the case here. Looking up, he tipped his head, "Very well, Harry," he said sadly, then turn and gave a reluctant nod to Flitwick to continue.
Dan watched as McGonagall and Pomfrey started casting various charms on Hermione. While at the same time Professor Flitwick was back at Harry's side, going over the various things Harry would need to know. He heard his wife asked how long it would take. It would be about an hour before they started, and maybe days before they finished.
Dan Granger was normally a patient man, but the combination of not understanding the magic involved and what appeared to be several secrets concerning his daughter, had his patience wearing thin. He couldn't help but remember the silent promise he had made to himself the summer after Hermione's third year, 'At the first sign of trouble… he'd step in and do whatever was necessary to protect his daughter.' "Headmaster Dumbledore, will you take a walk with me, I have some questions and would like a few answers."
Dumbledore took a second to regard the man, then gestured towards the door.
"I'm assuming," Dan started after they had walked in silence for a bit, "by that little conversation back there, that my daughter had a rough time of it last term."
Dumbledore nodded but didn't say anything.
"And I also assume that it had something to do with Harry." Dumbledore slowly nodded again. "I may not know the whole story yet, but it seems that when my daughter gets hurt, Harry Potter is usually involved."
Dumbledore stopped walking for a moment and faced Hermione's father, "It is true, trouble does seem to seek Harry out more than others. But do not judge him too harshly, Harry is both a good student and a good friend to those who know him."
Dan thought on that for a moment before replying, "Don't get me wrong, I happen to like Harry. I think he is an outstanding young man, but I must think about my family's welfare first and if being around him puts them in danger…"
"And yet, even as we talk, he is about to risk his own life in an attempt to save your daughter's."
Dan nodded, "And regardless of the outcome, I will be forever grateful for his efforts and his concern. However, it wouldn't have been necessary in the first place if she hadn't been around him to begin with." Dan was more than just worried, he was confused and panicky. Things had happened… and were still happening, that were out of his control and way beyond his understanding. "Please try to understand, I don't blame Harry completely. I just need to know my family is safe." Dan then eyed Dumbledore for a long second before adding more angrily, "And I also need to know what's really going on in this school in regards to my daughter. I won't abide by your renewed interest in secretes."
Dumbledore sighed, "Of course, you must do what you think best."
"Right now, I'm thinking about removing Hermione from this… nightmare!"
For the time being, he wasn't concerned. Thinking about his own attempts to separate them, Dumbledore smiled inwardly knowing how difficult that would be. He also couldn't help but think about how ironic the situation had become. Yesterday, he would have welcomed the help but now… now that he knew that he had been wrong… that Hermione had been right from the beginning and that they were stronger together. He could only hope that she'd eventually forgive him for all the misery he had put her through, not to mention the compulsion charms. Dumbledore shook his head, he'd have to tell her soon, assuming she survived the ritual. Turning towards Mr. Granger he figured he had a couple of days to persuade him not to try and separate the two, but that wasn't going to happen today. Then, a thought occurred to him, one he never thought he would ever voice. "Perhaps I am the wrong person to talk to about all this. Sirius thinks of Harry almost as his own son, I would think the two of you could find a lot to discuss."
~oOoOo~
They returned in time to see the start of the ritual to save Hermione. Professor Flitwick had placed Harry on the bed next to Hermione. Harry had reservations at first until they asked him if he thought he could remain standing while unconscious. The bed had been enlarged so that the two could lay side-by-side comfortably. Harry was lying to the right of Hermione, holding her hand and wore only his pajama bottoms. Hermione also wore only pajamas, although her bottoms were actually shorts and her top was sleeveless. Harry had been told they needed to have some skin contact to help the ritual take hold. They were both covered by a single sheet pulled up nearly to their necks. From this point on no one else would be allowed to touch either of them until it was all over.
Emma sat next to Hermione on the left side of the bed, While Professor Flitwick stood next to Harry on his other side. Sirius stood beside Dan and watched from the foot of the bed.
"Okay, Mr. Potter, close your eyes," The little Professor started, "concentrate on clearing your mind, then focus, focus on Hermione the way I explained it to you." Professor Flitwick then started the long incantation very softly while occasionally moving his wand in a delicate pattern.
At Harry's request, Luna had been allowed to watch the ritual and now sat with the others. All eyes were fixed on the two students in the bed, knowing all too well this might be the last time they would see them alive. For a while nothing seemed to be happening, then after about twenty minutes, Harry suddenly tensed and his breathing became hurried. He became agitated and his eyes darted back and forth behind tightly closed eyelids. After a few minutes, he calmed if only a bit. He no longer looked worried but still seemed desperate in some way. A long moment later he seemed to relax again. Professor Flitwick cast a quick diagnostic spell on both of them and smiled as he said, "Excellent, he is with her." Answering everyone's un-asked question and allowing them to breathe again.
~oOoOo~
Harry had been lying in bed doing his best to clear his mind and focus on Hermione. Without realizing it, he had lost track of time, the room, and those with him. He found himself in a void. All around him was nothing but darkness, black as ink. There was no light and no sound, just an emptiness that seemed to go on forever. Harry strained his eyes trying to see something, anything. He looked around, but there was no horizon, no up or down… just nothingness. Harry felt panicky for a moment, 'Maybe I did something wrong. No, focus, focus on Hermione.' That's when it occurred to him that it was his left hand that was holding Hermione's. As Harry stared out trying to see something, he concentrated his search to his left. Finally, he noticed a soft glow, it was actually coming from his left hand. Harry tried calling out in his mind, nothing. Harry was trying desperately to see or hear something, anything, 'Relax Harry,' he told himself. Harry closed his eyes and willed himself to calm down. 'Hermione,' he called, still nothing. Although he couldn't see or hear anything, the void did seem to be getting lighter and he was beginning to get a feeling, 'No,' he thought, 'more like a pull.'
A feeling or something in the back of his mind told himto go with it. It felt familiar somehow, so he let the force pull him along. He wasn't walking and he wasn't floating either, he really didn't know how to describe it, but he was moving. He had been traveling for a while now, but for how long he didn't know, it was just impossible to even estimate time. 'Hermione,' he tried calling again… 'There,' he thought, up ahead on the horizon, a faint glow. He willed himself to move faster. 'Hermione,' the glow seemed to pulse and grow lighter as if answering his call. As Harry moved forward the void around him began to change from a blue-gray to white, getting brighter and brighter as he went. 'Hermione…' 'Harry,' he heard her answer. Her voice was weak and faint, and she sounded scared. As Harry raced on towards the light, it grew so bright he had to shield his eyes.
'Hermione,' the light pulsed so bright Harry was momentarily blinded, but it quickly began to dim when he heard her answer again, 'I'm here…' Harry moved his hand away from his eyes and squinted into the harsh light. As the light continued to dim, Hermione faded into view right in front of him. Harry reached out just as Hermione launched herself into his waiting arms.
The instant she touched him, feelings and images from bits of memories, some recent, some not so, exploded behind his eyes. The effect was so profound as to be dizzying and Harry found he had to close his eyes to keep from toppling over. Harry quickly realized that this extraordinary sensation was coming from Hermione. They were her memories and feelings he was experiencing. It wasn't as if he could read her mind, nor was it like his visions from Voldemort. It was more like tiny random clips from her past and as each clip flashed by, he instantly knew how she had felt at the time. He was seeing and feeling these fragments through her eyes. Later, Harry would try to explain it and find it nearly impossible to do so.
The overwhelming flood of feelings were quickly slowing to a more normal pace and Harry was able to catch his breath. Opening his eyes, he watched as Hermione also slowly opened her eyes as well, and at that moment, he knew that she had just had the same experience with his feelings. They stood still just staring into each other's eyes while trying to understand what was happening to them. Harry finally smiled, at the moment, he didn't care, he was just happy to have Hermione in his arms again. No sooner had he finished that thought, and Hermione's eyes teared up. She hadn't heard his thoughts, but rather had felt his happiness.
"Oh, Harry, I was so scared at first, but then I could feel you all around me and I knew you'd come, I just knew it." She cried into his shoulder.
Harry held her tight, "I'll always find you… always." They stayed in each other's embrace for what felt like an eternity, each needing the prolonged contact to ensure the other was really there.
At first, Hermione had been terrified. She didn't know where she was or what had become of her. For a while, she had felt lost in a cold darkness, full of pain. Then after a moment that seemed to last for hours, the darkness faded and the light returned and she found herself here, in this cocoon of warmth. Although confused by the mystery of what was happening to her… she felt safe.
Eventually, she looked up into Harry's beautiful green eyes and she knew. She knew Harry still loved her. She could feel it. She could feel his emotions and feelings as if they were her own. Now she knew why she felt so safe. Hermione smiled and stood up on tip-toes and gave Harry a chaste kiss.
Harry's smile grew as he felt her elation and he pulled her to him for another kiss as he held her tenderly in his arms. "I thought I'd lost you," he whispered, as the severity of the situation came rushing back at him.
"Never," she said while shaking her head defiantly.
Harry smiled again, her short reply reminding him of a promise she had made not all that long ago.
Turning serious Hermione asked, "Harry, where are we?" Then she tensed, "Are we… dead?"
"No, no we're not. You almost… but, ah the stones, they ah… well, your soul ended up with mine." Harry finished lamely. Then, stepping back slightly to look at her, he added, "I don't really understand how it all works completely, but… Look, you're the smart one, so I suspect you'll be the one to explain it to me later." Harry half-smiled at the confused look on her face before looking around, "Anyway, the bottom line is, that you're not dead. I'm going to take you back, then return myself and then… well, then everything going to be fine."
Hermione bit her bottom lip and thought about it all for just a second and then smiled, she'd worry about all that later. Then like Harry, she looked around.
It was as if they were standing in the center of a huge sphere of light. It surrounded them in every direction. The sphere was mostly white except for little streaks of color that flashed around them. There didn't seem to be a definite edge to it, more like a fuzzy surface that pulsed in and out like the subtle undulation of gentle waves lapping the shore. There was nothing to reference, no horizon. No up or down, no left or right, just them in a bubble of breathing light. It was actually quite an extraordinarily beautiful sight.
Returning his gaze to Hermione, he reached up with both hands cupping her face and stared into her eyes. "I'm so sorry, Hermione. I should have never…"
Knowing what was suddenly bothering him, Hermione said, "Harry, stop! I came with you because I choose to. Because I wanted to… we all did." Closing her eyes, she continued more softly, "I should be the one to apologize, Harry, after all the pain and…" She couldn't finish, because Harry had just interrupted her with a kiss.
"We'll figure it all out later when you are… well, you again." Harry knew she needed to try and explain what had really happened and why. He knew she felt incredibly guilty. He also knew that she loved him and for now that's all he cared about. He could wait until they were both safe again before finding out the rest.
Hermione sighed in happiness, oh how she had missed this… and longed for this feeling again. To just be with Harry again. But she knew what she had done could not be dismissed so easily. With a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes, she said, "Okay, later. But as soon as I can, I want to tell you everything."
Harry stared at her for a moment longer and then nodded with a soft smile, "Okay." He knew she meant it, he could feel the truth coming from her. He cocked his head slightly at these strange new sensations, like Hermione, he didn't know how he knew, but he did. He knew exactly how Hermione felt and his smile grew.
After a quick glance around again, it was Harry's turn to become serious, "Look, as much as I'd love to just stay here and hold you, I don't think we have much time." Pinning her in place with intense green eyes, he asked, "Do you trust me?"
Hermione flashed him a brilliant smile as she answered without pause, "Always."
As soon as Harry had decided it was time to leave, he noticed the sphere had changed. It looked as though it was being deformed as the surface in front of them was stretched out towards what now looked like a horizon.
From all around them he noticed what kind of looked like a ribbon of light that started here where they stood and trailed off into the distance in front of them for as far as the eye could see. The ribbon seemed to be alive as it oscillated and twisted slowly like a long thin flag in the wind. It was mostly white with pale blue bands. Long thin streaks of color appeared to flow like a river down the ribbon. They swirled along the edges forming eddies and ripples, like a mountain stream. Occasionally, you would see a small point of light, like a tiny star fly by, down the river of light.
"Wow," was all Harry could honestly say.
"It's beautiful, what do you think it is?"
'Follow the flow of your magic,' Harry remembered. "It's my magic!" He said in awe, "Come on." Harry took her hand and gently led her into the flow.
"Are you sure, Harry?"
He looked at her, "No, not positive… but I'm pretty sure… it just feels right." As Hermione stared into his eyes she relaxed, knowing it would be all right. She had always trusted him just as she would trust him now.
With a smile, she nodded once, then looking down the flow said, "Okay, let's go."
As soon as they started walking, they could feel a pull, and like the current in a strong river, it swept them up and carry them away. They drifted in the river of light for minutes or maybe hours, it was impossible to tell. It was the strangest feeling Harry had ever had, it was somewhat like a dream, only it felt so real… floating with nothing around him, except Hermione.
For Hermione, the whole experience from the beginning had been and still was quite different. Dolohov casting a spell that looked like a bright, burning, purple rope as it slashed across her chest. The incredible pain and finally, the feeling of falling. Her last thoughts before she passed out were of Harry and how she would not be able to help him anymore, never be able to explain or apologize. Then she woke in a strange place, it was cold and empty… and she had felt very much alone. Hermione wondered if she was dead, 'probably, or if not, soon,' she remembered thinking. And as she was thinking that, it grew darker as the light around her slowly faded. She knew she was dying.
When she had awoken later she knew she was someplace different, but she didn't know where. She didn't know what to think, except that she was pretty sure she wasn't dead, at least not yet. It was bright and warm… and she had felt safe. But she was still alone. The more she had looked around, the more she had tried to figure out what had happened, the more frightened she had become. Pulling herself together, she thought, 'If I'm not dead, then… He'll come, Harry will come for me.' it was that thought alone that had kept her sane and calm. She wouldn't leave this place until he came. And then finally, after Harry had found her, she had never felt happier or safer in her entire life.
Now they were traveling back, for Hermione, back to where it all had started. Back to the darkness. The closer they got, the stronger the pull became. As they moved with the current, they began to notice dark blood-red streaks starting to mix in and as they watched, the filaments slowly turned a soft pink. Hermione knew she had to go back but she didn't want to let go of Harry, she wasn't even sure if she could at this point. Hermione found herself clinging to Harry like a drowning person clinging to a life preserver. Eventually, the current slowed and then finally stopped, pooling around them. They stood transfixed as they watched the slivers of pink dissipate into the area around them. Hermione was back. Then suddenly, without warning, it felt as if they were falling.
It all happened so abruptly she hadn't noticed Harry was no longer with her. The rapid fall only lasted a second, but it stopped with a hard jolt that left Hermione dazed. When the flashes behind her eyes cleared, she felt as though she were laying on her back, floating only inches above some imaginary plane. It only took a moment for her to transition to this new reality and as she became more aware of her surroundings… she realized she was back, back in the blackness of the cold empty void… alone. "HARRY!" She screamed.
Almost instantly, to her right a warm glow appeared and rapidly grew larger, "Hermione, I'm here, I'm still with you." The glow touched her hand and soon had her enveloped… She was safe again, "Oh, Harry…" She barely managed as he pulled her into his arms again.
Harry had felt her brief moment of panic and the terror that ripped through her when she thought she was alone again. He could feel her love as it reached out for him and wrapped him in a warm embrace. She loved him, completely… and she needed him. Her emotions were so strong, they left him dizzy.
"Shh, you're okay now Mione," Harry's voice was soft and so full of emotion, it broke a little as he tried to say her name.
A few moments later after her heart had settled and she had calmed down, she recalled his words. Hermione slowly pulled back a bit and looked up into a pair of moist green eyes. He had never called her by anything but her full name before. And just as Harry could feel her emotions, she could feel his and the feelings he was sending her way made her weak in the knees. He had called her Mione by accident, but with so much love… how could she be upset? "Harry, what did you just call me?" She asked softly, with just a touch of a smirk.
Harry panicked, he knew she didn't like pet names or worse, her name being shortened, "Ah," Harry cleared his throat, "Hermione," he emphasized the beginning of her first name, "I didn't mean to…"
She put her finger on his lips to stop him, "I know and it's okay, it was sweet," she said, smiling shyly at him, "from you… I like it."
Harry smiled, "Yeah?"
"Yeah," Hermione answered, nodding slowly.
"Well, I'll save it just for special occasions then."
~oOoOo~
Hour after hour had passed with no sign of change. Emma and Dan were now taking turns watching the two, while the other took a nap in one of the infirmary beds nearby. Professor Dumbledore and McGonagall had retired earlier for some much-needed rest, while Professor Flitwick slept nearby in another bed. He had refused to leave, "Just in case I'm needed." He had said.
Sirius was also asleep in a nearby bed. Earlier, while Dan had been watching over the teens, he and Dan had had a long talk. Their conversation ranged from family and business, to much more important things like the two unconscious children lying in front of them. Having had time to calm down and think more rationally, Dan realized that not only Harry, but Sirius as well, loved his daughter as much as he did. Also, that both were as worried about her safety as he was. Sirius had pointed out the pros and cons of her leaving the magical world and Dan had to admit that she was much better off here in her world. The more he thought about it, the more he also realized, that she had been right about it since last summer. They were far stronger together. The proof was currently lying beside her.
~oOoOo~
It was late afternoon the following day, some thirty hours since they had begun the ritual.
Emma was sitting in a chair at the foot of her daughter's bed staring at her and the young man next to her. The last couple of hours had given her plenty of time to think and reflect on her family's life up until now. The one thing that stood out was just how much different her daughter's life and her world, were from her own. It saddened her to think that even though Hermione had grown up in her world, it was this world, the world of magic, and of witches and wizards that she loved no matter how dangerous it was. The only consolation was the boy presently lying next to her. Harry Potter… she knew how he felt for Hermione and regardless of what came with knowing him, she was glad her daughter had found him.
A slight movement caught her eye and she leaned forward a little to take a better look. With a sudden gasp, Hermione took a deep breath arching her back slightly and tensing. As she exhaled, a look of fear suddenly came over her before she cried out, "HARRY!"
Concerned, Emma quickly stood up and move closer. A moment later a slight glow began to radiate from the two of them and Hermione settled down. Emma could see that Harry was still holding Hermione's hand, and was now rubbing tiny circles with his thumb on the back of it. "Thank you, Harry," Emma whispered as she brushed away a tear that threatened to fall.
Madam Pomfrey and Professor Flitwick had heard Hermione call out and were now both examining the two teens. Hermione although still unconscious was now breathing normally and all her vital signs were good.
"She's back, she's with us again." Professor Flitwick announced happily, but after checking Harry he frowned, "However, Harry is still with her." Shaking his head, he said uncertainly, "I'm not quite sure what he's doing."
Madam Pomfrey was checking Hermione's injuries and taking notes as she would need to prepare potions. A moment later a look of understanding washed across her face, "I think I do," she said to her colleague.
"Oh?"
"Harry is trying to heal some of her wounds magically through their connection."
By now both Dan and Emma were standing by the bed. "Is that a problem?" Dan asked.
Pomfrey and Flitwick shared a look before Flitwick answered, "Well, for the time being, no… but Harry is spending a lot of energy in the process, he will get weaker the longer he stays, which will make it that much harder for him to return."
~oOoOo~
By nightfall, the only other injured student left in the infirmary was Luna. Fred and Ginny had been released around noon. However, Poppy had wanted to keep Luna one more night just to make sure she was healing properly. Luna of course, didn't want to leave anyway, besides she had said, it was only her third night in the hospital. Turning her head, she glanced over to the screen hiding Harry and Hermione and wondered just how many more nights they would have to spend here.
Dobby and Winky had been taking turns popping in and out every hour to see to any needs. Winky was just leaving after having cleared away the remains of dinner. She was then returning to the Granger's home to make sure it was ready for them when they returned. Dobby would stay for now and continue to watch over the family. At first, Pomfrey had tried to get the Granger's to go eat in the Great Hall, but they had insisted on staying in the infirmary. So for now, Dobby would continue to bring their food here. After thanking the little elf, Dan and Emma returned to their daughter's bedside just as Madam Pomfrey was starting another quick check, after pulling Hermione's pajama top up a little, she gasped, "Merlin!"
"What's wrong?" Dan asked urgently.
Pomfrey pulled Hermione's top up to just below her breast line and motioned to her scar.
"Oh!" Emma said softly as she leaned down to get a better look. The scar was almost completely gone, not just healed, but gone… there was hardly a mark left. Only a very faint line still remained, barely visible and it seemed to sparkle slightly.
"I thought you said, you couldn't make her scar go away. That you could only heal the wound?" Emma asked, standing back up.
Madam Pomfrey cast a few more diagnostics charms and then smiled as she explained, "I can't and I didn't. That curse, as I said earlier is very nasty, besides what it does internally, it also has two horrible aftereffects. One is the scar, the dark magic from the curse prevents complete healing or attempts to remove the scar. Second, all the nerve endings near the scar stay damaged and caused a fair amount of pain from anywhere, from two or three weeks to several months."
"So what's going on, how…?"
Madam Pomfrey raised a hand so she could continue, "I've been a healer for forty-five years, a master healer for twenty and in all that time, I've never seen anything like this. Hell, to be completely honest… I don't even know how he's doing it." She shook her head as she pointed to Harry, "Somehow, Harry is using his magic and working at the molecular level, he is both healing the nerve endings and removing the scar."
"So she won't be in any pain when she wakes up?"
"No, and thank Merlin, that would have been very hard on her."
Dan spoke up, "Why didn't you mention this before?"
"I am sorry, I didn't intentionally mean to keep things from you. Please understand that until I knew whether or not she was even going to make it, I didn't want to add to your worries."
"I see… well, thank you… is there anything else you haven't told us?" He asked softly, not wanting to make her think he was mad.
"No, that's it, there will be some minor treatment issues, but will discuss them later with Hermione after she's awake if that's okay with you?"
"Yes, of course, that's fine, thank you."
~oOoOo~
Harry felt as though he had done all he could do to help Hermione and knew it was time for him to go. Hermione could sense his apprehension, she knew this would be the hardest part for him; getting back. Part of her wanted him to stay forever, the other part told her to trust him and everything would be all right.
Hermione pulled Harry into a tight hug, "Thank you, Harry."
Harry pulled back to look at her, "For what?"
"For always being there."
Harry smiled, "I could say the same to you."
They stood there staring into each other's eyes for a long moment, "Harry, are you going to be all right… you know… getting back."
"Of course, I have to get back so I can bring you breakfast when you wake up."
"I'd like that," Hermione said softly. As she looked into his eyes, she saw the love he had for her and knew he understood what had happened and maybe even why. Hermione also knew he had forgiven her, something she didn't think would occur for a very long time, if ever. She didn't know how she knew all this, but she was sure of it. "And maybe we could talk." Perhaps in time, she could also rebuild the trust he once had in her.
Now it was Harry's turn to feel it… He didn't care why, but he knewshe needed to explain, so he smiled, "Sure, if you want."
Hermione smiled back and snuggled back into him. "Be careful," she said softly into his chest.
Harry gave her one last squeeze, then slowly pulled away and said, "I will." He took a step back and looked at Hermione, he had been given a second chance and he was going to make the best of it. Hermione again knew what he was thinking and nodded her head smiling. She'd been given a second chance as well, "We'll… make the best of it." It was weird being so connected but Harry was sure he liked it. "Yeah," was all he said, there was no need for any more words, they both knew how the other felt. "I'll see you at breakfast then." He turned and started away, but suddenly sensing a rush of feelings from Hermione he turned back. Reaching out, he pulled into his arms again and gave her a tender kiss. Smiling like an idiot, he said, "I know."
Sensing his feeling for her almost overwhelmed her and she shivered as he stepped away. Hermione nodded and whispered, "Bye."
After being with him like this, it felt odd not being a part of his presence, and it instantly made her feel lonely. He'd only been gone a few minutes and already she longed for his touch.
Harry was trying to find his way back. All he had to guide him was that weird feeling or pull, like before. This way it told him and so he moved on through the darkness. It seemed to take forever, far longer than before and this time the pull wasn't nearly as strong. At times, he wasn't even sure he could feel anything at all. The river of magic was gone along with the light. Harry stopped and closed his eyes, and then reached out with his mind, trying to sense something… anything. Harry was starting to have doubts. 'Fifty-fifty at best,' he remembered Flitwick saying, but as that thought ran through his head, another followed, 'You must have complete trust in one another.' Harry would admit that he was scared, he certainly didn't want to stay here in limbo forever, but he wasn't ready to give up yet. He trusted Hermione… he'd see her again.
Hermione started to sense Harry's fear. 'He needs me, he needs my help…' She thought. If she could sense Harry… maybe he could sense her she reasoned. 'You can make it Harry… I believe in you,' she thought while concentrating on him.
Harry was moving more slowly now, looking around he kept trying to see something, or feel something…anything. On top of the overpowering feeling of being hopelessly lost, he could tell he was getting weaker by the minute. He could no longer sense the pull at all that had been leading him back. He could also feel his strength draining away as his doubts began to overwhelm him.
'I can make it,' he thought, 'but which way?' Harry had stopped moving again and was looking around when he noticed it, a faint glow moving up from behind him. As he watched, it turned into a point of light like the ones he'd seen earlier with Hermione. The little star flew over him and as it passed, it pulsed once, then continued on. He had just barely heard her, 'You can make, Harry… I believe in you.' Hermione's voice faded away as the star flew on. But now, not only did he have her star to guide him and give him hope, but it also seemed to renew his strength. Harry started moving again, following the star…her star, the one he trusted.
With renewed energy, it seemed only a short time later that Harry began to see light ahead. He could once again feel the pull, but as he pressed on he could also tell he was losing his strength again. It was now a race and he prayed it was one he'd win. 'Come on, just a little further,' he thought. The pull seemed to almost drag him the rest of the way, that and his need to see Hermione again keep him moving. They finally brought him fully into the light and Harry collapsed on his back staring straight up at nothing but white. The brilliant white light slowly began to fade as Harry slipped into unconsciousness.