Disclaimer: It all belongs to JK.
AN: It's been quite a while since I've published and, in fact, I've stopped actively writing for the fandom, even going so far as to remove my stories from this site. Well, never say never because my love for this couple has never died, and I find myself wanting to revisit from time to time.
My never-ending thanks to Ariadne, who is my constant inspiration, whether she knows it or not.
Unmistakable
A distinctive draw of satisfied breath was the only response.
"It is only fitting. Destruction is cleansing."
He nodded absently, the wind's direction carrying the sharp scent of burning parchment and something - deeper.
Something fatal.
His eyes caught a familiar form among the ruins, passing behind thin white.
Far. Yes.
"It is – my Lord."
Later, left alone, his hand rested on cold bark, even as delicate flames raced along brittle branches overhead. Red rain fell, settling for a moment on thick wool.
His breath cut short.
Yes, unmistakable.
xxxxxxxxxxx
Transparent flames caressed the edges of a fallen portrait, where its resident lay unmoving, buried under a confused tumble of charred books. Twisted metal, burning wood, and a fire's lingering death enveloped the fallen castle.
She needn't search. It had to be.
It was unspoken – a wish made only in a trembling breath before sleep's last fall.
For redemption – and faith. He was familiar.
Yes... for years.
So, when from a thin, gray haze strode a lone figure, his cloak spread out against the dying amber light, she knew it was him.
Yes, she breathed.
Unmistakable.