Disclaimer: Neither of us own anything otherwise we'd probably be on an extended vacation, without the kids ; )
A/N - We're testing out the waters for a sequel. This is a short beginning, setting us up for what happens in the continuation of our story, Harry Potter and the Last Journey. If you are confused, we suggest you read the original story first, it will explain a lot.
Prologue
The night was dark and damp, with a sheen of mist falling from the sky. Three figures moved slowly along the street, studying the area around them. They walked with purpose.
Those in the surrounding houses, peeked from their windows at the powerful, famous trio.
The relief in the air was overwhelming. The remnants of Voldemort's Death Eaters had been quiet since his death ten years earlier. It was that day the legend of these famous friends truly began. Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger-Weasley had kept their childhood bond strong.
Hamilton Cross exhaled swiftly. As the only elected official in Godric's Hollow, he had been worried he would be unable to protect the small town from whatever actions the Death Eater's were planning for his people, for some reason there had been a sharp increase in dark activity in the last several days. He studied the three walking purposefully towards him and contemplated the group.
Although Ron Weasley was the only one of them that went on to become an Auror, anything pertaining to Voldemort, or the Dark Times, as they are now called, is immediately sent to him. Professor Potter and Minister Granger have been called in over the years as specialists. They helped to rebuild and restructure the Wizarding World after the Great Battle of Hogwarts. The trio made a formidable group, Potter as the magical powerhouse, Granger as the invaluable brains and Weasley as the brawn.
Hamilton Cross was not an arrogant man, but he suddenly felt powerful. Any Death Eaters in the area would surely flee when it became apparent that they were here. He smiled to himself when he heard them speak.
"Mione, are you sure we're in the right place? I'd hate to have to…," Harry started, interrupted by Mr. Cross.
"Yes, yes, you are all certainly in the right place. We've had a bit of a problem with dark wizards the last few days, can't figure out why after all this time. They seem to be flocking here like it's a reunion. Odd, isn't it." Mr. Cross smiled warmly before continuing, "Hamilton Cross, pleasure to meet you. I have to say it's an honor and privilege. I know that you'll be able to sort-"
"Crucio!" yelled Ron, as a disbelieving Hamilton screamed in agony.
"Ronald," Hermione admonished. "How many times do I have to tell you…"
Mr. Cross collapsed to the ground in relief as the spell came to an end, wondering what was happening.
Hermione continued, "If you insist on using that incantation, you must truly mean it," as she bellowed the same spell at the man laying at their feet.
Harry laughed as the man met his eyes, begging for a reprieve.
The night air was filled with tortured screams. Hamilton begged, in a ragged voice,"But…but you're Harry Potter….the…"
As he spoke, Harry knelt down next the shaking man, "You're right you know, I am Harry Potter," leaning down conspiratorially, "I'm just not your Harry Potter."