A/N - it's pretty awesome to post a story and within a couple hours it's being followed & favorited. Go you guys!
To HazelnutLatte - the first chapter was the longest by far just to get the scene set. The rest of the chapters are not long. The reason I didn't split chapter one was because of the changes to POV. I also wanted there to be a clear break between now, then and the future. Thus the three chapter story with epilogue. Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for being the first review.
The story is 'M' really only for swearing. A couple comments are made about other things that trigger 'M' ratings, but nothing is detailed.
Anyway on with the story...this chapter is primarily all in flashback (the 'then' referenced above). It helps set the stage to understand...not necessarily agree but to understand what Hermione's friends were thinking. Or not thinking. We also see a bit about Draco and how he came to terms with his family's role in everything. It ends sorta sad (not in a truly angst riddled way or anything, just remember chapter 1 takes place AFTER the events in this chapter).
One other thing, in this story Lucky Lucius didn't escape Azkaban after the Department of Mysteries. Riddle was pissed at the continual failing and, at least in this universe, Azkaban was an actual prison that was secure enough to keep people in. So Lucius never came home to undo any of the things Draco did to the Manor. Lucius isn't a character in this piece, only referenced.
Remember this story alters the canon after the fifth book - books 6 & 7 (as written or filmed) did not happen, AU here so please just enjoy the ride.
The third chapter (which I think I incorrectly said would be the epilogue in the prior chapter A/N) discusses Hermione's revenge. I don't think there are enough clues in either of the first two chapters to figure out exactly what the brightest witch has planned. It's a bit vindictive but in a different way then sending a professor into a dangerous forest or engraving what you did into your forehead. I thought it seemed to be something that would fit the character's profile.
Speaking of the characters, JKR (and those who own the book and movie companies that published/released the HP series) own the characters and probably anything you recognize in this story.
Finally, I am posting this today because this coming week will be busy. I will try and get chapter 3 up this weekend...probably Saturday but to be sure you know when Hermione's revenge is revealed...favorite or follow. ;). Sorry for how long this A/N was...I'll try to make it up to you all with the next chapters.
Have a great Earth Day (4/22) and Happy Birthday to the Bard (4/23).
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Harry Potter was exhausted and tired of his friends. They had spent the last two weeks in Australia living off of his vaults. Not that it had much of an impact, since he had no access to them until he was seventeen the money had sat gaining interest. He knew there were multiple lifetimes of galleons there. He didn't discuss his financial status with his friends. They would expect him to pay for more than he already did. He and Hermione were the two that paid for most things.
This vacation; however, was supposed to be paid by Hermione. While he was the one that talked her into taking one; he wouldn't have blinked if Hermione had been paying for everything but she didn't show up, so it was left to him. Their portkey had finally activated and the trio were returned to their home. Once they had their bearings, the Weasley children began to rant about how horrible their trip was. Harry had actually enjoyed it, sightly. It was completely different from everything he knew.
Ginny had pulled her wand before Harry noticed anything. "What's going on?" He looked in puzzlement to the other two.
"We are going to find Hermione and tell her just how she ruined the vacation by blowing us off." Ginny popped away and was quickly followed by Ron. Harry, knowing if he didn't appear things would be worse, followed behind. Arriving at Hermione's flat, Harry found Ron banging on the door and Ginny yelling. Harry hoped her neighbors were at work, he wasn't actually sure what time it was. It was only when the neighbor's door opened that Harry had had any idea. The man was dressed in pajamas and a robe thrown over them.
"I don't know who you three think you are, but I have called security and the building manager. It's three in the morning and the entire floor is now awake." The man then slammed his door before either of the Weasley children could inform him of just who they were. When the building manager and security arrived Harry had just gotten the siblings to quiet down. It was when Harry saw his MLE partner and three other officers, he knew the night was only going to get worse.
The building manager requested the officers take the trespassers into custody. Before anyone could move Harry was able to speak. "We are sorry, we just arrived back from vacation and were worried about Hermione. She was supposed to go with us and never appeared. We didn't realize it was the middle of the night." The building manager just scoffed at the dark haired man.
"Miss Granger hasn't lived here for two weeks. She told me two months ago she would be ending her lease. If you were all so worried you would have asked about her when you left that horrid note for her. I don't blame her for not wanting to spend time with you lot. Officers, please escort them from the premises." The officers complied and removed the trio from the apartment building and to the Ministry of Magic. While the Weasley children were causing a scene, Harry sat as far away from them and thought about everything. He had worried this would happen but Ginny swore the memory charm was irreversible and once the memories were gone they could never return.
Harry knew Ginny was wrong then and what he had just discovered confirmed his belief. Hermione was gone and the next time any of them saw her it would not end well.
"Just shut the bloody hell up and sit down. No one cares about your complaints. Kingsley is going to be pissed enough in the morning." Harry laid on the cot and closed his eyes. His memories drifted back over the decision they had made about Hermione.
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The final battle had taken place and Harry was victorious. Voldemort was dead, the Death Eaters had been rounded up and the Slytherin House would be closed. Everything Ron and Harry had dreamed over the years was about to come true. Harry, relishing his victory, looked around at those standing with him. He saw the Weasley family, they seemed to be ok. Ginny was apparently bound and determined to be his girlfriend again, not that Harry wanted that. Ron was prancing like a peacock, telling anyone who would listen how important he was to the battle.
Harry didn't see Hermione immediately. It was when Kingsley walked past Harry and to the corner that he saw her. She was sitting with Draco Malfoy. There were a couple of aurors standing with them and Hermione was glaring at them. When Kingsley arrived, he told the two aurors to stand down and offered his hands to Hermione and Draco. Both stood. It was then Hermione spun and hugged Draco. He grasped Hermione and kissed her. Harry was spitting mad and about to say something when Ron saw it as well. The explosion from the red head was expected. Draco sat Hermione back on her feet and with a quick peck to her lips, the witch turned toward the still yelling ginger.
"What does it matter who I kiss? You have treated me like something on the bottom of your shoe for the last four years. In fact, you stood in the middle of the school and made out with Lavender Brown just because you thought it would hurt me. I could have cared less about where your put your lips but the snide remarks about her being warmer than me? That is why I sent the flock of canaries at you." Harry glanced at Ron who seemed to be trying to come up with a response when he attention flickered to Lavender. She had made a scathing noise and was attempting to get closer to Ron. Ron waved the blonde witch away but Harry knew his friend would talk her around. He always did they didn't care for each other but they easily fell into bed together.
Before Hermione could be interrupted again she continued her tirade. "Every time something good happened to me, you systematically tried to destroy it. Draco has spent the last two years providing the Light with information. This, what happened today, would have been drastically different without what he did. If you dare to insinuate anything else, you will be swiftly embarrassed." With that the witch grabbed Draco's hand and pulled him from the Great Hall. Before exiting the doors, Malfoy glanced back over the scene and smirked. Harry realized Malfoy was using Hermione to save himself and had fooled his friend. He would have to do something to save her.
Molly Weasley jumped into the fray, as Harry expected, and started to demand Malfoy be arrested. Kingsley, not having said a word but with a distinctly unimpressed look, left the hall. It was a couple days before Molly and Ron were able to complain enough for the wizard to have charges brought against him. Harry was pleased it was done so swiftly, once Malfoy was locked up Hermione would come to her senses. As long as it took to schedule the hearing, he would be locked up for weeks first. Harry grinned, the well dressed git they always saw would be a mess after those weeks of being locked up. Hermione would see her mistake and drop him. All the money in the world wouldn't worth it.
Instead of his arrest, the charges were filed and the trial was completed the same day. The first, and only witness, was Hermione Granger. As she went through her memories and notes, it was obvious that Malfoy had switched sides and was firmly on the side of the Light. The Wizengamot agreed that without the intelligence Draco provided the war would have been much different. Many of the people that were saved because of the information would have been systematically rounded up and murdered. After a short deliberation, Malfoy was found innocent and released.
Harry couldn't believe it. Molly was incensed and started to make a scene. She ended up being escorted from the room by her sons. Harry was shocked at how easily she was removed. It was only after returning to the Burrow that Fred and George removed the silencing and freeze spells. Harry was pleased they did it, she didn't deserve to be locked up. She was just looking out for her family.
News of the kiss between Hermione and Malfoy was never released. Harry didn't know how that bit of information was missed, but it didn't matter. The fewer people that knew of Hermione's dalliance the better. Harry and Ron sat at The Burrow complaining about her betrayal. Molly Weasley was the only person who admitted to truly agreeing with the boys. Harry knew the rest of the Weasley family agreed with them as well but were too cowardly to admit it in public. Molly was more than happy to continue her crusade against Malfoy. She wanted Hermione with her son because that was how life was supposed to be.
Harry noticed the gleam in Molly's eyes when Harry asked if there was a way to magically undo whatever charm or potion Malfoy had placed on their friend. Harry, never admitting it out loud, had always relied on Hermione to figure out that sort of thing. He just would get involved once the plan was ready to be done. Molly looked through her books for help on how to make the witch be with her son. Harry knew Molly hadn't had any success when Ginny made a passing comment about her mother's unusual behavior. Molly hadn't been cooking the normal large meals and the young was worried it had something to do with the war. Harry told her of what he wanted to do. Ginny, while she didn't care if Hermione was gone or not, knew people wanted to see the three 'Golden' heroes together. Ginny had offered to help her mother with the research. She hoped by helping Harry getting his friend back, Ginny would secure her position beside Harry.
Harry could have slapped himself on the head when he was told what they planned to do. The Weasley women had spent a couple more weeks reviewing all the books in the small Weasley library and other options before Ginny remembered what Hermione had done to save her parents. With that a plan started to formed. It would be a long term plan, Ginny would need access to Hermione's notes and right now the witch wasn't speaking to the Weasley family or Harry. Ginny spent the summer trying to figure out how to get her notes but was stymied. On September the first, Ginny returned to Hogwarts and hoped her mother could figure out how to get their hands on those notes.
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It was about six months after the Final Battle (and three months after Ginny's return to school) when Harry asked about the plan. Molly informed Harry and Ron that since it appeared Hermione was not about to forgive anyone in the Weasley family; she needed help accessing Hermione's apartment. Any items that had been left in the Burrow were gone by the time the Harry and Ron had returned after the battle. It was assumed that Hermione broke in and took her things after leaving with Malfoy.
After explaining exactly what would be needed, Harry agreed he was the only one that could get into the apartment. Using his authority as a MLE officer, Harry accessed his friend's apartment, without her authorization, and found the notebook. His detective skills were obvious based on how quickly he located it. The notebook in question was on the first shelf he checked. He never once thought it could have been left there for a reason. He also never gave any notice to the rest of the apartment. The small portrait of a witch sitting at a tea party was hanging over the fireplace should have given the wizard pause. As the ice blue eyes of the witch watched the dark haired wizard take the planted notebook and leave.
After looking through Hermione's notes, Harry realized the potion was very complicated and well beyond his OWLS results of 'A' score in potions and 'E' in Charms. Not having completed the study for his seventh year, the instructions would be impossible for him to follow. He brought the notebook to Molly. She was surprised at both the charm and potion. She never thought about combining the two. She set to work on pulling together the ingredients needed for the potion. The charm was equally complex and luckily Ginny was pretty accomplished in that area. During the Christmas holidays Ginny reviewed the notes and brought it back with her in January. Between the two of them, it would be easy to erase the memories they needed.
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Harry was jarred from his memories when he heard Ginny whining about how uncomfortable the cot was. Ron then started to blame Hermione again. Harry shut his eyes and tried to fall asleep. He knew the next day was going to be horrid and there was a strong chance he would never make it into the auror corps now. He didn't know how he was going to be able to save the public from the threats that were forming in the shadows. He had seen the signs of a new batch of Death Eaters and if he lost his connections in the Ministry he would not be able to track their movements.
All this was because he trusted Ginny to not fuck up the charm. Of course she hadn't done something right, but she would claim the mistake was something else. Princess Ginny never did anything wrong. He was tired of her and very tired of avoiding getting himself tied any more to her. He was also worried that unless Ginny left him, he would lose his family as well. He had no friends outside of Ron. There was Hermione, but now they were all going to face Hermione's wrath. Harry didn't know if hoped for her vindictive retribution or fiery anger that would probably end in his death.
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After identifying the notebook was missing, Hermione wagered she had at least six months before they would attempt anything. Having created both the potion and charm, Hermione knew if the potion wasn't brewed correctly or were off in their charm movements, nothing would happen and she would just have to pretend to have forgotten everything. She hoped they would be successful, she wasn't sure if she could pull it off or what they would do if they realized they failed. When she rewrote her notes and left the notebook for Harry to find, the decision had been made for her memory to be lost for four years. Hermione, Draco and Kingsley fought over that. No one wanted it to be that long, but everyone agreed it would take years before the British wizarding public was ready to hear what had really happened. How everything Harry and Ron said they did was a lie, how they would willing destroy the happiness of their friend in order to prove how 'right' they were, and finally to what lengths they would go to get their way.
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About a week after ensuring the Light had triumphed and immediately after being found innocent, Draco returned to the Manor. He hadn't been on the property since the night of his mother's death and his branding. The elves met him at the wards and they discussed what needed to be done. While Draco had slowly expelled the Death Eaters from sections of his home by way of charms and blocking spells, there were still things done there the wizard didn't want to remember. The elves confirmed they had removed all the dark spells and items. It didn't seem enough for Draco and it was then he decided the Manor needed to come down. After discussions with the portraits, everyone agreed items of value would be removed and stored in the family vault. Once empty, the Manor would be leveled.
Draco owned at least one thousands acres of land in Wiltshire so the new Manor would be built somewhere else. The parcel of land where the current Manor stood would be cleared of any residual dark magic. Eventually the land would be reclaimed by nature and that natural magic would heal the soil of its brokenness and the evil it had bore witness.
The first and most difficult discussion was made with his Grandfather Abraxas. Abraxas was actually the first portrait to turn against Voldemort. It had happened almost immediately after the events of that dark night. Kitmu had been called in the study where Abraxas's portrait hung. The house elf was leery of the old man but after making a few vows and oaths (ones that would lock him in the portrait and the portrait's subsequent destruction) Kitmu gave him the opportunity to help his Master Draco. It was agreed Abraxas would only provide Kitmu with the information he saw and heard.
Abraxas had know Voldemort as Tom Riddle and the pair were friends in school. As Tom's desire for power grew so did the reliance he placed on Abraxas. It was only after witnessing the death of Narcissa and the torture of Draco that Abraxas began to realize the ideology Riddle spouted were just words. No one was safe and the Malfoy family could have very easily been destroyed. Abraxas played the part of faithful follower and provided Kitmu with details no one else would know. It was actually Abraxas that told Kitmu about the horcurx in the snake. Voldemort had thought no one was present when he turned Nagini into his final horcrux. He failed to take into account the portrait of his oldest follower.
The other portraits, also wanting to be involved, made the same vows and oaths to the over-protective House Elf. Those portraits would relay information to Abraxas, who after confirming the accuracy, would give to Kitmu. As the summer ended, it seemed more and more of the family was in agreement that Riddle's reign should be ended. The Kitmu began to trust Abraxas more and Abraxas saw what true devotion was. Devotion based on love and care for a fellow being. Kitmu was devoted to Draco, not because of the house elf bound but because the elf truly cared for Draco. Kitmu, like Narcissa, would put himself in the line of fire to save Draco. Abraxas lamented making the discovery so late. It was during the discussions on what Draco should be told that the pair became friends. Well, as friendly as a portrait and house elf could be.
As Draco sat in his father's study, he initiated the conversation with his intensely stern grandfather. Abraxas was never a loving or warm man. He held everyone as arm's length and expected unwavering respect because of who he was. Draco had come to learn that sort of positional respect only lasted until the position was gone.
"Grandfather, we have a great many things to discuss; however, I would like to discuss Lucius." Abraxas relaxed her stance and sat in the chair that had only every been a prop for the portrait.
"Draco, I agree, but first I would like to say that I am in awe of your strength. You will make the Malfoy name a strong one again. It will take work to erase the stain the your father and I have made against it. I only hope the family's efforts in the war will not be forgotten." Draco was a bit stunned, he hadn't spoken directly to his family for almost two years. Looking in to the mercury hued orbs of his grandfather, Draco released some of his anger. Hermione told him he would have to do it but how and when would have to be his decision.
"They know, the public knows. I was tried today for my crimes during the war. The trial and deliberation lasted about three hours. I was found wholly innocent of the charges. Any specific charges that had been brought forth by my detractors were negated with the truth. I don't expect much to be in the papers but one day I'll explain it all to you. I'll explain who saved and just what she means to me." Abraxas knew the person who had saved Draco both today and during the war was a witch. Kitmu, during their discussions, had mentioned the young girl that Draco loved. When Kitmu mentioned her heritage, the portrait shrugged. He had truly decided to embrace loving all of Merlin's creatures.
"Whenever you are ready Draco, I'll be ready. Just know that I have truly come to believe what those who fought against Tom believe. Magic is magic. Any witch who you have selected to give your heart, deserves it. Your family hasn't made life easy regardless of the galleons in the vaults. Love her and I would like to meet her someday." Draco was a bit shocked and sat in awe for a few moments. He had hoped his family would be open to Hermione and it sounded as if he wouldn't have to sell her merits too much.
"Agreed. Now onto the unpleasant topic, Father will never leave Azkaban, I don't know what to do about his portrait." Draco motioned to the other side of study where the still-unmoving portrait of Lucius Malfoy gazed out. "He is a Malfoy but he failed the family. I just don't know." What Draco didn't know was what to do with the portrait, It could be moved with the rest of the family to security of the vault or it could be destroyed. Draco had to admit, he took a bit of pleasure from imagining himself sending a reducto or two at the portrait.
"Draco, I am as much of a failure as your father. I am the one that brought the family into that inner circle. My redemption only came at the sacrifice your mother willingly made. She never wavered from her desire to protect you. She may have still believe in blood supremacy, but to her, you were more important. She knew he would kill her and she never wavered. Her head never bowed Draco. I would have never doubted my belief either if I hand't seen the glint in his eye. He didn't care for anyone other than himself. The bright world of no muggles was never going to happen. I see that now. They would have destroyed us had we been discovered. Lucius, I do believe, had he been home to witness to what was done to your mother and you, would have come to the same conclusion as I did. He would have turned as well. He, like the rest of ancestors deserves the chance to prove himself redeemable in death. If not, I will teach you the charm that will lock him into his frame and you can stick him in some dark corner of the new manor. I suspect your elf would happily ensuring the security of the frame as well. I don't think there is any loved lost between Kitmu and my son." Abraxas finished with a chuckle and looked to the young man that was the lone hope for his family.
Draco had never really asked what changed his grandfather's mind but hearing it was Narcissa did sadden him. He missed her, even if she would have never accepted Hermione. "I wish her portrait had been finished. I would like the chance to speak with her once more." Abraxas was a bit surprised as the portrait was finished. He gazed to the spot on the wall where her portrait should have been hanging and, for the first time, noticed it was missing. There were only a few individuals with the ability to remove a magical portrait from the wall.
"Draco, is your mother's elf, her personal one, still here?" Draco was lost to his thoughts and did not notice the direction of his grandfather's gaze as he called for the elf. Mitzy popped in and looked to the master of the family. Mitzy, had been born to an elf bonded to the Black family. Narcissa was born a few years later and the elf immediately bonded to the baby. Once the bond was identified, the Black family assigned Mitzy to care for Narcissa. The elf was never farther than a whisper from Narcissa and had only failed to save Narcissa because of Narcissa. Narcissa knew of her husband's failure and hoped her death would lessen the Dark Lord's anger enough for her son's salvation. The witch had removed her portrait and gave it to the elf. Mitzy had been instructed to protect it at all costs. Narcissa then started to secure the Manor. Finally, she hugged her elf and forbade the creature from saving her from death. Narcissa faced her death calmly. "Mitzy, where did you place Narcissa's portrait?"
The elf looking to the old man sighed. "Is be following her wishes. I take the Young Master there." Mitzy grabbed Draco's hand and with a pop the pair disappeared. Abraxas allowed himself to go still and thought about how it was his fault his family was in its current predicament.
Arriving at the family crypt, Draco stumbled, he hadn't visited this part of the property yet. He had successfully blocked the memory of seeing his mother's dead eyes gazing at him but to see her final resting place was still too difficult for him. The Malfoy Crypt was the one building Draco hadn't made a final decision about demolishing. Standing at the door was Mitzy who was anxiously waving to Draco. "Comes, comes, mes mistress bes waiting." Taking a breath Draco entered the cold crypt only to be met by the smiling eyes of his mother. Her portrait had been finished.
"Mum" That was the only word Draco could say. Walking to the portrait he touched her cheek half expecting it to be warm. All he felt was the paint on the canvas. He gazed at the scene and let out sob before dropping to his knees. Not being sure what to do, Mitzy blinked away and found Kitmu. After explaining where she had taken Draco, Kitmu focused on the one person who could help his master.
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Hermione sat in the small flat she and Draco had rented. Neither felt comfortable living in the Manor and the home where Hermione grew up was still under a Fidelius Charm. It still wasn't safe enough for her parents to be brought back and Hermione couldn't face living in the home without them. After Draco's acquittal, they returned to the apartment to change out of their formal robes. Draco had then left to do some things at the Manor. Hermione offered to go but Draco said she didn't have to. She was just gazing out the window when the pop of a house elf echoed in the small living room. Hermione looked and saw Kitmu. He was Draco's personal elf and Hermione had fallen in love with him.
"Master Draco needs you mistress." Kitmu's ears were flapping and Hermione could sense his distress at whatever had happened to Draco. Fearing the worst, as the Final Battle had only happened a week prior, Hermione summoned her shoes, bag and every healing potion she had. After sorting everything and nodding, Kitmu grabbed hold of her hand and popped away. Hermione landed in the last place she expected. Glancing around she saw plaques with name after name of Malfoy ancestors. Hearing a sob she turned to see Draco on his knees and holding a portrait of his mother. The portrait gazed from her son to the witch standing behind him.
Narcissa mumbled something to Draco, who just shook his head. "Miss Granger, it appears my sudden appearance has affected Draco more so than I expected. I cannot console him as I was once able." Narcissa seemed to be at a loss as to how to ask the witch for help. Realizing Draco was more important than having words with a dead witch, Hermione knelt next to Draco and ran her fingers through his hair. Eventually the wizard loosened his grasp of the portrait. He turned and clung to Hermione. The pair sat rocking on the cold granite floor for a while longer while Hermione whispered comforting words into his ear until Draco was able to control himself.
"I didn't expect to see it. I had thought it wasn't finished. That I would never see her. Then she was there but she isn't really. I wanted nothing more than to have a few more minutes with my mother." Draco was rambling on and Hermione couldn't understand why he was upset. The portrait was like all other magical ones she had every experienced.
"Draco what is wrong with the portrait? Your mother is there." Draco gazed at the picture again and the stoic woman nodded her head at him. It was then Draco pointed at the picture and Hermione noticed what had upset him. In another smaller frame, over Narcissa's right shoulder was a portrait of Lucius. If Hermione's hunch was correct, and they usually were, that miniature portrait would come to life once Lucius was dead.
"Why don't we offer your mum a new frame and make sure that frame is locked so mini-Lucius can't go wandering?" The tension that Draco felt left him immediately and the witch in the picture smiled much more widely than she ever had during her mortal life. Mitzy popped into the crypt holding a large frame, much larger than the one Narcissa currently resided in. After leaning it against the wall, Mitzy tapped the frame and with a bit of elf magic, Narcissa's new home was ready. Standing the portrait strode toward the edge of the formal painting. With a withering glare at the miniature painting of Lucius, Narcissa walked into the second frame.
"That is much better. Mitzy please ensure my original frame is locked and no one can enter or exit it." The elf happily did as her mistress asked and removed it to a dark corner of the Manor. Hermione watched as the witch, who was no longer in formal robes, relaxed on a chaise with a glass of wine. "Now my dear son, since your Miss Granger helped calm you down and allowed me to exit that awful scene, let's talk." Narcissa Malfoy wasn't anything like Hermione had expected.
"Mum, as you've rightly guessed, this is Hermione. She is the reason I survived. Daily she reminds me that I deserve to be loved. She loves me and I love her. We are going to marry." Draco turned and smiled at the witch. They had discussed the future and how they both wanted the same thing. That thing was to be together in the future they were planning. Planning the future was one way to distract themselves during those final years at Hogwarts.
"Mum, when things were at their darkest, Hermione would pull me toward light with promises of the future. We promised each other we would survive and I promised her my love, devotion and soul." Hermione's thoughts were temporarily diverted from the scene in front of her to that moment. It was just before they were to leave and head to their places for the battle. After making that promise, Draco gave her a searing kiss and then promised to get a ring on her finger as soon as he could find one as perfect as she was. They hadn't planned the actual ceremony yet, but they knew it would be soon. Kingsley had agreed to be the officiant and at first he would have been the only person in attendance. Hermione's parents were still oblivious to the fact they had a daughter and Draco's father was in prison. The only parent remaining could now attend after the discovery of her portrait. Hermione hoped the witch would agree. She couldn't imagine Draco losing her again.
"We would be honored if you would attend. It will be a small ceremony, in fact, besides the officiant, you will be the only person in attendance. We plan on it happening soon, sometime in the next month." Narcissa never imagined Draco's wedding being small and she certainly expected to be there. In reality, the wedding would occur less than a week after the discovery of Narcissa's portrait.
"Of course I will attend. May I ask why the last scion of the Malfoy and Black families will be having a small ceremony?" Hermione and Draco updated the witch on everything that happened between her death and the current day. To say she was upset at her husband and sister was an understatement. She was livid at just how her son had been treated by those on the side of the Light. Finally, he was very impressed with what the two in front of her had accomplished. "You, Miss Granger are amazing. Thank you for your compassion and saving my son. Lucius and I both failed in that regard. And for that Draco, I beg your forgiveness."
Narcissa went on to explain she had been made aware of the outcome at the Department of Mysteries. Once she knew of her husband's failure, she ensured her portrait was secured, all rights related to the Malfoy and Black families belonged to Draco and finally she reconciled with Andromeda. At Hermione's gasp, the older witch laughed.
"Yes, she was quite surprised to see me as well. I did not have much time, I warned her of Bella's desire to kill everyone Andromeda held dear. I told her I would be killed soon and that my only wish was for Draco's safety. She promised to do what she could. She asked if I wanted safe haven with her. I could have taken it, but then Draco would have been killed. I had no way to get to Draco and at that time most of the Death Eaters didn't believe he would turn against a pureblood. My death was necessary and ended up being the turning point. More souls than your grandfather, both alive and oil-based, were affected by the events of that night."
Draco asked if his mother would prefer to stay with the other portraits in the vault or to travel with them. Narcissa, while wanting time with her son knew her continual presence could interfere with the couple. The alternative worked for everyone. Happily Mitzy went off to create a 'traveling frame' Narcissa could pop into it while her primary portrait remained safe in the Malfoy vault. When they were at home, the traveling frame would hang over the fireplace in their apartment.
It was from that perch the witch watched Harry Potter break into her son's home and steal Hermione's notebook
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After close to a year of effort, Molly Weasley was confident she had finally succeed in her goal of getting Hermione back for Ron. After getting Hermione's notebook before the Christmas holidays, it had taken her six months to perfect the potion. They were lucky Ginny was taking NEWT level Charms and since the holidays she had practiced the motions until she obtained the results documented in Hermione's notes. By the end of the school both witches were ready.
As the Final Battle had actually occurred during the school term, Hogwarts had refused to allow a celebration on the actual anniversary day. The Ministry fully supported the decision made by the Board of Regents and as such, the anniversary of the Final Battle would happen two weeks after the actual day. For those that fought, it was a welcome respite. No one was really ready to face the castle on the actual day. Many questioned why it had to be at the school at all. There were many places where battles were waged. Those responsible for the memorial stated it was symbolic. As the head of the organizing committee, Molly Weasley was doing all she could to ensure only people she wanted to invite were there. If she had her way, no one associated with the Slytherin House would be invited.
On the morning of the actual anniversary, those at Hogwarts or others who wished to attend, including Hermione and Draco, had a small memorial. Facing the rising sun, the pair was quietly joined by Neville Longbottom. Draco firmly grasped Hermione's left hand while Neville held her right. As the trio watched the sun break over the forest canopy each was lost in their own thoughts. They ranged from their experiences to those that had been lost. After the sun had full risen over the trees, the three former students walked to a pre-marked spot on the ground and lifted the shovels that lay on the ground. Minerva McGonagall remained behind the trio. Her quiet chant was echoed around the grounds until the whole of Hogwarts resounded with it. The chant was ancient magic intended to heal the earth. The forest had been damaged and for the creatures living there survival had become difficult.
As Hermione's shovel pushed into the ground the chant crescendoed asking for healing of the land. Hermione joined in the chant as Draco's shovel made contact with the dark soil. The chant was for healing of all the creatures. Everyone on the grounds could feel the ancient magic in their very souls. The creatures of the forest had felt and were drawn to the edge. Most of those that dwelled in the forest hated wizards because they were the cause of the forrest's pain. The centaurs stood at the forefront watching the ceremony. As the chants reached them, it was obvious what those at the school were doing. The centaurs joining the chant only strengthened what was to happen next. Once Draco's chant reached Neville, he struck the earth as the whole assembly chanted for the healing of those that came from the soil.
The small holes in the earth formed a perfect triangle. The trio each placed a seed in the hole they had made and covered it with dirt. Neville sent a light aquamenti spell over the seeds and then each placed a glass cover over the holes. Eventually three oak trees would grow. The area between the trees would be peaceful and those who need a respite from their troubles would find what they needed. It would always be available to those needing peace. As the chant died, Minerva's words echoed in the hearts of each person there.
After the completion of the full school year, all students were released. Ginny, who didn't feel it was necessary to get up for the memorial since she would be at the actual celebration, returned home and spent every waking moment with her mother. The pair concocted a plan to give Hermione the potion and place the Charm during the anniversary celebration. They knew Draco wouldn't attend and that gave them the confidence they needed to mask the cowardice of the action.
Harry was pleased the plan would be put into motion. He had been without Hermione for a year and missed his best friend. Deciding she needed the comfort only he could provide, Harry would remain near Hermione and ensure he was the first person she saw. He wanted to see his best friend again and he knew that once she forgot about Malfoy, his friend would be back.
Ron was excited about having Hermione on his arm. He may have made some passing comments to the reporters about bringing a date to the anniversary ball. He left out Hermione's name but told them the pairing was "golden". He was proud of the allegory he used. Not that he what an allegory was, but when Hermione was on his arm everyone would see the hidden meaning.
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Hermione Malfoy stood in the arms of her husband, she knew soon it would be the last time she saw him for four years. She hated that their first anniversary had been marred by what was to come. They had spent the prior day refusing to acknowledge what would happen.
"We can still run Hermione. You don't have to do this." Draco stopped his plea just short of begging. This conversation had been repeated many times over then last few months. Neither wanted to follow through but if Hermione were to disappear no one would believe she willingly left with Draco. While Draco may have been found innocent, Molly hadn't stopped her efforts to discredit anyone she associated with Slytherin House. Shaking her head, Hermione turned and cuddled into her husband's arms.
"I have to, but the anniversary isn't until tomorrow." The couple had returned to their small apartment. Hermione would remain living there but all signs of Draco would be removed. Mitzy had created a different frame for Narcissa. This one was a lovely still life of a table set for a proper tea party. Narcissa would be able to access the frame and watch over her daughter-in-law. Kitmu, despite being told not to, placed several protection wards over the apartment. The witch's wand, which never left her person, was charmed that if she was ever in a battle, it would portkey her to Draco. Kitmu also placed a compulsion and protection spell on the necklace she would wear. Hermione wouldn't know why, but she would never take the necklace off. The necklace held her engagement ring and wedding band. The rings were disillusioned but her magic would know they were there.
Draco and Hermione held each other their final night. Never had they experienced the knowledge of not seeing the other. Hermione knew it was worse for Draco. He knew what he was missing while Hermione may feel a loss of something she wouldn't know what. She also felt horrible for doing this to her husband. He didn't deserve any of the heartache he was about to experience.
As the morning light entered the room, the couple exchanged kisses and tears. Draco helped her dress and together they ensured all signs of Draco were packed away. He would take those with him. Finally, Hermione pulled out a small clock. It looked like a clock any muggle would recognize. Only this clock ran on magic.
"It's charmed, if everything goes as planned, I know when I'll return to you. This clock will countdown the time until I am in your arms again." She tapped the clock and a small heart appeared on the face. The heart was made of emeralds and rubies. The stones were intertwined. "This heart represents us, we are bound to each other in a way that cannot be split. When the hands reach the heart, we will be together again."
"Tell me when. How long?" Hermione shook her head, she knew what her notes said and doubted Molly Weasley could figure out how to extend the charm length, but she couldn't give her husband false hope. "You will have enough time to build our house. Please make sure my parents are safe. Severus will be back soon as well. They will need you." Hermione started to cry again. She was going to need him too.
"I'm going to need you." Draco was able to whisper out before the pair broke down and cursed her friends. "Take your anger and store it. We know what we have to do. As much as I want to run, we have to go through with this. Kingsley will watch out for you. I will watch out for our family. Mum will be around and make sure you are safe. I would suspect Kitmu has some sorts of protection on you as well. He has taken you in as his own." Hermione's giggle broke through her tears. She was going to miss Kitmu. She was going to miss her husband.
It had taken the couple most of the day to finish packing. Finally Draco pulled out a simple necklace chain and Hermione removed her rings. She slipped them on the chain and Draco fastened it around her ring. He kissed each ring and the now naked finger. Hermione's tears dripped from her chin. At quarter until she was to be at the celebration, Draco whispered his vow and farewell. He apparated away and Hermione fell to the ground. She almost looked forward to having her memory erased. The pain was too difficult to bear.
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At the beginning of the celebration Molly slipped the potion into Hermione's drink and watched the witch as she drank it. Hermione tasted the potion and knew it was time. She whispered her vow and farewell to Draco before she felt the charm hit her.