New Friendships

by: coolhacker1025

Hints of future fem!slash. This is the first draft version of "The Death of Harry Potter"

Hermione saw the Aurors and Luna walking down the path to her house. The Aurors were tall, stone-faced, with grim expressions on their faces. Luna looked like somebody told her Crumple-Horned Snorkacks weren't real.

Luna was one of Hermione's best friends, along with Ginny Thomas (née Weasley). That being said, Healer Lovegood often drove Hermione insane with her outlandish theories. Sometimes, Hermione thought that Luna just said things like that to drive her nuts.

Hermione didn't really approve of Luna's marriage to Rolf Scamander (the grandson of Newt Scamander, author of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them), as she didn't think that they were completely happy together. Hermione thought that Ron, Harry, or Neville would've been a much better choice.

Well, not Harry, thought Hermione. Seeing as I'm married to him.

She heard the knocking on the door, and was jolted out of her memories. Two Aurors were at the door with a Healer, she thought. Merlin, no!

She went to the door and opened it.

"Mrs Potter?" asked the Auror on the left, a lieutenant.

"Yes, I am," said Hermione.

The Aurors stepped back, allowing Luna to approach the door.

"I'm sorry, Hermione, but there was an incident," she said, looking more sombre than Hermione had ever seen her. "Harry's team got caught in an ambush by former Death Eaters, including Draco Malfoy. Harry didn't make it. He died shortly after being admitted to St Mungo's."

Luna had to catch Hermione, as Hermione's knees buckled. This was one of the things that Luna hated about being a Healer—having to tell the family the bad news. She much preferred it when she got to say that their family members would be alright.

Luna could barely stand to listen to Hermione's wail that almost sounded like a howl. The howl of a wounded animal, a very dangerous wounded animal. Like one of Hagrid's animals that had just been wounded, and was now very angry.

"I can take it from here," said Luna to the Aurors. "You may leave."

"Ma'am, yes, ma'am," the Aurors shouted at full volume, before turning on their heals and leaving the premises. Luna always hated when she got Aurors that hadn't been out of the Academy for more than a couple of years—they were always too loud.

Luna supported Hermione as she moved her into the house. It's really too bad Ginevra is playing Quidditch, thought Luna. She would've been able to help me.

Luna, of course, really wasn't thinking clearly at the moment, as it was only a couple moments later that she realised that she'd just sent the 'help' away.

She got Hermione onto the couch. It was a very nice couch with a Snitch-pattern on it. Harry had probably picked it out, she thought. Oh, Merlin! Harry.

Even though she was one of the Casualty Officers, it hadn't completely sunk in that Harry Potter had been killed by Draco Malfoy (who had got a lucky shot). The boy/man who'd survived so many assassination attempts, felled by someone who got lucky.

Luna got up to make a very strong pot of tea.

"Don't go," said Hermione, still on the couch.

"I'm not, Hermione," said Luna. "I'm just going to make tea."

Right as the tea was finished brewing, the howling started again. Fuck, what am I going to do? Luna asked herself. This is the first time that it's been personal.

She brought the tea into the living room, and started to hug Hermione, hoping that it would calm the now-widow down.

"Just stay here," commanded Hermione.

"I can't stay here all day," said Luna. "I just got off shift, but I have work tomorrow."

"You're sick, call off," said Hermione. "I need someone."

"I know," said Luna, as she noticed Hermione falling asleep. Too much adrenaline in a short amount of time, plus something this big would cause anyone to lose consciousness.

Luna got up a while later, and hoped that there was something to eat in the Potter's house. She didn't want to Floo for delivery.

She found some pasta of some description that looked like it was enough for two people, and heated it using the Muggle Heating Charm device that Hermione had. It was called some type of radiation—gamma or ultraviolet or...it was called a microwave, thought Luna.

She went back to the living room, and conjured a couple of folding tables for them. If it weren't for the situation Hermione was in, Luna would've said that she was cute. Hermione had been her third friend, after all, after Ginny (who had been very rude when they started Hogwarts, and they'd drifted apart) and Harry.

The now-dead Harry, she thought again. Some asshole who got lucky is able to kill the saviour of us all. The one who defeated Lord "He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named" Snakeface Voldemort.

"Hermione, you have to wake up," said Luna. "You've been asleep for a while. You need to eat something."

"Not hungry," mumbled Hermione.

"Well, I'm your Healer," said Luna. "And if I say that you need to eat, you are going to sit up right now."

Luna used the authoritative voice that she'd only used a couple of times before. First, when she was directing Harry to the Grey Lady; and then, most of the time when her male colleagues thought that since they were male they wouldn't listen to her.

It was horrible when the nurses treated her differently.

Luna noticed Hermione sitting up. Hermione looked at Luna. "I'm not having a nightmare, am I?" she asked.

Luna shook her head. "You're perfectly free of Wrackspurts," she said sadly. "I'm sorry. There was nothing we could do."

"You found the lasagne," said Hermione, eyeing what was on the plates. "Have the kids been told yet?"

"No, you were the first," said Luna. "The Headmistress will probably call them into her office later."

"Did they get Malfoy?" asked Hermione.

"Malfoy is dead," said Luna. "He was killed moments after he cursed Harry. From what I'm told, the Aurors were a bit creative in their spells. Some Bone-Banishing Charms, a Blood-Boiling Charm, Conjuctivitus Curse, Crucio. It apparently took him five minutes to die."

"My god, Harry is dead," wailed Hermione.

"I know, Hermione," said Luna as she hugged her friend. While she had more friends now, Harry and Hermione had always been special. Any other time, Luna would admit that, as a girl, she'd had a crush on Hermione. Any other time, she'd admit that the crush was still there, a bit. "You have to eat something."

Hermione took a couple of bites of the lasagne before putting her fork down again. "I'm not hungry," she said to her friend.

"Don't want the nargles to take you away, Hermione," said Luna. "Have a couple more bites."

Luna hadn't done this in a while—convinced someone to eat, that is. The last time she'd done that little Lily had been in nappies. Now, Lily was a first year, without a father.

The very first child she'd been in the birthing room for, albeit only as part of her practical, now was without a father.

Luna felt like wailing along with Hermione, crying her eyes out at the loss of her second friend, but Hermione needed her. She needed her to be strong.

That was the last thought that Luna had before drifting off to sleep, cuddled up against Hermione.

\\/

They woke up a couple of hours later.

"Merlin, Luna, I'm only 34. I shouldn't be a widow," cried Hermione. Luna just let Hermione hold on to her.

"We need to go to the school," said Hermione a while later.

"Not now, Hermione," said Luna. "It's 22:00 already. We can see them in the morning."

"Hopefully, the Aurors will be able to delay the story by a day," said Hermione.

"The joint release that St Mungo's and the Aurors put out was that the incident was under investigation, that there were casualties, and that the names of the Aurors killed were being withheld pending notification of the family," said Luna. "For most people, that means that we release the names 24-36 hours after the family has been notified, and the body …positively identified by the family members."

"Have you told Ron or Ginny or any of them yet?" asked Hermione.

"We needed to tell you first," said Luna. "I'll get everyone here."

A few minutes later, Luna sent out a note to all of the Weasleys stating that they should all be at Harry's house by 14:00 the next day, or they'd no longer be considered family. Luna showed the message to Hermione before sending it.

"Right to the point," she said, still fighting back tears. "Remind me to never get on your bad side. I'd confiscate their wands, if I were you, though. Some of the Weasleys often don't think when confronted with a situation not to their benefit."

"I'll have Protego charms on the ready," said Luna.

\\/

The next morning, Luna pried herself off of Hermione and got up. She got some breakfast for the two of them (some Muggle thing), and then went upstairs to borrow some clothes from Hermione, and to get some clothes for Hermione to wear.

She quickly found some clothes that fit her—a dress shirt and a longish length skirt. She then found clothes for Hermione (a long black dress that seemed to be designed to go down to the wearer's ankles). She put on the shirt and skirt, and brought the dress down to Hermione, who was still on the couch.

"Hermione, you have to wake up," said Luna.

"Five more minutes," mumbled Hermione.

Luna was getting frustrated with the witch. "Wake up or get blasted with water"

Hermione got up quickly at that point.

"Breakfast is in the kitchen," said Luna. "Some Muggle thing I found in the cupboards called 'Pop-Tarts'. You should probably take a shower. I brought you clothes."

"You're wearing my clothes," pointed out Hermione. "You look good."

"I wasn't going to go home," said Luna. "Not when you need me."

Hermione took a shower, and they ate breakfast, and then they went to the fireplace to open the Floo.

"Luna, I can't do this," said Hermione.

"You have to," said Luna. "I'll be right there for you."

Hermione gave a weak laugh. "I'm hanging off you like you're my mum," she said, before calling for the Headmaster's Office at Hogwarts.

"Yes, Mrs Potter?" asked Minerva on the other side.

"May I and Luna come through? We need to see my kids," said Hermione. "Preferably before the Daily Prophet comes out."

"Come through," said McGonagall. "I'll have them sent up immediately."

Luna helped Hermione through the Floo, and to the right exit.

"What's wrong, Hermione?" asked the Headmistress when she saw Hermione's face. Even though Hermione had just taken a shower (in fact, her hair was still wet, something that Luna normally would find attractive), the tear tracks and general exhaustion showed on her face.

There was a knock on the door. "Come in," said the Headmistress.

James, Daniel, and Lily entered the room. James was a fifth-year, Daniel was a third-year, and Lily a first-year.

"Mum! Auntie Luna!" chorused the children excitedly, before seeing the expression on not only their mother's face, but the uncharacteristic expression on their Auntie Luna's face. Hermione shook her head. "Your father," was all she managed to say.

"Yesterday, Mr Harry James Potter and his Auror team were caught in an ambush by some evil wizards," said Luna, taking control of the situation, and speaking officially. "Mr Potter was hit by a spell from Mr Draco Malfoy. He did not survive. By the time he got to St Mungo's, it was too late."

"Not Harry!" said the Headmistress, shocked. She went over to comfort Hermione and the children, all of whom looked to be in a daze.

"Your mother wanted you to know before you saw it in the paper today," said Luna to the kids.

"I thought that they didn't release names until after a positive confirmation and familial notification?" asked the Headmistress.

"This is Harry Potter that we're talking about," said Luna. "I'm surprised there wasn't a special edition last night based on the rumours alone."

"Was it Death Eaters?" asked James.

"It was," said Luna. "And those poor souls who only did the Dark Lord's work under the Imperious Curse. Your father's murderer was taken down immediately, and suffered for the last 5-10 minutes of his life."

"And why did you come, Auntie Luna?" asked Lily.

Merlin, this is hard, thought Luna. "I was part of the Casualty Team yesterday. I...I had to tell your mother. She's my best friend; I had to take care of her."

"This is your first time doing this with someone you knew personally," said Daniel, who had been named after Hermione's father. He could read emotions from other people and analyse them better than most people could.

Luna nodded. "This is extremely hard for me," she said. "I'm not sure what to do at this point."

"Just give her your love," said Daniel. Luna momentarily looked shocked. How could the kid have known that? Luna asked herself.

Daniel continued, "Whatever form that is, just give her your love."

"She needs you more than anyone else," said James. "I mean, even Uncle Ron and Professor Longbottom aren't able to understand her like you do."

After a couple more minutes of talking, Luna and Hermione left.

"Why aren't you at home with Ralph or whatshisname?" asked Hermione.

"I never really loved Rolf," admitted Luna. "Daddy was trying to let me 'network', I think the term is. Rolf is the grandson of Newt Scamander, and could possibly identify some of the animals I believed in."

"You didn't answer my question," said Hermione.

"Rolf left me," said Luna. "Went to the Colonies to get a divorce. Quite possibly because I didn't 'perform' well enough for him."

"I thought that was impossible,"

"There are loopholes to everything, Hermione," said Luna. "Our method of marriage was less of a ceremony and more of a contract. One that didn't stake our lives or our magic to the outcome."

At the specified time, all of the Weasleys showed up, so Luna and Hermione told everyone about Harry. At the end, Mrs Weasley started to cry and ran over to hug Hermione.

"Why couldn't you save him?" asked Ginny, just as Hermione predicted, taking out her wand and pointing it at Luna.

"It was too late," said Luna, as she noticed Ron start to break down. Even the twins looked sombre for the occasion.

"You two should come over sometime," said Mrs Weasley. "I love to cook, you know. Take care of yourselves, my daughters."

\\/

"I'm sorry, but you have to come," said Luna. "It's an official thing."

"I know," said Hermione. "But you'll be there."

"I will be," said Luna. "You can't hold this off any longer."

"I know," she said as she got the Floo ready. "St Mungo's Morgue. Authorisation Granger-47-Tango-PI."

It was a passworded Floo address. Most people just came in through the front doors. But given her history with most of the people that found themselves there, Hermione had her own authorisation code.

"Mrs Potter, we are so sorry for your loss," said the ME. He had an American accent. "Your husband is over here."

Hermione knew by the ME's accent that he wasn't the usual ME. The usual ME was Scottish, and had worked undercover at some Muggle agency in the 70s. She kept thinking about other things, trying not to remember. Trying not to remember that her late husband was on one of these slabs.

Hermione had known that Ginny would go bat-crap crazy about this. Ginny still loved Harry Potter. Still had a crush after all these years. It had caused Ginny and Luna's friendship to deteriorate, that and the fact that Ginny never defended Luna against the people making fun of her.

Luna, one of the sweetest people on the planet. Hermione knew that Luna had a crush on her when they were still in school.

"Hermione, you have to," cut Luna's voice across her thoughts. "I know what you are trying to do."

They got to Harry's body. He must have been caught off guard. There were no signs that he was hurt. The only way that it was clear that he was dead was the fact he wasn't breathing. That and the paleness of the skin and the fact that rigor mortis had set in.

"Ik hield zoveel van je! Ich liebte dich!" wailed Hermione.

There it was again, that howling, thought Luna. It was heartbreaking to hear, especially 'cause she loved Hermione so much. And because Hermione loved Harry so much.

Even the ME had backed away from the noise. One would think he never did this before, thought Luna. Please, just let her get through this and the funeral.

"Mrs Potter?" asked the ME. "Please sign here." He pushed a piece of parchment in front of her, and she just barely managed to write her name in the right place.

"Ma'am, did the deceased have any Final Wishes?" asked the ME.

"If he had, he'd be taken care of Holy Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Orthodox Church, in London," said Hermione, bitterly, as she knew that the Ministry wasn't going to allow that. "But, I'm pretty sure that the Ministry wouldn't follow that order for their Saviour."

"No, they probably wouldn't, ma'am," said the ME. "His effects will be forwarded to your address within a week. Mein Aufrichtiges Beileid,ma'am." 'My deepest sympathies'

"Are we done here, doctor?" asked Hermione.

"You may leave when you wish," said the ME. "If you wish to be alone with the deceased, you may do so."

Hermione prayed over Harry's body for a couple of minutes, saying all of the prayers that she could remember that were appropriate for the occasion. She performed the sign of the cross over his forehead, his chest and his shoulders and prayed silently.

Harry had joined the Orthodox Church after the Final Battle with Voldemort, as a way to ease his guilt over the deaths of that day. It had been helpful for him, especially after he'd spoken with Archpriest Basil, the rector of the church. Hermione thought that she might need to visit Fr Basil herself, so that he could tell her that Harry was a good man, that Harry was in Heaven, that the Creator was watching over him now. She certainly needed someone to talk to.

She had never gone to the church as often as he did, but she went every couple of weeks, and for Great Lent, Easter, and Christmas (at minimum). She'd usually allowed the kids to see their Grandma Molly when she went, as she didn't want any accidental magic occurring.

Hermione stayed there a minute longer before pulling the sheet over Harry's face and allowing Luna to guide her to the Floo.

\\/

"Why?" cried Hermione when they got home. "Why did stupid Malfoy have to go and kill him? Why did he have to die?"

"You know I can't answer that, Hermione," said Luna. She knew that she didn't have this type of answer. Probably nobody did. "He thought that he was going on a mission to protect people. That's what he did—he protected people."

"And how the hell can you be so calm?"

"Because you need for me to be," answered Luna. "If I'm not here, you'll do something incredibly stupid. You just need to remember that there are many people who need you."

"The kids could survive,"

"Your children need a mother, Hermione," said Luna, using her talking-to voice. "The Weasleys and your parents need a daughter. Rose and the others need you as an aunt. I need you. The Minister needs you for that House-elf Protection thing. If Harry were here, he would be calling you a coward for wanting the easy way out. Make the rest of US suffer so that you can be with your husband for all eternity."

"Luna, you don't have to do this," said Hermione. "You should go home."

"I'm not leaving you, 'Mione," said Luna. "When Mum died, I had nobody, except Dad, and he wasn't much help. He just dived deeper into The Quibbler and those fantastical beasts that he kept blathering on about, and those conspiracy stories. Molly wasn't much of a help, and I didn't know you or Harry yet."

"How is it any different now?"

"When Dad died, a couple of years after the War you might remember, I had all of you," said Luna. "You helped me get through the fact that he betrayed you to Him, and the fact that my Father was gone for good. You are not alone, Hermione. You have all of us, and most importantly me, one of your best friends."

"I think that you are definitely one of my best friends," said Hermione. "Perhaps my best friend."

"Perhaps you should fall asleep somewhere other than the couch tonight," suggested Luna. "While it was fairly comfortable, I believe that it would be more comfortable in a bed and proper pyjamas."

"Your place?"

"If you want," said Luna. "That's where all of my clothes are, and my money for Floo delivery."

\\/

They packed a bag and went to Luna's house. It had been rebuilt after the War, but it still looked like a giant chess Rook. Most of the surrounding area was just as she remembered, up to and including the signs about the Dirigible Plums.

Luna opened the front door. "I've cleaned up a bit since the last time you were here," she said, slightly more airy than the last couple of days.

I haven't been here since the Hunt, thought Hermione. I've never gone to see Luna at hers, she's always come to my place.

"My room is upstairs," said Luna. "You might recognise it from last time. I did enlarge my room a bit, as it was getting cramped. I obviously didn't live here when I was married to Mr Scamander, but I was happy to come back. It is a little quiet without Dad around."

Hermione took her bag upstairs to Luna's room. She looked at the ceiling where, just as she remembered it, but looking a bit older, was a portrait of Harry, Ron, her, Ginny, and Neville connected by the word 'Friends'.

Her bed was bigger than her previous bed. Next to her bed, on the bedside table, was a picture of Luna with her mum and also a picture of Luna with her dad.

"Ginny was my first friend, you know, but we drifted away," said Luna from the door. "You and Harry have a special place in my heart—you were the first friends to stick around. Even Neville left. He still talks to me on occasion, though. Ginny just talks to me when she wants something."

"I love your room," said Hermione. "I am touched that you love us so much that you drew a mural of us."

"Is that not what people do?"

"People commemorate their love for each other in many different ways," said Hermione. "Some people use art, some people use poetry, others write books. Some just hug each other and say 'I love you' each night."

It was hard for Hermione to explain this, as sometimes even she didn't understand human behaviour.

"We can sleep here tonight," said Luna. "Let's go downstairs, and I'll take out the menus, and we can order something on the Floo."

That was relatively new, one of the few inventions in the magical world in a while, the Delivery Service. A person would place their order via the Floo, and the food would be delivered in an average of 5-10 minutes. The food would be in special containers that would protect it from being stolen or damaged by the flames of the Floo Network.

It had actually been Justin Finch-Fletchley who came up with the idea. He had gotten very rich from the idea, as 10% of the delivery fee went directly to him. Compared to the Potters or the (late) Malfoys, he was still a pauper, but compared to nearly anyone else, he was rich.

Hermione decided to order from one of her favourite Indian restaurants that specialised in curries. Luna went for Italian food.

Just like the guarantee, the food showed up in five minutes. Hermione felt her Gringotts key vibrate as a receipt appeared in the air. "Only five galleons today," she said. "For the both of us. That's not bad."

After reading for a while, Hermione and Luna got into their pyjamas and fell asleep in Luna's bed.

\\/

The next morning, Luna and Hermione were furious with the Daily Prophet headlines

THE BOY-WHO-LIVED DEAD AT 33 and POTTER WIFE HAVING AFFAIR WITH MUNGOS HEALER?

It was the second headline that really got Hermione upset. The article practically accused her of having an affair with her best friend, before her husband's death. The opportunistic fleas that were the photographers for that rag had gotten a picture of Luna supporting Hermione.

The article also accused her of being a scarlet woman, whose work for the protection of House-elves should be scrapped.

She was also very much angry, as the article on her late husband didn't focus much on his life as an Auror, but more on his life at Hogwarts and defeating the Dark Lord. The bit about his career and the ambush that ended his life were squeezed into a paragraph at the top and a paragraph at the bottom of the article.

"I would never have had an affair with someone," raged Hermione. "Not while my husband was alive!"

Luna then understood that Hermione's objection to the article was the bit about them having an affair, and not the idea of a relationship.

"I could interview you for The Quibbler," said Luna. "I gave that to one of Rolf's friends after Dad died."

"Would he actually print something from you?"

"He's a journalist, an actual journalist who was trained in America," said Luna. "He trained at one of their big newspapers The Times, I think it was or was there a city in there?"

"The New York Times?"

"That's the one," said Luna. "They have a magical newspaper in addition to the one for the Muggles. Well, they call them 'No-Majs' there. How silly our American counterparts are."

"Luna!"

"Oh, right," said Luna with a slight grin on her face. "Do your parents get the newspaper, Hermione?"

"Both the Prophet and The Quibbler," said Hermione. "Merlin, do you think we need to go explain things?"

"Perhaps you should," said Luna.

She went to see her parents that day. Her parents still in shock about the news, as their newspaper had come hours before, and they were alarmed that Hermione was in the state she was in.

Instinctively, they knew the signs of depression, and of a person wanting to be done with the world, and that was quite alarming. Once they cleared up the story about Luna, they were very grateful for her help. Each of the Grangers could tell that both girls cared deeply for each other.

At one point, Emma Granger decided to take Hermione into the kitchen so that they could make tea.

"How do you feel about that woman?" asked her mother.

"She had a crush on me in school," answered Hermione. Her mother gave an annoyed look, as Hermione hadn't answered the question. "I love her, but I'm not sure which 'love' I mean."

"Sisterly love or 'more than friendship' love, you mean?"

Hermione nodded.

"Just do what you've always done, Hermione," said her mum. "Be yourself. Just treat each other well."

"You know I will, mum," said Hermione. Why can't that damned tea boil any quicker? First, the Prophet, and now my own mum.

In the other room, Luna was facing an interrogation of her own. Her answers, though, were pushing all of Daniel Granger's buttons. Luna was happy to see that the same techniques worked on Hermione's father that worked on Hermione.

"How do you really feel?" asked Dan at the end of the conversation.

"I want to let it all out, but I can't," answered Luna. "She needs me, and I need her. I'd rather see her with Harry and the kids, all happy. I know that I love her, because she is one of the greatest people I know."

"Is there going to be a funeral for Harry?" asked Dan.

"Yes, at the Ministry," said Luna. She was disgusted with Minister Shacklebolt right now. "If they really wanted to follow his wishes, they would've released him to the care of that Church he goes to. A nice, low-key funeral with nothing more than what Colin got. But, since it is Harry Potter, Saviour of the World, they are giving him a State Funeral larger than anyone's—including Dumbledore's."

"Colin was at the Battle of Hogwarts?" asked Dan. "And Dumbledore defeated the last Dark Lord—the German one."

"Dumbledore was also the Headmaster of the British Wizarding School, on the Wizard Parliament, and a well-known defender of equal rights," said Luna. "His assisted suicide/assassination was a blow to the light side."

"What are you going to do now?" asked Dan.

"I might leave my job for a while," said Luna. "I mean, Hermione needs my help, and I have enough leave time built-up. They forced me to go on holiday last year. Told me I was fired if I came to work."

"Won't that hurt your career?"

"I'm still a qualified Healer," she said. "In a few months or years or whatever, I can take a refresher course and work again. Worst case scenario, I help out at Hogwarts, and that's not a bad scenario."

Hermione and her mum came back in a few minutes later, bringing tea, and they just sat there for a while, drinking tea.

It was only after they got back to the Potter house that Hermione realised that Luna hadn't been to work.

"I'm taking a leave of absence," she responded. "I have enough money saved, and you are more important. Now, I am going to go home for a few minutes to get some things. Can I trust that you won't do anything incredibly stupid?"

"Yeah," said Hermione. Luna noticed that Hermione had taken out that Muggle wand and was pointing it at the screen on the wall.

A TV, Luna reminded herself. And remote control.

As most of her contact with Muggle things came from the Potter's house, she was still learning. Luna Apparated away to her house, got a trunk, and cast a packing charm. It took a couple of tries, but soon, most of her important belongings were in her trunk. The clothes were hung nicely on the hooks on the inside of the trunk, the books were stacked nicely at the bottom (with a clever variant of the Protego charm holding them in place), and literally, every Knut, Sickle, and Galleon that she had was in a leather pouch inside of the trunk.

Best of all, it weighed just two kilos. The number of spells embedded into the trunk was amazing. She made sure that she had the photographs of her parents, while wishing that she could take the mural down from her ceiling.

She activated the Defence Wards, which would reject anyone other than her trying to enter through the Floo, and would react...violently to anybody attempting access through the front door. The Wards weren't quite as severe as the Black's former residence, but they were secure. One of the many good things about having a Ravenclaw for a father and being a Ravenclaw herself.

What ever did they do with Black Manor? Luna questioned herself. She knew that she'd find out sooner or later.

If her research was correct, and it generally was, Black Manor located somewhere in London had impressive wards. It was said that, at full power, "Deadly" wasn't even the highest setting. "Delayed, Slow, and Torturous Deadly" were the highest level. They would incapacitate a person, transport them someplace secure, and then proceed to torture the intruder for a minimum of ten days.

Luna stopped at the grocers' on her way back to the Potter House, and picked up a couple of food items that looked easy enough to cook. She also picked up eggs, milk and bread. Molly Weasley had never shared her extensive knowledge of cooking spells, nor had her mother left her a repository of the spells she knew.

Her mother had planned to be alive longer than she had. It had been devastating for Luna, seeing her mother there after the incident, not being able to get help in time.

She Apparated back to the house with her belongings and her groceries. Hermione was watching something on the television, and as Luna was putting the groceries away, she could hear weak chuckles coming from the other room.

When she walked back into the living room, the screen was still on.

"I'm watching Galaxy Quest. Want to join me?" asked Hermione.

"Yeah, sure," said Luna. She sat down on the couch and started to watch the film. "That man bears a striking resemblance to Professor Snape, doesn't he?"

"The resemblance is striking, isn't it?" asked Hermione. "If they ever made a film about Harry's life, that man would be the one I'd choose for Snape."

A little while later, Luna summed up the whole movie. "So they are actors, playing actors who just happen to be confused with real people by aliens."

"That's about right," said Hermione. "What time is it?"

"Around dinner time," said Luna. "Want to go to the kitchen to see what I bought today?"

They eventually were able to make something and had dinner.

"Do you want me to come tomorrow?" asked Luna. "To It?"

"Would you?" asked Hermione. "I don't know if I can handle it. Alone, I mean. Or especially alone."

"Of course I will," said Luna.

\\/

"Luna, you cannot just sleep in the guest room," said Hermione later that night. "That would be rude."

"But they are guest rooms," said Luna. "Logically, that is where I should stay."

"Logic, my ass," said Hermione. "You may sleep in the same bed as me. We did so last night, if you'll remember."

"Very well," said Luna. She put on her pyjamas and got into the bed. "See you in the morning," she said, giving Hermione a little kiss on the forehead.

"I liked that," said Hermione sleepily. "Do it again some time."

\\/

The funeral the next day was, in a word, obscene. It was being held at Hogwarts, as it was one of the few places that had enough seating for such an event. Bigwigs from all over (including pretty much every country magical Britain had relations with) came, and nearly the entire country was shut down as people got Portkeys to the Funeral.

Hermione and Luna were wearing black dresses (Hermione's added the traditional mourning veil). Due to their status, they were placed at the front seating, right next to the Weasleys, Neville, and the UK Government Ministers.

The air was a seasonable temperature for that time of year, hovering around 10 degrees (50F). The air was crisp, and cool. There was a slight mist coming from the lake.

There was a rumour that Prince William of Wales would even show up, standing in for his grandmother, the Queen. Hermione knew that would be impossible without negating the charms that kept Muggles away. Then again, she'd read research about an experimental necklace that would negate the charms on a person-to-person basis.

The whole of Hogwarts came out to the Grounds, where the event was being held. The Potter children, wearing their best Dress Robes, were seated with Hermione and Luna. They, of course, looked devastated. Daniel looked furious that his father's funeral was being made into a political stunt. Lily looked to be a bit hacked off as well.

Kingsley came over and gave his personal condolences to Hermione and the children.

If you really wanted to give condolences, then you would allow him to buried properly—not made into some Merlin-be-damned tourist attraction, thought Hermione. Unbeknownst to Hermione, Luna was thinking approximately the same thing. Luna and Hermione were also thinking that Harry would've wanted a buffet of Butterbeer and Honeydukes Chocolate, along with Treacle Tart, none of which was present.

Not even a table with biscuits like the American Muggles. She'd heard that, in a place called "Pittsburgh" they had very elaborate tables full of biscuits (though the Americans called them 'cookies') for events like funerals, weddings, graduations.

No food or drink at all, in fact. Wizards were so boring sometimes.

Once everyone was seated, a wizard stood at a podium next to the flag-covered coffin that contained Harry's body. It was the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Hermione realised. He said a couple of words about how brave Harry was, the usual stuff that you say about a hero, the usual stuff you say when you've never actually met the deceased.

Kingsley was next, praising Harry for his work ethic, and reminding everyone (though it was quite unnecessary) that Harry had defeated "Lord You-Know-Who" just metres away from where his body was lying.

Then came the Hogwarts students, perhaps the only part of this farce that Hermione approved of—those people who had known Harry personally. Ron shared a couple of stories about their time at Hogwarts, Neville talked about how Harry had founded and run the DA (after which, Neville got a round of applause from the DA members in the audience).

McGonagall was asked to speak, but she couldn't, as she had been crying the entire ceremony. Flitwick said a couple of words. Professor Slughorn showed up, despite his poor health and advanced age, and told the audience how great Harry had been, how it was too bad that Harry hadn't come his seventh year, and the usual dragon manure that he was want to spout about how he knew this famous wizard, and that well-known witch.

Then, it went back to the Government Officials. The Bulgarian Minister said a few words about the great competitor Harry was, thoughts echoed by the German ambassador and the French Ambassador. Hermione realised that Madame Maxime was at the back of the audience, trying to comfort Hagrid, who was understandably sad at the occasion.

At least this time he didn't try to bring Grawp. Hermione thought to herself. Or was Grawp one of the giants killed at the Battle of Hogwarts?

People who didn't even know Harry Potter got up to speak, like the American Secretary of MACUSA, and the head of the Mexican Department of Magic.

Hermione was very disappointed that she hadn't simply absconded with the body, and brought it to people that would've given Harry a nice simple funeral. A funeral that included food.

The Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation got up and gave a rehearsed speech about Harry Potter, how everyone should follow his example. He'd never even met Harry!

Finally, after what seemed to be days of speeches, but was in reality just an hour or two, a tomb was created around Harry's coffin.

Hermione completely lost it at this point. Her children were looking at Luna to see how to comfort her. An Auror walked over to Hermione, carrying the flag that had draped Harry's coffin.

He handed her the flag.

"Mrs Potter, On behalf of the Minister for Magic and the Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to this Country and a grateful Auror Corps."

Hermione had barely held herself together as the Auror said those words, and gave her the flag. She'd been present for the Flag Ceremony before, but it was completely different being the one receiving the flag.

Neither Hermione nor Mrs Weasley could stand properly as they tried to stand. Hagrid was stumbling around like he'd just had a keg of alcohol.

Even in her delirious state, Hermione was still considering stealing the body, so that it wouldn't become Hogwarts' new tourist attraction. It would be easy.

Luna grabbed ahold of Hermione and led her away, as Mr Weasley and Mme Maxime grabbed Molly and Hagrid, respectively. Cameras were clicking all around them. A couple of reporters tried to get Luna to say something, but she would just say "No Interviews" and Ginny would point her wand in their faces.

Luna hadn't noticed that Ginny was following them until their third or fourth encounter with a reporter. Eventually, Ginny had enough. Luna could hear her screaming obscenities at the reporters and giving them a talking-to.

"How does she feel?" repeated Ginny. "She just lost the love of her life. How the hell do you think she feels? Fuck off before I make you eat your own intestines! I'll have my Beaters shoot Bludgers at you!"

\\/

All of the emotions that Hermione had been feeling the last couple of days caught up to her. She didn't really have that much energy by the time she and Luna got home. The kids had decided to stay at Hogwarts to continue classes normally.

Luna had forcefully told McGonagall to send them home if she thought they couldn't cope.

"Stay near me," commanded Hermione of Luna. "Do we have any alcohol?"

"No, we don't," said Luna, not sure if there was alcohol or not in the house. She wouldn't have given it to Hermione in this state, anyway. "Alcohol in a depressive state like you are in is not recommended."

"Why did Ginny defend us?" slurred Hermione, almost in an impression of if she'd had a large quantity of alcohol. "The other day, she was all for blaming you."

"I'm sure that she wanted to apologise," said Luna. "Just like her brother, Ginny has been known to say some unkind things."

"I'm going to watch some television," said Hermione. "You want food now or later?"

"We can get food later," said Luna, getting as close to Hermione as she could and hugging her.

"Feels good," said Hermione as she took the remote and started looking for something to watch. "You ever seen Star Wars?"

"Is that a Televisions?"

"It's a movie," said Hermione. She punched the 'rent' button on the remote. "You'll love it."

Hermione didn't feel like finding her Blu-Ray set of the movies, so she started the movie on the TV. The fanfare came on, and the music started.

Luna seemed to enjoy the movie, and was disappointed when the movie came to an end two hours later.

"Why did it say 'Episode IV'?" asked Luna. "Did we miss the first three? It was a very good movie. Are there more?"

"At first, George Lucas, the writer, only made the second three," explained Hermione. "He made the first three twenty years later. There are even rumours that a new Star Wars film is going to come out late 2015."

"Do you have any more?"

"Look on that shelf," said Hermione. "There should be a box that says 'Star Wars'."

"It's colourful," said Luna once she got up and went to the shelf. "Should I give it to you?"

"You should watch and learn," said Hermione. "See this device here? That's the BluRay player."

Hermione then took Luna through all of the steps to turn on the Blu-Ray player, place the disc in, and turn the TV to the right setting.

"It's almost 17:00, Luna," said Hermione once she got the movie in. "Don't you want something to eat?"

"Not hungry," said Luna. "Wanna watch Star Wars."

"Then I have the perfect idea," said Hermione. She went out into the kitchen, and opened the cupboard. The popcorn is still there, she thought. She took out a couple of bags, and put them in the microwave.

"What's that sound?" asked Luna from the other room.

"You'll see in a minute," replied the other witch. Hermione got her big popcorn bowls out, and dumped the contents of the bags into the bowls. She added some melted butter, and shook the bowls to distribute the butter through the popcorn. She then got a handful of napkins and brought them in.

"What's this?"

"A Muggle food called 'popcorn'," said Hermione. "You'll need a napkin to clean your hands."

"Why did you bring it?"

"It's a rather filling dish," said Hermione. "That means we don't have to make dinner. Plus, it's fun to eat while watching a movie."

"Okay," said Luna, trying out a piece of popcorn, while trying to get as close to Hermione as possible.

By the time Star Wars: Episode I was over, Hermione knew that she had a new Star Wars convert. She was still awake, so she put in Episode II, but put her foot down that it was the last one of the night.

"You seem happier," said Luna after the movie.

"More at peace," corrected Hermione. "Losing Harry is devastating, and there will always be a hole in my heart. But Star Wars always cheers me up, at least a little."

"Why didn't you watch it the other night?"

"It would not have been appropriate," said Hermione. "Star Wars is appropriate tonight. Galaxy Quest was appropriate the other night."

They stayed on the couch for another hour, hugging each other, before going to bed. That night, Hermione returned the kiss Luna gave her the previous night.

Was that only last night? Hermione thought to herself. It seems like so much longer.

As she fell asleep, she thought she heard Luna say, "I liked that. Do that again sometime."

That night, Hermione had an odd dream. It was very detailed, as usual, and it included Harry. Or rather, a Force-ghost version of Harry.

"Hmm, I suppose this is like that episode of The Big Bang Theory," said the ghost.

"Harry, how can you be here?" asked Hermione.

"You made me come here," said Harry. "Your subconscious is hallucinating a version of me. A rather accurate version of me, if you forget about the Jedi robes, the blue halo around me, the lightsaber and the fact that we're in the swamp of fucking Dagobah. I am more than a dream, less than a ghost, Hermione."

"Why are you here?"

"You can't keep on like you have been, Hermione," he said. "You deserve to be happy. As I am in Paradise, I could see what you were thinking the other day, and Luna was right. As usual, the needs of the many—the children, the Weasleys, Luna, Neville, all of them—outweigh the needs of the few."

"Or the one," said Hermione, completing the quote. "Their needs outweigh my needs."

"Very much so," said Harry. "The Creator saw that your subconscious needed this, so he sent me. But, I'm sorry, this is a one-time deal. Our children need you, Luna needs you."

"Luna doesn't need me," said Hermione.

"She needs you more than anything, 'Mione," said the ghost. "Remember how she said that she had a crush on you? One part of that sentence is not correct."

"Luna still loves me?" she asked. "Of course she does. But does she love me that way?"

"She loves you as much or more than I ever did," said Harry. "That's the reason she never truly loved Rolf. I'm quite sure that if she could have, she would have gone out with both of us."

"Why did you have to leave?"

"I didn't practise CONSTANT VIGILANCE, Hermione," said Harry. "I wasn't paying full attention, and Malfoy got a lucky shot—his Killing Curse didn't kill me straightaway, but just enough time to get me to hospital. Damn, if that thing doesn't hurt each time."

"Your crew got out of danger. Your sacrifice saved them, as they realised that it was an ambush," said Hermione. "Malfoy was killed—they say it took him five, ten minutes to die. Since you got Malfoy off the streets, you probably saved us all."

"I'm telling you, Hermione, before I have to go, have a good life," said Harry. "Remember my idea about a TARDIS house, remember all the good things. But, you're meant for better things than a loveless widow, wishing for her life to end."

"It may take awhile, but I'll get there," said Hermione.

"Make sure of it," said Harry. "I have been, and always shall be your friend. Just listen to your heart. Always, listen to your heart."

Harry made the famous Spock gesture. "He's up here, by the way—Leonard Nimoy is with us up here. But I'm sorry I can't be there for you and the kids. Please, just Live Long and Prosper. The Force will be with you, always."

He started to fade away and Hermione started shouting his name, imploring him not to go. She then started to hear another voice, a female voice, shouting her name.

"What?" asked Hermione groggily as she woke up to find Luna shaking her awake.

"It looked like you were having a bad dream," said Luna. "Did the humdingers get you?"

"It was a good dream, but it was also sad," said Hermione. "Can we talk about this in the morning?"

Luna looked over at the clock. "Technically, it is morning. 01:17."

Hermione sighed. "We're alike in so many ways," she said. "Our inability to understand human behaviour and occasionally, common sayings. I meant 'Morning' as in, when the sun rises or sometime around 08:00 or so."

"I don't care how long it takes, Hermione," said Luna as Hermione fell back to sleep, right next to her best friend. "I will always be here for you."

\\/

That morning, both women woke up refreshed at 08:00. They went downstairs, and they made breakfast.

"You realise that this house isn't completely Muggle," said Hermione as they were cleaning up the dishes afterwards. "You can use Magic here."

"I know," said Luna. "I'm just allowing you more time to collect your thoughts. It's too bad when they get lost and you have to collect them, isn't it?"

A few minutes later, they were finished with the dishes, and went into the living room. "You said that your dream was happy, that it was sad. Want to talk about it?"

"It was Harry," said Hermione. "Harry, in my dream, was dressed like a Jedi, and needed to give me advice."

"I can see how that could be happy and sad at the same time," said Luna. "I had a couple of dreams about my mother shortly after her death, and then once again after I'd met you and Harry. She told me to let you in. That you and Harry could help me."

"He told me that he was sorry and that Malfoy still cannot cast the Killing Curse worth a damn," said Hermione. "Malfoy's Killing Curse does the job, just not instantaneously like usual. Like Voldemort's. He also told me that you have a secret, hmm? He told me to take care of the kids, and that he was disappointed with my depressive attitude. The suicidal tendencies that have cropped up the last couple of days. He quoted Star Trek: 'The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one.' and Star Wars, too. It was happy, good, but sad. He told me this was a one-time deal, and I believe him."

"A secret?" asked Luna. "I have a secret?"

"Apparently, you've been lying to me for quite a while," said Hermione. Luna looked shocked. "You always use the past tense about a certain 'crush' in your youth."

"If that make you feel uncomfortable, I'll leave," said Luna, worried. Her part in this was twofold: comfort the girl and get the girl, though she really could compromise on the second bit. She didn't know anyone else who could comfort Hermione in a satisfactory way.

"No," said Hermione. "Harry told me to trust my heart. While I'm not sure that I am ready for a full relationship yet, I would love for you to be my best friend. Maybe 'more than best friend, but not friends-with-benefits'-type friend."

"Friends with benefits?"

"Good friends who are in a physical relationship," said Hermione. "At least, that's what I think it means. It's a Muggle term."

"I'd be open to such a friendship," allowed Luna. "I'm here for you. I'll take things as slowly as you want."

\\/

The next day was one of the last loose ends associated with Harry's death—his will. Luna and Hermione both received summons the day before for the event, which would take place at Gringotts on 4 December 2013. Again, Hermione put on black clothing with the veil. Traditionally in the Wizarding World, Hermione would wear a veil in public for at least a week.

The older tradition suggested that a woman's status would be denoted by a bird on their hat. Augusta Longbottom had followed this older tradition by wearing a vulture—the sign of a widow.

They walked into the Bank, and were directed to a spot approximately 100 m away. They walked into the office, which was very large inside. There were already mourners there, including Hagrid, McGonagall, the Weasleys, and the Potter children. Neville came in a few minutes later. Astoria Malfoy, Draco's widow, came in last. She put her wand on the table, and then walked to the opposite side, holding her hands in a gesture that suggested that she was unarmed.

"Everyone here?" grumbled the goblin-in-charge. "Very well, we have a Memory Will that will be activated."

An image of Harry appeared above the Pensieve, and started to talk.

To all of those who are in attendance, I wish you well, and I'm sorry that I won't be there for you any longer. This is the will of Harry James Potter, of Number 17 Blackwater Ln, Crawley, West Sussex, England.

While my wishes are to have a funeral at Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Orthodox Church in London, I am sure that this Will will not be activated until after the Ministry has made my body into a tourist attraction.

As certified by my Healer, I am fit and in perfect mental health. Hopefully, this Will is not activated for a very long time, but given my job, it will probably activate sooner rather than later.

If Draco Malfoy caused or contributed to my death, and has not already been killed, I can provide evidence of his Treachery, and authorise the Goblin Nation to remove his head. Preferably, before his heart has stopped beating. If he has already been killed in any fashion, then good for you, and I'm sorry to Astoria. Your husband made some poor decisions and has paid for them. Maybe my death caused the Aurors to grow a backbone.

Please, however, do not count the sins of the father against the son. If Malfoy has reproduced, try to make sure the child is not ostracised for his father's crimes. I would hope that Malfoy's offspring is treated just like any other child.

Astoria, if you wish, I can have the next Lord Black dissolve your marriage, as technically, Family Malfoy was a vassal family of the Blacks.

My first request is to Mr Rubeus Hagrid, I apologise for my death, and hope that Ms Hermione Potter will give you money to visit Romania, especially in the Dragon Preserves. In addition, for being my first friend, I give you ten-thousand Galleons.

My second request is to Headmistress McGonagall. It is so heartwarming to call you that, as you've always been a hard worker, and you have always put the students' safety before your own. Even if you aren't Headmistress any longer, then I give you ten-thousand Galleons to outfit the Quidditch teams at Hogwarts with new brooms. When I look down from Paradise, I want to see that Quidditch is more fair than it was in my time. Also, a personal ten-thousand for you.

To my surrogate mother and father, Mrs Molly and Mr Arthur Weasley, I leave thirty-thousand Galleons. You may use that at your own discretion. However, I also leave Mr Arthur Weasley £10,000 to use on any Muggle appliances he wishes. Mr Weasley, you may want to consult Hermione about that.

To the other Weasleys, I hope that you are well. I hope that William is secure and happy in Gringotts, and with our favourite Veela. Charles, I wish you well with the dragons. George, I have something special for you: an additional gift, as it were. Ron, lead the Cannons to victory. Ginny do the same with the Harpies. Each of you gets ten-thousand, except for any that are married at the time of my death, who get twenty-thousand.

Ginny, I know that you never got over your obsession with me. I always loved you, but only as a sister. I hope that you didn't do anything too stupid when you heard of my death. I think that you probably threatened the nearest Healer when you heard, so if that's the case, Hermione gets 50 extra Galleons. If not, you get fifty extra.

Ron, you were my first friend at Hogwarts; please don't be too disappointed. I was looking forward to when you finally led the Cannons to their first ever League Title, retired and joined the Aurors. My brother, I leave to you all Quidditch items not claimed by my children.

To George Weasley, you're still looking "hole-y". I bet that you didn't know that I'd been buying shares in Zonko's for a while now. Take my shares, and make Weasley Wizarding Wheezes a worldwide phenomenon. Any shares of WWW that I owned, and/or any profits I may have received may go either to George Weasley, Hermione Potter, Luna Potter, or a charity for orphaned wizard children.

Percy, I hope that our relationship got better as the years got on. Personally, if it did, it was probably a front, as I hated you for throwing away your family. You redeemed yourself slightly by coming to fight with us at the Battle of Hogwarts, but at the time I wrote this, I still hadn't forgiven you fully. You got the ten-thousand because you were a member of my family.

Bill and Charlie, I didn't know you quite as well as your other brothers (and sister), but I wish you well in your future endeavours. Charlie, take Hagrid to see Norberta: that's an order.

Neville, I enjoyed my friendship with you over the years. I was overjoyed to see you finally believe in yourself in our fifth year. Look at the way you fought at the Ministry, and the way you ran the Resistance during the Death Eaters' control of the school. You have been a friend from our first year, until the day you hear this. You get fifteen-thousand Galleons.

If I'm correct, the only people that haven't received something are my own children, my lovely wife, and Luna.

Luna was a very special person to me. She has admitted that she had a crush on multiple Potters at various points in her life. While I'm assuming that she's still with Rolf Scamander, I always knew that she wasn't completely happy with him. Luna, find someone and be happy. You marriage contract did not have clauses for losing your life and/or magic if the contract is broken. Luna gets ten-thousand. I'm so sorry that I wasn't able to join you and your husband on your search for various creatures. I am glad, however, that you became a Healer. You'll be good at it.

Hermione, the love of my life, is given Control of the Potter vaults until James turns 25. Then, forty-five per cent of the vault plus Fifty-thousand Galleons should go to her. Hermione, I'll repeat what I said to Luna: find someone and be happy. The years that we had together between when we met, when we got married, and now were the happiest of my life, especially when I was near you. While I was hoping that we could spend the rest of our lives together, that is obviously not the case. Most likely, the final thought that I had before I left the mortal plane was "Ow, this hurts." Probably the second-to-last thought I had was how much I'd miss you. Don't let yourself be destroyed by my death. I don't want you to join me here for another 100-150 years, minimum. If you find someone else, that's great. Just be happy.

Hermione, I also direct you to give your parents something significantly large, say £30,000-£40,000. As Muggles cannot benefit directly from a Wizard's will, I have to do things differently.

James, Daniel, and Lily Potter: I'm so sorry that I'm not going to be there for you, as you leave Hogwarts, and all the usual teenaged stuff. Each of you gets a one-time deal of ten-thousand that I certainly hope can last you until you can find a job. Ask your mum or Uncle George about budgeting. They'll help you with that.

At age 25, James Potter becomes the Lord Potter, with full control of what's left of my vaults. Assuming that the Ministry hasn't taken it away, at age 25, Daniel Potter will become the Lord Black, with control of what's left of those vaults. Lily will be the Lady Evans at age 25. I found out that my mother was actually a descendent of Squibs: her great-grandmother, on her father's side, I believe. There was also Squib ancestry on her mother's side as well.

If Hermione is not dead, then she becomes the Interim Lord Potter, Lord Black, and Lady Evans until the aforementioned ages.

If Hermione and I are both dead at this point, custody of any Potter children under the age of 17 goes to Miss Luna Lovegood, Mr Neville Longbottom, Mr and Mrs Dan and Emma Granger, or Molly and Arthur Weasley. Their chosen guardian becomes the Interim Lord Potter, Black and Evans.

For the reasons stated in the next paragraph, the children should never enter the custody of any member of the Dursley family, including, but not limited to, Dudley, Petunia (née Evans), Vernon, or Marjorie.

I also direct Luna Lovegood, Hermione Potter, or their chosen representative, to monitor members of the Dursley family. If any of their children show signs of magic, intervene immediately. Set monitors on their house if you have to. The Dursleys are not to be trusted blindly with a magical child.

It's too bad that Muggles can't come to this, as I would've berated them about their treatment of me, and would have given them fifty Galleons, that I would hope Gringotts would refuse to change to Muggle money. Maybe I'll manage to set something else up for my 'loving' relatives.

At this point in the programming, I left something for Kingsley Shacklebolt if the Ministry did not interfere with my burial. I wanted a simple burial, people, not a bloody political event with everyone in the whole damned country looking at my coffin before making a mausoleum. I wanted a Christian burial.

Not many of you knew this, but I became an Orthodox Christian to soothe my soul after the Final Battle. The people that were killed because I hadn't killed old Snakeface yet. The teachings of the Orthodox Church really helped me. I bet none of you, except for Hermione, knew why I simply would not work certain days, like 7 January or Sundays from 9 until noon. Maybe you can all pray for my soul later.

I hope that everyone has a good life, Live Long and Prosper

Harry Potter

PS: I bet there wasn't any food or drink at my funeral. The wizards could take a couple of cues from the Irish or those Pittsburgh No-Majs (known to you as 'Muggles'). Damn wizards, and damn Kingsley Shacklebolt.

There were lines in Harry's will that almost made Hermione want to chuckle, especially the line at George's bequest. Most of it was very sad.

The dark haired woman approached Hermione. "Milady, I wish for the Protection of the Blacks."

"Mrs Malfoy, do you really want this?" asked Hermione.

"I wish to be Astoria Greengrass again," said the dark haired woman. "If I have to be a servant of the Blacks to do so, I will."

"How do I do this?" Hermione asked Luna.

"Just say that as the acting Lord Black, you dissolve their marriage," responded Luna.

"As acting Lord Black, I dissolve the marriage of the late Draco Lucius Malfoy and Astoria Elizabeth Greengrass," said Hermione. Her son repeated the words, as he was the future Lord Black.

"Thank you, Mrs Potter," said Astoria before walking away. Hermione was pretty sure that the woman had no children—somehow, it had taken longer than he expected for Malfoy to impregnate her. They'd been married 13 years, as Hermione remembered the announcement of their marriage was right near the same time she had Daniel.

Those of her colleagues that were Purebloods marrying other Purebloods seemed to have more trouble conceiving than any other combination. Of course, Hermione knew that this was due to the limited gene pool available.

The children came over and hugged their mother, who tried to reassure them. James certainly hadn't been expecting to be the future Lord Potter quite so soon. After a minute, the children hugged Luna.

"You help our mum out, Auntie Luna," said Lily. Luna smiled.

"Of course I will," she said. "I will always help out your mum."

"Let's all go to the pub," suggested Ron. "Have a drink in Harry's memory."

"Something to eat, as well," said Luna. "One needs to balance out any alcohol by water, food, or exercise. That's a medical fact."

Everyone agreed, so they went down to the Leaky Cauldron, and got meals and drinks.

"Not too much," said Luna to Hermione. "I don't really want to Apparate with a drunk. Plus, too much alcohol is not good under your current circumstances."

"To Harry," said Hermione, after they got their drinks.

"To Harry," the rest of the group repeated.

Tom was serving some fish and chips that afternoon, so they ordered, and the food was out in a couple of minutes.

"Tom's thinking of retiring," said Neville. "Hannah is looking into buying the place."

"Have you asked her to marry you, yet?" asked Ron.

"This New Years'," replied Neville. "Harry made me realise just how short life can be. Sorry, Hermione."

"I know that you don't mean anything by that," she replied. "Life is short, and if you don't take advantage of your opportunities, they're gone for good. Fortunately, I was able to have two handsome boys and an absolutely stunning daughter before Harry died. Only a month after our anniversary."

"You still holding up?" asked Neville. "I couldn't imagine if I lost Hannah, and I'm not even married to her yet."

"Luna is a big help," replied Hermione. After they were finished eating, they had a couple more drinks (and Hermione switched to Pumpkin Juice, so as to not upset her minder), and then went to their respective homes.

"Are you sure that you can handle being in school?" Hermione had asked the kids before they left with the Headmistress.

"We're Harry Potter's children," said Daniel. "We get enough looks as it is."

"But we have each other," said James, tussling Lily's hair ("Will you please stop that!" she exclaimed). "And we have our friends"

"Always make sure to tell your friends how much you appreciate them," said Luna. "Before it happened, I didn't get a chance to tell your father. He knew it, though. But always appreciate your friends."

"'Course, Auntie Luna," chorused the children.

"Take good care of them, Minerva," said Hermione.

"I always do, Hermione," answered the Headmistress.

\\/

"Have I told you how much I appreciate this, Luna?" asked Hermione after they got home. It was now approximately 15:30.

"Multiple times, I believe," said Luna. "Can we watch more Star Wars?"

Luna was definitely a convert, thought Hermione as she put in the disc for Star Wars: Episode III.

"Oh, shit," exclaimed Hermione after the movie. "I haven't been to the Ministry for days!"

"You are on indefinite medical leave, Hermione," said Luna. "The Minister has your job waiting for you if and when you decide to return."

"If?"

"You could have a change of career," said Luna. "Take up teaching or something. I'm sure that Minerva would offer you a job if she knew you were interested."

"What about you?" asked Hermione. "I don't want you to be left in the cold."

"Is that a Muggle expression?"

"I don't want you to have to be alone," said Hermione.

"Like I said to your parents, I could take up a job as an Assistant Healer at the school," said Luna. "Mme Pomfrey is very much overworked. I could help see the patients."

"I suppose you are very qualified," said Hermione. "I mean, you've worked at St Mungo's for eleven years or so now."

Luna gave Hermione a hug, and stayed as close as she could to the other witch. "I really like being here, Hermione," said Luna. "I just wish that it were under better circumstances."

"I know, Luna," said Hermione. "I like having you here, too."

\\/ A/N: If you don't want a vague description of a Church Service, skip to the next section

That Sunday, 8 December, both Hermione and Luna Apparated to London to go to church, both wearing their usual (for these days) black. A few of the parishioners greeted them before the actual Liturgy took place. Hermione made sure to light a candle in the appropriate area of the church.

She assisted Luna through the Liturgy, as an outsider (like Luna) might be a little lost and the rituals very unfamiliar.

Despite it not being a part of the rubrics for a Sunday Liturgy, the priest and the deacon prayed the Litany for the Departed in its usual place. Hermione knew that generally, that Litany was reserved for non-Sundays, but that some churches did it every week.

As she wasn't an Orthodox Christian, Luna had to stay behind during the Distribution of Communion (something only given to Orthodox who have properly prepared for the service). There was the closing prayer, and then Fr Basil started the panikhída, the memorial service traditionally done at certain intervals after a person had 'Fallen Asleep in the Lord'.

Luna was quite moved by the beauty of the church, and of the Liturgy itself. This Jesus person seemed to be a nice guy, she thought. The sad beauty of the prayers sung by the people for her late friend moved her, and she was nearly in tears. Luna wasn't quite expecting the service to last quite as long as it did, though.

Hermione listened to the prayers. Even though half of the prayers were in Ukrainian, there was a type of beauty to them. The psalms, the Kontakion, the Troparion of the dead, the Alleluia, they all formed a service that was sad, but at the same time beautiful. Archpriest Basil was constantly swinging the censer throughout the service, as a symbol of the prayers being transported to Heaven.

At the end of the service, of course, was the solemn singing of "Memory Eternal." This brought both Hermione and Luna to the brink of tears.

After the service, they went to venerate the cross. Then, they headed downstairs to the Meeting Room for coffee hour. There, as they grabbed a couple of things to eat for the communal breakfast, they were greeted and given condolences by the other parishioners. A couple of minutes later, Fr Basil finished the after-Liturgy services, and came down to greet everyone.

As was his usual, he was wearing a black double-breasted cassock, with his gold pectoral cross hanging at his neck.

"Hello," greeted the priest. His voice was low, but it carried. He was a tall balding man, about 185 cm tall, 125 kg. He had a brown beard and moustache, and had kind looking eyes and face. "I'm Father Basil."

"I'm Luna Lovegood," she replied. "It's my first time here."

"What did you think?" asked the priest.

"It was thought-provoking," said Luna. "It was beautiful."

"The music is there to focus on the message," said the priest. "Praying to God. Making you think about God and His great works."

"The memorial service was sad, but beautiful," she said.

"We believe in the Resurrection," said the priest. "One day, we will all be risen to Heaven to join with Our Lord."

Fr Basil turned to Hermione. "I am so sorry for your loss, Mrs Potter."

"Thank you, Father," responded Hermione. "I always enjoy the service, it certainly fulfils its purpose of making me feel God, think about Him."

"How did Harry die?" asked the priest. "I haven't seen anything on the news about a policeman being killed."

"Harry was Special Branch," said Hermione. "Literally, nobody knows what his Unit was doing. It's all very classified."

"Ahh, so that's why I haven't heard of Our Brother's death through the normal means," said the priest. He turned back to Luna. "So, what do you do?" he asked kindly.

"I am a Doctor," said Luna. "I'm not often in town, but when I heard about Harry's death, I just had to come."

"Noble profession," said the priest. He put out his hand for Luna to shake. "Nice meeting you, Dr Lovegood."

Hermione put out her hands, and the priest made a blessing gesture over them. "Peace be with you, Hermione. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to talk to the other parishioners."

The priest walked away, and said the blessing for the meal. Soon, the meal was over, and the women went home.

\\/ END RELIGIOUS STUFF

"That was a nice service," said Luna after they'd changed out of their dress clothes. She would've preferred to wear white or some other bright colour, but had been told that would've been inappropriate.

Hermione hated this all black outfit as well. She was forced to wear it by tradition but, just like Luna, would've preferred some colour. The all-black outfit made her look like a female version of Professor Snape (except without the greasy hair).

"When is the next Hogsmeade Visit?" asked Hermione.

"Want me to mail to find out?" asked Luna in return. Hermione nodded her head. Luna wrote a note, and the Potter's owl appeared. Luna tied the note to the owl's leg, and the bird took off.

A/N:

This takes place starting roughly 30 November 2013 (I didn't assign an actual date until farther into the writing process). Death: 30 November, Weasley/Children notification: 1 December, Granger's house: 2 December, funeral: 4 December

As the first Star Wars Blu-Rays came out on 12 September (in Britain/Region 2/B) or 16 September (USA/Region 1/A), this is not anachronistic

Someone might ask: "Why Orthodox? You made up that church as there aren't any Orthodox Churches in the whole of Britain."

Answer: There are a couple of Orthodox Churches in Britain, but certainly not Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Orthodox Church (which, among other places, is in Woonsocket, RI, USA. Note: the Holy Archangel Michael is (one of) the patron saint of England and Ukraine). The reason that a lot of my characters tend to go to the Orthodox Church for counselling is that 1) I consider myself to be Orthodox, 2)In my view, magic and religion aren't necessarily incompatible, 3)As a consequence of point 1), it is what I know best

I could've had him going to an Anglican church (which I've seen before in fanfics), or Roman Catholic or (as I sometimes do), make him not religious at all, but for Anglican and Catholic, I would be writing very generically (even more than I do now)

May the Lord God remember you in His Kingdom, always now and forever, Amen