A/N: ::braces self for what she is about to type:: Well... this is it. The last official chapter of the final series in the Renee Chronicles! Please, control your sobs (j/k). I'm not too entirely sure about the very ending, so give me your insight and review this peeps! Now, I have some things to explain... so all of that will be in the bottom A/N, okies? For now, just enjoy the last chapter!
DISCLAIMER: ::breaks telepathic connection to J.K.:: Umm, I'm sorry, I'm on the other line.
Chapter Ten: The Calm After the Storm
Renee and Harry sat in large armchairs in front of Dumbledore's huge desk. Dumbledore himself sat behind it, looking so old and weary that Renee could not even begin to imagine how old he could have been. He took long, slow breaths, but he had a kind and understanding smile on his face.
"Ron and Hermione Weasley have been pelting the house for news. Sirius had to go and give them some peace of mind this morning. I'm sure you are both eager to get to them, most of all your son… but, as you very well know, we have some things to discuss first."
Harry grunted and Renee nodded grimly.
Dumbledore sighed, crossing his hands together above his desk and peering intently through his old half-moon spectacles. He leaned closer to them, the light from a nearby candle making all the wrinkles of age on his face more prominent. Renee got a sudden and unpleasant feeling that time was short for Dumbledore those days… and the very thought of it made her heart cry.
"I can't begin to tell you both how proud I am of the two of you." He paused a moment, searching for words. "What you have just accomplished took the ultimate amount of courage, wit, and risk… for the lives of everyone. The world can't thank you enough, we are forever in your debt. Now we can finally get on with our lives in peace, without fear. News about what has happened is getting around slowly, since most of us are so spread apart around here… but it's spreading, and the magical people are truly rejoicing! Perhaps the families we sent away to safer places will consider coming back… and our community can rebuild.
"You both realize, that even though you are already written in history books and such… that your names will be immortalized forever in our history. Legends, I'm sure you'll become. I myself am honored to know you both." He looked directly at Harry.
"Harry… I know for certain, that your parents would be exceedingly proud. You've truly lived up to their power and well beyond that." His eyes turned to Renee, and she felt her face grow hot.
"Renee, I'm sure your brother would be proud of you too. Both him, and Harry's parents, can rest in peace finally."
Renee stared down at her feet, not sure of what to say. Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, sighing deeply and saying nothing more for a moment. Harry seemed lost in thought, and Renee looked up to glance at him and reach out with her emotions to give him comfort. He looked at her, gave her a tiny smile, but looked very solemn.
"Since you've arrived here, I have argued with myself weather or not to ask for details on… well, on the fall of Voldemort." He sighed again, closing his eyes. "I finally decided that I will not, unless you choose to tell me… or anyone else for that matter. What happened was something more than personal… something that the two of you were unfortunately a part of that had to be dealt with alone. I can only imagine the amount of power that it took to bring about your destiny… it certainly had to have been more than I could ever dream of doing. When I first met each of you… Harry when he was just a small baby and Renee when she bravely moved far from her old home… I knew that you two had a connection. It took a while to figure out exactly what it was, but I realized that it couldn't of been nothing else but the fact that you were Etam Luoses, soul mates. What happened yesterday was meant to happen, decided at your births. A battle of destiny, you can call it." Dumbledore cracked a small smile. "Takes a lot of stress off your shoulders, for now at least… I know what parenthood is like."
His last statement made Renee look up at him curiously. He had stopped momentarily, stroking his beard and staring off at his bookcase thoughtfully with a smile. She glanced at Harry who had a similar look of interest.
"Uhh, Professor? Did you ever have children?" Renee asked quietly and carefully, she wasn't sure if it was right to ask.
Dumbledore turned to her slowly, a mixed expression on his face. It told of amusement, shock, hesitation, and sadness. He took another deep breath, and opened a drawer. Slowly, staring at a large picture frame he was pulling out, Dumbledore's eyes began to grow glossy and Renee started to really feel embarrassed for asking.
"Ah, dear Renee… I have indeed."
Harry leaned forward.
"You never said anything."
Dumbledore nodded, still looking at the picture that Renee couldn't see from behind.
"I have a son, named Eian. He's a well grown man right now, which makes me all the more older. We keep in touch, but his affairs rarely allows him to visit… and my own business did the same." He hesitated a moment. "This brings me to my last, and most important, matter to discuss."
Renee looked at Harry, his expression was blank.
"I've sent out most of the aurors in the Circle to find him, for I haven't heard from him in the past few years. I hope my worst fears don't come true, but," He gave a small smile. "He has my talents, and I'm sure he's avoided our former dark nemesis.
"Anyway… when our world slowly gathers itself back together and our people begin to return home…" He winked at them. "Magical children will need a place to learn how to become as great as you two."
Renee and Harry stared, jaws dropping.
"Of course," She whispered.
"You mean it?" Harry asked.
Dumbledore nodded.
"The four founders of Hogwarts would be mortified if I left that great castle of a school to remain in ruins. It was too dangerous to rebuild with Voldemort's reign. But now, I believe it's time to return and teach a whole new generation of witches and wizards… and to prevent something like this from happening ever again." He looked at them sternly, suddenly, and mainly at Harry.
"However, we all know about my… my condition. I am in no shape to run a school, especially one that will need full energetic effort to get it in order. I'm afraid that I can't uptake the role of Headmaster any longer. It pains my heart to say so, but I can't deny fate. This has brought me to another long and difficult decision… which I am leaving up to you, Harry. Don't say anything 'till I'm finished," He pointed a finger at Harry, who's mouth had opened to say something.
"Now, I'm afraid to say that Minerva McGonagall is no longer with us… as well as most of Hogwart's previous staff. The professors of the new Hogwarts will be just as new themselves. To head them all off, it will take a strong individual who can lead justly. My first thought, was you, Harry. There is only one other soul, besides you and Renee for that matter, that I could also consider for the job."
Harry's eyes went wide, his mouth dropping again.
"However," Dumbledore said slowly. "I realize that you are a young parent, with a young family that you're still establishing. To be headmaster would require many sacrifices, sacrifices I'm not sure you'd be willing to make for the sake of your family. That is why, I leave the choice to you. If you decline, which I will fully understand… I'm hoping to appoint my own son. If he'll take the job.
"And, there is something else… that I failed to mention before. I don't know why, and I'm not sure if you've both noticed it already… but I have an odd feeling that we'll still need aurors. Maybe not soon… maybe not for a long, long time… but if there ever comes need I want my best two to be able. Put that in mind."
Renee knew what he was talking about. She sensed the same thing right after she knew Voldemort was gone. Why she wasn't relieved fully, an uncertain rest. Renee also knew that Harry had as well.
She quickly changed her glances from Harry to Dumbledore, eager to hear Harry's reply to Dumbledore's offer. Harry was completely frozen in shock, and she could feel his nervous and erratic thoughts as he deliberated in his mind over the proposal. As proud as she was of him, and completely happy that he could be offered such an honor, she knew that it would demand much of his time and how often they would be apart.
Harry looked at her and their eyes locked. Their bond she could feel inside became stressed. She didn't know what to say, or even to give him a hint of what she really felt. All she managed to do was give him a small and encouraging smile. He turned away, and she frowned. Dumbledore's expression was blank.
"Professor… I am truly, truly honored. I really don't know what to say. But, I'm afraid that I'm sure of one thing. My family comes first… they are the most important people in my life. I want to be there for them, and as much as I want to uphold your honor, what you offer me would take too much away from Renee and Timothy. I'm sorry, but I must decline."
Dumbledore nodded with a mixed expression that was mostly filled with understanding. He lowered his head.
"I trust then, however, when I'm gone… that you'll give my son advice if he has need?"
"Certainly." Harry answered.
Silence followed, and Renee shifted in her seat, looking at Harry with partial relief and compassion.
"Well now," Dumbledore suddenly hit his desk as hard as an old wizard could. "You'll both be happy to know that you deserve a well earned, long, vacation!"
Renee let out an uncontrolled laugh. Harry soon followed.
"You two go out and celebrate, no doubt you want to get your son too. Why, the whole world should be celebrating now, much…" His eyes fell slightly at a memory. "Much like it did those many, many years ago… in which a boy lived."
Nobody said anything, Renee glanced at Harry who was now looking at the floor. But he quickly stood up, went over to her with a small smile, and offered his hand. She returned the expression and stood up, looking to Dumbledore.
"Thank you, for everything Professor."
"Yes sir… thank you, thank you so much."
Dumbledore shook his head.
"No, the gratitude goes fully unto you two. It was the very least I could ever do."
Harry paused a moment, then went around the desk and what started out as a handshake quickly turned into a hug that Renee could feel exchanged a deep respect and admiration through them both. She watched them as they parted, and Harry came to her with a sad smile.
"You ready, sweetheart?"
Renee was about to nod, but stopped herself. She smiled wearily at him and squeezed his hand.
"I'll be right there, I just want to talk to him a moment."
He nodded, then turned back to Dumbledore.
"Good bye, Professor."
"Farewell, Harry."
Harry hesitated a moment, then with a last glance at Renee left the study. Renee waited until the door closed, then turned to the old wizard who astonishingly seemed to have aged even more in the past few minutes. He looked about ready to wither away into nothing.
A lump formed in her throat as she decided what it was she wanted to say.
"I know, Renee. Deep down… you are not at a comfortable peace. Harry is as well, I can tell… although, understandably, it bothers him more." Dumbledore spoke for her in a tired voice.
"It's not over." She whispered.
He nodded.
"No, it's not. However, it is for us."
She cocked her head, puzzled.
"What do you mean?"
He looked at her with mild surprise.
"Ah, but you know very well what I mean, Renee."
Renee's chest clenched up as she remembered.
"Why? Why must we be plagued by evil?"
He shook his head with a cold and hardened expression.
"I'm afraid it's all beyond us… beyond magic. It's destiny's game, and we just won round one. The fate of round two relies on our children, there's nothing we can do, but be there for them. Who knows if it will ever end… but until then, we continue to do what we have been doing. Stand up for our values and beliefs… to protect what's good." He gave her a small, final smile.
"But, for now… Etam Luos, is an intermission. Let's use it to our full advantage, so that the next generation can have the upper hand in round two."
She returned the small smile, not sure if she felt any more relief, and turned to put her hand on the doorknob. Renee hesitated and looked back.
"Professor, have I shown myself for who I really am?"
He looked at her.
"Yes, Renee… you always have."
Renee and Harry walked up to a small cottage on the outskirts of a muggle suburb. It's lawn was impossibly neat, which made Renee smile as she knew that magic had something to do with it. It was a wonder the neighbors didn't say anything, since their lawns were no where near to the condition of this one. As they reached the front steps, there was no need to open the door.
"Mum! Dad!"
Timothy ran out of the door and nearly tripped down the steps. Harry caught him before he could hit anything and held him in an embrace so tight that Renee wasn't sure if Timothy could breath.
"Oh, Timothy… you're alright." Harry whispered, his hand ruffling Timothy's messy black hair slowly. He caught sight of Renee, who was looking at them longingly, hardly patient to get her turn. Timothy looked up and her eyes met his.
"Mum!"
Harry handed him over and Renee held her little boy close. It was at that moment that she finally felt relief, holding Timothy. It was over and she had him. She held him tightly and Timothy's soft breathing comforted her, rubbing his back like she always did. His little hands grabbed her robes tightly, as if afraid she would disappear again.
"Don't worry, honey… we won't let anyone separate us again. Never." She whispered.
"He… he said he was going to kill you." He muttered sadly.
Renee exchanged a glance with Harry.
"Who? Who said that?" Harry asked him, brushing aside Timothy's bangs to look at him.
"Er… perhaps we can talk about that later,"
Renee looked up and Ron was standing in the doorway with a sad smile, Hermione was bouncing on her heels behind him. He casually walked out and down the steps, paused in front of Harry with an intense stare, and suddenly grabbed him in his arms.
"Do you ever stay out of trouble, Harry? Must you always be at the brink of killing yourself? For crying out loud! What would my mother say to me if I told her that I let you go off and kill yourself without me?"
Hermione had rushed out and put her arms around Renee, and she let her head fall on Hermione's shoulder while Timothy struggled with the tight space.
"Thank God you're OK! Oh, you had us so worried! Please tell me that you won't do anything like that again!"
"Oh, don't worry, Hermione… we have absolutely no intentions of doing that again. Never." Renee reassured her strongly. She let Timothy get down, but he refused to leave her side. The five of them walked into the house exchanging dialogue of relief.
A week later, Renee, Harry, and Timothy were relaxing in the living room of their own home. Very little damage had happened during the events of last week, and Harry had no problems repairing what did need mending. The large grandfather clock chimed quietly and Renee was putting the finishing strokes on a sketch she was doing of Timothy, who was playing on the floor in front of Harry.
"Dad?" Timothy's small voice suddenly spoke up. Harry looked up from the Daily Prophet and Renee momentarily stopped sketching.
"What's up?" Harry asked, turning a page.
Timothy looked up at him with a curious expression, then his head dropped and he looked at the floor in concentration.
"Didn't your parents save you, when you were little?"
Harry put his newspaper down slowly and his smile wavered a bit. Renee stared at him with sad smile.
"That's right, just before they died."
Timothy seemed to consider what he was going to say next, his little face tight, not quite sure.
"What's wrong, honey?" Renee asked him, putting her sketchbook aside.
He shook his head, his black hair ruffling with the motion.
"Why…? Why did they come to save me, if you were in trouble again?"
Renee became puzzled, Harry had an equal look. Both of them stared hard at Timothy.
"What do you mean, they came to save you?" Harry asked in a whisper.
"I never told Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione about it, I was too afraid for you that I forgot. But it was grandma and grandpa that saved me from Draco Malfoy… at least I think so. The man that took me away looked just like you, dad, only he didn't have your scar and his eyes were a different color. A lady with red hair and green eyes kept Draco Malfoy away… and they both said good bye after Great-uncle Us and Uncle Lupin took me."
Renee looked to Harry and saw that his face was washed with an expression of disbelief. This seemed to bother Timothy, for he looked back down at the toy he was playing with. After a few silent moments, Renee not sure what to do, Harry suddenly leaned down and picked up a surprised Timothy.
"Timothy," Harry looked straight into Timothy's keen eyes. "Your grandparents saved you because your mum and I couldn't… because they love you, and you were in trouble. They are watching over us, and even though we can't see them… they are here. So you'll never be truly alone… because your family will always be by your side."
Timothy snuggled up against Harry and he leaned back in his chair, ruffling Timothy's hair slowly in comfort. Harry glanced at Renee, who was looking at them both with a small smile. Emotions that she couldn't recall began to flood her mind, and she quickly picked her sketchbook back up to avert her senses.
Suddenly, there was a quick knock at the front door. Renee stood up quickly and Harry sat up straight, Timothy looking startled. Harry got up and handed Timothy to Renee.
"I'll get it." He pulled his wand out.
"Who would of thought that visitors would cause so much stress," Renee muttered to herself. Timothy clung to her robes nervously and she rubbed his back to soothe him.
She heard Harry go through the routine of answering the door with a password, and then the door opened.
"This is a surprise, Sirius." Harry breathed a sigh of relief.
Renee walked out into the hallway with Timothy in her arms, and sure enough, there was Sirius standing in the foyer. However, her eyes quickly went downward as something yellow was standing low to the ground next to him.
Harry had noticed too.
"Er… Sirius? There's a dragon standing next to you."
"An honor to meet you at last, Mr. Harry Potter." Said a familiar voice.
"Er… Sirius? There's a dragon standing next to you that just talked." Harry backed up a step with an astonished expression. Renee bolted to his side, with an equal look.
"Jeff!" She shouted.
"Renee!" The little yellow dragon called happily.
"Thank God! So you do know this annoying little monster!" Sirius ran a hand through his graying hair, sagging his shoulders as if he was just relieved of a heavy burden.
Jeff looked up at him angrily.
"Annoying little…?"
"I practically tripped over him on the way over to Lupin's… was wandering the streets, this thing was…" Sirius interrupted. Jeff's look became dangerous.
"This thing? Well excuse me…"
"Uhh, yes Sirius, I know him… he's a good friend." Renee quickly interjected.
Timothy was looking down at Jeff with both interest and uncertainty. He tugged at her robes, wanting to get down, and Renee obliged. Harry quickly grabbed her arm and looked at her with worry, but she gave him a reassuring smile and Harry nodded skeptically.
Jeff turned to Timothy and his dangerous look quickly turned to that of a friendly puppy.
"And you must be Timothy! Hello, nice to meet you, young man!"
Timothy smiled and moved closer.
"Are you a real dragon?" His eyes were bright and wide behind his black glasses.
Jeff put on his toothy grin and nodded.
"Sure am!"
Timothy edged even closer, making Harry let out a concerned squeak but Renee took his arm and squeezed it gently.
"How come you can talk?"
"I'm a Jefforagon, Jefforagons talk."
"Wow!" Timothy gasped slowly, and he hesitated with his hand in the air, not sure if he was allowed to pet him. Jeff puffed out his chest a moment, and slid up under Timothy's hand and leaned into him. He scratched behind Jeff's ear and the dragon's tail began to twitch.
Harry began to pull at his shirt collar. Renee laughed, and Sirius crossed his arms looking at them all with a mixed expression.
"Er… Renee, dear? Would you mind explaining?" Harry asked, looking at Timothy nervously.
"Just as long as we don't explain over a desert spider." She laughed, kissing him.
Summer came, and that meant Timothy's sixth birthday. Renee's wand was poised over a large cake in the kitchen and Harry was putting the finishing touches on a large birthday package.
"Are we sure we can handle such a large crowd, Renee?" He said between shots of ribbon out of his own wand.
"Harry, if we can defeat forces of evil, we can throw a large birthday party." She turned and looked at him with a grin. "Now, make sure you behave yourself… my parents are gonna be here. My dad will give you a lecture on military magics if you goof off at all."
"Your brother always has a kick out of it," Harry smiled. "Not to mention George and Fred."
Renee glared at him.
"Don't let them get you and Ron started, Harry… I mean it! Before you know it, Timothy will be all over the place, Mrs. Weasley will go bananas, Mr. Weasley would get in trouble with her for laughing…. Oh I can go on and on!"
"Alright, alright! Calm down, no need to worry." Harry laughed.
Renee's eyes narrowed.
"Famous last words."
Suddenly, there was a puff of smoke, and Jeff skidded into the kitchen.
"Quick! Hide me!" He said quickly.
Harry looked at him.
"Timothy playing knights again, Jeff?"
He nodded vigorously with an exasperated sigh.
"Well don't hide in here, Timothy can't see any of this yet." Renee called over her shoulder as she put the finishing touches on the cake.
Jeff moaned and ran out.
"Don't ever call him a pet," Harry said, rubbing his arm with a pained look. "You'll regret it."
Renee stared at him as she hid the cake from sight with her wand.
"What did I tell you about that?" But her words got lost in her mouth as she leaned up against the counter heavily with a tight face. Harry looked at her with growing concern.
"Something wrong?"
She shook her head.
"Oh, no… no, I just think I'm coming down with something… that's all."
He looked away slowly, not entirely satisfied with her answer. She breathed heavily.
Uh-oh, if this is really what I think it is… Harry and I need to talk. Renee thought to herself, wiping her forehead. Being sick the past two mornings, I'm surprised he hasn't said anything until now.
There was a knock at the door and Renee stood up straight.
"Remember, Harry… no monkey business." She told him as she walked out.
"Hoo-hoo!" He scratched his head, making himself look like a monkey. She rolled her eyes and laughed.
The next night, after all the company had made their final good byes before leaving the area, Renee convinced her family to go out for a walk. It was the first time that it was ever truly safe to do so, without worry. Timothy convinced both of his parents to let him ride his new broomstick, the Genisis.
As she walked arm in arm with Harry through their nearby woods, Timothy zooming at a safe distance ahead of them, her thought quickly went over all the changes in the past months. Magical families were moving back at an equal pace. Diagon Alley was slowly gaining back new businesses and traffic there was picking up with the growing population. Hogsmeade was not so deserted anymore.
Harry was still off from work, the Circle was taking care of the odds and ends that happened to show up, allowing for their family to have some peace. They kept to themselves, not quite ready to face the world… for when they do, they'll be even more famous than they ever were before.
She rested her head on Harry's shoulder as they came to stop at the top of a hill. He leaned into her and they stood in silence. Timothy zipped around, making Harry grin as he watched. Renee simply stared out, thinking about everything. Everything in her life. Her childhood, her time at Hogwarts, being with Harry, her son… the final battle. It all flashed through her mind in quick glances.
One memory that she never thought much of suddenly stopped in her mind. It had happened a long time ago, back when she was still in Florida. Her brother, Timothy, was packing to move out to Britain for his new job… and Renee was deeply upset.
"Is this the end?" She remembered herself asking him. He had turned to her, hands poised in the air holding some shirts.
"End of what, Renee?" He had asked.
"Of everything. You won't be here… things will be much different, not the same. Nothing will be as it was."
"True," He told her. "But things change, it's part of life. However, that doesn't mean it's the end."
She remembered giving him a quizzical look, and he came over and bent down to her level with an intelligent glare in his eye that at the time, had given her the sense that he knew more about things than he showed.
"There is no such thing as an end, because where there's an end, there's a beginning. That's life… it's the way things are. Just when you think that you have your job done, you have to start another one. Life is just one big loop, it may change… it may change drastically, but things never end. Destiny's game is continuous, and where one player leaves off… the next one follows."
Renee had never really understood all that he had said, she never persisted to ask… and he had left that afternoon. Time made her forget until now, as she stood in Harry's arms and looked out at her son. She also dwelled on another issue that was growing inside her, and she glanced at Harry briefly.
"I know what you're thinking… I can feel it." He whispered with half a grin.
"What am I thinking, then?"
"Our destiny is done… but it's not over." His expression turned dark and his grin faded into a sad frown, looking at Timothy. "Our job now is simply to guide, and protect."
Renee said nothing, snuggling closer to him.
"There's something else too, that you're thinking." He whispered in her ear.
"Oh?" She whispered back.
He nodded, and a mischievous smile grew on his face. She looked at him and sighed.
"I can't keep any surprises from you, can I?"
"No, not really… but this you were advertising." He shrugged, kissing her and pulling away to go down towards Timothy. He turned around and smiled broadly. "I love you, Renee Potter."
"And I love you, Harry Potter."
He laughed, leaving her on the hill, and went to go give Timothy some pointers. Renee smiled herself and stared.
Who knew what destiny had in plan for her family, but what she did know was that as long as she had her loved ones… weather she can see them or not… Renee could overcome anything. And now it was up to her to prepare her son for his own ordeal… to live up to the legacy of the Potter family. She was going to be there for him…. And she always will.
****
A/N: ::sobs:: I can't believe that I've finished with Renee, however... to tie in everything nicely (which I wasn't able to do with this chapter, not to mention there are some things that have to happen first before Renee's story is really wrapped up) you can expect an epilogue! If you noticed, there was use of foreshadowing in this chapter, which tells of the "surprise" that I have planned... and it's not a series about Timothy (because that's just too obvious). You can also expect in the epilogue a nice, long, explainative author's note! So, review this! And I'll see ya at the epilogue!
~OrcaPotter
DISCLAIMER: ::breaks telepathic connection to J.K.:: Umm, I'm sorry, I'm on the other line.
Chapter Ten: The Calm After the Storm
Renee and Harry sat in large armchairs in front of Dumbledore's huge desk. Dumbledore himself sat behind it, looking so old and weary that Renee could not even begin to imagine how old he could have been. He took long, slow breaths, but he had a kind and understanding smile on his face.
"Ron and Hermione Weasley have been pelting the house for news. Sirius had to go and give them some peace of mind this morning. I'm sure you are both eager to get to them, most of all your son… but, as you very well know, we have some things to discuss first."
Harry grunted and Renee nodded grimly.
Dumbledore sighed, crossing his hands together above his desk and peering intently through his old half-moon spectacles. He leaned closer to them, the light from a nearby candle making all the wrinkles of age on his face more prominent. Renee got a sudden and unpleasant feeling that time was short for Dumbledore those days… and the very thought of it made her heart cry.
"I can't begin to tell you both how proud I am of the two of you." He paused a moment, searching for words. "What you have just accomplished took the ultimate amount of courage, wit, and risk… for the lives of everyone. The world can't thank you enough, we are forever in your debt. Now we can finally get on with our lives in peace, without fear. News about what has happened is getting around slowly, since most of us are so spread apart around here… but it's spreading, and the magical people are truly rejoicing! Perhaps the families we sent away to safer places will consider coming back… and our community can rebuild.
"You both realize, that even though you are already written in history books and such… that your names will be immortalized forever in our history. Legends, I'm sure you'll become. I myself am honored to know you both." He looked directly at Harry.
"Harry… I know for certain, that your parents would be exceedingly proud. You've truly lived up to their power and well beyond that." His eyes turned to Renee, and she felt her face grow hot.
"Renee, I'm sure your brother would be proud of you too. Both him, and Harry's parents, can rest in peace finally."
Renee stared down at her feet, not sure of what to say. Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, sighing deeply and saying nothing more for a moment. Harry seemed lost in thought, and Renee looked up to glance at him and reach out with her emotions to give him comfort. He looked at her, gave her a tiny smile, but looked very solemn.
"Since you've arrived here, I have argued with myself weather or not to ask for details on… well, on the fall of Voldemort." He sighed again, closing his eyes. "I finally decided that I will not, unless you choose to tell me… or anyone else for that matter. What happened was something more than personal… something that the two of you were unfortunately a part of that had to be dealt with alone. I can only imagine the amount of power that it took to bring about your destiny… it certainly had to have been more than I could ever dream of doing. When I first met each of you… Harry when he was just a small baby and Renee when she bravely moved far from her old home… I knew that you two had a connection. It took a while to figure out exactly what it was, but I realized that it couldn't of been nothing else but the fact that you were Etam Luoses, soul mates. What happened yesterday was meant to happen, decided at your births. A battle of destiny, you can call it." Dumbledore cracked a small smile. "Takes a lot of stress off your shoulders, for now at least… I know what parenthood is like."
His last statement made Renee look up at him curiously. He had stopped momentarily, stroking his beard and staring off at his bookcase thoughtfully with a smile. She glanced at Harry who had a similar look of interest.
"Uhh, Professor? Did you ever have children?" Renee asked quietly and carefully, she wasn't sure if it was right to ask.
Dumbledore turned to her slowly, a mixed expression on his face. It told of amusement, shock, hesitation, and sadness. He took another deep breath, and opened a drawer. Slowly, staring at a large picture frame he was pulling out, Dumbledore's eyes began to grow glossy and Renee started to really feel embarrassed for asking.
"Ah, dear Renee… I have indeed."
Harry leaned forward.
"You never said anything."
Dumbledore nodded, still looking at the picture that Renee couldn't see from behind.
"I have a son, named Eian. He's a well grown man right now, which makes me all the more older. We keep in touch, but his affairs rarely allows him to visit… and my own business did the same." He hesitated a moment. "This brings me to my last, and most important, matter to discuss."
Renee looked at Harry, his expression was blank.
"I've sent out most of the aurors in the Circle to find him, for I haven't heard from him in the past few years. I hope my worst fears don't come true, but," He gave a small smile. "He has my talents, and I'm sure he's avoided our former dark nemesis.
"Anyway… when our world slowly gathers itself back together and our people begin to return home…" He winked at them. "Magical children will need a place to learn how to become as great as you two."
Renee and Harry stared, jaws dropping.
"Of course," She whispered.
"You mean it?" Harry asked.
Dumbledore nodded.
"The four founders of Hogwarts would be mortified if I left that great castle of a school to remain in ruins. It was too dangerous to rebuild with Voldemort's reign. But now, I believe it's time to return and teach a whole new generation of witches and wizards… and to prevent something like this from happening ever again." He looked at them sternly, suddenly, and mainly at Harry.
"However, we all know about my… my condition. I am in no shape to run a school, especially one that will need full energetic effort to get it in order. I'm afraid that I can't uptake the role of Headmaster any longer. It pains my heart to say so, but I can't deny fate. This has brought me to another long and difficult decision… which I am leaving up to you, Harry. Don't say anything 'till I'm finished," He pointed a finger at Harry, who's mouth had opened to say something.
"Now, I'm afraid to say that Minerva McGonagall is no longer with us… as well as most of Hogwart's previous staff. The professors of the new Hogwarts will be just as new themselves. To head them all off, it will take a strong individual who can lead justly. My first thought, was you, Harry. There is only one other soul, besides you and Renee for that matter, that I could also consider for the job."
Harry's eyes went wide, his mouth dropping again.
"However," Dumbledore said slowly. "I realize that you are a young parent, with a young family that you're still establishing. To be headmaster would require many sacrifices, sacrifices I'm not sure you'd be willing to make for the sake of your family. That is why, I leave the choice to you. If you decline, which I will fully understand… I'm hoping to appoint my own son. If he'll take the job.
"And, there is something else… that I failed to mention before. I don't know why, and I'm not sure if you've both noticed it already… but I have an odd feeling that we'll still need aurors. Maybe not soon… maybe not for a long, long time… but if there ever comes need I want my best two to be able. Put that in mind."
Renee knew what he was talking about. She sensed the same thing right after she knew Voldemort was gone. Why she wasn't relieved fully, an uncertain rest. Renee also knew that Harry had as well.
She quickly changed her glances from Harry to Dumbledore, eager to hear Harry's reply to Dumbledore's offer. Harry was completely frozen in shock, and she could feel his nervous and erratic thoughts as he deliberated in his mind over the proposal. As proud as she was of him, and completely happy that he could be offered such an honor, she knew that it would demand much of his time and how often they would be apart.
Harry looked at her and their eyes locked. Their bond she could feel inside became stressed. She didn't know what to say, or even to give him a hint of what she really felt. All she managed to do was give him a small and encouraging smile. He turned away, and she frowned. Dumbledore's expression was blank.
"Professor… I am truly, truly honored. I really don't know what to say. But, I'm afraid that I'm sure of one thing. My family comes first… they are the most important people in my life. I want to be there for them, and as much as I want to uphold your honor, what you offer me would take too much away from Renee and Timothy. I'm sorry, but I must decline."
Dumbledore nodded with a mixed expression that was mostly filled with understanding. He lowered his head.
"I trust then, however, when I'm gone… that you'll give my son advice if he has need?"
"Certainly." Harry answered.
Silence followed, and Renee shifted in her seat, looking at Harry with partial relief and compassion.
"Well now," Dumbledore suddenly hit his desk as hard as an old wizard could. "You'll both be happy to know that you deserve a well earned, long, vacation!"
Renee let out an uncontrolled laugh. Harry soon followed.
"You two go out and celebrate, no doubt you want to get your son too. Why, the whole world should be celebrating now, much…" His eyes fell slightly at a memory. "Much like it did those many, many years ago… in which a boy lived."
Nobody said anything, Renee glanced at Harry who was now looking at the floor. But he quickly stood up, went over to her with a small smile, and offered his hand. She returned the expression and stood up, looking to Dumbledore.
"Thank you, for everything Professor."
"Yes sir… thank you, thank you so much."
Dumbledore shook his head.
"No, the gratitude goes fully unto you two. It was the very least I could ever do."
Harry paused a moment, then went around the desk and what started out as a handshake quickly turned into a hug that Renee could feel exchanged a deep respect and admiration through them both. She watched them as they parted, and Harry came to her with a sad smile.
"You ready, sweetheart?"
Renee was about to nod, but stopped herself. She smiled wearily at him and squeezed his hand.
"I'll be right there, I just want to talk to him a moment."
He nodded, then turned back to Dumbledore.
"Good bye, Professor."
"Farewell, Harry."
Harry hesitated a moment, then with a last glance at Renee left the study. Renee waited until the door closed, then turned to the old wizard who astonishingly seemed to have aged even more in the past few minutes. He looked about ready to wither away into nothing.
A lump formed in her throat as she decided what it was she wanted to say.
"I know, Renee. Deep down… you are not at a comfortable peace. Harry is as well, I can tell… although, understandably, it bothers him more." Dumbledore spoke for her in a tired voice.
"It's not over." She whispered.
He nodded.
"No, it's not. However, it is for us."
She cocked her head, puzzled.
"What do you mean?"
He looked at her with mild surprise.
"Ah, but you know very well what I mean, Renee."
Renee's chest clenched up as she remembered.
"Why? Why must we be plagued by evil?"
He shook his head with a cold and hardened expression.
"I'm afraid it's all beyond us… beyond magic. It's destiny's game, and we just won round one. The fate of round two relies on our children, there's nothing we can do, but be there for them. Who knows if it will ever end… but until then, we continue to do what we have been doing. Stand up for our values and beliefs… to protect what's good." He gave her a small, final smile.
"But, for now… Etam Luos, is an intermission. Let's use it to our full advantage, so that the next generation can have the upper hand in round two."
She returned the small smile, not sure if she felt any more relief, and turned to put her hand on the doorknob. Renee hesitated and looked back.
"Professor, have I shown myself for who I really am?"
He looked at her.
"Yes, Renee… you always have."
Renee and Harry walked up to a small cottage on the outskirts of a muggle suburb. It's lawn was impossibly neat, which made Renee smile as she knew that magic had something to do with it. It was a wonder the neighbors didn't say anything, since their lawns were no where near to the condition of this one. As they reached the front steps, there was no need to open the door.
"Mum! Dad!"
Timothy ran out of the door and nearly tripped down the steps. Harry caught him before he could hit anything and held him in an embrace so tight that Renee wasn't sure if Timothy could breath.
"Oh, Timothy… you're alright." Harry whispered, his hand ruffling Timothy's messy black hair slowly. He caught sight of Renee, who was looking at them longingly, hardly patient to get her turn. Timothy looked up and her eyes met his.
"Mum!"
Harry handed him over and Renee held her little boy close. It was at that moment that she finally felt relief, holding Timothy. It was over and she had him. She held him tightly and Timothy's soft breathing comforted her, rubbing his back like she always did. His little hands grabbed her robes tightly, as if afraid she would disappear again.
"Don't worry, honey… we won't let anyone separate us again. Never." She whispered.
"He… he said he was going to kill you." He muttered sadly.
Renee exchanged a glance with Harry.
"Who? Who said that?" Harry asked him, brushing aside Timothy's bangs to look at him.
"Er… perhaps we can talk about that later,"
Renee looked up and Ron was standing in the doorway with a sad smile, Hermione was bouncing on her heels behind him. He casually walked out and down the steps, paused in front of Harry with an intense stare, and suddenly grabbed him in his arms.
"Do you ever stay out of trouble, Harry? Must you always be at the brink of killing yourself? For crying out loud! What would my mother say to me if I told her that I let you go off and kill yourself without me?"
Hermione had rushed out and put her arms around Renee, and she let her head fall on Hermione's shoulder while Timothy struggled with the tight space.
"Thank God you're OK! Oh, you had us so worried! Please tell me that you won't do anything like that again!"
"Oh, don't worry, Hermione… we have absolutely no intentions of doing that again. Never." Renee reassured her strongly. She let Timothy get down, but he refused to leave her side. The five of them walked into the house exchanging dialogue of relief.
A week later, Renee, Harry, and Timothy were relaxing in the living room of their own home. Very little damage had happened during the events of last week, and Harry had no problems repairing what did need mending. The large grandfather clock chimed quietly and Renee was putting the finishing strokes on a sketch she was doing of Timothy, who was playing on the floor in front of Harry.
"Dad?" Timothy's small voice suddenly spoke up. Harry looked up from the Daily Prophet and Renee momentarily stopped sketching.
"What's up?" Harry asked, turning a page.
Timothy looked up at him with a curious expression, then his head dropped and he looked at the floor in concentration.
"Didn't your parents save you, when you were little?"
Harry put his newspaper down slowly and his smile wavered a bit. Renee stared at him with sad smile.
"That's right, just before they died."
Timothy seemed to consider what he was going to say next, his little face tight, not quite sure.
"What's wrong, honey?" Renee asked him, putting her sketchbook aside.
He shook his head, his black hair ruffling with the motion.
"Why…? Why did they come to save me, if you were in trouble again?"
Renee became puzzled, Harry had an equal look. Both of them stared hard at Timothy.
"What do you mean, they came to save you?" Harry asked in a whisper.
"I never told Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione about it, I was too afraid for you that I forgot. But it was grandma and grandpa that saved me from Draco Malfoy… at least I think so. The man that took me away looked just like you, dad, only he didn't have your scar and his eyes were a different color. A lady with red hair and green eyes kept Draco Malfoy away… and they both said good bye after Great-uncle Us and Uncle Lupin took me."
Renee looked to Harry and saw that his face was washed with an expression of disbelief. This seemed to bother Timothy, for he looked back down at the toy he was playing with. After a few silent moments, Renee not sure what to do, Harry suddenly leaned down and picked up a surprised Timothy.
"Timothy," Harry looked straight into Timothy's keen eyes. "Your grandparents saved you because your mum and I couldn't… because they love you, and you were in trouble. They are watching over us, and even though we can't see them… they are here. So you'll never be truly alone… because your family will always be by your side."
Timothy snuggled up against Harry and he leaned back in his chair, ruffling Timothy's hair slowly in comfort. Harry glanced at Renee, who was looking at them both with a small smile. Emotions that she couldn't recall began to flood her mind, and she quickly picked her sketchbook back up to avert her senses.
Suddenly, there was a quick knock at the front door. Renee stood up quickly and Harry sat up straight, Timothy looking startled. Harry got up and handed Timothy to Renee.
"I'll get it." He pulled his wand out.
"Who would of thought that visitors would cause so much stress," Renee muttered to herself. Timothy clung to her robes nervously and she rubbed his back to soothe him.
She heard Harry go through the routine of answering the door with a password, and then the door opened.
"This is a surprise, Sirius." Harry breathed a sigh of relief.
Renee walked out into the hallway with Timothy in her arms, and sure enough, there was Sirius standing in the foyer. However, her eyes quickly went downward as something yellow was standing low to the ground next to him.
Harry had noticed too.
"Er… Sirius? There's a dragon standing next to you."
"An honor to meet you at last, Mr. Harry Potter." Said a familiar voice.
"Er… Sirius? There's a dragon standing next to you that just talked." Harry backed up a step with an astonished expression. Renee bolted to his side, with an equal look.
"Jeff!" She shouted.
"Renee!" The little yellow dragon called happily.
"Thank God! So you do know this annoying little monster!" Sirius ran a hand through his graying hair, sagging his shoulders as if he was just relieved of a heavy burden.
Jeff looked up at him angrily.
"Annoying little…?"
"I practically tripped over him on the way over to Lupin's… was wandering the streets, this thing was…" Sirius interrupted. Jeff's look became dangerous.
"This thing? Well excuse me…"
"Uhh, yes Sirius, I know him… he's a good friend." Renee quickly interjected.
Timothy was looking down at Jeff with both interest and uncertainty. He tugged at her robes, wanting to get down, and Renee obliged. Harry quickly grabbed her arm and looked at her with worry, but she gave him a reassuring smile and Harry nodded skeptically.
Jeff turned to Timothy and his dangerous look quickly turned to that of a friendly puppy.
"And you must be Timothy! Hello, nice to meet you, young man!"
Timothy smiled and moved closer.
"Are you a real dragon?" His eyes were bright and wide behind his black glasses.
Jeff put on his toothy grin and nodded.
"Sure am!"
Timothy edged even closer, making Harry let out a concerned squeak but Renee took his arm and squeezed it gently.
"How come you can talk?"
"I'm a Jefforagon, Jefforagons talk."
"Wow!" Timothy gasped slowly, and he hesitated with his hand in the air, not sure if he was allowed to pet him. Jeff puffed out his chest a moment, and slid up under Timothy's hand and leaned into him. He scratched behind Jeff's ear and the dragon's tail began to twitch.
Harry began to pull at his shirt collar. Renee laughed, and Sirius crossed his arms looking at them all with a mixed expression.
"Er… Renee, dear? Would you mind explaining?" Harry asked, looking at Timothy nervously.
"Just as long as we don't explain over a desert spider." She laughed, kissing him.
Summer came, and that meant Timothy's sixth birthday. Renee's wand was poised over a large cake in the kitchen and Harry was putting the finishing touches on a large birthday package.
"Are we sure we can handle such a large crowd, Renee?" He said between shots of ribbon out of his own wand.
"Harry, if we can defeat forces of evil, we can throw a large birthday party." She turned and looked at him with a grin. "Now, make sure you behave yourself… my parents are gonna be here. My dad will give you a lecture on military magics if you goof off at all."
"Your brother always has a kick out of it," Harry smiled. "Not to mention George and Fred."
Renee glared at him.
"Don't let them get you and Ron started, Harry… I mean it! Before you know it, Timothy will be all over the place, Mrs. Weasley will go bananas, Mr. Weasley would get in trouble with her for laughing…. Oh I can go on and on!"
"Alright, alright! Calm down, no need to worry." Harry laughed.
Renee's eyes narrowed.
"Famous last words."
Suddenly, there was a puff of smoke, and Jeff skidded into the kitchen.
"Quick! Hide me!" He said quickly.
Harry looked at him.
"Timothy playing knights again, Jeff?"
He nodded vigorously with an exasperated sigh.
"Well don't hide in here, Timothy can't see any of this yet." Renee called over her shoulder as she put the finishing touches on the cake.
Jeff moaned and ran out.
"Don't ever call him a pet," Harry said, rubbing his arm with a pained look. "You'll regret it."
Renee stared at him as she hid the cake from sight with her wand.
"What did I tell you about that?" But her words got lost in her mouth as she leaned up against the counter heavily with a tight face. Harry looked at her with growing concern.
"Something wrong?"
She shook her head.
"Oh, no… no, I just think I'm coming down with something… that's all."
He looked away slowly, not entirely satisfied with her answer. She breathed heavily.
Uh-oh, if this is really what I think it is… Harry and I need to talk. Renee thought to herself, wiping her forehead. Being sick the past two mornings, I'm surprised he hasn't said anything until now.
There was a knock at the door and Renee stood up straight.
"Remember, Harry… no monkey business." She told him as she walked out.
"Hoo-hoo!" He scratched his head, making himself look like a monkey. She rolled her eyes and laughed.
The next night, after all the company had made their final good byes before leaving the area, Renee convinced her family to go out for a walk. It was the first time that it was ever truly safe to do so, without worry. Timothy convinced both of his parents to let him ride his new broomstick, the Genisis.
As she walked arm in arm with Harry through their nearby woods, Timothy zooming at a safe distance ahead of them, her thought quickly went over all the changes in the past months. Magical families were moving back at an equal pace. Diagon Alley was slowly gaining back new businesses and traffic there was picking up with the growing population. Hogsmeade was not so deserted anymore.
Harry was still off from work, the Circle was taking care of the odds and ends that happened to show up, allowing for their family to have some peace. They kept to themselves, not quite ready to face the world… for when they do, they'll be even more famous than they ever were before.
She rested her head on Harry's shoulder as they came to stop at the top of a hill. He leaned into her and they stood in silence. Timothy zipped around, making Harry grin as he watched. Renee simply stared out, thinking about everything. Everything in her life. Her childhood, her time at Hogwarts, being with Harry, her son… the final battle. It all flashed through her mind in quick glances.
One memory that she never thought much of suddenly stopped in her mind. It had happened a long time ago, back when she was still in Florida. Her brother, Timothy, was packing to move out to Britain for his new job… and Renee was deeply upset.
"Is this the end?" She remembered herself asking him. He had turned to her, hands poised in the air holding some shirts.
"End of what, Renee?" He had asked.
"Of everything. You won't be here… things will be much different, not the same. Nothing will be as it was."
"True," He told her. "But things change, it's part of life. However, that doesn't mean it's the end."
She remembered giving him a quizzical look, and he came over and bent down to her level with an intelligent glare in his eye that at the time, had given her the sense that he knew more about things than he showed.
"There is no such thing as an end, because where there's an end, there's a beginning. That's life… it's the way things are. Just when you think that you have your job done, you have to start another one. Life is just one big loop, it may change… it may change drastically, but things never end. Destiny's game is continuous, and where one player leaves off… the next one follows."
Renee had never really understood all that he had said, she never persisted to ask… and he had left that afternoon. Time made her forget until now, as she stood in Harry's arms and looked out at her son. She also dwelled on another issue that was growing inside her, and she glanced at Harry briefly.
"I know what you're thinking… I can feel it." He whispered with half a grin.
"What am I thinking, then?"
"Our destiny is done… but it's not over." His expression turned dark and his grin faded into a sad frown, looking at Timothy. "Our job now is simply to guide, and protect."
Renee said nothing, snuggling closer to him.
"There's something else too, that you're thinking." He whispered in her ear.
"Oh?" She whispered back.
He nodded, and a mischievous smile grew on his face. She looked at him and sighed.
"I can't keep any surprises from you, can I?"
"No, not really… but this you were advertising." He shrugged, kissing her and pulling away to go down towards Timothy. He turned around and smiled broadly. "I love you, Renee Potter."
"And I love you, Harry Potter."
He laughed, leaving her on the hill, and went to go give Timothy some pointers. Renee smiled herself and stared.
Who knew what destiny had in plan for her family, but what she did know was that as long as she had her loved ones… weather she can see them or not… Renee could overcome anything. And now it was up to her to prepare her son for his own ordeal… to live up to the legacy of the Potter family. She was going to be there for him…. And she always will.
****
A/N: ::sobs:: I can't believe that I've finished with Renee, however... to tie in everything nicely (which I wasn't able to do with this chapter, not to mention there are some things that have to happen first before Renee's story is really wrapped up) you can expect an epilogue! If you noticed, there was use of foreshadowing in this chapter, which tells of the "surprise" that I have planned... and it's not a series about Timothy (because that's just too obvious). You can also expect in the epilogue a nice, long, explainative author's note! So, review this! And I'll see ya at the epilogue!
~OrcaPotter