Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter if I did it would not have turned out like it did lol.
AN: Hi everyone thanks for the feedback! Okay so mostly going to be a quiet chapter because there are only two chapters left after this one. Some seemed to go for a sequel and I'm leaning on writing one so I guess we'll see it all depends on you guys lol. Okay then on with the story!
Dragonthunder89
Fighting Alone
Harry scanned the bloody scene before him. He didn't know how long he stood there but he was startled from his thoughts by his godfather who put a hand on his shoulder.
"Harry, let's go, we need to pay our respects to Arthur and Molly," Sirius said.
"They've been buried already?" Harry asked in surprise.
"We can give them a proper ceremony after we end this war, come," Sirius beckoned.
Harry and Sirius apparated to the Burrow where he found Remus, Tonks, Hermione, Dumbledore, Moody, Kingsley, Neville, and a few of the defenders of Azkaban. The children were a mess as Harry noticed they were in the backyard where they all stood around two freshly dug graves. Harry approached them with Sirius and began to embrace them one by one. But when Harry approached Ron, Ron simply walked away from him.
"Ron wait a minute," Harry started.
"Let him go son," Sirius cut in.
Harry reluctantly did so and approached the graves where he collapsed to his knees in front of them.
"It's all my fault, I wasn't strong enough to save you. Forgive me, you were both so kind to me but I promise that Voldemort will pay with his life," Harry vowed.
Harry then stood and walked away from the group who were all still mourning. Hermione however, gave chase to the troubled wizard.
"Harry," Hermione said as she caught him.
"Hermione?" Harry asked as he turned to her.
"Harry it wasn't your fault," Hermione replied.
"No, it was Voldemort's fault, but Hermione, even with my new power, I am not strong enough to kill him," Harry said.
"Yes you are, listen to me," Hermione argued as she stepped closer and took his face in her hands.
"We all have faith in you Harry, I have faith in you and I know you can kill him, because I know what the power he knows not is," Hermione continued.
"Yeah love I know," Harry replied.
"Yes, you have that power now Harry," Hermione said.
"Huh?" Harry asked confused.
"It's me, I love you Harry Potter," Hermione replied as her eyes glistened.
Harry felt like he was just broadsided, he never expected that, he knew he had loved her for a long time but to hear her confess it herself was amazing. Now finally Harry knew that he could end it, all the pain all the suffering and all of the death, if for no other reason he would do it for her and so he smiled lovingly at her and replied.
"I love you to Hermione Granger," Harry replied as he captured her lips in a passionate kiss to which she gladly responded.
Sirius watched the two with a smile, he was glad that Harry finally found her, he finally had his true love. Dumbledore also observed the two with a twinkle in his eyes, but not even Dumbledore knew what was going to happen or just how powerful Hermione would make Harry. The two were suddenly interrupted as a voice cried out in rage.
"Stupefy!!" Ron screamed.
Harry was torn from Hermione and hit the ground hard. Harry recovered easily however but as he rose to confront his adversary he found none other than Ron Weasley pointing his wand at him.
"Ron! What the bloody hell are you doing?!" Harry demanded.
"Because of you, my parents are dead! But on top of that you want to take her away from me as well!! Expelliarmus!" Ron yelled.
Harry's wand flew from his hand but he did not look afraid at all, in fact he looked rather pissed off.
"Ron!!!" Hermione screamed angrily.
"No everyone stay back!" Harry ordered.
Ron fired another stunner but Harry easily batted it away with a wandless shield charm.
"All you have ever done to my family is hurt them and put them in danger, but no it wasn't enough you had to go and get my parents killed! Why did you do it?! So that we would be able to understand how you feel?!" Ron demanded.
"How dare you accuse me of such a thing Ron, no one should ever experience what I have! When did you lose sight of everything? When I faked my death I had to give up everything that I had left, everything! You had a whole month without me around so how did I take her away from you? When she told me she loved me even I was shocked. I never expected her to return my feelings. Why do you hate me Ron? I know that I haven't been perfect and that I made mistakes but I am trying to rectify them," Harry asked.
"You can't bring my parents back anymore than you can bring yours back!" Ron snarled.
"No but I can kill the one responsible for everything, I can end this war to ensure he never kills again..." Harry trailed off.
There was something off about Ron, Harry couldn't help but feel that the aura Ron was giving off was somehow...evil. Then Harry realized what it was, Ron was about to do something not even Harry thought he would do.
"Avada..." Ron started.
"Expelliarmus!!" Dumbledore bellowed.
As soon as Ron was disarmed he was tackled by Sirius and Kingsley. As they brought him to his feet Moody grabbed a hold of him as well.
"Ron how could you?!" Hermione screamed.
"Ronald Weasley you are under arrest," Kingsley stated formally.
"Attempting to cast the Avada Kedavra curse on another wizard will not have a trial during times of hostility as you may know and you will be sent directly to Azkaban to await trial in the presence of the Wizenmot," Moody added.
Dumbledore shook his head sadly while the others stood with mouths agape as Moody snapped Ron's wand in half before he and Kingsley apparated away.
"Come on pup, lets go home," Sirius said.
Harry nodded and felt Hermione wrap her arm in his and turned to smile down at her. She returned his smile although the sadness over this new shock was evident in her teary eyes, before the three of them apparated to Grimmauld Place. Dumbledore stayed as did the others to help the other Weasleys cope and to prepare them for the impending battle.
~**~
Back at Grimmauld, Sirius, Harry, and Hermione sat in the living room to digest everything that had happened.
"So you two finally found your way to each other, I am so happy for you," Sirius said smiling at the two who were currently cuddled up with each other on the sofa.
"I never could have imagined that it would feel this good," Harry admitted.
Hermione giggled before laying her head on his shoulder while Sirius chuckled at his godson.
"I can't believe Ron would try to kill you," Sirius admitted.
"I lost him after the battle at the ministry, the deaths of his parents he couldn't take and so he needed a culprit and he also hates me so this gave him an excuse," Harry explained.
"Wow Harry, when did you become so insightful?" Hermione asked in awe.
"A month in a pitch black forest can do that to you," Harry replied.
"Harry, how long have you been...you know, in love with me?" Hermione asked.
"I think I am going to step down to the gym for a bit, you kids take the night and relax. Maybe we can do a bit of light workout tomorrow before resting in the evening before.." Sirius trailed off.
"Good idea Sirius," Harry agreed.
"Right I'll leave you to it then," Sirius replied.
"So?" Hermione asked.
"I think I have loved you since our third year," Harry confessed.
"That long?" Hermione asked quietly in shock.
"That long, yeah," Harry replied.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Hermione asked as she cupped his face in her hands.
"I was afraid, I was afraid that if Voldemort found out he would come after you," Harry replied.
"Oh Harry, you know that you weren't able to keep me away anyway," Hermione half teased.
"With you by my side I know now that we can do this," Harry replied.
Hermione nodded before capturing his lips in a passionate kiss that soon turned heated as Harry's tongue prodded her mouth. Hermione granted him entrance as they explored each others mouths. They had to pull away for air eventually but Hermione stood up and grabbed Harry's hand. Harry stood also and let Hermione lead him upstairs to his bedroom where they would make love for the first time. (AN: Sorry no details...yet lol I know I'm evil).
~**~
The next day came early as Harry had been used to waking up so early. But today was different for a number of reasons. The most important one was asleep with her head on his chest and her legs intertwined with his own. Harry gazed down at Hermione lovingly as she slept, she looked so peaceful that Harry didnt have the heart to wake her but he had a lot to prepare for today and this evening before they marched on Hogwarts to end this war. Harry successfully managed to disentangle himself without waking her and left the room to get cleaned up. As Harry headed down to the kitchen he found Sirius up already drinking his coffee with the paper in his hands.
"Good morning pup, I didn't expect you to be up after your...tiring engagement last night," Sirius greeted with a smirk.
"Sod off," Harry replied chuckling as he joined his godfather at the table.
"So tonight is it isn't it?" Sirius asked.
"Yes, I can feel it, Voldemort will die tonight, I will see to it," Harry replied.
"I received an owl from Dumbledore this morning, he says that you should carry the Sword of Gryffindor to battle like Godric did long ago," Sirius said as he pointed to the mystical weapon resting in an equally magnificent scabbard on the counter.
Harry unsheathed the weapon and studied it with wonder before he realized Sirius was speaking to him again.
"Harry, Dumbledore also said the sword holds a vast amount of magical power waiting to be harnessed by the right person and he believes you are that person. Well in any case it will be effective against Inferi," Sirius explained.
"Yeah, this came in handy yesterday," Harry agreed.
"He also told me that in order to destroy Voldemort you must draw power from your true love, in this case Hermione," Sirius continued.
"How do I do that?" Harry asked.
"I don't know pup, but perhaps when the time comes you will figure it out," Sirius assured.
Harry suddenly had a thought, he remembered back to when he used Hermione's wand to combat the death eaters and because it was Hermione he was able to explode with power.
"Of course!" Harry cried jumping up.
"What is it Harry?" Sirius asked.
"I'm such a bloody idiot, when I fought at the castle last time I was able to use Hermione's wand and draw off of her power through her wand. This connection must work both ways," Harry explained.
"She can draw from your power in the same way, but how does that help you defeat him? Raw power won't win," Sirius replied.
"Because, when I face Voldemort, she must face him with me in the final showdown only she will fight with my wand and I will fight with her wand," Harry explained.
"Merlin! That's it! She will force her magic through your wand making it twice as strong and vice versa!" Sirius exclaimed.
"But, she would have to be beside me when I fight him for the final showdown," Harry replied with a little fear.
"There is nowhere else I would be but at your side to help you defeat him baby," Hermione interrupted entering the kitchen.
"Good morning beautiful, how much did you hear?" Harry asked embracing her and giving her a peck on the lips.
"Enough to finally understand how you must carry out the prophecy," Hermione replied.
"But Hermione, I can't ask you to do that," Harry argued.
"You won't ask because I am going to be beside you whether you like it or not. Because I love you and I refuse to watch you fight alone," Hermione replied.
"I love you so much," Harry said.
"I love you to," Hermione replied as they shared another kiss.
"Now that I know what needs to be done, I have to teach you the spell we will use to fight him," Harry said turning serious.
"The one you used before you collapsed?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, it is called Phoenix Rage and requires a great deal of power, but I know you can handle it," Harry replied confidently.
After breakfast, Harry and Hermione spent a large portion of the afternoon doing just that, and not surprisingly, Hermione caught onto the spell very quickly until finally they were confident that she had it down. They realized it was late afternoon and decided to get something to eat. Sirius had watched them practice for awhile but eventually started to prepare for the battle that night. After Hermione was confident in her ability to cast the spell they joined Sirius with various exercises. Harry also explained that they would be switching wands for the battle, after Harry explained it, Hermione was upset with herself that she hadn't figured that out sooner.
"I can't believe the answer to all of this was right in front of us!" Hermione pouted.
"Hey don't worry the important thing is, we know what to do. We will end this war and make him pay for everything he has done," Harry reassured her.
The three headed back upstairs as they were practicing in the basement. Sirius busied himself polishing one of his swords for the battle.
"Hey you two, by the way pup you learned that spell extremely fast very well done," Sirius said to Hermione.
"Well, I had a good teacher," Hermione said poking Harry gently in the ribs.
"So, we have three hours until sun down we should probably eat and relax until then," Sirius suggested.
"I hope it was enough," Harry replied.
"You have endured so much Harry, I love you too much and I won't let you fail," Hermione assured him.
"That's right pup, she is your strength not to mention our allies, we have some very impressive witches and wizards among us," Sirius added.
"You're right, but we must be extra careful," Harry replied.
"Yes, now, let's eat and try to relax we will need our strength," Sirius said.
The three had a rather pleasant meal and talked about random things until they managed to come back to the subject of the impending battle. But after a round of encouragement for each other Harry suddenly thought of something.
"Sirius, what about the centaurs? Are they okay?" Harry asked.
"We don't know, Dumbledore is trying to get in contact with them before tonight," Sirius replied.
"Dobby!" Harry called suddenly.
The little elf appeared next to them looking up at Harry excitedly.
"Master Harry Potter sir!" Dobby exclaimed hopping up and down.
"It is good to see you are you okay?" Harry asked.
"Yes Harry Potter, Dobby knows you are going to war tonight sir," Dobby replied.
"Yes, Dobby, tonight Voldemort will fall," Harry said.
"Dobby has already organized the other elves sir, we is prepared to fight for you Harry Potter!" Dobby squealed proudly.
"This took Harry by surprise and by the looks on Sirius's and Hermione's faces, they were shocked as well.
"That is excellent Dobby, but please be safe tonight okay?" Harry requested.
"Yes Harry Potter sir, does you want anything else?" Dobby asked.
"Actually Dobby I wonder if you could find out how the centaurs are doing huh?" Harry asked.
Dobby nodded vigorously before he popped away once again leaving the three alone. They sat in silence for awhile not saying anything until Sirius noticed the time.
"We should go, it will be dark soon, Hogsmeade right?" Sirius asked.
"Yeah, are you guys ready?" Harry asked.
The two nodded and they proceeded to apparate to Hogsmeade. Dumbledore had suggested that they meet at Honeydukes, or rather outside of Honeydukes. Before they apparated Hermione stopped them.
"What if they are in control of Hogsmeade to?" Hermione asked.
"We will have to take that chance," Harry replied.
But Dobby reappeared looking rather anxious.
"Master Harry Potter sir, Hogsmeade has suffered heavy damage but the centaurs have managed to hold it, they await your arrival sir," Dobby reported.
"Excellent, thank you Dobby," Harry replied.
They apparated to Hogsmeade and Harry took in their surroundings. Dobby wasn't kidding, many of the buildings were completely destroyed, some were badly damaged but Harry saw numerous centaurs, most of them were patrolling.
"Harry! Hermione! Sirius!" Firenze called trotting towards them.
"Firenze! You're alright!" Harry cried happily.
"Yes, we were pushed out of the forest and took casualties but they have stopped their assaults for the moment, Voldemort must know of our plans," Firenze explained.
"Well, unfortunately, he's not stupid so you're probably right," Harry agreed.
Dumbledore and McGonagall soon arrived followed shortly by Remus and Tonks who joined them. As they exchanged greetings, Harry was surprised to see Fred, George, Bill, Charlie, and Ginny join them.
"Hey guys, it's good to have you here, where's Percy?" Harry asked.
"Oh he's on his way, he is coming with the minister," Bill replied.
"You know what? I don't even know the new minister," Harry realized.
They were interrupted as numerous people arrived and at the head was Percy, Moody, Kingsley, and Harry guessed the man in the middle was the minister. Harry was shocked, there had to be at least a hundred aurors, in fact there were probably more. Neville soon joined them also. The minister approached Harry who was talking with Remus and Tonks with Hermione engaging every so often.
"So Harry Potter we meet at last, I am Minister Rufus Scrimgeour," Rufus greeted offering his hand.
"Nice to meet you," Harry replied cordially.
"They tell me you are leading the assault," Rufus said.
"Well, part of it yeah, I had a big hand in the strategy if that is what you mean," Harry replied.
"Shouldn't someone with more experience in leading take charge?" Rufus asked.
"What you mean you?" Harry asked already knowing the answer.
"Well...yes," Rufus replied.
"Arrogant bastard aren't you?" Harry asked smirking.
Hermione gasped and Sirius snorted trying to cover his laugh while several others looked on in shock.
"Now you listen here young man, we are not so different you and I," Rufus began.
"Wanna bet?" Harry challenged.
"How dare you speak to me that way I am the Minister of Magic!" Rufus thundered.
"I am the Boy Who Fucking Lived, nice to meet you minister, get off your power trip and wake up! This is not about glory, its not about honor, its about freedom, the freedom to live and the freedom to live without fear," Harry shot back.
"Don't lecture me boy!" Rufus snarled.
"Calm down minister, the normal chain of command doesn't exist in this fight, we are all equals," Dumbledore intervened.
"Right, minister I will gladly turn your leadership over to you once we end this because it doesn't interest me I just want peace and quiet and to be left alone again," Harry explained.
"Everyone! It is time!" Dumbledore bellowed using his wand to make his voice heard.
The centaurs took the lead and started out of Hogsmeade, followed by the fighters of the light as they marched towards what would be the greatest battle of their time.
AN: Okay there we go! Tensions are high, who will win? Will Harry be able to kill Voldemort? Find out in the next chapter! Only two more left. But I've decided to do a sequel so until then!
Dragonthunder89