This is it, the final chapter!
Chapter 37 - The Boy Who Lived Again
"You did it…" she whispered, looking straight at Harry. "Harry, you did it!"
Harry sank to his knees and allowed the waves of emotion to sweep over him. He stared at the ground where Voldemort had died and wept with sheer relief. He looked up to see Hermione edging towards him, her eyes also filling with tears. Harry rose to his feet and they stood opposite one another. After a moments silence, they both took a step forward and embraced.
Harry gripped her tightly as a feeling of intense euphoria made him feel like his heart would explode. He felt her sobbing into his shoulder and he gently stroked her hair. It was starting to sink in: it was over.
"Oh Harry!" Hermione whispered, hands clasped behind his head. She looked deep into Harry's eyes. "Thank you." She kissed him softly on the lips. Harry was stunned for a moment before Hermione pulled away, smiling at Harry's puzzlement. "I do love you Harry. Not in the same way as Ron, but you are as important to me as he is."
"Better not let him hear you say that," Harry laughed, recovering himself. He gave her another hug. "I love you too, but don't tell Ginny!" Hermione laughed and Harry felt the sound warm his very soul.
Salazar and Wormtail were unconscious, and Godric, James, Sirius and Remus were all looking at them. James was crying softly. Godric led them out onto the balcony. At the sight of Harry and Hermione the remaining Death Eaters and the followers of Salazar lost the will to keep fighting and gave themselves up. Cedric appeared to be bleeding slightly and Remus crossed the balcony to revive a winded Tonks, but everyone else seemed to be alright.
Lily was stood on the stairs below him, her bright green eyes shining with proud tears. She smiled a shaky smile at him, as if not trusting her facial muscles to hold their tremulous position. She looked across at Hermione and her emotional hold broke. Like her son before her, the sight of Hermione, fully alive, was too much, and she sank to her knees.
James ran down to her as wild cheers filled the room, at the top of which stood Harry and Hermione; triumphant and exultant.
The celebrations went on long into the night. The enemy who had given in were being held in the next realm's equivalent of a prison, an event so rare in itself that it captured the attention of all those within the area. Harry and the others all headed back to Godric's house at the top of the hill.
"Well done Harry," cheered a slightly inebriated Sirius. "Couldn't be more proud of you!"
"Cheers Sirius," Harry laughed, as Sirius laughed away. He caught the eye of his father who grinned and beckoned him over.
"Typical Sirius," said James, rolling his eyes and smiling affectionately across the room. "But Harry, I need a word or two. Could you come with me?" Detecting a slight air of sadness in his father's voice Harry followed without question. James led him out to the end of the garden where Lily was sat on a bench. She looked relaxed and smiled lovingly at Harry. This display of maternal affection eased Harry's worries slightly, and he sat on the soft grass in front of his mother and father.
"We just wanted to talk to you properly before – before you have to go back," James said hesitantly. Harry looked cautiously between the two of them, instinctively aware of time running out.
"Firstly, we have letters for Albus, Emily, Petunia, Arthur and Hagrid for you to take back," Lily said calmly. "Godric is transferring them for you to take back as we speak." Harry nodded, not trusting himself enough to open his mouth. James seemed to understand.
"Secondly," he said with the hint of a smile flitting over his weary features, "we think you should go back to the Kingston Kites and tryout again. Obviously we aren't forcing you, but you deserve a life you enjoy. You should enjoy every moment; after the trials and suffering you've endured you've more than earned it. Which brings us onto the final point."
"We just wanted to say, Harry," Lily continued, "that we couldn't be more proud of you. To have not only come through what you have but to have remained so caring and loving is nothing short of miraculous. You're going back to the previous realm tomorrow, but we just wanted to tell you that we love you very much sweetheart, and that we'll wait for you here. However long you are!"
All pretence at composure was soon abandoned, with even James weeping quietly. Through the crushing sadness, Harry considered asking to stay longer, but he knew in his heart that he couldn't. He needed to be back in his own world. He needed to reunited Hermione with Ron and to see Professor Dumbledore. But above all, he needed Ginny.
It had only been a matter of days since he had arrived in the next realm, but the distance he felt from her was immeasurable. It had shown Harry just how much he had needed her. It had also helped him appreciate how Hermione must have felt; separated from everyone she had known. Harry picked himself up and with a watery smile at his parents, he headed back inside.
Harry awoke late the next morning. He looked across at the corner of the room where Hermione had slept to see that she was looking at him.
"Good morning," she said softly, smiling across at him. "Did you sleep well?"
Harry nodded, yawning blearily. "Nice to not be woken up for once." Hermione laughed, and both got up to go downstairs, but before Harry could leave the room, Hermione hugged him again.
"I'll never be able to thank you enough," she whispered into his ear. "If you ever need anything, just ask." She flashed him a quick smile before heading downstairs. After a moments bemusement, Harry followed her to the kitchen area. The house was empty, but a note waited for them on the table.
"Dear Harry and Hermione,
Hopefully you are not getting this too late in the day! Whenever you are ready, please head down to the veil. We'll be waiting there.
- Godric."
Hermione looked at Harry. "Are you ready?"
"Ready as I'll ever be," Harry agreed. Hermione smiled joyously and, taking a hold of Harry's hand, she led him out of the house.
They walked unhurriedly through the next realm one last time. The grey landscape unfurled towards the horizon as the town opened out in all directions. The people, who by now were obviously fully aware of what had taken place, smiled and waved. A few even greeted Hermione by name. Hermione spoke briefly with them all and the sun was high when they turned down the alley towards where the veil was. Harry was the first down the steps and when he entered the veil room, there was a burst of applause.
It seemed as though everyone who had fought on the previous day was there to see Harry and Hermione off. The crowd parted to allow the two of them up to the raised platform where the veil stood. On the platform were the residents of Godric's house. Each addressed Hermione first before speaking to Harry. Remus was first, and he spoke to Harry as Hermione spoke to Cedric.
"Harry," he said, smiling down at him. "You really were one of the best wizards of your age. It was my pleasure to know you and to teach you." He patted Harry fondly on the shoulder, bowing slowly to Harry, before stepping aside for Cedric.
"I'll never forget what you did for me," he said quietly. "Tell my mother and father that I'll see them sometime." Harry readily agreed that he would, and Cedric stood aside for Tonks.
"Wotcha Harry," she said, smiling at him. "Take care of yourself, give my love to the Weasleys; they all looked out for me." Harry didn't know if he could take these rapid-fire farewells, but then his Godfather stepped in front of him.
"Hello Sirius," Harry croaked softly.
"Its not all fun and games being you is it?" Sirius answered with a small grin. "Don't worry; you've got people up here and in the previous realm all rooting for you. I'll wait for you with the others, so I'll see you when you are old and wrinkly!" Harry laughed through his tears, and Sirius leaned forwards once more. "Keep hold of that Ginny, she'll keep you happy and sane!" He moved on and then Harry's parents were in front of him. Lily was shaking and sniffing but she was smiling in a fond, maternal way that rendered Harry utterly incapable of speech.
"We've already said our farewell Harry," James said stoically. "But it's not really goodbye. We'll see you again one day. Take care of yourself; we'll be waiting for you." Harry held back a sob as a silent tear slid down his face. Godric stepped up behind James.
"It is time, Harry," he said quietly. Lily and James stepped to one side, holding each other tightly and not taking their eyes off Harry, to reveal the veil of realms, rippling in a non-existent breeze. "The letters are there," he continued, pointing at a small stack which Hermione scooped up. "You truly are the most powerful wizard of your age," he said simply. "Harry turned to face the awaiting group. They were all here for him and Hermione.
"You being here means more than I can ever say," he said softly, his body trembling violently with grief. "We'll see you again someday." He turned one last time to his mum and dad. Words were useless now. Both smiled proudly at him and James gestured towards the veil.
Harry turned and, taking Hermione's hand, stepped up the swaying curtain. With a deep breath, they stepped forwards through the veil. He looked around him, back once again in the Ministry of Magic. He smiled and there was an eruption of cheering.
The veil room was crowded with people. Harry could see rows of Aurors crowded around the balconies, all cheering and clapping. Amongst the ranks Harry could pick out Charlie, Aaron and Lucy. But before he could acknowledge them, his eyes fell on the small group directly in front of the veil.
Albus Dumbledore was in the centre of the group, his eyes a-flame with emotion, mouth creased into that warming smile of pride. He gazed at Harry in a paternal manner and Harry smiled back.
The girl to the left of Dumbledore was already moving. Her red hair bouncing behind her as her eyes locked into Harry's, Ginny ran forward. She threw herself at him and Harry embraced her fully, feeling almost the exact moment that their souls reconnected. The feeling confirmed what he already knew; that he loved her and she loved him. He ran a hand gently through her hair as tears over brimmed in his eyes.
"Hello you," he whispered softly. Ginny let out a small sob of joy.
"Oh it's really you!" she whispered, and her voice sent an electric thrill down Harry's spine. "I knew you'd come through, I just knew it!" She buried her head in Harry's chest, leaving Harry peering at the person behind her.
Ron was staring, beyond Harry, at Hermione. His eyes wide and blurred with tears, his body shaking like a leaf in an autumn gale, he stumbled towards her. He grabbed her as if fearing she would disappear again, and they clung to each other, both smiling and crying into each other's shoulders. Harry averted his gaze, beaming, when Ginny released him. Harry turned his head in time to see Professor Dumbledore step forward.
"You have made me so proud," he said, smiling fondly and placing a hand on Harry's shoulder. Harry stepped forward and embraced the headmaster warmly, instantly feeling calmed and care free. "Knew you had it in you."
"Thanks Merlin," said Harry, smiling slightly. Dumbledore gave him a small wink but said nothing. He gave Harry another smile as, Ron met Harry's eye.
More was said in that silent, tearful but unwavering gaze than could possibly be said with words. Harry, Ginny's hand now back in his, strode over to Ron and Hermione.
"Hello you," Harry mumbled. Before Ron could respond Hermione had let him go and pushed Harry towards him. The two embraced, more like brothers than friends.
"I guess I owe you one," Ron mumbled, something of his old self returning. Harry laughed joyously, releasing Ron and taking a small step back. He looked Ron dead in the eye, allowing his soul to reacquaint itself with the feelings of relief and happiness that were flooding through his veins.
"Yeah," he said, beaming broadly, "I guess you do."
The day was one that would prove to live long in Harry's memory. Not only was he reunited with the entire Weasley family, he also met Hagrid, Emily, Malfoy, Neville, Charlie, Aaron and Lucy, along with many other people. He learnt that immediately after Harry and Voldemort had gone to the next realm he had ordered that the veil be guarded 24 hours a day by Aurors. The Death Eaters, divided and leaderless, had all but surrendered with the exception of a select group who were currently being fought a few miles north of Azkaban. Since Harry's victory over Voldemort Godric had been able to communicate with Dumbledore again, and Dumbledore had brought in all of Harry's friends to celebrate. He hadn't told them about Hermione.
After an hour had passed Harry, Dumbledore, Emily and Mr Weasley left the Ministry, agreeing to meet the other Weasley's and Hermione back at the Burrow later on. Once outside, the four of them apparated back to number four, Privet Drive.
The suburban street blinked into view, the afternoon sunshine hinting at Harry's joyous mood. A few steps behind Dumbledore, Harry stepped up the garden path. He smiled fondly at the neatly trimmed garden, and he realised that, despite his mal-treatment, he had missed the Dursley's. And when Aunt Petunia opened the door, he knew from the look on her face that she had missed him too.
"Harry!" she screamed, dashing forwards and pulling him into a fierce embrace. "Thank goodness you're alright!"
"Hello Petunia," a voice had spoken behind Harry before he could respond. Aunt Petunia released Harry as she peered at Miss Hilier. She drew in a sharp breath.
"Emily?" she whispered. "Emily is that you? Gracious it's been years! Do come in, all of you." Harry, Dumbledore, Arthur and Emily followed Petunia into the house and settled themselves in the living room.
"So, what happened?" Petunia asked seating herself next to Harry.
Harry told her everything, right from the moment he left for Hogwarts at the beginning of the year up until his arrival with Hermione back at the veil. Dumbledore filled in some of the blanks including the surrender of the Death Eaters at Azkaban, and of the continued struggle in the hills to the north of it. The Dementors had been defeated, and the Giants had been sent home, although Dumbledore and Arthur had stated their intention to reacquaint Giants with wizards.
"But he's gone forever now?" Petunia asked, seeking reassurance. Dumbledore nodded, but this question had reminded Harry of something Godric had said.
"Professor," Harry started slowly, "Godric said that wizards are reborn once they leave the next realm. Shouldn't we try and find out who Voldemort was reborn as?" Dumbledore beamed at Harry.
"I'm glad you thought of that and I'm one step ahead of you. I already have people in St. Mungos and all the other major hospitals, muggle ones included, and magic registries who are writing down the names of any witch or wizard born in the last 24 hours or so. There appears to be about twenty who may be magical who could potentially be Voldemort. It is likely he would be reborn in this country and so I shall keep an eye on any potential youngster. I will let any future headmaster or headmistress know if I am no longer in charge." Harry's heard jerked up.
"You're leaving Hogwarts?" he said, appalled. Dumbledore smiled at him fondly.
"My dear Harry," he said softly. "Not until I die."
The remainder of the afternoon was spent discussing all things; past, present and future. Emily and Petunia reminisced about Lily and the "good old days," as Arthur discussed battle plans with Aaron Shacklebolt, who had apparated to Privet Drive in search of the Minister. Harry and Dumbledore meanwhile, talked of the future.
"What do you think you will do now?" Dumbledore said, leaning back in his chair with his hand clasped gently on his lap.
"Move into Godric's Hollow," he said simply. Dumbledore nodded approvingly.
"A very wise move, one that will certainly make Dobby happy. And a career maybe? An Auror? A Minister?"
Harry smiled, recalling what his parents had said. "I think I have an idea." He laughed with joy at what they had said he should do and it finally started to sink in. It was over.
EPILOGUE
"I think one more interview should be enough, Harry," Hermione said, packing her quill into her bag. "One more and we'll be right up to date." Harry rose from his seat to let Ron and Hermione out of the house.
"We'll see you at Twybrook on Saturday," Ron said, smiling happily. "Box seats!"
"For you at least!" Harry said laughing.
"Bye Ginny!" Hermione called through to the garden, where Ginny was tending the rose thorns.
"See you soon Hermione!" Ginny's faint voice called back.
"Good luck!" Hermione whispered softly. She and Ron left the house and Harry watched as they disappeared into the afternoon air. He headed back through the house, giving Dobby a knowing smile and a nod as he headed through the kitchen, causing the little elf to squeal with delight as he hurried off to fetch Winky. By the time Harry headed into the garden the two little house elves were peering intently out of the window. He sat down on the rug next to Ginny.
"How's the biography going?" Ginny said, kissing him softly on the cheek.
"Pretty good actually," Harry replied thoughtfully, scratching his chin. "I never really liked the idea but after St. Mungos suggested it as a fundraiser and Hermione offered to do all the writing I could hardly say no could I?"
Ginny laughed. "No I suppose not. Though I do hope Ron can get more time off. You'd think with Voldemort gone their wouldn't be so much need for Aurors now!"
"There'll always be people to fight," Harry replied, slightly wearily. "Though I don't think we'll be seeing the likes of Voldemort again. Ron's team defeated the last resistance on the same day you finished at Hogwarts."
"I know," Ginny replied, "a memorable day for many reasons." Harry knew what she meant. Professor McGonagall had announced her intention to retire as leader of Gryffindor House and as Transfiguration teacher. Unbeknownst to Hermione, Dumbledore had already spoken to Harry on the matter of setting her up as McGonagall's replacement. Harry had agreed that this would be a brilliant idea and had volunteered his own help if it was needed. Dumbledore had declined to comment on that.
"Do you know what today is?" Harry said softly. Ginny smiled at him.
"Exactly a year since you returned," she replied happily.
"Indeed," Harry agreed, his voice shaking something. He felt a mixture of joy and fear in his heart as he reached into his pocket with his left hand. He shifted his weight, allowing himself to rest on one knee, capturing Ginny's hand with his right.
"Ginny," he said slowly, drawing the ring out of his pocket. It was a ring made in a fire lit by the birth of a phoenix, with a shimmering diamond glowing eternally in its centre. He held it out to her with a shaking hand, as she gasped, eyes darting between Harry and the ring he held out to her.
"Ginny," he repeated. "It's been a year since I returned, but I feel as though you've been a part of me since the day I was born. Will you marry me?"
Ginny's eyes leaked tears of unbridled joy. "Of course I will, Harry," she whispered, her hand closing around Harry's own as she hugged him tightly. "Yes!"
Harry held her close to him, his heart hammering in ecstasy inside his chest. He smiled broadly and he held her away from him. "Even without my scar?"
Ginny rubbed a tear out of her eye. "Yes Harry, I love you. Especially without your scar."
THE END
Thanks to everyone who reviewed and read this book even though it's taken so long to finish! I can't believe its finally done! Hope people enjoyed it and sorry for the numerous mistakes made! Good luck to anyone writing their own and lets all just hope that Harry makes it through JK Rowling's book! Thanks again.
TheGuitarist