Chapter 44: Battle of Hogwarts


It was several hours later when they were sated from being separated for months did they finally relax. Both falling asleep for a short while, Skye was the first to wake finding that the tree they had unabashedly made love under had moved its branches and leafs to fall like a curtain (much like a willow trees would) to give them privacy (That fact alone freaked her out a little bit and blush just the tiniest bit that the tree had watched them the entire time) Hermione still lay sleeping head on her chest and an arm wrapped possessively around her waist. Both were wrapped in the large piece of fabric that was her great kilt.

The deep constant breathes of the brunette told that it would be some time before she woke. As she lay there the Vajiri looked skyward following the vines and branches of the oddly shaped tree with the split trunk. Despite its appearance Skye could tell that it was strong and teeming with a life of its own with an energy that seemed to connect with all. The very glow that surrounded it made it seem other worldly. The smell of earth and plant surrounded her senses as did the scent of those that lived in the forest. But just lying here as she was Skyler was able to connect to the earth that allowed her to feel the presence of more then just natures creatures. She could feel the presence of many like the spirits that roamed this place that were drawn the magic of the tree.

Skyler…

The whispered sound of her name caused Skye to flinch slightly not only causing her connection to break but also caused her mate to stir….my mate…the thought alone made her smile brightly as she watched the brunette snuggle impossibly closer to her…my mate she's my mate…mine..

Hermione felt the comfy pillow beneath her flinch and she moved so as to readjust herself. Upon hearing the sound of a steady heart beat the witch smiled eyes still closed as the events that took place prior of her nap rushed through her mind. The smile she wore grew. It was not until feeling as well as hearing a rumbling of sorts did brown eyes flutter open.

"Mphm…Skye?" She asked sleepily looking up to find luminous Galaxy orbs gazing intently her. Her smile returned though the look on her face turned to one of surprise as she realized the rumbling sound was coming from Skyler. The older girl then swiftly flipped them so that she lay be beneath the Vajra who continued with the sound as she nuzzled her neck spreading small kisses on the skin there.

"Mm hello to you too." She smiled now fully awake but then added with a giggle,"Are you purring?"

"Mmhm" came the reply and Hermione giggled again sighing from the feeling of those lips moving across her skin. The purring deepened growing louder however when the black haired Vajrian came to a particular patch of skin. It took a moment but Hermione realized what would cause the reaction and her smile grew shining so brightly it put the sun to shame. Skyler had claimed her….marked her and they were forever bound to the other. She felt guilty of course in asking Skye to forgo the plan that had been set not only by Dumbledore but by Skye and Snape. Then again when has anything gone as planned during these past seven years…thinking of this brought back with it the reality of the situation and with it the very real problem of their next move.

Sensing the shifting mood Skye brought her nose up to brush the brunette's,"What are you thinking about.." She asked softly.

A small smile graced Hermione's lips as she looked lovingly at her mate, caressing the planes of the Vajirians face,"That despite how much I like being with you….like this..we still have very important things to do."

"A few more minutes won't hurt…I think." Skye said stealing a kiss with a grin.

"And pray tell me, how long a few minutes is to you hmm?" The witch questioned with a quirked brow resting her arms on strong shoulders playing with the end of black locks.

"you realize I can't count passed the number 3 right?" Both laughed lightly, falling into a comfortable momentary silence before Skyler began gently tracing the claiming mark on Hermione's neck."Does it still hurt?"

"No…" She answered shaking her head,"It tingles though when you touch it like that." The witch finished softly.

Skye leaned in to kiss the mark growling playfully while saying,"Mine" Hermione giggled pulling Skyler flush,"Yes yours….just remember who You belong to" though, she stated the last part rather fiercely and Skye chuckled at the possessive tone.

Again Skyler leaned in kissing the shorter girl beneath her, starting off slow and gentle soon becoming wanting."I take it you're in a very good mood right now.." Hermione murmured against the others lips, lifting her hips earned her a groan from the older girl.

"Very." The Vajiri grunted, pressing her own hips down.

"Oh for fucks sake….I just had to find you both in the middle of fucking didn't I." The sound of the new comers voice caused the two to jump in surprise as Hermione did her best to cover herself. Skye didn't move much as she used her body to cover her mates,"Aaron…" She growled,"What the fuck?!...ow!"

"Language." Hermione chastised,"Both of you."

"Is there a reason you interrupted?" Skye huffed.

"Don't get mad at me because you couldn't finish before I got here. A letter came for the lady and beside that you two have been gone for half a day so please either finish or put some damn clothes on.!" Although she was speaking to both of them Aaron's irritation seemed aimed at her cousin then both Skyler and Hermione.

"A letter from whom?" Hermione asked sitting up. As comfortable as she was laying down it would be rude not to look at her friend while taking if something important. So the witch pulled the fabric of the giant kilt to cover her self as her mate moved settling behind her, arms wrapped around her waist, head resting on her shoulder.

"Don't know. It's kind of rude to read someone else's mail."

Hermione chuckled at the comment,"I knew you followed at least one rule in your life."

"What can I say…sometimes the best kind of rebel follows the rules."

"That makes no sense." Skyler deadpanned. Aaron scowled at her older cousin however before she could retort Skyler growled fiercely at another who entered past the curtain of leafs.

It was Jaren who entered only to stop abruptly and stared. Hermione pulled the fabric clutched at her chest higher. Skyler growled again moving to cover more of her mate with her own body as best she could while Aaron groaned more out of irritation, then the Warriors incompetence.

"Didn't I tell you to secure the perimeter or something." The male warrior however only continued to stare which made Skyler even angrier. She then stood at her full height not caring that she was naked to stand protectively in front of her witch. Jaren's eyes widened at this as Aaron grumbled something that there should be a limit to what family members share with each other. With a snarl Skye was able to stop the trance the other Vajrian was in as he bowed his head and turned walking away quickly stumbling a bit.

"Idiot" both Aaron and Skyler said in unison and Hermione giggled a little at that. Though she did asked a little more seriously,"Why did he walk away after Skye stood up like that? Wasn't it enough that she growled in warning."

"Not to him." The other brunette sighed rubbing her temples,"he has it in his head he's a worthier mate then Amazon over here." Galaxy eyes rolled both at the comment and what was said."He walked away because he hadn't expected for you to choose a Qôn for a mate."

"A what?" The other girls asked and Aaron rubbed her face also covering her eyes,"A Qôn (koon) it really isn't that hard tot figure out the meaning considering she has the Requirements…"

Galaxy eyes widened as a blush soon covered her cheeks moving her hands to cover her lower region,"b-but I wasn't born-"

"Is that what they told you?" The older Vajiri quirked a brow questioningly but Aaron only sighed turned her back to the pair,"Look we just came to see if you were alright…just be sure to be clothed when you decide to come back to camp."

With that the younger Vajra walked away leaving the two lovers to themselves. Skyler sighed turning back to the witch who was eyeing her curiously."what?"

"Nothing.." the brunette said nonchalantly,"I just find it adorable how just moments ago you had not a care in the world who saw you, but the moment your cousin mentions something you have the confidence of a puppy learning to climb down the stairs."

"Yes..ahem…well I just didn't like him staring at you like that."

Hermione stood continuing to use the kilt as a wrap to cover up as she walked to her mate."I'm yours sweetheart now and forever…don't ever doubt that...but I will admit…he sort makes my skin crawl especially when he was staring like I was a piece of meat."

Skye pulled the shorter girl to her with a sigh,"he told me I didn't deserve you.." She said quietly. And Hermione searched Galaxy eyes silently urging her to say more."When we were fighting….he leaned in and told me that a halfling like me didn't deserve you but…what really got me mad was that he said he would show you what it was like to be with a real warrior."

"I have no interest in him Skye…" She said cupping the older girls cheek. Skyler nodded leaning in for a chaste kiss. It felt so good to be with Hermione like this again…

When hearing the Vajiri chuckle Hermione asked,"what?"

"I just realized….this tree is a hanging tree or wishing tree what ever you want to call it."

"That's what they are aren't they….the ribbons..they're wishes." Skyler nodded quietly before taking the end of the fabric covering Hermione and ripping two pieces. When the witch only continued to look she smiled pulling her amor along toward the trees trunk. Allowing herself to be pulled Hermione smiled realizing what her girlfriend wanted to do.

They came to stand before the split trunk and Skye handed Hermione one of the strips,"Will you make a wish with me hermosa?"

"I thought you liked to wish on stars" the brunette said playfully

Skye chuckled,"I do….but…this isn't just an ordinary wish. This is the wish of two lovers..two hearts becoming one. Just like the knot we tie."

holding up her strip to the branch Skyler waited until Hermione did the same and together they looped the pieces of fabric together. Their fingers brushing as they did so, both silently making a wish that came from their hearts. Their knot the only one dangling within the center of the tree.

~x~

When they finally made it back to camp in was early morning. The small party of Vajiri went about their usual business. Both Hermione and Skyler walked through hand in hand.

"Mistress Hermione" Tink called out as she appear in front of the couple,"A letter came for you…Tink took the liberty to make sure it's safe to open." She said handing the witch the letter.

"Thank you Tink." Hermione smiled brightly.

"Mistress Skye…" Tinks voice had suddenly filled with fear and Skyler tensed just a little,"The dark lord requests your presence soon. He is gathering a meeting of his inner circle."

Kneeling down in front of the house elf Skye took Tinks small hands in hers,"Tink….I'm not going back. My place is with my mate…but I can not abandon the allies I've made either. I don't want to put you in any danger but I must ask…would you watch over both Narcissa and Draco? You don't have to be seen….I only wish to know if they are ok."

"Do I have to stay at the manor?"

"No. You can stay where ever it is you please." The house elf's face scrunched in thought only for a moment before it turned into one of determination,"I will do what mistress has asked of Tink." Skyler nodded with a small smile pulling the small creature in for a hug. When their embrace broke Tink disapparated with a pop. With a sigh the Vajra stood and made way for her tent. Hermione right behind already reading the contents of the letter.

Both sat comfortably on the bed of furs and Skye asked,"Who's the letter from?" Seeing that the brunette had finished reading.

"Harry." She said softly,"He wants to know if I'm alright. Fleur had told him she could help him send the letter. He said that he knows where the next horcrux might be but him and Ron are a little stuck on how to retrieve it."

Nodding the older girl asked,"Where's that?"

"Gringotts. In Bellatrix's vault."

"Magical bank robbery. Tell me again how no ones ever actually been able to pull that off."

"Thank you for your vote of confidence on the matter." Hermione stated and sighed rolling on her side to face the Vajrian who sat cross legged.

"Sorry…you told me once that no ones actually gotten away with it. Those who've tried either never come back or end up in Azkaban if they do."

"We have to find a way the chance that a horcrux is there is too great. Besides what Harry mentioned makes a lot of sense..Bellatrix was really set on finding out if I had gotten into her vault and what else I took. She was under the impression that the sword of Godric Gryffindor was in her vault, or at least supposed to be."

"That's why she…..that's why she tortured you isn't." Skyler asked quietly. The image of Hermione unconscious in Aaron's arms flashed through her mind and she growled at the memory. Hermione reached out a hand to calm her mate but her forearm flashed the scar left there. Gently Skyler leaned forward and placed butterfly kisses across each letter,"I should have been there. I could have stopped it from happening." She said in a gruff but hushed tone.

"It's not your fault love…it could have been a lot worse. Bellatrix could have had both Ron and I killed the moment we got there or after finding out my last spell before being captured was a stinging curse."

"I will make her pay for this…" The Vajiri growled before whimpering softly as she continued to nuzzle the scar,"I should have done more to keep you safe."

The corners of her lips tilted upward and Hermione could not help but pull Skye's nearer so as to kiss them,"you did what you thought was best…just like me. But there is no battle we face that we can come out of unscathed…she scarred me yes….but it makes me fight harder for what I know is right…And every experience I've had since this whole thing started has made me stronger for it…I have no doubt in my mind you wouldn't have even let that woman near me had you been there. But what's done is done….all we can do is move forward…." The witch smiled caressing her mates face,"And I'll have you to help chase away the nightmares"

~x~

Harry paced anxiously as he waited for his friend. Early this morning he had received a response from his best friend stating that she was fine and that she had a plan for their next move. He wasn't quite sure how Fleur did it but Harry was grateful she did. He would have his best friend at his side so that they could finish this the same way they started this, together.

Ron was just as anxious as him, the minute word got to him that Hermione was coming he leapt for joy and cried knowing that she had made it out of the manor alright. The red head wouldn't shut up about how he wasn't going to let the witch out of his sight again and that he would do a better job protecting her. Harry couldn't fault him for his enthusiasm but…if Ron thought that was going to somehow make Hermione magically fall in love with him, the boy was sorely mistaken.

With a sigh Harry ran a hand through his hair, Hermione couldn't come soon enough. As far as he knew they were wasting time as Voldemort's hold on power grew tighter. His gut told him they were heading in the right direction and he was following it.

A loud crack was heard not that far off. Actually as both Harry and Ron turned they found two figures now standing on the large hill where Dobby was buried, both figures were female. That had to be Hermione but what the other person was he had no clue. However before he could ponder more Ron was off in a heart beat racing toward their third. So he too bounded off after him, however once getting a closer look at who stood with their Gryffindor Princess he new things would probably get ugly and fast but Harry was determine to help Skyler see reason….he would not lose another family member.

"Hermione! Run" Ron yelled drawing his wand and casting quickly. Within seconds Skyler stood between him and her mate a narrowing gaze set on him. The spell hit but caused her nothing but irritation.

"Ron!" The brunette chastised but he was having none of it. Continually the Weasley cast spell after spell hoping to cause damage. The commotion however attracted some attention and before anybody knew it Bill Weasley stood along side his youngest brother seeing red. Harry having had enough of this stood between the three as did Hermione.

"Stop!"

"Move! That animal tortured my wife!"

"She tortured Ginny! And many more just as much as she's killed! Move Harry she's going to pay for what's she's done!"

"Stop it!" Hermione yelled,"She did what she had to!"

"You can't be serious?!" Ron yelled,"Have you been with her all this time? What she shag you senseless to keep you from seeing the truth of her?" Ron sneered and Skyler growled at that she didn't mind the insults at her but to insult Hermione,"No! move Hermione! She let you get tortured by that mad woman!"

"Oi! There's two sides to every story Ron the least we can do is hear Skye out." Harry cut in.

"I've had enough of you defending her Harry! Even now when you've seen it with your own eyes that she's bad! Nothing good has come since she came and things only seem to get worse when she's around! Can you honestly tell me that after seeing her work for Him….after sending death eaters after you and her! That you still trust her?!"

Harry's answer was immediate and without hesitation and so much conviction it surprised all that heard…even himself,"Yes."

"Enough!." Came a stern voice and all turned to find Fleur with a gaze to match,"put your wands away now."

"Fleur…she how did she even know how to get here." Her husband asked tightening his grip on his wand.

"Because I told her. She iz a guest Bill."

"After what she did to you-"

"What she did, she did under ze guise of betrayer. She's never 'armed me nor will she ever." Fleur glanced at the Vajiri who gave a subtle nod and the blonde smiled if only slightly."Come there iz something I have to explain to you.." Fleur held out a hand to her husband who after minutes of thinking it over reluctantly lowered his wand. Taking the hand his wife offered Bill let her lead him back to the cottage.

"When you four are finished….please come back to the cottage. All of you are welcome." The French witch stated with emphasis on all letting both Bill and Ron know that meant Skyler too. When the older couple was far enough Skyler stepped forward. Harry of course had taken the moment to let his emotions take control and surprised two of his best friends after so clearly declaring that even now he trusts her, with a punch to the jaw.

"Harry!"

"I deserved that." Skye said gruffly, before being pulled into a fierce hug. The memory of witnessing what blood had shown caused her to stiffen but then the image of Jenna flashed and Skyler remembered she could not fault Harry. He had been under the succubus' control…hesitantly she hugged back before finally squeezing him just as tightly.

"You arse" he whispered hoarsely.

"I'm so sorry hermano….I know now you weren't the one to blame…but I was just so angry and seeing that it was you who had dealt the killing blow…I just….I should have known you'd never do that….can you forgive me?"

"youre family Skye….of course I do. But I want the truth from you about everything. If you're here with Hermione then you were never working with him were you." They pulled back but did not break their embrace,"Harry I'd like more then anything to tell you the truth about everything you deserve that and more but I can't….at least not yet, you will find out soon though I promise.."

Green eyes searched Galaxy ones and found nothing but truth along with guilt and sorrow. And he knew…but right now they had other matters to deal with beside the shaken relationship he had with his sister… It just proved to him more so that Skye would do anything to protect those she loves.

"We can catch up later right now we can't waste anymore time. We need to get into Grignotts. You think you can help us with that?"

Skyler nodded with grin. However Ron did not like the fact that his best friend so easily forgave the stupid traitor. With a sneer he pushed the two apart,"You can't be seriously taking her back that easily?."

"That's enough Ron I told you I don't know how many times already. I trust Skyler she never did anything with out reason I know she wouldn't have joined the death eaters if she didn't think it was the smart thing to do."

"She sent death eaters after you! You said so yourself at Godrics Hollow!."

"Ronald!" Hermione chastised,"Now is not the time for your jealousy. Right now we need to figure out how to get the next horcrux."

"Hermione not you too! You're not thinking straight. If you stay away from her you'll see-" shaking her head Hermione stepped beside her girlfriend."What I see is that you can't get past your own personal feelings of Skyler to see the more pressing matter at hand is finding the rest of the horcruxes and destroying he who must not be named once and for all. She's helping us Ron. She always has been but I am not letting this war take her away from me again."

This was a losing battle he knew it. How that stupid American girl so easily pulled his best friends and crush under her spell he didn't know but Ron was going to make sure he broke it for good. With a loathsome glare he turned from the three walking off along the shore. As he walked the sand the Weasley reached into his pocket, if this is what it came down to then his actions were justified. He had hoped that it would come to this but it seemed he had no other choice…besides if he made one see reason the other would follow…right?

~x~

Harry sighed shaking his head he could understand Ron's hate for Skyler he really could, and maybe he did forgive her a little too easily. But now was not the time to be fighting amongst themselves. They had more important things to do, when this was over then they could all have a proper talk of things. Besides that if Hermione could forgive Skye then he could too.

"So what's the plan?"

~x~

It was hours before they had all actually settled on a plan of action. After Ron left to cool down Harry, Hermione and Skyler joined both Fleur and bill in the cottage. The man met Skyler with a look that wasn't hateful but it wasn't exactly welcoming either. But Skye didn't blame him…..she had a lot to make up for when this was over and whether or not she was given forgiveness was yet to be seen. Ron had returned in the middle of the discussion being held in a much better mood it seemed. His reluctance of the set plan however had started another round of why they shouldn't be doing this but there was no other choice on the matter and tomorrow morning they would see their plan into action.

Hermione sat with Harry in the room she would be using tonight Skye had been called by Fleur and had yet to return.

"So you were with her since the manor?" The bespectacled boy asked softly.

"I was…but it took a few days before we actually cleared things up between us….I was so angry at her Harry."

"I know."

The witch sighed before looking into inquisitive green eyes,"She told me everything. Why she did it and before you ask it's not my place to tell its hers. Trust me Harry you'll understand why when she does."

Harry nodded before stating,"she claimed you didn't she."

Brown eyes blinked in surprise….how does he know that?...she was sure he couldn't see the mark on her neck (she was wearing a sweater after all)."Your eyes they've changed a little just like your teeth…you have this glow about you." Seeing that she still was not understanding what he was saying Harry looked around finding a hand held mirror on the dresser next to him. Picking it up he handed it to his friend,"Here look."

Taking the mirror in hand Hermione looked to Harry questioningly as he urged her to see her reflection. Bringing up to her face, Hermione's eyes opened wide finding that Harry was right. She hadn't taken much notice of the black ring that now encircled her iris before but it wasn't hard to miss now that a gold and silver ring out line it on both sides. The the rings were thin as if someone had taken a fine point pen and drew them there. The brown hue in her eyes seemed more golden as it neared the pupil. Where another black ring lined it, in the outer ring silver runic symbols appeared in the spaces of north, south, east and west. Where as in the ring lining her pupil, gold runic symbols were shown as if they were north west, north east, south east, and south east.

Harry had also mentioned her teeth so the witch bared her pearly whites to find that her canine teeth had indeed sharpened and we're just slightly longer then normal…

"It's more noticeable now then it was before." The boy said quietly. At this the brunette looked to her friend silently asking what do you mean."Before the wedding I sort of noticed the change in your eyes…it wasn't that noticeable except for when you were with Skyler or after spending time with her….now though…I think that's what has Ron the way he is too…he's noticed it too. He thinks that Skye has some sort of spell on you."

Hermione scoffed at that,"honestly….I'm with Skye because I choose to be."

"I know but after seeing the way your eyes change like that…" Harry cleared his throat deciding that maybe it was best to change the subject,"So she was the one who rescued you?"

"Not exactly…"

"What do you mean?"

"I couldn't blow my cover as a double agent. So I sent others for me….I wasn't in any condition to anyways…had I gone anybody who wasn't Hermione that night in the manor wouldn't be alive." At the sound of her voice both witch and wizard turned to the door. Both smiled and Hermione walked over to her love hugging her close. They kissed sweetly and Harry cleared his throat,"What did Fleur want?"

"Despite your little escape from the manor Tom isn't sweating it. He's found the elder wand so he feels" the two hadn't missed the use of the name but said nothing of it."Like he's won already" Harry finished.

"Yes and no…..no because you're still alive. You're the only one who can kill him so that threat of him still being undone like last time still exists..he is however wondering what your up to." She continued speaking already knowing the boy was going to ask an obvious question,"He knows there's a reason you didn't come to school this year besides the obvious. Not only that he actually had several death eaters scope out Privot Dr. The fact that your only known family hasn't returned to their home….it caused him to get suspicious. I have a feeling after tomorrow he'll know which only gives us so much time to find the remaining horcruxes."

"Can you find out what we have left to look for?" He asked scratching the back of his head.

"No. I know what you're going to say but I can't, I've shown no real interest in things and to show a sudden interest as you get closer to your goal well it's a little convenient don't you think? Besides I'm not going anywhere….I won't take the chance Hermione getting hurt the way she did again."

"Hermione make her see reason. If she can find out it would make our search that much easier."

"I see your point Harry really I do. But I also see Skye's too. I mean wouldn't you get suspicious if you were him?" Harry nodded in answer,"Besides Skye is telling the truth…we're newly mated in a time of war…her top priority would be keeping me safe…she'd worry way too much about me then what you want her to do….and I would be the same. Harry you don't know what it means to Skye's kind but I'm sure you can figure out what it means to be as we are….." Again Harry nodded with a sigh.

"I miss Ginny…" He said solemnly.

"She's doing fine hermano….trust me on that."

"Did you do what Ron said you did? Did you torture her?"

"No.."came the quiet answer. Skye was glad she held Hermione in her arms as the witch gave a reassuring squeeze at her waist.

"Then how is she came to look like you beat her like a rag doll for almost two months like Ron said?"

"I don't know how ginger came to know that but I didn't touch Ginny. A glamour was used to make her and everyone else I…'questioned' look the way did after. And before you ask it was to keep up with appearances. The death eaters needed to know I meant business."

The clock suddenly chimed eleven and the trio sighed realizing that it was getting late."Harry…..you need to understand that not everything was black and white for everyone in this especially those who gave you a hard time these last few years."

"You mean Draco don't you."

Skyler nodded,"Him and a few others. When this is over….I don't want them punished for their parents mistakes…and there are some who only do what he asks to keep their families safe from his wrath." Harry nodded in understanding. When this was all over he would make sure to do his best to keep his promise not only to Narcissa but would do what Skye was asking of him….after all he himself knew what it was like to take on the fate handed to him because of circumstance.

"Best get some sleep tomorrow's a big day for us."

"Ha the irony in all of this is that people use to think I was the bad influence…and I'm the one helping you break into a bank."

"You could always keep the get away car running."

"Yeah right and leave you with all the fun." Harry shook his head wishing the couple goodnight. After he left the two girls sat on the bed quietly contemplating about many things but what ran through their minds most was the event taking place tomorrow and what it would mean for all of them.

"He's still angry with me.." Skyler finally said.

"How do you know?"

Skyler tapped her nose and Hermione nodded in understanding."he's too focused in finishing this then being mad at you, it makes sense….but you can't fault him love."

"I don't….I just….I just want to be able to move past all this. He's my…he's my brother…I need him..just like I need you." Nodding the brunette leaned in giving a slow but sweet kiss,"then let's make sure tomorrow counts." She said softly once the kiss ended.

Skye leaned in again initiating another,"I want to make tonight count too" she mumbled.

"We need to rest sweetheart.."

"We will…but you said it yourself….we've just completed the mating bond…and my instincts tell me to…" Skye gently pushed Hermione on her back beginning to trail kisses along her neck."Mate." She growled lightly in the witch's ear causing her to shudder.

"It's would be rude though….especially here and now." Though Hermione's words seemed to lack luster of chastising Skye for the idea.

Skyler smirked,"Fleur knows…..why else give us the most isolated room in the house….besides I'm pretty sure she cast a silencing charm when readying the room for us."

"is that suppose to make me feel any better?"

Skyler growled playfully again baring her teeth to show she was alpha, Hermione growled right back showing her own pearly whites and both girls chuckled,"What's ever happens tomorrow I'll be there every step of the way hermosa…" the Vajiri said softly.

"I know…"

~\\~/~

Images of war and death flashed before her eyes as the screams of many rung in her ears both swirled around her like a whirlwind repeating constantly as if a record on repeat. She could couldn't take to see the faces of the innocent forced to endure the darkness….until finally all ceased and she stood in a meadow of some kind the wind was cool against her heated skin and a familiar voice ran through it bringing warning..

"The fight for the Wizarding world comes soon…and when it ends...the battle for all begins…hold stead fast Hermione Granger…for you are the light which tethers our champion…never doubt your heart…for it will be tested…"

With a small gasp Hermione woke. The sun had yet to rise and it was still a few hours before everyone else would wake. She lay exactly the way she'd fallen asleep, safe and warm within the arms of her Vajiri. She could feel the steady breaths on her neck as she pondered of the dream she had. However she could not ponder too deeply as she felt the presence of another. One who seemed to be watching silently, instinctively she sat up careful not to wake her girlfriend (as well as keeping covered) her gaze searched the shadows of the room until coming to the darkest corner where the figure of a man stood leaning against the wall. His waist up covered in the darkness of the shadows.

"Who are you?" She asked immediately. Unlike the first time she would not let fear pin her like before.

"When the time is right you will know…for now…."

A strange burning was felt on her left shoulder and Hermione hissed from the pain. Brown eyes turned their gaze finding a glowing mark where once bare skin had been. Now a mark, the same mark that branded Skyler's own right shoulder cap was displayed on her. Though unlike Skyler's this one was solid in design.

"A Gift.." The shadow man said simply.

"A gift for what exactly?"

The man straightened in stance as he began to disappear,"Be warned…a betrayal of one close is imminent" and he was gone.

That was a second warning, and Hermione began to wonder if they should really go through with what they had planned. Then again it made sense these beings that seemed to be watching over her, to give her warning of the danger not only she but Skyler, Harry, and Ron were heading in to, well then that must mean they were heading in the right direction. After all…doing what is right is never easy, but it helps in knowing someone is watching out for them.

Hermione soon yelped in surprise feeling a strong arm wrap around her waist and pull her close."What are you doing up?" Came a sleep husked voice and the brunette sighed in relief and contentment.

"I thought you were asleep…"

"You weren't in my arms…how could I?" The witch smiled turning her head and kissing her girlfriend softly,"How could I forget…the mighty Vajra needs her teddy bear to sleep."

"Sleeps not exactly what I have in mind right now.." Skyler nibbled at the brunette's ear beginning to rub a certain appendage between her girlfriends thighs.

"You're worst-hah!" Hermione's comment was cut, turning into a sharp gasp and then a moan from the feel of Skye's cock suddenly entering her."No...I'm better then one." Came low words as the Vajra began to thrust deeply and tremendously. Hermione knew she had to tell Skye of these strange encounters, she really should, but that was a conversation for another time. For now though, in this moment she would let Skye make her forget of the things yet to come..just for a moment.

~x~

They were nervous they all were, at least the two wizards and witch were. If Griphook was the goblin didn't show it, the group had gone ahead with their plan of breaking into Gringotts. However there was a slight change. Upon coming to Diagon Alley Skyler being as close as she was to Voldemort was called away by some snatchers for what they didn't know but Skye went along with it and told them to do the same.

Now here the golden trio sat in a cart with two goblins, one who at the moment was under their control and the other begrudgingly set in helping them so as to receive his reward. Their plan however had another change to it as they came to to pass under a water fall not seconds later the cart stopped and the group along with the head goblin fell. Thinking quickly Hermione was able to stop their fall just feet before hitting the ground.

"You look like you" Ron stated as the grouped looked around.

"What was that Griphook?"

"Thieves downfall it washes away all enchaments…can be deadly"

"You don't say" the red head snapped.

"Is there another way out of here?" Harry asked

"None"

Just then the fifth of their group came to his senses and began ranting about thieves before he was once again put under their spell. Seconds later the sound of rumbling was heard like a great beast lay in waiting for its next meal.

The group soon followed the noise to its source coming to find one of the largest species of dragon known to Wizarding kind."Bloody hell…that's…that's an Ukrainian Ironbelly." Ron stated almost in awe but what got the groups attention was the state in which the giant beast was in. The metallic smell of blood was in the air both fresh and old. A heavy chain wrapped around its, and judging from the open wound beneath said chain, the dragon had most likely been here for years at the least. Upon hearing the group approach the scaled creature stood ready to attack.

"Here." Griphook quickly walked to a small stand holding the strangest of objects, handing one off to Ron who tooling unsure of what to do with it. The goblin began shaking the thing as it began making a clanking noise. The dragon immediately halted in its attack rearing back as if horrified and afraid, Beginning to whimper as the creature lowered its head.

"It's been trained to expect pain when it hears this sound." The the goblin said with what looked like a grin that was almost evil it sent a chill down Hermione's spine."That's barbaric." She hissed knowing that the dragon deserved no such treatment.

Griphook turned with a sneer ready with a retort however as he turned to look at Hermione he paused as if looking at her for the first time. Whatever he was about say was stuck in his throat and he lowered his head turning back to what he was doing. But just as suddenly the 'clankers' were frozen solid as they dropped to the marble floor with a loud crash breaking and shattering into pieces.

"Barbaric indeed" came an angry laced voice. The sound of boots almost made them forget of the dragon who, no longer coward in fear. But stood growling menacingly ready to attack, the same voice spoke only to the dragon in a language unfamiliar to the witch and two wizards. Griphook visibly paled as he began to shake nervously where he stood. The group turned to the entry on the other side of the marble room standing several feet away in the middle of the room was Skyler, with stormy angry galaxies pinning both goblins in place.

Hermione rushed past the boys not caring of the giant man eating creature standing by like a guard dog apparently as the too embraced (Ron scoffed at this turning as he grumbled to himself) ."Skye how did you get in? Griphook said there wasn't another way out of here." She asked pulling back to look at her love

"Did he? So earnest 'Goblins' are in keeping what they know from wizards." The mocking tone caused not only Hermione but Harry and Ron to look at Skye in confusion. The Vajrian however only continued to stare down the short creatures who stood looking to the floor. Gently Hermione eased Skyler to look at her,"What are you talking about sweetheart"

Those luminous eyes softened once finding her mate in sight,"There's more then one way out of here not far from here are tunnels that lead out into other parts of the city."

"You couldn't think of telling us that before!" Ron spat.

"I tried to remember dip shit or did you forget that you shot the idea down before I had a chance to fully explain." She replied.

"Why didn't you tell me afterward in our room?" Hermione asked again bringing Skyler's back attention to her.

"I know I should have…but I was still worried, some of the tunnels lead to dead ends and some are rigged, they're just as dangerous as the original plan the only difference was no else but him" she snarled at Griphook who flinched,"would have known…"

"And before you ask ginger I figured before 'Mione and I got to the safe house you and Harry were smart enough to ask what you'd be facing if we got this far…..obviously I was wrong."

"We're wasting time. Let's just get to the vault then get out. Skye can you remember which tunnel you use?" Harry cut in with an irate sigh

"Yep"

"Good. You're leading us out of here." With that said Harry walked past the couple to the other side to continue with their task. Ron followed glaring at Skyler.

"Go now." She hissed at the goblin who hurriedly went with his fellow goblin after the Wizards.

"What was that all about?" Hermione asked never taking her eyes off her mate..however her gaze shifted to the Ukrainian Ironbelly momentarily when it snarled at the retreating goblins…followed by a deep growl from the Vajra.

"You're angry because….because of the way they've treated the dragon."

Skyler nodded turning her gaze to her love,"I am but what you call a dragon is actually a drake….I'll tell you more when we have the time.."

"And about the goblins."

A grin crossed the older girls lips,"And the goblins." Just then the dragon huffed as it brought it's snout close to the two and Skyler let go of Hermione so as to bow to the giant winged creature. Speaking in a language that sounded almost like parseltongue, though it was a mix between hisses and growls.

"Skye?"

"I'm him promising freedom if he will help me one last time."

"But you can speak with…..him?"

"Oi you coming or what!?" Ron yelled and the girls sighed they had work to do Hermione would indulge her curiosity later.

As they walked to the vault door Griphook took the head goblins hand placing it on the door. A light shimmered across the surface as the locks undid themselves and the door opened. Hurriedly the group entered the vault, the golden three spread out beginning their search as well as lighting their wands.

"Accio horcrux"

"You planning on trying that again" Ron snarked and Hermione glared at him.

"That type of magic won't work in here." Griphook stated. Skyler hung back near the door with him, she didn't trust him.

"Do you feel anything Harry?"

The boy who lived nodded as he moved farther into the vault. He could hear the whispers of the cursed object him and his friends were seeking until finally he looked up. There sitting high on a shelf was golden cup as if on a mantle.

That's when things got complicated, Hermione had accidentally knocked over one of the many shiny trinkets. As it fell to the ground it shook violently before it began multiplying itself. Seconds later Ron did the same thing causing more replicas of certain objects.

"Dumbass. At least with her it was an accident you saw what happen and manage to make it worse." Ron turned clenching his teeth at the Vajra who bared her own. Soon the vault began filling with worthless copies as a mountain of said objects began to form."Everyone stay still."

"I haven't moved."

"Shut up love."

Ron gulped as he was up to his neck in the charmed objects. Hermione thankfully only waist deep. Harry continued to move around on the building pile that grew with each shift of his body until he was able to reach the cup with the help of Gryffindor's sword.

"I've got it! Let's go!" However as Harry began moving to toward the only exit his movements caused more replicas to appear causing not only him but his friend to become buried even further. And he thre the cup. Unfortunately it landed in the hands of grip hook,"Quickly the sword!"

"We had a deal Griphook!" Harry yelled at the goblin seriously regretting his decision of the creatures help. Having no other choice Harry threw the sword as Griphook threw the cup to Hermione.

A triumphant smirk crossed his face the goblin stated,"I agreed to get you. But I never said I'd get you out." Her turned unlocking the door of the other wise blissfully unaware head goblin. His idea in escape were of course thwarted, for being as clever as any goblin he should have remembered that there was one other person in their party, who was extremely upset that he would have no doubtedly left said persons mate there to be captured and so much worse.

"You sneaky little rat" the Vajra growled fiercely as she lifted Griphook by the collar of his shirt. In a desperate attempt to get free he slashed wilding at Skyler who hissed from the hit. Her grip however moved to Griphook's neck and tightened while she took the sword easily with her other hand. A red imprint of the of the slash ran across her face slowly beginning to heal and Skyler grinned at the goblin.

"You know what I am 'goblin' " she growled and Griphook clawed at her hand."let me show you."

Skyler moved to help her mate first. As she did the piles upon piles of charmed gold, and silver, jewelry and such in her path began to shift creating a clear path. Hermione was able to to walked to her girlfriend cautious not to touch anything shiny. Next was Harry as he was float from his high perch of a mountain of gold. She then turned toward the exit stopping at the very stern call of her name,"Skye."

With a sigh said girl looked to the witch,"Do I have to?" Hermione quirked a brow."Fine I guess I could help the ginger too." Ron was then pulled forward by an invisible force while the gold was simultaneously pushed back to keep anyone from touching it. The group quickly exited the vault as Skye tossed the sword to Harry who then tossed it to Ron.

Skyler then tossed Griphook to the ground,"Slimy little git isn't he." Ron spat venomously at him. It was then Hermione noticed something that she hadn't realized before. In the manor Griphook showed no fear even when facing torture and death by one Bellatrix Lestrange. But now standing with an angry Vajiri the goblin was quaking in his shoes…then again she would too if she wasn't in love with this particular Vajrian. But Skye had said something about goblins and their secrets…what secret did Skye know that had Griphook trembling in fear like this?

Their little gathering was interrupted however as Harry called out to them near the large room with the dragon. Apparently the head goblin was dead as he walked into the line of fire quite literally and was nothing but charred remains, Bank security came rushing toward them from several entry ways as Skyler, Hermione and Ron reached Harry. Skye didn't forget Griphook and tossed him over the railing of and down to the first floor, whether he lived or died she didn't care.

Soon spells were sent flying from everywhere as the group tried to escape they were pinned. As the Ironbelly began defending them from the main force.

"Skye!"

"As much as I'd love to be a shield for you Hermano I'd only slow you down!. And no I can't do what I'd did with the gold I can't stop time!"

"I like the first idea!" Ron yelled.

"How bout we use you as a shield or better yet how about I throw you like I'd did Griphook!"

"Hermione!" Harry yelled ducking behind a pillar as much as he could with out revealing himself on the other side of it.

"I have an idea!"

"What is it?!"

"It's mad but…" The boys looked to each other before looking to their golden girl,"But what?" Hermione didn't answer she only gave a look to Skyler who so 'happily' stated,"Oh shit…" Before running and jumping from the second landing onto the fire breathing beasts back.

"Well come on!" The witch yelled which compelled the others to briefly look to one another before moving to do the same….I'm going to marry her one day…properly…Skyler thought to her self grinning like a mad woman. She landed near the neck along side the brunette,"Skye tell him-"

"Way ahead of you mi amor get the chain"

With the flick of her wand the chain was broken and Skye spoke in the tongue of dragons and the beast responded in kind to whatever she said. The Ironbelly began crawling up the rocky canals destroying one of the railways and with it and other cart filled with security. Higher and higher the beast crawled until it began pushing and breaking through the ground level of the bank. The Ironbelly clawed and clawed until coming to fully stand within the large main hall of the bank. Looking skyward he found his exit breaking through the glass dome and to it's long awaited over due freedom. The Pale scale drake stood with its head up breathing in for the first time in a long time a breath of fresh air.

"What now?" Ron asked and Hermione sent a stupify at the tail to get their ride moving. The creature got the hint and began clumsily flapping its wings trying to make an upward ascension. It took a few try's but before they knew it the group was flying on the back of the dragon.

"Haha this is awesome!" Skyler yelled continuing to do so with glee as if a child on a ride for the first time. She wasn't the only one as Ron joined her. Harry and Hermione couldn't help but to smile and grin, they had to admit it was pretty cool.

~x~

After the initial excitement wore off the rest of the ride was in silence. It was a while before deciding they needed to land somewhere safe. Considering they were no longer above any cities the large lake they seem to be flying above would do.

"Skye can you ask him to land us?" Hermione asked causing Harry and Ron to look curiously at her.

Clearing her throat Skyler again spoke in the language only the large winged beast they rode could understand and the descent began. However rather enjoy the feel of wing beneath his the dragon twirled in the air. Skyler laughed enjoying the ride as the beast swooped up one last time in the air until finally landing on the shore.

The Vajiri laughed delighted, jumping from the drakes back patting his neck in appreciation. He shimmied happily from the appraisal,"Thank you." Skye said gently to the drake before saying loudly to the others,"We should do that again!" When she was met with the sound of splashing water and coughing Skye turned to find both her girlfriend and brother with their friend dripping wet."Oh.."

"Did he do that on purpose?" The witch asked placing both hands on her hips. Skyler turned to their new companion who stared at her giving a strange sound between grunt and a whinny. Turning back she deadpanned,"Yes. Yes he did." The boys snickered as it only made Hermione's scowl grow,"He didn't like it very much when you shot that stupify at his tail."

With a huff Hermione shook her head with a small chuckle,"Would you tell him that I'm sorry. But if I hadn't we'd all would have ended up in chains."

Skye turned to speak but the drake lifted its head high before bowing it before the witch,"I think he understood what you said…" Harry said staring at the sight not sure what to make of it..

Again the black haired girl spoke to the dragon before it shot up into the sky,"What did you tell uh…him this time?" Harry asked.

"Of a place where he can find help and healing. He deserves to be pampered for his years locked away like that."

"Well good for him…us on the other hand have to head to Hogwarts."

"Why?"

"Because there's another horcrux hidden there. It had to do with Rowena Ravenclaw."

"How do you know that Harry?" Hermione asked searching her bag for dry clothes.

"Because I saw it…..he knows..he knows what we're doing"

"You can't keep letting him in like that"

"I can't help it sometimes Hermione"

"Hold on how are we suppose to get into Hogwarts…Snape's headmaster now?" Ron interjected.

"Then we go to Hogsmead…" The bespectacled boy said changing his shirt.

"We can't just go rushing into things like that we need to plan."

"Hermione when have any of them worked anyway? We plan, we get there, all hell breaks loose"

"He's right." Ron added."Looks like we're just going to have to wing it."

"Hold on..Skye what do you think we should do?" The trio turned to look at the older girl who as it was staring at them with a look of amusement. Clearing her throat she started,"Well first and foremost, Harry that's a skirt, Ron that's a t-shirt. Secondly you both really need to shave your legs and get them tanned. Thirdly…" the amusement in her voice disappeared as the ebony haired Vajra continued,"I can buy you enough time to get into the castle once we get to Hogsmead."

"Skye no. We're not splitting up, not when we're so close"

"Can you two give us a minute?"

"Can we have our pants?" With a huff Hermione shoved the bag into Harry's hand and stormed off.

Walking to the other side of the large hill Hermione pulled the towel she had wrapped around her tighter. Her clothes in the other hand as she again huffed in frustration and irritation.

"Hermione"

"You said you'd be there every step of the way."

"Hermione…"

"No! You said!" Exhaling loudly Skyler stilled her girlfriend ripping the wet clothes from Hermione's body then covering her with her cloak (Skye was dressed in her death eater uniform). The Vajirian then promptly pulled her witch close so as to help warm her.

"I know what I said mi amor…but you said so yourself not but a minute ago. We can't just go rushing in blindly. Hogsmead has an alarm that will trigger the moment Harry sets foot there. Once it goes off you won't be able to apparate out. With me there I'll be able to lead the death eaters and snatchers away from you long enough to get into the castle….at least this way you're not going in there completely unprepared."

Hermione said nothing for a moment, only turned her head burning her face in the crook of Skyler's neck. Her girlfriend was right, Skye would be able to keep the death eaters from them….but that didn't mean she had to like it…and with the warnings she received in the early hours of the morning well the idea of splitting up from her mate even for a moment just didn't sit right with her. And the reality of the situation hit the Gryffindor witch hard. Their final battle would be at Hogwarts….the war would end where it most certainly began.

"I have a bad feeling about this…" She finally said quietly lifting her head to gaze into loving Galaxy orbs.

"Is it like the one you had when I was held during.." Hermione nodded silently,"There's more….I..I know I should have told you sooner but with everything that's going on I figured it would best to tell you after this was all over…" Skye nodded quietly lift her mate and Hermione wrapped her legs around the taller girls waist. Skyler then sat continuing to use her body heat to warm her girlfriend.

With a sigh Hermione snuggled closer glad for the warmth and the feeling of security in her Vajrian's arms."This morning I was given two warnings….one of the last coming battle of this war…and of betrayal."

"Betrayal?"

"Yes..he said A betrayAl of one close is imminent."

"He?" again Hermione sighed kissing Skye's neck softly,"Yes he…a man at least he looks like one…I don't know who he is but he's shown himself to me before….the first time was the night we found the crystals. Just before you woke….the second was this morning…he was the one who left the crystals that night…..and this morning he…" Pulling back Hermione shifted the cloak to bare her left shoulder cap."He gave me this…..he said it was a gift."

Skyler gasped upon seeing the mark as she was the only one she knew who bore this. It was her birthmark the first of her markings to appear the night she was born, at least that's what she was told. Tentatively she brushed the tips of her fingers along the design, this also caused Hermione to shiver.

Seeing this Skyler leaned down to softly kiss the mark,"This is more then just a birthmark….it means something….but I was born with this mark mi amor…you were given it."

"Perhaps you and this man are connected in some way."

"Maybe…but we can worry about that later. For now let's just enjoy our moment of peace….if what you said is true then tonight's the night this war ends."

Hermione brought her hands to hold Skyler's face gently,"Skye he said someone close would betray me…"

"I promise you it will not be me….you are my Vala. We just have to be extra careful…it could be anyone…anyone who isn't Harry."

"Why exclude Harry?

"Because his heart is as pure as the one that's captured mine. Harry will always be Harry but his heart has always been in the right place…whether for himself or for those he loves.."

"I still don't like this…to know someone I…who could it be?"

Skyler puffed out some air giving her girlfriend a look, as the witch began to deny what she silently said,"He wouldn't…..would he?"

"He used the torture curse on me…the only way that's done right at all is to really mean to cause the target pain."

"Yes but that doesn't mean…I mean he was hurt that I chose you yes, that doesn't pardon his actions but still…."

"Um we're going to set up camp.." The sound of Harry's voice floated in there is as well as the crunch of grass. Skyler immediately pulled her mate close growling at the other boy who had dared to interrupt their slightly private moment.

"Ron! I still need to dress!" The witch yelled

He quickly closed his eyes tunring his back,"I'm sorry! You were just taking a long time I just wanted to see if you were alright."

"Of she is I'm not going to let anything happen to her" the older girl scoffed.

"Because you did such a good job when Bellatrix got hold of her for hours!"

Skyler moved to get up but was stopped at the tightened grip of her mate."Ron that was uncalled for! Harry!" A minute later Harry appeared head looking to the ground as he pulled the red head with him.

"What the hells wrong with you" he hissed when they were far enough.

"Me?" Ron asked incredulously,"What the bloody hell is wrong with the both of you! That girl is a snake! She betrayed us once who's to say she won't do it again.."

"Is this about that or is it because her and Herm-"

"Of course it is! It's always been about that! She stole Hermione from me! It was suppose me and her not not that freak!" With a growl of frustrated anger Harry grabbed the Weasley boy by the collar of his shirt,"We don't have time for this! I don't care about your hurt pride and ego! If Hermione chose to be with Skye while the fuck are you to stop her from being happy?! For fucks sake Ron we're in the middle of a war but youre too busy bitching about what you lost out on because you were too dense to see what was right in front of you! For once in your life think about someone else for a change and not yourself Hermione's happy! Ok she's happy with Skyler and both are in love with each other so I ask again who the fuck are you to take that away from her?! As far as I'm concerned she's earned that for everything she's done…..but I'm not going stand back and watch as you try and ruin that! If she chose you then I still feel the same because Hermione would be happy and that's all I've ever wanted her to be because she's a sister to me. A sister you've hurt more the you'll ever realized!"

"But-"

"Yes I know Skye hurt her too but when I see her look at Hermione I see the truth in her eyes! Skye is many things I know that but the one thing I know for sure is that she's always taken responsibility for the mistakes she's made and the wrongs she's done! It's time you accept that Hermione's with Skye and that's not changing any time soon. If not you can leave. Again!"

Pushing the boy who lived,"Sooner then you think.." Ron mumbled darkly to himself before storming off to the tent.

Harry turned to find the two girls who seemed to have been watching them and sighed,"We leave at nightfall." Walking away to clear his mind. He didn't have time to deal with his friends love lives…

Hermione moved to follow but Skye held her back,"He needs time to cool off and think things through. The pressure is building hermosa…he needs this time to himself."

"And Ron?"

"You chose me…but you can always walk away." The Vajra finished quietly.

Locks of brown lifted in the wind as Hermione wrapped her arms around the taller girls neck. She paused for a moment just studying her mates features with inquisitive eyes. The barred Galaxy design in luminous eyes, the strong jaw and dimpled chin. The dimples in her cheeks that appeared when she grin, smirked, smiled. The intensity of those Galaxy eyes the slope of her nose, the scar on her right eyebrow…every single detail Hermione took in memorizing it again and again. She would never, could never forget this face….she could never forget Skye…she loved Skyler more then she'd ever thought imaginable and wouldn't change that….her heart was home and she never wanted to leave.

A soft smile graced the brunette's lips as she leaned up pressing a gentle kiss that said everything she felt in this moment. It said I'm afraid, I don't like this, I don't want this, but we have to, because I love you, for you id do anything, and Skyler returned it in kind, as they let their hearts speak instead of their words. Skye pulled her mate close holding her flush even when the kiss ended, foreheads resting against each other..and they reveled in the closeness of each other…because knowing what they did now…moments like this might come far and few for what was to befall them after this war ended.

~~\\~/~~

Night fell all too quick before the quartet knew it they arrived in Hogsmead. The moment they did sirens went off blaring into the once quiet night.

"Quick hide" Skye said quickly as the sound many coming out to check was heard. Hermione held on to her hand as long as the moment would allow until their hold broke and she and her friends had to hide in one of the empty shops close by. Death eaters and snatchers came rushing out of nearby buildings and the golden three hid as quietly as they could while trying to scope out their route.

"Lady Skyler." They heard the dark lords follows greet the Vajrian.

"What are you doing." Skye's voice had grown cold and hard,"He's here find him! That boy killed my cousin and I want him found alive…and anybody you find with him. Now go! Before I give you a glimpse of the boys fate."

The sound of foots steps walking closer caused them to curse to themselves of course they would check here,"Not there you idiots. I've been standing here for 10 minutes." The men who had come to check their hiding spot receded and the trio breathed a sigh of relief. Skyler was definitely buying them time. When they stood from behind the draped table they had chosen Skye stood outside watching. The Vajra glanced at them and nodded her head. They were clear to go, those Galaxy eyes lingered in the witch who too took the moment for herself and the older girl gave a reassuring smiling and wink. Hermione mouthed an I love you in reply before turning and heading off with her friends.

They ran dodging and ducking in the shadows, hiding behind a thing that would give them cover. It wasn't until coming to a dead end did they receive help from someone who they had t expected. A man who who looked familiar gave them sanctuary in his home. It was only after speaking to him did they come to know that he is the brother of their late headmaster, Aberforth Dumbledore. They found that he was the one who had sent Dobby and the one Harry had been seeing in the shard of the mirror he held.

The man was somewhat reluctant it seemed in helping them find a way in to the castle, but Harry had a feeling the man was only testing to see just how strong his resolve was as well as his trust in the late Albus Dumbledore. Harry told him he didn't care what had happened between the brothers only that he trusted the man he knew, and that he had a job to do.

Within a matter of minutes Harry and his friends walked a secret tunnel that lead to the room of requirements. Donned a Gryffindor robe as he walked along side Ginny to the great hall with the rest of the school as Snape had called for the entire school to be there. The Headmaster had then stated that he was sighted in Hogsmead and any and all who had attempt to aid him will be punished and bid anyone who had any knowledge of his whereabouts to step forward. That's when he made his presence known telling all what he seen that night Dumbledore died.

The traitor pulled his wand and ended up dueling Professor McGonagall who defended him. When Snape was gone Voldemort's made clear that of the choice all within had and were given an hour to decide. But the decision was already made.. And now Harry found himself running to find the lost Diadem of Rowena Ravenclaw.

~x~

Skyler ran top speed through the forest heading for the covered bridge. After Harry and her girlfriend went on their way Skye left back to Gneht Thicket. It was there she had left her sword and though she had become skilled in conjuring ice, using magic still took a lot out of her. When this was over she would definitely find a way to sharpen all of her skills whatever they may be. To her surprise Lilliana was waiting for her sword in hand and a hardened look. They did not speak they didn't need to, the elven healer had handed her the Katana and gave a knowing nod. The only thing she hadn't expect was the small note tied to the handle of her blade. When Skye had read the contents of it…her heart cracked as she recognized the writing. When she looked up to ask about it Lilliana was gone and Skyler knew she had to go.

As she broke the tree line the Vajra saw as the shield erected to safeguard the school had settled. With each breath she took the smell of snatchers grew stronger as they were headed in the same direction. They were probably no more then a mile or so behind her but from the strength of their stench they were many.

As Skyler came upon the barrier that was meant to protect she readied herself for the pain that would no doubt come, she was pretty sure it would equate to walking through a brick wall. However as she passed through a wave of white light rippled through the dome and Skye paused for a moment before continuing in her run. She didn't have the time to wonder why the thing didn't zap her. About half way across the bridge Skyler stopped yet again when a small glowing orb of sky blue light floated several feet in front of her. It pulsed in pattern and Skye wondered if it was trying to tell her something.

No sooner had the thought ran through her mind did the small ball of light fly several times around her before flying off in the direction of the castle, a glowing trail of fading light left like a trail."Huh….I guess it does.." With that she ran after following the trail. As she ran into an empty corridor she could hear the rush of students and staff running about continuing to ready themselves for the battle to come. But as she continued following the trail Skyler found herself going deeper into the castle coming one of girls lavatories. There the wisp of light came to float around a particular sink.

The Vajirian moved to inspect it finding only that it had the design of snakes…snakes what the hell is it here with people and snakes…wait this is….Skyler recalled Harry's story his second year of the chamber of secrets. Why she was being lead here..there had to be reason for it. After all everything that's happened the last three years happened for a reason and Skyler had decided it was better to go with the flow of things.

~x~

Hermione ran along side Ron as they made their way to the chamber of secrets. They would use a basilisk fang as they no longer had the sword of Gryffindor. In their haste to escape the bank Ron lost his hold on the sword dropping it when the Ironbelly rampaged through the bank. The basilisk fangs were their only weapons to destroy the remaining horcruxes.

As they approached the door, the duo came to find that it was already opened. The teens paused glancing at one another before drawing their wands. Slowly, cautiously they entered the darken chamber that glowed a dim green. They saw no one but the skeleton of the defeated serpent that once dwelled here.

Ron quickly walked toward the skeleton taking one of its teeth and turned, handing it to Hermione,"Here you do it."

"Me? No I-"

The sound moving stone caught their attention and both aimed their wands at the large statued face of Salazar Slytherin. The bottom jaw opened outward until a bridge of equally spaced walking stones appeared, leading into the mouth. A black boot stepped out on to the first step and Hermione figured who ever it was probably didn't know they were in there though whatever surprise attack she was planning was quickly diminished as Ron quickly sent a stunning spell at the unknown.

A grunt was heard but that was quickly followed by a lowly growl. A familiar pair of eyes shone brightly in the shadows until they dimmed and widened in recognition as a familiar face came into the light.

"What the bloody hell are you doing in here!?"

"None of your god damn business ginger so why don't you go back to stabbing that stupid little cup with a snake tooth."

"You're still working for him aren't you" Ron hissed fixing the grip on his wand."I knew it. Once a snake always a snake."

"Skye?" Hermione said the older girls name questioningly as she step forward.

"I'm not. After you left I went to get this." Skyler placed a hand at her left hip where her katana hung, sheathed."I came back as soon as I could but..I saw a wisp hermosa, it lead me here."

"But why?"

Skye opened her mouth to answer but Ron beat her to it,"Hermione you seriously can't be buying this. Who's to say she didn't make a little detour to her nest of snakes, why else would she continue to wear their uniform."

"Maybe…because I had more important matters to deal with instead of wondering what to wear!" Skyler huffed in irritation (though it was true she just forgone wearing her robe) as she crossed the small bridge of stones,"We don't have time for this…we need to destroy the cup and help Harry find whatever it is that has to do with Ravenclaw."

"Why should we trust you!?"

"Stop it Ron! She's right, it isn't the time for this!"

"And when will it be!? I want-"

"I don't care what you want Ronald! Especially not right now! But if you want to settle this then fine! Here's the truth; hear it learn, it accept it because I am not having this conversation with you again! I love Skyler. I love her with everything that I am and that's not going to change. She loves me just the same and you know what else we are forever bound because she isn't just my girlfriend she's my Vala my true mate….meaning I'm meant to love her and not you.." Hermione sighed pinching the bridge of her nose,"Gods…I do care for you Ronald. But I don't care for you in the way you want me to. I felt something for you once…maybe but it was fleeting and wasn't what my heart truly wanted…Skye is she's what I want, what I need…and you have two choices…you can learn to deal with this and come to accept it or you can turn and walk away right now."

"You would take her side. Someone you barely even know over someone you've known for 6 years!?"

"I don't know who you are. Your jealously is turning you into someone I don't recognize." Hermione paused clearing her throat as she did,"Now that you've heard that maybe we could do what we came here to do" and with that the brunette turned and walked to her mate. Skyler was watching her witch carefully. She knew Hermione cared for Ron a great deal but the fact that he wasn't too keen on the idea of the brunette making her own decisions, that didn't benefit him, well the ultimatum just given might make him see just how his stubbornness has affected those around him.

Hermione set the cup on the ground, sitting on her knees beside it. She felt Skye kneel next to her and both girls looked to the red head who seemed to be standing in shock.

"Do it mi amor…the sooner the better." The Vajra whispered quietly. With a deep breath Hermione brought the fang in her hand up high ignoring the sound of Ron's footsteps echoing as he walked away, a single tear fell as she realized he'd fallen so far into his jealousy that not even the friendship they've made could possibly be salvaged. Within a blink of an eye the fang came crashing down. Hisses and whispers were heard turning in a pain filled scream. The water in the chamber rose in a title wave and before Hermione knew it Skye and she were rolling on the stone path as the water came crashing down on them.

It subsided of course and the two sat up coughing up the murky water. Looking to each other they sort of began to laugh in a hysterical manner before Hermione's turned into sobs. Skyler pulled her mate close knowing why she was shedding tears. But they didn't have the time and Skye knew this so she lifted the witch's face wiping away the tears that fell,"I know you're hurting right mi amor….but we need to help Harry." She said softly and the brunette nodded.

Hermione leaned in kissing her love,"Te amo….con todo lo que soy" she hiccuped

"Te amo para siempre y siempre"

Quietly Skyler stood helping her mate to do the same. However as she sniffed from the water dripping off her nose she turned quickly standing protectively in front of her witch baring her teeth threateningly.

"How did you get in here" the Vajirian spat venomously

"Is that any way to treat an old friend Skye."

"Ren" she growled.

The incubus smirked as he stepped toward them,"I've been summoned to offer you a deal."

"I don't want anything to do with you unless it's your dying breath."

"Oh but I think you'll find I can be quite persuasive." He grinned motioning behind her. Turning to look Skye clenched her teeth with a snarl…I knew it.."Let her go"

There standing not but a foot away was Hermione a wand to the head and the one holding that wand was none other then Ronald Weasley. A look of murder on his face as he stared her down. He wasn't under any control the wizard was doing this willingly and it made Skyler think that maybe Ron wasn't just in love with her mate but it came to a line of obsession and possession.

"I'll leave with you…just let her go"

"Aw but you already declined my offer….seeing as you are non negotiable maybe your little plaything is willing to make a deal with me. I am after all a man of business."

Skye snapped again,"Ah ah ah…you've had your chance. I make the rules she can either accept or not"

"Ron how could you?!"

"How could you!? For years Hermione we've known each other for years but you still chose her! That beast! She stole you from me right under my nose and you expect me to just roll over and accept that! No I saw the way you use to look at me! But the moment she came into the picture everything changed..she took my best mate and you! And I won't let you make the biggest mistake of your life! But if I can't have you neither will she" he ended with a sneer at the Vajrian who growled loathingly at him

"It's you who's made a big mistake." She hissed taking a step toward him

"I'm not afraid to do what I have to." The red head warned

"Settle down weasel. First things first." Darren cut in."A weasel indeed." Hermione snapped wondering how things had gotten to this point.

From his pocket Darren pulled a glowing green vial,"Now then. My sister was very upset that you've claimed what's hers-"

"Skyler doesn't belong to anybody but herself!"

"Quite the contrary she is." The incubus warned,"And my little sister is very adamant on getting her favorite toy back…now where was I…oh yes…the bargain is quite simple break the bond and you'll-"Ron clears his throat and Ren chuckled amused,"Right sorry sorry break the bond drink this and you'll walk out of here unharmed, Skyler comes with me, and everyone is happy."

"What is that?" The witch questioned eyeing the vial."And what makes you think I'd let you take my girlfriend. I know what you and your sister put her through!"

"Oh just a little potion of mine….and because if you don't…you die."

That's what did it for Skye. She'd be damned if she let Ron do this to the girl she loved. An invisible force rippled from her body moving out and knocking down those around her. The vial fell from his hand rolling away as it did (they were made of very sturdy glass) Darren was the first to recover only to be kicked and rolled away Skye was on him seconds later she's was going to rip him apart for threatening her mate.

Ron shook his head trying to clear his as he saw Skyler kick the incubus away. His eyes drifted over to an unconscious witch and next her lay the vial Darren held. His pale blue eyes glanced to the Vajirian who still had her back turned…it was now or never…

Skyler only took two steps toward the half incubus when her marks began to burn hotly she turned just in time to see Ron a smug smirk on his face as he pointed his wand straight at Hermione's chest which was then hit with a red light. The next moment the witch woke with a gasp and all Skyler knew was pain…unfathomable pain felt so deep, she could literally feel her soul rip apart her marks burned a bright red and all she could see was blinding white….the after image of Hermione latching on to the red head and kissing him fiercely imprinted there and burned in her mind forever….as she threw her head back with a heart wrenching roar that rippled and coursed through everything and everyone within a hundred mile radius of where she was, the chamber itself shook..as Skye fell weakened and disoriented first to her knees as her hand clutched at her chest. She could feel blood dripping from her eyes, ears and nose….seconds later she coughed up a mess of it as she fell forward in pain still clutching at her heart….

Seeing this Darren chuckled darkly as his eyes flash triumphantly, turning to the witch and wizard he said,"Go I'll deal with her…"

With out a seconds glance Ron was pulling the girl he loved along with him,"Ron what happened? Who was that? And wasn't that Skye on the floor?"

With a sigh he turned and said,"You did your best love…you tried to talk some sense into her but she couldn't be helped. She just finally got what she deserved hopefully….he can help her, you know make her see the light…he's an old friend of hers" Ron watched as Hermione seemed to war with herself before a small ring of green that encircled her pupil flashed and those brown eyes glazed over a bit.

"I hope you're right….I don't want to lose one of my best friends."

Pale blue eyes widened just momentarily the potion was suppose to make Hermione hate Skyler. But as he thought about it Darren would either have taken her far away and Hermione would be heart broken and he being the strong loving boyfriend would be there to help her heal. Or being as Skyler was rather resilient and somehow got away well then he would rub it in her face at what she would never have again as it belonged where it should. Hermione was finally his and though he was sad it came down to this….well at least she was no longer with a monster.

"Let's go find Harry"

~x~

Darren wiped the dirt from himself as he stood grinning. Jenna would be pleased that the bond was broken and that her favorite toy would return, maybe not in the best of conditions but that was the cost. He laughed when he kicked the downed Vajrian..

"Looks to me like your so called mate no longer feels the same way as you." He mocked. When seeing the dark haired girl weakly try to get up he kicked her down but the only sound she made was a grunt. He laughed as his action caused the Vajra to cough up more of her precious blood…reaching into his pocket he pulled out his phone with it the vial his sister had given him.

"Hmm I wonder.."

~x~

Summer sat her mind idly wandering to the past. But asi t were she could not think to long on such things. A messenger knocked at her study room and she bid him entry.

"What is it?" She asked a sinking feeling in her gut.

"A message from the lord Ryul my lady. It speaks of your niece." The messenger handed her a small folded parchment and her golden eyes widens. Not moments later Izel came and Summer noticed the pain in her eyes. Her best friend cared for Skyler greatly but after news of little Jess the woman had become torn..

"It's happened hasn't it.." Izel said softly.

Summer only nodded this did not bode well, turning to the messenger she commanded,"Send word to our scouts in Scotland. Tell them that our Terían is in danger. And see to it that she is brought back here." The messenger fisted his chest with a bow before leaving and Summer sighed tiredly,"This Wizarding war has already taken too much from her…..she can not be made to heal if she stays."

"She will never truly heal from what's happened this night Sonny. You know this"

"And what would you have me do? She can't be left as she is any longer. She wasn't ready for war and time is running out Skyler needs to be ready for what is to come…this is my fault Iz…I told her to stay. I told them both to stay…"

"You made a choice Summer. Skyler was to know war one way or another and having raised her she wouldn't have left Harry to fight this. She's too loyal for that-" Summer turned when Izel's words ceased watching as the woman's eyes turned completely white. It felt like hours before the prophetess broke from her vision. Gently the regal woman lead her friend to sit kneeling in front of her she asked,"What did you see?"

~x~

Small pieces of stone fell from the ceiling as the chamber rumbled from the on going fight up above,"Let's see what this does shall we." Darren said nonchalantly as he drank from the darken vial Jenna had given him. A surge of energy rushed through him and he puffed his chest out at his increased sense of stamina and strength.

Suddenly though just as quickly his strength began leaving him as the incubus began to choke on his own saliva. He heard a mocking laughter and turned finding Skyler on her hands looking up at him as he fell to his own knees."It looks….like….I'm not the only one with unrequited love.." She choked a little on her words but the flow of blood had stopped from her throat though it still slowly dripped from her eyes and nose.

Darren heaved a heavy breath as his sister words ran through his mind your next mistake will be your last….indeed it was as his last mistake was ever trusting that Jenna would allow him another chance. She had planned for him to die regardless…and now he was paying the price for his failures. He could taste the coppery warmth of his blood beginning to rise in his throat.

"It will not last forever….." He began and Skyler looked at him confused. He spat the red liquid flooding his mouth but continued,"The potion…..it will not last forever..."

"What did he give her!" Skyler growled feeling heat rolling off her skin.

"A mixture of a memory and love potion. She'll remember you but only…" He coughed, splurting blood everywhere,"Only as a friend…."

"Why are you telling me this….don't tell me you've miraculously had a change in heart." She spat trying to calm and gather her strength

"A com-common enemy….you'll need your strength Skye…Other wise one hit would knock you out" The nail on his thumb grew and Darren slit his wrist extending it in offer,"Drink….you've denied yourself long enough."

"No-"

"Drink….and focus on my memories…blood holds secrets a-and….mine….holds many"

~x~

Harry met up with Hermione and Ron once finding the Diadem. They had an encounter with Draco, Crabbe, and Goyle. One of the bloody idiots set the damn room of requirement on fire with fiendfire. They barely escape except for Crabbe who was lost to the flames. However that's what wasn't bothering him at the moment as he made his way to the lake house. Ron seemed to be in a much better mood and Hermione was strangely doting after him a bit which wasn't like her….at all. Harry had seen the way she was with Skye but why she was acting like this with Ron didn't make any sense.

Once coming to the lake house they found Snape speaking with Voldemort himself before the dark lord sent his snake Nagini on the headmaster. when the deed was done the dark wizard apparated away with his last Horcrux..Shortly after however Skyler showed up wobbling a bit covered in blood. It dropped form her chin but what was odd Harry noticed that it looked to have leaked from her eyes and nose too..

"Severus.." Skyler stumbled to him as she fell to her knees.

"W-what….what happened.." Her mentor choked and Skye let a single tear of red fall and he knew.

"Let me heal you" she said putting pressure on the large slash. He shook his head and both turned their heads when the golden trio walked out from behind the foggy glassed wall. Harry knelt beside his sister he may not have liked the man personally but Skye seemed to hold him as a close friend…the dying man turned to the boy who lived as tears streamed and gathered at his cheek.

"Tak-take them…..Take them."

"Quickly give me a flask a vial anything!"

Hermione quick to react reached into her bag pulled one out handing it to her best friend who took the tears. When Harry had gathered them Severus looked to his pupil first. He tapped at his temple and then to his blood soaked chest…and Skyler nodded in understanding. He then turned to Harry staring the boy down before stating,"You have your mother's eyes." They were his last breath before he stilled completely. With a shaky breath Skyler closed his eyes and spoke,"Go….take them to pensieve…"

"Skye.."

"I said go….we don't have time for this….you wanted the truth hermano…it's there in your hand. Take it and learn it…"

Harry nodded in understanding and stood…Skyler stared numbly at one of her greatest teachers and friends….the echo of foot steps fading but she could sense someone watching her, she did not turn to see….she already knew.

"If you wish to know the truth….I suggest you go with them…"

"Skyler…."

"I promise…I just need a moment."

When Hermione left Skyler let her self give into the pain she felt…..and cried..she cried pouring out everything knowing that this was far from over...

~x~

When the golden three entered the castle they found all gathered in the great all and the sight that met them was heart breaking many were wound but there was just as many lain across the ground lined next two one another. What broke them even more was that One of the Weasley clan did not make it through the night. Fred was lain within a circle of his family, Molly clutched to his lifeless body as if hoping he'd wake. Seeing this Ron ran crying for his lost brother.

Hermione watched heartbroken as so many did the same. That is until she saw Harry walk away, she looked to Ron and a strange sensation ran through her, but an even stronger sense told her to follow her best friend. So she did, she followed the green eyed boy to the headmasters office finding that he had already delved into the me oriels Snape had left him. Several minutes passed before he took his face from the pensieve. Harry's eyes widened surprised to see her there. But he motioned for her toward the pensieve, silently Hermione did the same to see memories flash before her eyes.

"So when the time comes the boy must die."

"No. There has to be another way!" Skyler said fiercely as she stood from her seat.

"There is no other way. Harry is the horcrux Voldemort hadn't intended to make"

The memory changed to another. An image of Dumbledore's sickly hand being inspected. It revealed that the late head master had only a year to live and that he had asked Snape personally to do the deed the dark lord had bestowed Malfoy. It shifted again to Skyler who stood along side Severus as they sat speaking with Voldemort himself

"If I am to support you I want to know that you're not just talk."

"And what is it you're proposing my lady…"

"Dumbledore he's said to be the strongest wizard alive. Kill him and maybe I'll consider you to be my dark champion." The scene continued to play out until only Snape and Skye were left.

"Do you think I made the right choice.." She asked softly.

"I believe you would give everything for those you love…and for her.."

"Yes…but would she still care….when everything is said and done"

Again the scene shifted and Hermione was finding that even though these memories are suppose to be new to her, she had the oddest sense of deja'vu regard less she continued to watch even as her heart ached in knowing Skyler was doing all this for the sake of a girl she was hopelessly in love with.

"You are restless..what troubles your mind?" The man asked quietly.

"Many things." She answered simply and Severus nodded silently in agreement. It was quiet for a moment until she asked,"How do you do it?" He stiffened from the question. There was no need to clarify what it was she was asking as he already knew it seemed.

"By remembering." Came the quiet answer."Remembering and keeping all that matters here.." He tapped his temple,"and here." Then his heart,"You must always remember the path we have chosen is not easy….and it will continue not to be. But it is a must, just never forget what it is you're truly fighting for."

Skyler hummed her answer still twirling the baoding balls in her hand. Snape cleared his throat pulling something from his robes,"I've found what I can of what you asked." He said setting the package on the small table just in front of them.

"Thank you….you're good mentor…..but an even better friend"

"I certainly hope I'm a good mentor…have you been practicing like I've asked you to?"~

~"You already know the answer to that. He was becoming restless, and after what I displayed….I couldn't take the chance of him questioning whether or not it's him I was truly supporting…."

"She claimed you though…do you have any idea what that means should she choose to-"

"You think I don't!" She yelled hitting the small table next to her," I know what I'm risking! And I know the costs and what could be….but the chance of change is worth much more then living in this bias society….even if it means I'm not in the picture…"~

"You would sacrifice your chance of happiness for her…" It wasn't a question Skyler knew this still she looked to the man and answered in a voice as softly as he had spoken,"You would do the same for Lily…" clearing her throat Skyler straightened herself pulling her hood up,"You should go….he wants you at the school. He's setting out for Grindelwald before continuing his search for it."

More images flashed before her eyes but Hermione's heart and head began to ache and so she pulled her face from the pensieve. She had seen enough to know and she threw herself at the boy who had not only become her friend since year one but her brother and she cried knowing what he had to do…what was needed…and knew that Skye had only done what was asked of her….

~x~

Skyler smelled their scents before hearing their foot steps. Fleur was the first to find her holding the lifeless body of her mentor. The Veela was then followed by Luna, Pansy, Daphne, Draco, Blaise, and Ginny. The group were the members of her own secret circle. She need recruited only those she knew she could trust and people no one would suspect of anything let alone speak with one another. But that was the beauty of it. The transfer of messages was cleverly hidden within a hostile confrontation between the Slytherin house and Gryffindor house.

But now was not the time to dwell in their working together but to help the one who had brought them together….who showed them that the lines that separated them were nothing but that…lines because there were many on both sides who were not what they seemed.

"Oh no…." Fleur gasped as she moved to her friend.

"Who.." Daphne began but Draco put a hand in her shoulder,"He did it."

Skyler looked to her group and swallowed hard,"we have to finish this once and for all.." She said gently laying Severus' body down on the wooden dock.

"But mornings come…Harry already went into the woods" Pansy relayed.

"Then if everything goes as I hope it will….this battle isn't over yet. Draco…go and stay with the rest of the students..your mother will be there to get you. Whatever happens…"

"You're saving me and my family Vega. If you ever need anything…I'll do what I can to repay the debt.

"There's no debt Drac just keeping a promise….go.. As for the rest of us you know what to do.."

~x~

Ginny knew the plan, at least the way it was meant to be. But there was the slightest chance of things going wrong…and if it did it would cost her the boy who held her heart. She didn't want Harry to die but Skyler had explained things to her as best she could and there was no other way. In order for Voldemort to die Harry had to too…it's just no one could ever be ready for being told the one they love is dead.

Voldemort came marching in with his followers all smug, ha grid was chains and bound carrying a limp body as Neville stood at the forefront of everyone.

"Who's that?" She asked so all could hear,"Neville who is that he's carrying?!"

"Harry Potter is dead!" The dark lord shouted in glee and Ginny's heart broke as she yelled out a sorrowful no. Arthur pulled his youngest child back from running out at him as Voldemort yelled,"Stupid girl!"

Crazed dark and wizard went on about how everyone should put their faith in him but Ginny paid no attention she was watching and waiting patiently. She trusted Skyler and what the older girl had told her so she waited….and her patients paid off. Neville pulled the sword of Godric Gryffindor out of the sorting hat and Voldemort sent him flying with a stunner. That exact same moment Harry jumped from Hagrids arms hitting the snake with a blast as he took off running.

Seeing this no doubt had the death eaters reeling, as they witnessed in the forest themselves that Harry had been hit with the killing curse. He definitely was the boy who lived…but that was her signal and Ginny sent a red flash up into the air and seconds later a large herd of centaurs burst from the forest rushing in with bows firing at will. Many death eaters began to abandoned the second battle as it seemed their opponents had reinforcements. Fleur and Bill were pinned at the far end of the court yard where the giants pulverized anyone in their way. A heavy club crashing down between the couple but Bill yelled in pain falling to the ground clutching his foot, the club hadn't completely destroyed it but it crushed the limb enough. The Veela's eyes began glowing a violet color as her magic intensified. Her attacks grew stronger causing the giant in front of her to stumble backward while simultaneously throwing fire at the other looking to crush her husband. While reaching for his wand Bill's hand was stepped on by a large black boot, looking up he was staring into the tarnished but grinning face of Fenrir Greyback. The werewolf stepped down hard on the hand and Bill again yelled in pain. Lucky for him Ron came in time throwing spells to attack the werewolf,"You ready to die boy" Fenrir growled stalking toward the youngest Weasley male.

Fleur couldn't stay defender her mate was injured and out in the open, she had to do something quick but defending like this was draining. After all despite the awaking of her full Veela heritage she had yet to fully control the magic, and like any type of magic being used before one was ready could have devastating results not just for her self but for all around including those she was fighting along side with. Suddenly the giant standing in front of her fell to a knee grabbing at its sudden wound. He roared in angry hurt before being silenced by the gurgling of his own blood, when he fell dead Skyler stood blade drawn and gleaming even while it dripped with crimson. with a swift nod of thanks the Veela took care of the other giant she was facing off against by sending a power house of a stunner knocking the giant into the rubble of the castle, then smashing him with a large loose stone that had yet to fall from a cracked pillar.

looking around Skyler found Harry dueling the dark lord and went to help keep him covered,"Ron!" the shrill cry of Hermione's panic caught her attention and galaxy eyes turned their gaze to a certain brunette trying to make her way to that weasel of a boy. Fenrir had him pinned and the werewolf was toying with him, Skye had the mind to just let his fate be sealed…but the continuous cries from Hermione hoping to help him had her rushing to flank the feral man. running along a large pile of rubble the Vajra slide avoiding the swipe of a large battle axe. Turning she blocked the same haze from coming down to split her head open. with a grunt she pushed it back and with a quick swipe cut the hands holding the large weapon. turning to look at the pair in her sights she found Fenrir closing in on Ron who had dropped his wand and now crawling to get it. She could let him die…right here right now….and no one would know…but she couldn't do that to Ginny, Harry or Hermione and with a sigh threw her katana like a spear. The blade hit its mark piercing the man through the shoulder and Skye was quick to follow up by rushing behind him grasping the handle of her swords and steering the werewolf away from the red head painfully. Kicking him from the blade Fenrir held his shoulder and turn to face his attacker. The strike was quick and swift and he felt no pain as his head slowly slid from his shoulders falling to the ground followed by his twitching body.

"Traitor!" came an angry call and the Vajra turned to find Bellatrix glaring at her. However before Skyler could do anything Bellatrix was defending herself from none other then Hermione."Skye The Snake!" the younger witch yelled and the Vajiri ran off to find the god damn snake, soon after she left in search of Nagini the fight into the great hall. Ginny came rushing to help Hermione with Bellatrix. She felt another's back pressed to hers as did Hermione."You're not so bad Weasley." Came the teasing tone

"Neither are you Greengrass…who would have thought Parkinson was quite the duelist herself."

"Oi if you two wouldn't mind but we're in the middle of a battle-"

"Don't worry Pansy I'll protect you" Ginny said nonchalantly before addressing her brunette friend,"I'll tell you later 'Mione for now duck!"

Harry crashed into the great hall as he and Voldemort continued their duel. The entire hall lit from their connecting spells. Harry only focused on his opponent he couldn't tell afford to lose this battle. His and Voldemort's attacks connected in a ball between them, a green beam form the dark lords and a red from his. It wasn't until both sensed the last of the horcruxes did they disconnect and Harry saw his chance how ever….

After Voldemort saw that his last lieutenant went down at the hands of a blood traitor he became desperate more as he felt the death of his precious Nagini..."Let's see how well you fight losing someone you 'Love'!" Before Harry knew it time seemed to slow as a green burst shot from Voldemort's wand heading straight for Ginny. She was off to the side defending as her mother sent the finishing blow to the death eater who decided to attack them seconds after defeating Bellatrix, He too was subdued but everyone seemed to be moving too slow. That's when a blur of black hair appeared and Ginny was pushed away come to stop sliding at Hermione's feet.

It was only a heart beat later both girls yelled,"Skyler!" Before said girl was sent twisting in the air coming to hit the wall and dropped unmoving. Harry yelled in anger as his duel with the dark wizard continued, this time though Harry had righteous anger, and vengeance coursing through him as he managed to disarm Voldemort…unfortunately for the dark lord the curse he used rebounded causing his skin to become blackened and cracks appear along his skin, giving a yell of defeated pain he burst into ash, but nothing was left of him….and Harry took a deep breath as his arm fell to his side dropping his wand and turned to find Ginny along with Fleur, Pansy, and only a few others trying to wake the limp Skyler.

"Skyler you idiot!" Ginny yelled as she shook her friend violently,"Wake up!"

"I..I don't understand…." Fleur said confused,"she…she can't…"

"She can't what?" Pansy asked a bit hysterical helping Ginny in try shake their friend awake…before an answer came Harry was there taking his oldest friend in his arms as he began doing what his girlfriend did,"Skye c'mon wake up! Wake up!"

"She's gone mate-" Ron began to say but Harry shook his head no,"She can't be!" he looked searching for anyone to help. His green eyes settled on Hermione, who as it was staring intently at the girl in his arms. That's when he noticed something…odd. Hermione's eyes held some sort of green ring around the pupil…but unlike the other changes he'd seen in those brown pools…this didn't fit…and didn't sit right with him.

"She's not dead." The brunette finally said almost as if she were in a trance. Gryffindor's princess knelt beside both her black haired friends. Harry could see the green ring flicker as she did and wondered what. It meant. What happened next completely surprised them all. Hermione Granger slapped Skyler's face hard the sound resounded and echoed within the great hall and the girl groaned instantly turning on her side to hold it.

"Yeah let's not do this again…" She moaned.

"Skye! Your alive?!"

"Of course I am….just don't talk so loud my fucking brain hurts.." Harry laughed with tears in his eyes pulling his sister close. She of course groaned at this before he pulled back to punch her arm."Ow!"

Harry's punch was followed by a succession of them by the group that had surrounded her as they too felt what Harry felt,"Why's everyone hitting me!"


Im a little iffy on the battle but i feel it fits things…this chapter was hard for me to write a bit but i hope you all enjoyed it