DISCLAIMER: Harry Potter and other characters are JKR's property and I
can't help it.
AUTHORS NOTE: Thanks for the wonderful support. No flames please.....
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
iceprincess13090 : Thanks for reviewing. I am glad you liked my fic.
takari4ever7 : More surprises await you then, good luck!
Robaatsu : Wow, Nice compliment, (*sighs sadly*) But I know I am not that good
Alastar : Thanks for the feedback and the warning. Everyone knows you 'cuz you get freaked out so quick (*smirks*)
deathstrike : Thank you, here you go!
Muirnin : Thanks for such reassuring words. I am glad that I got such wonderful reviewers....
RedHot721 : Sure. I plan to update twice a week (am I promising too much?)
ginny101 : Hey Ginny, here is the next chapter.
solar : thanks for the feedback.
me : You? (*laughs at the name*) Here is the next chapter!
Andy : Nice poem there Andy. A normal thanks would suffice, however.
sew2100 : Voldie will not be involved here, directly though. Read on.
Jordan : Sure think dude! But hey, I am not so naïve, you know? There could be some twists....
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Chapter 7: Saving Myself
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"The reason my name is Potter is that, well....I am son of James and Lily Potter", finished Harry making Lily gasp out loud. She blinked at Harry for a few seconds and promptly passed out, collapsing near the stairs.
Harry rushed to her aid, hoping that nothing is wrong with her.
"Mom....err....Lily", he shook her time and again but to no avail. Everyone in the Gryffindor tower has gone to bed and Harry didn't want to wake anyone up, which might pose more questions to him. Harry thought of reviving her and just when he was about to, Arabella showed up on the steps.
"Harry, What happened? Why is Lily down?" asked very concerned about Lily.
"Well, Lily passed out. I am trying to wake her up", said Harry trying to be terse and not give details about why she passed out.
"I think it is better to go to the infirmary", suggested Arabella, rushing to Lily's side. Harry simply nodded. He lifted her and walked out of the common room towards the infirmary. He only hoped that Madam Pomfrey would still be up and would not question much.
"What happened to Ms. Evans?" asked the fat lady as he walked out.
"She passed out. I am taking her to the infirmary", replied Harry. He then walked quickly towards infirmary holding Lily, followed by Arabella.
"Madam Pomfrey", he called out walking into the infirmary.
"It's an hour past midnight. Now, What is....Mr. Perkins, Ms. Figg! Is everything all right? What happened to Ms. Evans?" asked Madam Pomfrey.
"I don't know. She just fell unconscious near the stairs to the girl's dorm", said Harry.
Madam Pomfrey did not ask another question and started on diagnosing Lily. After a few minutes, she turned towards a concerned Harry and Arabella.
"Nothing to be worried Mr. Perkins. She just had some sort of a shock and is unconscious. She would be up in a few minutes. But I would like her to rest here, in the infirmary for the night", said Madam Pomfrey with a "you- can-leave-for-the-night" tone.
"I will stay with her", offered Arabella. For some reason Madam Pomfrey agreed and showed her a bed next to Lily. Arabella bid goodnight to Harry and went to bed.
Harry nodded and walked out of the infirmary towards the tower. His head was like a maelstrom. He was not so sure if he did the right thing. He did act on impulse and that is what he was afraid of. Now he is scared of Hermione and Dumbledore holding him responsible for any of the consequences. He started reconsidering his action of revealing the truth.
'Nothing will happen. Everything will be fine', thought Harry re-assuring himself.
Immersed in his turbulent thoughts, he didn't realize that he was being watched. Harry approached the portrait when he felt it, someone staring at him. He quickly glanced around to find nothing.
"Is everything alright, Mr. Perkins?" asked the fat lady, showing wee bit of a concern.
"Yeah. Madam Pomfrey is attending her", said Harry followed by the password. He walked in and sat on the couch thinking about what might happen the next day. He soon fell asleep on the couch.
* * *
"Harry....Harry", shook Hermione. Harry groggily woke up and looked at his watch. It was six in the morning.
"Where is Lily?" asked Hermione.
"Lily is in the infirmary. She passed out last night", explained Harry.
Meanwhile, James woke up early that morning to practice Quidditch. They have tryouts and selections followed by some practice sessions. As he walked out of the boy's dorm, he heard Harry mentioning about Lily and froze.
"What happened Harry?" he asked, worry clearly showing in his voice.
Harry recovered from the startle that was caused by James's sudden appearance and looked at him.
"Well, Last night I found Lily passed out near the stairs. I took her to the infirmary and Madam Pomfrey said that she would release Lily in the morning. Arabella is with her", said Harry, unwilling to explain full details at that time. He didn't want to confuse James with the whole story and he decided to talk to both of them together. To his surprise, Hermione didn't seem to be fazed or concerned with any of those details. It's as if, she didn't care to know why Lily passed out.
"James, why don't we see her in the infirmary?" asked Hermione, walking out of the common room. Nodding James ran after her towards the infirmary. Harry felt something odd about her. He shrugged the feeling off and plopped back on the couch.
Harry couldn't sleep anymore. He walked to the boy's bathroom, took a shower and got ready for the day. He silently walked down the stairs into the common room when to his surprise, he saw Hermione walking down the girl's dorm.
"Hermione, when did you get back from the infirmary?" asked Harry surprised that Hermione came back.
"What are you talking about Harry? Who's in the infirmary?"
"What do you mean who? Lily is in the infirmary. Didn't you and James go to the infirmary a few minutes ago?" asked Harry, clearly confused.
Hermione surprised about the news, shook her head. Harry thought for a few seconds. Suddenly something dawned on to his mind.
"Quick let's apparate to the infirmary", said Harry holding her hand.
"Harry, I don't think it's such a good idea. It is morning already and we don't want to reveal our powers to everyone around", warned Hermione.
Harry nodded at her attentiveness. He held her hand and dragged her out of the common room and started running towards the infirmary.
"What happened?" asked Hermione, trying to catch up with him.
"Last night, after I left your dorm, Lily followed me. Guess she heard us talking and demanded an explanation. I couldn't hurt her, so I told her the truth. She passed out when she heard about it", said Harry.
"Why are we running to the infirmary and why did you say that I left to the infirmary with James", asked Hermione trying to catch breath.
"Well, I wanted to revive her, but Arabella saw me and so we took Lily to the infirmary. I came back and slept on the couch. A few minutes ago, apparently, "you" and James left to the infirmary in a hurry", explained Harry.
Hermione reached infirmary after Harry, her mind in utter confusion. She kept quite as they walked towards a sleeping Arabella. Lily's bed was empty. Madam Pomfrey is nowhere to be seen.
"Arabella", he shook her but Arabella didn't budge.
"Harry, she seems to be knocked out", whispered Hermione, trying to understand the situation. Harry immediately muttered, "ennervate", reviving Arabella.
She woke up and looked at Hermione fearfully, grasping Harry's hand.
"Harry, she....she came here and cursed me", said Arabella pointing to Hermione, clutching to Harry's hand and staring confused. She then looked at the empty Lily's bed.
"Where is Lily?" asked Arabella.
"Arabella, did you see James come in?" asked Harry. Arabella shook her head for a 'No'.
"Ok. It's not Hermione that cursed you. It's some imposture", explained Harry.
Hermione walked to Arabella and hugged her.
"Arabella, I am your friend. I wouldn't do something like that to you", said Hermione. "Oh!" said Arabella staring at Hermione. Soon she realized that Hermione was not lying.
"I am sorry Hermione. But what happened to Lily?" asked a concerned Arabella, hugging back.
Harry looked at Hermione and they both nodded at each other. They realized that the truth couldn't be held for long.
"Arabella, Me and Hermione are here from a future time. My name actually is, Harry Potter, son of James and Lily. I revealed this fact to Lily and that's why she passed out", said Harry hoping that Arabella wouldn't pass out too.
Arabella looked at both, speechless. Her mouth closed and opened like a fish for a few seconds. Slowly, she recovered from the shock. A huge smile dawned on her face.
"Awesome. That means James is going to marry Lily. How did you manage to stay without disclosing this around your parents?" asked Arabella.
"Well, with the help of a great friend", smiled Harry looking at Hermione.
"Oooh. Lily's son and her to-be-daughter-in-law", smirked Arabella making Hermione blush.
"And you are Harry's godmother", said Hermione making Arabella laugh.
"Wow, No wonder you knew about me", said Arabella before getting back to the problem.
"What do we do now?" she asked Harry.
Harry looked around thinking.
"Whoever kidnapped Lily and possibly James, came into the tower, meaning they know the password. They also disguised themselves as Hermione meaning...." Said Harry, thinking out loud.
"Polyjuice potion", said Hermione.
"Right. I will try to find Mom and dad. You and Hermione go back to the tower", said Harry making Hermione glare at him.
"Harold James Potter! What makes you think I would leave you alone? I am coming with you and that is final", said Hermione menacingly. Harry gulped.
"Ok, Arabella. Why don't you go to Dumbledore and tell him everything. Meanwhile, we will find Lily and James", said Hermione walking out of the infirmary with Harry.
As soon as they both walked out, Hermione held Harry throat mockingly.
"Never ever think about leaving me", she warned him only to make him nod fearfully. Hermione kissed his cheek and both apparated outside the castle.
"I don't think they would still be in the castle. Where do we search?" asked Hermione. Harry thought for a few seconds. He smiled and muttered "Accio Marauder's map".
Soon the map came floating to Harry. He tapped the map and said, "I solemnly swear I am up to no good" and as usual the lines crisscrossed revealing Hogwarts. They sighed, as they didn't find either Lily or James on it.
Harry walked towards the castle walls along with Hermione. He looked around to make sure they are alone and quickly turned into a dog. He started sniffing the whole place all the way towards the edge of the forbidden forest.
'Showing off your polymagus powers, Potter?' smirked Hermione making Harry look at her and lick her feet. Giggling, Hermione followed him around. Finally, after a few minutes of random search, Harry caught the trail. Both Harry in his dog form and Hermione walked into the forbidden forest following the trail.
They walked on for some half-an-hour, stopping occasionally when Harry walked around to get the scent. Finally, they stopped in front of a big rock covered with moss. Harry changed back and looked around. They were very deep into the forbidden forest.
"Harry, do you think they are around here?" asked Hermione.
"No, Hermione. They are inside", said Harry walking towards the rock.
It's then she realized that the rock is actually a cave, the entrance was obscured with wild plants and shrubs. Both walked towards the entrance and peered inside to make sure there is no one nearby. Slowly Harry walked in followed by Hermione. The cave had some sort of a tunnel that went in for almost half a mile. They left the entrance long back when they started hearing incoherent noises. Both walked crouching, trying to locate the voices and ended up in front of an opening that led into a big room. There were a few death eaters sitting around both Lily and James who were tied with magical ropes and gagged as well. It seemed like they are waiting for someone.
'Who do you think they are waiting for?' asked Hermione telepathically
'Don't know, hope it is not Snape or Lucius', said Harry.
Suddenly there were sounds. Harry and Hermione hid themselves behind a pillar. Someone in a cloak with its hood up walked in.
Harry could hear Lily's muffled voice while James glared at the cloaked person.
'Death eaters', whispered Harry to Hermione mentally.
"What do we have here?" laughed the cloaked person, removing the magical gag on both James and Lily.
"Who are you? And what do you want from us?' asked James furiously tugging on the magical ropes.
"Who am I? Alright", said the person removing the cloak.
"Professor Wilbur", gasped Lily, rather surprised about the revealed entity.
"Well of course I am", laughed Wilbur.
"But, Where is Hermione?' asked Lily frowning.
"Ms. Granger?" smirked Wilbur before continuing to laugh.
"I am Ms. Granger, Ms. Evans. I got a bit of her hair a couple of days back in the library and voila, I became her", laughed Wilbur.
"Polyjuice potion", muttered Lily.
"But why are you doing this?" demanded James.
"Mr. Potter, There is this prophesy by the founders of Hogwarts, about your son destroying my master, the dark lord, in a future time. I am here to stop it", said Wilbur glaring back at James.
"Dark Lord....You serve Voldermort?" asked James first surprised but soon realizing his motives. He looked into Wilbur's eyes and realized what he was planning to do.
"Don't you dare touch Lily", shouted James.
"Mr. Potter, you are in no position to command. I will do as I please or better yet, as my master please", laughed Wilbur.
"Well....well Professor. You don't want to touch my mother and live to tell the story", smirked Harry as he walked into the light.
"You! You are her son?" gasped Wilbur.
"Very much", smirked Harry.
James looked shocked. He didn't know what's going on. Lily on the other hand was grinning ear to ear. She then leaned back and started filling James on the details.
Wilbur looked at the death eaters and they all started cursing Harry. Harry merely laughed as the curses stopped a few inches from Harry.
"Mr. Wilbur, When your dear old master couldn't touch me, how do you think these pathetic death eaters would do?" laughed Harry before waving his hand. All the death eaters fell unconscious.
Wilbur started to perspire. He realized that he is in a bad situation. But his vile mind calculated like lightning. He immediately ran to Lily and placed his wand to her head.
"Surrender or your mother dies", he grinned victoriously. But before he can enjoy the moment a big lioness jumped on to him and bit his right hand, wounding him deep and letting his wand fall to the floor.
"Ahhh", shouted Wilbur clutching his hand. The lioness then jumped on to Wilbur again and smashed her paw on his chest, making his nearly unconscious with the blood loss.
"Mom, Dad", Harry ran to them as James and Lily hugged him.
"I can't believe I am seeing my son", laughed James. Lily just hugged him tight.
"Thank you", she murmured. The lioness walked next to them. Lily patted the lioness as she licked her hands.
"Harry, What about Hermione? Is she safe?" asked James worriedly.
"Dad, relax, She is here. Meet my girlfriend", said Harry showing the Lioness. Immediately, Hermione changed back surprising both James and Lily.
Lily jumped and hugged Hermione.
"Thanks Hermione", said Lily.
"Anytime Lily....Anytime", said Hermione.
"I can't believe our son is all grown up and has a girlfriend who is an animagus too", said James making Harry and Hermione blush.
"You two are made for each other", remarked Lily making Hermione's eyes get misty.
They however failed to notice something move behind them. Wilbur woke up from his semi-unconscious state and trained his wand at Lily.
As Hermione hugged Lily again, she saw Wilbur about to curse.
"Semper...." Before he could finish, Hermione pushed Lily out of the way.
"....Dormis" finished Wilbur. But Hermione didn't have enough time to get out of the way. Blue light raced towards Hermione and she got the full blow of the curse head on.
"HERMIONE!" shouted Harry, rushing to her side.
"Oh Well, one or the other. I know of your potential, Harry Potter. Trust me, you cannot save her", laughed Wilbur maniacally.
Lily turned towards Wilbur and furiously kicked him on his face promptly passing him out. Both James and Lily rushed back to Hermione. Harry was totally shaken.
"Mom, Dad. Please move aside", suggested Harry and tried using his life elemental power on Hermione.
"Liberio Diutinus", muttered Harry making his hand glow. But nothing happened. He tried again only resulting in him growing weaker.
Tears were obscuring his vision. His hands were shaking. His hope and love of his life lying lifeless in front of him, was making him hopeless.
"medicor navitas", muttered Harry, his final ray of hope leaving him as he saw no movement from Hermione. He fell to his knees and started sobbing hard.
"Harry, keep faith. I mean, Dumbledore will be able to do something", said Lily hugging him. James also joined the embrace, patting Harry's head.
It took several minutes for Harry to get back to his senses. He still had a glimmer of hope somewhere that Dumbledore might be able to help. He lifted Hermione and hugged her to his heart.
"Mom, Dad, Hold on to me", said Harry and apparated directly into Dumbledore's office.
"Professor, You got to help me. Hermione is not respondi....". Harry was never able to finish his sentence. His throat was blocked by an effort to control sobbing.
James and Lily explained Dumbledore all the events that happened. Dumbledore listened carefully. He walked over to Hermione and tried several spells, but to no avail.
"I love her Mom, I love her. I don't know what to do now", Harry continued sobbing on to his mother's shoulder. Lily, who initially was shocked to find that Harry was her son, came over the surprise very well. She in fact got used to the fact that Harry is her son. She rubbed his shoulders and caressed his hair, trying to console him.
"Harry, I am really sorry about it. But there is nothing one can do. I am afraid this is the end of such a brilliant witch", sighed Dumbledore, sorrow showering from his eyes. Harry almost fainted from that news. Lily quickly held him and made him sit in a chair. Both James and Lily stood close to him, holding his hand.
'Why does this happen to me? What did I do wrong? First I loose my parents and now my love of my life is away from me. Why should I live?' screamed Harry mentally.
Though Lily knew Hermione from just a few weeks, she grew very close to her and the fact that she is her son's girlfriend made it even worse for her. Added to that she just couldn't see his son grieving so much. Her own eyes were showering constantly.
"Harry, I believe you finished your task of saving your parents, thus saving yourself, though at a cost", said Dumbledore very sadly.
"Why her professor? Why not me?" blurted Harry, through his chocked throat.
"I know you are very much grieved. But you will have to move on. Hermione wouldn't want you to live your life grieving over her", said Dumbledore.
Harry stood up, anger coursing through his veins. He quickly walked out despite his parents trying to stop him and ran out of the castle, into the forbidden forest. He changed into a Griffin while running and roared with pain.
Pain, as he never felt....
Pain, as his heart would melt....
Pain, that is so high and pure....
Pain, which wouldn't have a cure!
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A/N: The next chapter closes the story and will be the last one of this book.
AUTHORS NOTE: Thanks for the wonderful support. No flames please.....
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
iceprincess13090 : Thanks for reviewing. I am glad you liked my fic.
takari4ever7 : More surprises await you then, good luck!
Robaatsu : Wow, Nice compliment, (*sighs sadly*) But I know I am not that good
Alastar : Thanks for the feedback and the warning. Everyone knows you 'cuz you get freaked out so quick (*smirks*)
deathstrike : Thank you, here you go!
Muirnin : Thanks for such reassuring words. I am glad that I got such wonderful reviewers....
RedHot721 : Sure. I plan to update twice a week (am I promising too much?)
ginny101 : Hey Ginny, here is the next chapter.
solar : thanks for the feedback.
me : You? (*laughs at the name*) Here is the next chapter!
Andy : Nice poem there Andy. A normal thanks would suffice, however.
sew2100 : Voldie will not be involved here, directly though. Read on.
Jordan : Sure think dude! But hey, I am not so naïve, you know? There could be some twists....
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Chapter 7: Saving Myself
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"The reason my name is Potter is that, well....I am son of James and Lily Potter", finished Harry making Lily gasp out loud. She blinked at Harry for a few seconds and promptly passed out, collapsing near the stairs.
Harry rushed to her aid, hoping that nothing is wrong with her.
"Mom....err....Lily", he shook her time and again but to no avail. Everyone in the Gryffindor tower has gone to bed and Harry didn't want to wake anyone up, which might pose more questions to him. Harry thought of reviving her and just when he was about to, Arabella showed up on the steps.
"Harry, What happened? Why is Lily down?" asked very concerned about Lily.
"Well, Lily passed out. I am trying to wake her up", said Harry trying to be terse and not give details about why she passed out.
"I think it is better to go to the infirmary", suggested Arabella, rushing to Lily's side. Harry simply nodded. He lifted her and walked out of the common room towards the infirmary. He only hoped that Madam Pomfrey would still be up and would not question much.
"What happened to Ms. Evans?" asked the fat lady as he walked out.
"She passed out. I am taking her to the infirmary", replied Harry. He then walked quickly towards infirmary holding Lily, followed by Arabella.
"Madam Pomfrey", he called out walking into the infirmary.
"It's an hour past midnight. Now, What is....Mr. Perkins, Ms. Figg! Is everything all right? What happened to Ms. Evans?" asked Madam Pomfrey.
"I don't know. She just fell unconscious near the stairs to the girl's dorm", said Harry.
Madam Pomfrey did not ask another question and started on diagnosing Lily. After a few minutes, she turned towards a concerned Harry and Arabella.
"Nothing to be worried Mr. Perkins. She just had some sort of a shock and is unconscious. She would be up in a few minutes. But I would like her to rest here, in the infirmary for the night", said Madam Pomfrey with a "you- can-leave-for-the-night" tone.
"I will stay with her", offered Arabella. For some reason Madam Pomfrey agreed and showed her a bed next to Lily. Arabella bid goodnight to Harry and went to bed.
Harry nodded and walked out of the infirmary towards the tower. His head was like a maelstrom. He was not so sure if he did the right thing. He did act on impulse and that is what he was afraid of. Now he is scared of Hermione and Dumbledore holding him responsible for any of the consequences. He started reconsidering his action of revealing the truth.
'Nothing will happen. Everything will be fine', thought Harry re-assuring himself.
Immersed in his turbulent thoughts, he didn't realize that he was being watched. Harry approached the portrait when he felt it, someone staring at him. He quickly glanced around to find nothing.
"Is everything alright, Mr. Perkins?" asked the fat lady, showing wee bit of a concern.
"Yeah. Madam Pomfrey is attending her", said Harry followed by the password. He walked in and sat on the couch thinking about what might happen the next day. He soon fell asleep on the couch.
* * *
"Harry....Harry", shook Hermione. Harry groggily woke up and looked at his watch. It was six in the morning.
"Where is Lily?" asked Hermione.
"Lily is in the infirmary. She passed out last night", explained Harry.
Meanwhile, James woke up early that morning to practice Quidditch. They have tryouts and selections followed by some practice sessions. As he walked out of the boy's dorm, he heard Harry mentioning about Lily and froze.
"What happened Harry?" he asked, worry clearly showing in his voice.
Harry recovered from the startle that was caused by James's sudden appearance and looked at him.
"Well, Last night I found Lily passed out near the stairs. I took her to the infirmary and Madam Pomfrey said that she would release Lily in the morning. Arabella is with her", said Harry, unwilling to explain full details at that time. He didn't want to confuse James with the whole story and he decided to talk to both of them together. To his surprise, Hermione didn't seem to be fazed or concerned with any of those details. It's as if, she didn't care to know why Lily passed out.
"James, why don't we see her in the infirmary?" asked Hermione, walking out of the common room. Nodding James ran after her towards the infirmary. Harry felt something odd about her. He shrugged the feeling off and plopped back on the couch.
Harry couldn't sleep anymore. He walked to the boy's bathroom, took a shower and got ready for the day. He silently walked down the stairs into the common room when to his surprise, he saw Hermione walking down the girl's dorm.
"Hermione, when did you get back from the infirmary?" asked Harry surprised that Hermione came back.
"What are you talking about Harry? Who's in the infirmary?"
"What do you mean who? Lily is in the infirmary. Didn't you and James go to the infirmary a few minutes ago?" asked Harry, clearly confused.
Hermione surprised about the news, shook her head. Harry thought for a few seconds. Suddenly something dawned on to his mind.
"Quick let's apparate to the infirmary", said Harry holding her hand.
"Harry, I don't think it's such a good idea. It is morning already and we don't want to reveal our powers to everyone around", warned Hermione.
Harry nodded at her attentiveness. He held her hand and dragged her out of the common room and started running towards the infirmary.
"What happened?" asked Hermione, trying to catch up with him.
"Last night, after I left your dorm, Lily followed me. Guess she heard us talking and demanded an explanation. I couldn't hurt her, so I told her the truth. She passed out when she heard about it", said Harry.
"Why are we running to the infirmary and why did you say that I left to the infirmary with James", asked Hermione trying to catch breath.
"Well, I wanted to revive her, but Arabella saw me and so we took Lily to the infirmary. I came back and slept on the couch. A few minutes ago, apparently, "you" and James left to the infirmary in a hurry", explained Harry.
Hermione reached infirmary after Harry, her mind in utter confusion. She kept quite as they walked towards a sleeping Arabella. Lily's bed was empty. Madam Pomfrey is nowhere to be seen.
"Arabella", he shook her but Arabella didn't budge.
"Harry, she seems to be knocked out", whispered Hermione, trying to understand the situation. Harry immediately muttered, "ennervate", reviving Arabella.
She woke up and looked at Hermione fearfully, grasping Harry's hand.
"Harry, she....she came here and cursed me", said Arabella pointing to Hermione, clutching to Harry's hand and staring confused. She then looked at the empty Lily's bed.
"Where is Lily?" asked Arabella.
"Arabella, did you see James come in?" asked Harry. Arabella shook her head for a 'No'.
"Ok. It's not Hermione that cursed you. It's some imposture", explained Harry.
Hermione walked to Arabella and hugged her.
"Arabella, I am your friend. I wouldn't do something like that to you", said Hermione. "Oh!" said Arabella staring at Hermione. Soon she realized that Hermione was not lying.
"I am sorry Hermione. But what happened to Lily?" asked a concerned Arabella, hugging back.
Harry looked at Hermione and they both nodded at each other. They realized that the truth couldn't be held for long.
"Arabella, Me and Hermione are here from a future time. My name actually is, Harry Potter, son of James and Lily. I revealed this fact to Lily and that's why she passed out", said Harry hoping that Arabella wouldn't pass out too.
Arabella looked at both, speechless. Her mouth closed and opened like a fish for a few seconds. Slowly, she recovered from the shock. A huge smile dawned on her face.
"Awesome. That means James is going to marry Lily. How did you manage to stay without disclosing this around your parents?" asked Arabella.
"Well, with the help of a great friend", smiled Harry looking at Hermione.
"Oooh. Lily's son and her to-be-daughter-in-law", smirked Arabella making Hermione blush.
"And you are Harry's godmother", said Hermione making Arabella laugh.
"Wow, No wonder you knew about me", said Arabella before getting back to the problem.
"What do we do now?" she asked Harry.
Harry looked around thinking.
"Whoever kidnapped Lily and possibly James, came into the tower, meaning they know the password. They also disguised themselves as Hermione meaning...." Said Harry, thinking out loud.
"Polyjuice potion", said Hermione.
"Right. I will try to find Mom and dad. You and Hermione go back to the tower", said Harry making Hermione glare at him.
"Harold James Potter! What makes you think I would leave you alone? I am coming with you and that is final", said Hermione menacingly. Harry gulped.
"Ok, Arabella. Why don't you go to Dumbledore and tell him everything. Meanwhile, we will find Lily and James", said Hermione walking out of the infirmary with Harry.
As soon as they both walked out, Hermione held Harry throat mockingly.
"Never ever think about leaving me", she warned him only to make him nod fearfully. Hermione kissed his cheek and both apparated outside the castle.
"I don't think they would still be in the castle. Where do we search?" asked Hermione. Harry thought for a few seconds. He smiled and muttered "Accio Marauder's map".
Soon the map came floating to Harry. He tapped the map and said, "I solemnly swear I am up to no good" and as usual the lines crisscrossed revealing Hogwarts. They sighed, as they didn't find either Lily or James on it.
Harry walked towards the castle walls along with Hermione. He looked around to make sure they are alone and quickly turned into a dog. He started sniffing the whole place all the way towards the edge of the forbidden forest.
'Showing off your polymagus powers, Potter?' smirked Hermione making Harry look at her and lick her feet. Giggling, Hermione followed him around. Finally, after a few minutes of random search, Harry caught the trail. Both Harry in his dog form and Hermione walked into the forbidden forest following the trail.
They walked on for some half-an-hour, stopping occasionally when Harry walked around to get the scent. Finally, they stopped in front of a big rock covered with moss. Harry changed back and looked around. They were very deep into the forbidden forest.
"Harry, do you think they are around here?" asked Hermione.
"No, Hermione. They are inside", said Harry walking towards the rock.
It's then she realized that the rock is actually a cave, the entrance was obscured with wild plants and shrubs. Both walked towards the entrance and peered inside to make sure there is no one nearby. Slowly Harry walked in followed by Hermione. The cave had some sort of a tunnel that went in for almost half a mile. They left the entrance long back when they started hearing incoherent noises. Both walked crouching, trying to locate the voices and ended up in front of an opening that led into a big room. There were a few death eaters sitting around both Lily and James who were tied with magical ropes and gagged as well. It seemed like they are waiting for someone.
'Who do you think they are waiting for?' asked Hermione telepathically
'Don't know, hope it is not Snape or Lucius', said Harry.
Suddenly there were sounds. Harry and Hermione hid themselves behind a pillar. Someone in a cloak with its hood up walked in.
Harry could hear Lily's muffled voice while James glared at the cloaked person.
'Death eaters', whispered Harry to Hermione mentally.
"What do we have here?" laughed the cloaked person, removing the magical gag on both James and Lily.
"Who are you? And what do you want from us?' asked James furiously tugging on the magical ropes.
"Who am I? Alright", said the person removing the cloak.
"Professor Wilbur", gasped Lily, rather surprised about the revealed entity.
"Well of course I am", laughed Wilbur.
"But, Where is Hermione?' asked Lily frowning.
"Ms. Granger?" smirked Wilbur before continuing to laugh.
"I am Ms. Granger, Ms. Evans. I got a bit of her hair a couple of days back in the library and voila, I became her", laughed Wilbur.
"Polyjuice potion", muttered Lily.
"But why are you doing this?" demanded James.
"Mr. Potter, There is this prophesy by the founders of Hogwarts, about your son destroying my master, the dark lord, in a future time. I am here to stop it", said Wilbur glaring back at James.
"Dark Lord....You serve Voldermort?" asked James first surprised but soon realizing his motives. He looked into Wilbur's eyes and realized what he was planning to do.
"Don't you dare touch Lily", shouted James.
"Mr. Potter, you are in no position to command. I will do as I please or better yet, as my master please", laughed Wilbur.
"Well....well Professor. You don't want to touch my mother and live to tell the story", smirked Harry as he walked into the light.
"You! You are her son?" gasped Wilbur.
"Very much", smirked Harry.
James looked shocked. He didn't know what's going on. Lily on the other hand was grinning ear to ear. She then leaned back and started filling James on the details.
Wilbur looked at the death eaters and they all started cursing Harry. Harry merely laughed as the curses stopped a few inches from Harry.
"Mr. Wilbur, When your dear old master couldn't touch me, how do you think these pathetic death eaters would do?" laughed Harry before waving his hand. All the death eaters fell unconscious.
Wilbur started to perspire. He realized that he is in a bad situation. But his vile mind calculated like lightning. He immediately ran to Lily and placed his wand to her head.
"Surrender or your mother dies", he grinned victoriously. But before he can enjoy the moment a big lioness jumped on to him and bit his right hand, wounding him deep and letting his wand fall to the floor.
"Ahhh", shouted Wilbur clutching his hand. The lioness then jumped on to Wilbur again and smashed her paw on his chest, making his nearly unconscious with the blood loss.
"Mom, Dad", Harry ran to them as James and Lily hugged him.
"I can't believe I am seeing my son", laughed James. Lily just hugged him tight.
"Thank you", she murmured. The lioness walked next to them. Lily patted the lioness as she licked her hands.
"Harry, What about Hermione? Is she safe?" asked James worriedly.
"Dad, relax, She is here. Meet my girlfriend", said Harry showing the Lioness. Immediately, Hermione changed back surprising both James and Lily.
Lily jumped and hugged Hermione.
"Thanks Hermione", said Lily.
"Anytime Lily....Anytime", said Hermione.
"I can't believe our son is all grown up and has a girlfriend who is an animagus too", said James making Harry and Hermione blush.
"You two are made for each other", remarked Lily making Hermione's eyes get misty.
They however failed to notice something move behind them. Wilbur woke up from his semi-unconscious state and trained his wand at Lily.
As Hermione hugged Lily again, she saw Wilbur about to curse.
"Semper...." Before he could finish, Hermione pushed Lily out of the way.
"....Dormis" finished Wilbur. But Hermione didn't have enough time to get out of the way. Blue light raced towards Hermione and she got the full blow of the curse head on.
"HERMIONE!" shouted Harry, rushing to her side.
"Oh Well, one or the other. I know of your potential, Harry Potter. Trust me, you cannot save her", laughed Wilbur maniacally.
Lily turned towards Wilbur and furiously kicked him on his face promptly passing him out. Both James and Lily rushed back to Hermione. Harry was totally shaken.
"Mom, Dad. Please move aside", suggested Harry and tried using his life elemental power on Hermione.
"Liberio Diutinus", muttered Harry making his hand glow. But nothing happened. He tried again only resulting in him growing weaker.
Tears were obscuring his vision. His hands were shaking. His hope and love of his life lying lifeless in front of him, was making him hopeless.
"medicor navitas", muttered Harry, his final ray of hope leaving him as he saw no movement from Hermione. He fell to his knees and started sobbing hard.
"Harry, keep faith. I mean, Dumbledore will be able to do something", said Lily hugging him. James also joined the embrace, patting Harry's head.
It took several minutes for Harry to get back to his senses. He still had a glimmer of hope somewhere that Dumbledore might be able to help. He lifted Hermione and hugged her to his heart.
"Mom, Dad, Hold on to me", said Harry and apparated directly into Dumbledore's office.
"Professor, You got to help me. Hermione is not respondi....". Harry was never able to finish his sentence. His throat was blocked by an effort to control sobbing.
James and Lily explained Dumbledore all the events that happened. Dumbledore listened carefully. He walked over to Hermione and tried several spells, but to no avail.
"I love her Mom, I love her. I don't know what to do now", Harry continued sobbing on to his mother's shoulder. Lily, who initially was shocked to find that Harry was her son, came over the surprise very well. She in fact got used to the fact that Harry is her son. She rubbed his shoulders and caressed his hair, trying to console him.
"Harry, I am really sorry about it. But there is nothing one can do. I am afraid this is the end of such a brilliant witch", sighed Dumbledore, sorrow showering from his eyes. Harry almost fainted from that news. Lily quickly held him and made him sit in a chair. Both James and Lily stood close to him, holding his hand.
'Why does this happen to me? What did I do wrong? First I loose my parents and now my love of my life is away from me. Why should I live?' screamed Harry mentally.
Though Lily knew Hermione from just a few weeks, she grew very close to her and the fact that she is her son's girlfriend made it even worse for her. Added to that she just couldn't see his son grieving so much. Her own eyes were showering constantly.
"Harry, I believe you finished your task of saving your parents, thus saving yourself, though at a cost", said Dumbledore very sadly.
"Why her professor? Why not me?" blurted Harry, through his chocked throat.
"I know you are very much grieved. But you will have to move on. Hermione wouldn't want you to live your life grieving over her", said Dumbledore.
Harry stood up, anger coursing through his veins. He quickly walked out despite his parents trying to stop him and ran out of the castle, into the forbidden forest. He changed into a Griffin while running and roared with pain.
Pain, as he never felt....
Pain, as his heart would melt....
Pain, that is so high and pure....
Pain, which wouldn't have a cure!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/N: The next chapter closes the story and will be the last one of this book.