Bones of Death

by foxylittlelady

James was visited by a Druid who gave him a gift, a promise and a prophecy. He, and three others, would see Peace. After the Final Battle, she fulfills that promise. Now, four twenty-year-olds out of Time need to figure out where they fit in this new time, while coming to grips with the fact that the Peace they are now enjoying was won by a baby they had sworn and failed to protect

5. Never Alone

A/n I don't know how writers sit on finished chapters. Once I'm done, I want to share it and hear what everyone thinks. Their will power far exceeds my own. I'm so happy I get to post this one as I finish it!

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23 December, 1998

Hermione walked into the Borrow from the garden, having spent the last hour or so reading the only text she could find anywhere on Druids and Wild Magic. She had not found it in herself to ask The Potters for anything they might have on the subject. This text was written less than two hundred years ago, by a Pureblood, who claimed to have had a firsthand account to support his claims. However, that witness was never disclosed.

Hermione, after finishing the book, was inclined to believe the writer's words were wooly at best. The Druid she had met, appeared more like a wood spirit or Nymph, than a long robed pale shadow. She had played with the idea of the creature that was used to bring the dead back to life being the "druid". That creature, however, she imagined was some symbol of Death. It would explain why the heavy unnatural magic did not affect Harry like it did her and the Druid. She had said he was 'the Master of Death'. Surely that afforded Harry some protection from an earthly version of him.

The Druid had been happy but exhausted after the whole thing was done. The ritual wore her down, just as it had Hermione. The ritual could have been something these Druids from the text would do. Maybe, Hermione had wondered, there were varieties of Druids, just as there are varieties of Witches and Wizards.

Wild Magic was the purest form of magic, that everyone agreed upon. It was the very nature of magic. The magic creatures used, and what is believed that witches like herself could draw upon if the need ever arose. She used her own magical core, which was a slightly different magic. It was tied to her life force, making it a tempered magic. There were lots of theories around that as well, but nothing was certain. Magic was hereditary, or so many Purebloods claimed. Based on her research, there was truth to that at least. Like a Unicorn will have a Unicorn, a Werewolf bite on the full moon makes a werewolf, and a child of two people who have magic, most often than not, would also have magic.

Why would Squibs exist than? There was so much about her world she did not know, and wanted to. Those born into the Magical World just accepted these things as facts, without really thinking about them. There were so many contradictions even in their own ideals. Blood Supremacy, but ignoring the fact that Squibs don't appear in non-pureblood lines. Having one Muggle or Muggleborn in their family tree, based on the information available, guarantees a Squib will not appear for several generations at least. Was Magic Finite in a blood line then? There were so many questions she would ask Winfred the Druid, if she ever encountered her again.

The event at the Ministry was tomorrow, and she had promised Lily that she would let her pick out a dress for her son's best friend. Since she had stayed at Potter Palace over Halloween Lily had been a steadfast friend, constantly writing letters and sending invitations to visit again. Hermione had asked Ginny if she'd like to come along, but she declined. Ginny wouldn't be attending the event, since Luna wouldn't be around to accompany her. She also hinted at her mother wanting her to stay away from one of the biggest events since the fall of Voldy.

Hermione, Lavender, and Lily would be having a ladies' night at Potter Palace, while the men stayed at Grimmauld. Remus had even agreed, letting Mrs. Tonks have grandmother time with Teddy. According to a letter from Lily that had been a battle of Will; Moony did not want to leave his pup for any amount of time, while Remus knew he would be safe.

"Hermione dear, help Ginny cut the vegetables." Ginny had her hair pulled back, and her face squinched up. She was holding the knife so tightly; Hermione thought she might break it.

"Of course, Mrs. Weasley." The Weasley Matriarch nodded approvingly and left the kitchen, likely to check on the boys De-gnoming the garden. Somethings never changed, Hermione thought with a small smile. It was a relief from the horrors that were the war.

"She been at me since I got here." Ginny huffed, setting the knife down and moving away from the vegetables. "When am I going to settle down, get Harry to see his error and marry me!" Ginny crossed her arms, glaring out at the garden in annoyance. "Doesn't think Luna and I will make it."

"Don't listen to her, Gin. Anyone with eyes knows you two are perfect." Hermione resumed cutting the vegetables for Ginny. Hermione knew how much Ginny hated the traditional female role her mother constantly pushed her into. She would love to be De-gnoming the garden, rather than trapped in the small, hot, stuffy kitchen cutting vegetables. Mrs. Weasley rarely let her do anything else.

Hermione had been staying at the Burrow for a few days, exchanging constant letters with Harry and Lily Potter. James would add things here and there, but seemed content to let his wife and son keep in touch. Luna had gone somewhere looking for one of her strange creatures with her father. She had offered to bring Ginny along, but Mrs. Weasley wanted all her brood home for the holidays. No one could begrudge her that. Having lost Fred was weighing heavily on the mother of seven, now six. As such, she had begun falling more and more into her need to protect what was left of her brood. Charlie refusing to return from Romania didn't help. Ginny, being the only one of school-age, was taking the blunt of the mothering.

"I'm still in school, but I'm seventeen. She honestly can't expect me to just give into her forever!" Hermione nodded along with her friend, not really sure what to say to make things better. She understood Mrs. Weasley's point of view, but her children needed to find their own way. Ginny growled and gave Hermione a pleading look.

"Go have some fun. I got this." Hermione smiled as her friend let out a woop and hugged her in gratitude.

"You are the literal best."

"You won't be saying that if she wanted me to do more then cut the vegetables." Hermione was not a good cook. She could get by, certainly, but anything more complicated than stew, and she'd burn it. She attempted her mother's tuna casserole recipe shortly after the war and nearly burned Grimmauld down. If Kreacher hadn't been there to save the day, she probably would have. Harry would have been devastated by the loss. She refused to cook after that, calling Kreacher or getting take away. Ginny shrugged.

"Worth it." She ran out of the kitchen as far away as the Wards would allow her. Hermione shook her head and continued to chop. She had taken a step back from the Weasley clan over the summer to give them space to heal. When she was at the Burrow, it strangely didn't feel like home anymore. Not like it had before the war. The place, like most other memories of happier times, was tainted by loss. She had not been close to Fred. He had always been one of the Weasley twins. An abstract idea that drifted just outside her eyes until they weren't there anymore.

"Where's Ginerva?" Molly walked in and her face was tight with an emotion Hermione had not seen directed at her before. It was distrust and rage.

"Umm... she wanted a break." Hermione let her eyes drift to the open door, away from Mrs. Weasley. "I told her I'd finish up."

"Get out of my kitchen." Hermione looked back at Molly, her face was now blank, empty. "I won't have some outsider telling my children what to do in our home."

"Mrs. Weasley... she wanted..."

"Out." Hermione dropped her knife quickly at the tone she never heard from her before.

"Sorry." She bolted, sprinting down the yard and only stopping just before the Wards. Ginny had warned her that there were moments when the usually friendly and loving mother seemed to switch into someone else.

"She's trying to cope..." Ginny had told her, her first night during break. "Sometimes it just seems like everyone is the enemy, there to take something else away." Hermione had nodded along not really believing Mrs. Weasley could be anything but kind to her. She should have listened. The memory of a Howler during fourth year popped into her head, as she tried to catch her breath. If Molly would trust a gossip rag over her own experience of several summers, does she really trust me? Hermione leaned her back against the tree and sank down, trying to disappear as she heard Molly yelling for her daughter to return to the kitchen.

The rest of the day passed quickly, and dinner was a somber affair. Mrs. Weasley refused to even look at her. Ginny did her best to smooth things over, but nothing seemed to pull Hermione out of the mood she found herself in.

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Harry laughed as his father and Sirius took turns trying to removed Walburga Black. It had started out as a cleaning spree to ready the house for their 'guys' night' and turned into who can removed Walburga. Harry knew how, thanks to Hermione, and refused to assist either male with their endeavor. He had been watching their unsuccessful attempts for over three hours now and was not opposed to spending the rest of the night doing just this. It made him feel a part of a family in a way he had not before. His smile widened; he could get used to this.

Lavender and Lily hit it off right away and had filled several rooms with dresses for the event tomorrow. James had lamented the loss of space and made his view of not wanting any involvement clear. Lily had responded with kicking the men out for the entirety of the day of the event. They would just have to wait to see what the three young ladies looked like at the Ministry. James had taken the information with nothing but excitement. Sirius had looked nervous, which had Harry wondering why.

Walburga let out a new variety of insults bringing the Potter heir back into the moment. "Shame of my Flesh! Polluting the blood of the Most Noble House of BLACK!" Her voice turned even more shrill if possible. "Mud!" James silenced her, closing the curtain.

"Merlin, let's get this bitch off the wall." Sirius let out a long-exhausted huff. "When's Hermione stopping in?" Harry shrugged. Hermione had been prompt with answering his letters, but she never seemed to include anything of worth. She was having fun at the Burrow. Luna was gone for the break, so Ginny was around more often than not. Percy stopped in to let them know Audrey and he were expecting their first baby. George had moved back into the apartment above his shop, which would be opening just before New Years. Angelina was a huge factor for that. She was tired of listening to Molly's opinions on when they should marry and how. Hermione had relayed that she was certain Molly had everyone's weddings planned out in one way or another.

Ron had been returning his letters, not as frequently as Hermione, but he was still happy to see the post. He mostly wrote about quidditch and how he hated going back to Hogwarts when he didn't have to. Ron wished he had taken up the offer and gone straight into the Auror Corps. He like Hermione, never talked about their relationship. Lily had offered the advice that maybe they wanted to have it without Harry's input, since so much of their lives depended on Harry. The start of their friendship, all the way to the defining moment where they kissed in the heat of battle.

Lily was of the opinion that without Harry. Hermione and Ron would not be friends, let alone a couple. James silently agreed with his wife. From what they saw, Hermione was studious and driven, but socially awkward. While Ron was very laid back and hated being in the shadow of anyone. Hermione would cast a long shadow eventually; they were certain. They had both wondered to each other in the night, how the three of them became and stayed friends. The heat of battle was the only cause they could come up with.

"She'll stop in tomorrow." James spoke up, wrapping his arm around Harry's shoulders. Harry learned quickly that his parents were the physically affectionate type of people. He had been hugged, comforted, held, and just touched more than he had during the rest of his life. He would never grow tired of having his mother running her fingers through his hair, or his father's arm comforting around his shoulders. He knew the affection was as much for his sake as theirs. Each needing to know the other was really there. "If we don't see her, Lily can ask. Set up a tea or whatever she's been wanting."

"Yeah." Harry wanted to spend the holiday with his friends and family for the first time. He was trying to not be greedy, knowing that Hermione likely wanted to spend the time with her boyfriend, and Ron wanted to be near his family. It hadn't even been a year since the Battle of Hogwarts. It was difficult when all he wanted was to know that he was done with loss. Sirius threw his arms up at the portraits and declared the day a loss.

Potter Palace felt empty to Harry without Ron and Hermione. They had been his true family for so long, that even with Sirius and his parents returned, he still wanted them around.

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24 December, 1998

Hermione stumbled into Potter Palace well before she was expected. The mood from the day before hung in the air well into the night, and Hermione could not find the Will to bare it for the morning until she left. Ginny had understood and happily promised to cover for her, when the rest of the house awoke.

The time was just before sunrise, and she felt nothing but somber. The weight of knowing that she did something Mrs. Weasley, her only remaining mother figure, did not approve of was suffocating her. Potter Palace was quiet, clearly no one was awake to greet her, and she was thankful for that. She did not want the residents of the house to see her so utterly exhausted. She quietly climbed the stairs to her room near the library and hoped no one was staying in it.

"Hermione, are you alright?" James was standing just outside her door, his eyes squinting into the darkness of her empty room. She cursed to herself, having forgotten that James, being tied to the Wards would know when anyone entered the estate. He was dressed in his pajamas, hand running through his hair, with a yawn.

"Yes... I'm sorry I woke you..." She shifted on her feet feeling uncomfortable with having to explain her early arrival so soon.

"No trouble." He yawned again, not asking for any explanation for her early arrival. "Hope you're planning on getting more sleep?" He took note of her still in her pajamas.

"Yes... If that's alright?"

"It's your room." He shrugged, a light smile on his face. "Happy to see you at breakfast." He closed her door softly and vanished. She took in a slow breath, crawling into her bed. The covers felt wonderful compared to the older bedding at the Burrow. The Weasley's tried, but they did not have the resources the Potters did. She sighed happy to have a bit of peace, before the crazy day ahead of her.

Harry shuffled down to breakfast still in his sleepwear. He had not gotten in the habit of dressing first, unlike his parents. Sirius's attire was a flip of the coin. Sometimes he would be fully dressed other times he would look like he crawled in from the street, despite always waking up in the same bed. Sirius was not present this time, Lily wasn't as well, but James was perched at the head of the table a bit of toast half way to his mouth.

"Morning!" He smiled. The smile of his father was filled with so much joy and love that Harry often felt like he was looking at a picture rather than the true face of anyone currently alive. The horrors of their past and the first war, may have left a mark on the older Potter, but he hid it well. "Sleep well?" Harry grumbled and took a seat, reaching for tea. "Hermione's here." James watched his son look up him with a confused look, like he didn't understand the words James had just uttered. James fought a laugh as the fact registered on Harry's face, and he leapt up.

"Is she alright? What happened? Where is she?!" He steadily got louder, turning to run to where he thought she was likely to be. He made it to the arch way leading out of the space and ran straight into Sirius, who was dressed for the day.

"Where's the fire pup?" He had a laugh to his voice that was becoming more and more common since Halloween. Sirius had Harry by the shoulders keeping him from falling.

"Hermione's here!" Harry tried to shrug out of Sirius hold, but Sirius seemed to not notice.

"She's fine! Just getting on with Lils. Eat before you run off!" Harry turned and glared at his father. James laughed, startling both men out of their thoughts. Harry sagged and with a huff sat back at the table, grumpily drinking his tea. Sirius took a moment longer but joined them.

"When'd she get in?" Sirius's question broke the silence.

"Donno." James shrugged. "I was still sleepy. Didn't check the clock."

"Everything alright?" Sirius asked concern in his voice.

"As far as I know. Just wanted to get here early I suppose." James shrugged off their concern. "Lily's got her. She'll figure it out, and relay if anyone else needs to know." Harry slacked into his chair, looking dejected. He wanted to be there for her, but knew Hermione would not take his interference well. She had to ask for help, or it never ended well.

They ate in silence, until Sirius excused himself and decided to head over to Grimmauld now. James watched his friend go, but didn't comment. Harry refused to leave for their day together without seeing Hermione first. James understood that. Harry had been cared for and protected by Hermione for her whole school life; he likely wanted to return the favor as best he could.

James and Harry found Hermione sitting still in her pajamas in the one sitting room on the first floor free of dresses. Lavender was across from her, and Lily beside her. Neither were dressed as well. Hermione knew it was likely due to the fact that they were to be spending the day getting ready.

"Harry!" Hermione jumped up and pulled him into a tight hug. Harry wrapped his arms around her tightly, relishing in having at least one of his best friends there with him.

"I figured I'd stop in and say hello, before leaving you to get ready." Harry patted her hair, which seemed even more wild than usual. She laughed and swatted his hand away. No one acknowledged her appearing in the early morning, and she was thankful for it.

Harry spent a few moments just standing with Hermione, talking about nothing, before being pulled away by James. They had a whole day planned with the boys. Harry felt weird being part of one of the boys. Sirius, Remus and James were always adults to him. He knew he was technically an adult now, but he still felt like a child. The Marauders were always this other and being include as one of them would never be easy for him to take.

Harry, James, and Sirius had spent a large chuck of the day before cleaning out Grimmauld of everything left of the Black. Sirius wanted to gut the whole thing and start from scratch. The Black family Wards were too soaked in magic to justify selling or leaving it empty. James had gotten Sirius to agree to the remodel, rather than just burning the whole thing down, by suggesting using the place as a safehouse. There was nowhere safer in the whole of Wizarding Britain. His parents' paranoia could only benefit the winning side. The Wards were also very old and soaked in Black family magic as well as Wild Magic. Sirius didn't know the full scope of the Wards, since they had been in place since the Coven his family came from set them. He wasn't even sure when that could have been. The founding of his family happened after the Coven's other members' lines fell. He heard rumors from his Uncle Alphard and Great Aunt Cassie that once the Magic in the house could speak to the Head of House. That ended with Lord Arcturus Black if it was true.

Harry was surprised to learn that a decent number of dark objects still resided in the old house. Sirius revealed that Grimmauld was ancient enough and fuse with so much Black Family magic that it was sentient to a point. It obviously had limited things it could do, but moving things about the house was easy enough. Grimmauld moved many of the family heirlooms into a part of the attic that was inaccessible by anyone the house did not want. Harry had been amazed as objects began appearing around the house in places they had check previously.

"I doubt It'd let even me at those objects with so many strangers in the house." Sirius tried to explain why the knowledge wasn't shared by the older Sirius. "There wasn't anything I could have done. Probably didn't think it mattered." Sirius shrugged off every question, taking great joy in slowly dismantling the rooms of the house. Harry was surprised that Grimmauld if sentient would allow them to remodel to the extreme Sirius was imagining.

"I bet it wants to start over as much as Pads does." James had whispered after Harry had expressed the question for the third time. "It's sentient, yeah, but Sirius is still the Master of the House Black. Sirius wants to start over, if it wants to be a part of the Blacks, it has too as well." Harry thought that was very sensible for a house.

Remus showed his face around noon, dress in casual wear, with a small case in toe, holding his only formal wear. James had tried to whittle the werewolf down and let them buy him new clothes, but he refused. Young Remus was just as proud as old Remus. Harry took great comfort in the little things that were the same between old Sirius and Remus, and Young Sirius and Remus. He agreed to help defeat the nest of Boggarts in a number of furniture upstairs. Without an elf or resident, the creatures were breeding. Sirius wanted to let them, what's a Boggart to the true horror that was his family.

Once the house was cleared of creatures, and they were all fed. They started getting ready, with one hour to spare before they were to appear at the Ministry and see their counterparts. Remus had wanted to forgo the event and head home, but James wouldn't have it. The four men each dressed and headed out the door, knowing they were going to beat the women there.

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Harry had been standing off to the side, sipping a drink Sirius had suggested to him. James had scoffed, but said nothing about his son drinking. Remus had disappeared into the crowd, likely wanting to hide from everyone congratulating him on being the first werewolf to be awarded an Order of Merlin; First Class. He had refused to touch the money that went along with it, hoping to give it to Teddy when he was old enough. Remus wanted his son to want for nothing, unlike his own life. Sirius had reassured Remus that as a member of House Black, Teddy would be well cared for. Remus merely shook his head and reminded him that Teddy was a Lupin and that Remus was responsible for him. Mrs. Tonks was working on it, or so she told Lily after the fight between the two men.

James was anxiously watching the doors, waiting for his wife to appear. She was heavily pregnant and he wanted to be near her as much as she'd allow. Sirius informed Harry that it was exactly the same when she was having him. James just had too much love to give and not enough people to give it to. Sirius had a deeply sad look on his face as he added, just like Dorea and Charlus Potter. Harry had yet to hear anything of note about his grandparents, and James had not been able to relocate them to Potter Palace just yet.

The Potters had been happy to see their son and his wife, but did not want to put Harry into any danger while everything in the world was still settling. They decided to wait before meeting their grandson.

"Hello Harry," Harry turned and smiled at Neville, who looked as uncomfortable as his felt. He never liked being the center of attention. "Lord Potter." Neville put out his hand at a laughing James.

"James, please. I'm hardly older than you." Neville blushed awkwardly as the older man shook his hand.

"Gran would be a fright is she heard me address you without the title." Neville glanced around as if the woman would appear out the shadows any minute.

"Should I call you Lord Longbottom?" James smiled, humor in his eyes knowing he was about to get his way. Neville balked.

"Oh please no. Merlin that sounds so ill-placed." He gave an uncertain laugh before adding. "James it is." They shook hands again.

"Good, the Potters and Longbottoms have been Allies for generations. Alice and my Lily were very good friends..." James watched the two younger men glance at each other, the knowledge clearly new to them. "Didn't you know?"

"Nah, Gran doesn't really tell me much from before the first war..."

"That's not..." James bit his tongue, his eyes hardening. "Did no one even try to prepare your generation to run their own Houses?" His voice was filled with annoyance and anger. "They just expected you to fight a war they couldn't win, with what? Whatever the revolving Defense teachers taught you? The Fuck were they thinking?!" His voice turned into an angry hiss. "You will be attending Heir sessions with Harry; I will see to your grandmother." His eyes were burning with an intensity that had Harry and Neville's eyes wide.

"That's really not necessary..." James glared openly at Neville's sad attempt of refusal.

"Await my owl." James took a deep breath, shook his rage from his shoulders, "If you'll excuse me. I'll let you two become reacquainted." He bowed lightly and left. Neville let out a long whistle.

"I heard stories of the Potters from my relatives. They did not do that..." He pointed weakly after James. "... any justice."

"Yeah... that's the first time I've saw him lose it like that." Harry glanced around, making sure no one was nearby. "Mum and Dad have been talking about the war and how so many let us down. I heard 'em talking about what to do."

"They are correct." Both men turned and gapped at Draco Malfoy, standing awkwardly to the side, a weak smile on his face. "My father wasn't perfect, but I will be able to run my House. Neither of you have that knowledge."

"Malfoy." Harry was surprised with the lack of hatred in his tone. Hermione's letters had definitely softened him to the pureblood that bullied them in school. He was dressed in robes fancier than any other present, with green inlays. His face was ghostly pale and thin. Harry wondered if he missed meals, not having an appetite like he did. His hair which, had been slicked back to mirror his fathers, was loose and hung over his shoulders, like a curtain of pale yellow.

"Good evening Potter." Draco looked around lazily. "I was hoping you could introduce me to Lord Black. Hermione..." He took a breath waiting for Harry to react to her name, when he didn't Draco visibly relaxed. "She said he would be here." Draco shifted, the only sign of his discomfort. "Mother wishes for us to be acquainted."

"We came together, but I don't know..." Harry glanced around trying to see if he could find his Godfather in the crowd. "Where he is." Harry tried to smile encouragingly. "He wanted to meet you too... so he'll likely find you first." Draco nodded, staring out at the crowd before paling further and excusing himself with a bow deeper than James.

"That was... Odd." Neville finally chimed in.

"Yeah... Hermione said she was becoming friends with him. I didn't think... he'd approach me."

"It involves his house." Neville frowned. "House Malfoy lost a lot of power with the end of the war. Sure, they still have money, but reputation? He is going to have to build that from the bottom."

"If he wants to change, I'll be the first to support him." Harry spoke softly, feeling that by saying the words out loud, he would make them true.

"Him and Ron had a row on the Express." Neville spoke as if the memory just returned to him. The moment must had triggered it. "I just saw the end, but it didn't look constructive."

"What happened?"

"I just saw Malfoy pinned by Ron, lip bloody. Ron was railing about the war, Hermione's... time in Malfoy Manor." Neville whispered the last part, his face twisting with rage. "Pulled him off." Neville ran his hand through his hair and looked at Harry for reassurance that he did the right thing.

"Good." Harry finished his drink and set it down on a table nearby. "We can't move forward constantly trapped in the past."

"Hermione said something similar our first day back." Neville paused again, clearly trying to decide if he should add something. "I don't know what they've told you, but the whole unity thing has been a huge stink between 'em."

"Hermione and Ron?" Harry tried and failed to hide his concern.

"Yeah, Ron doesn't think the Slytherins are redeemable." Harry scoffed at the sentiment.

"They're children."

"Also, something she told him." They both laughed, despite the serious conversation. "She's been great this year. A lot of people look to her for an example of what to do."

"She's the best." They fell into a companionable silence.

Hermione tried to look the part of powerful woman in the baby blue dress Lavender and Lily had chosen for her. It reminded her a lot of the Yule ball during the Tri-wizard Tournament. The front cut high just under her neck, but the back blunged dangerously low. Lily cast several charms to make certain their dresses stayed in place. Hermione had refused to wear anything that showed her arms. When Lily asked why, Hermione revealed the cursed word scratched into her arm. Lily had to leave the room. Lavender stayed with her friend and chatted about nothing, just to help the muggleborn feel normal. Lily had returned an hour later, dozens of dresses following behind her. She threw every dress without sleeves into the hall with so much rage, Hermione knew it was about more than just the dresses.

Lily was in a beautiful floor length red dress, loose for comfort and made of the softest material Hermione had ever touched. The sleeves were long, like Hermione's, and ended just before her wrist. She had a circle cut, showing off her shoulders, but nothing else.

Lavender was in a green dress with silver detailing on the edges and across her waist, showing off the young woman's figure. She also wore long sleeves, neither women would say, but Hermione knew it was to show her support. Lavender's was just passed her knees, revealing the pale black stockings and silver heels.

The three women walked in together arm in arm, like a wall of support and companionship. They were ready to face the world together. Kingsley found them first, asking Hermione to join Ron and Harry on stage later for a speech. She hadn't prepared anything and had a moment of panic before the Minister explained that he was giving the speech, but she was welcome to read it beforehand. Kingsley had been slowly changing the Wizengamot while the trio recovered from the war. He had made it a point to involve Mrs. Tonks and the Potter proxy as much as possible. Sadly, the Weasley's did not have a seat.

Hermione was planning on going to work at the Ministry as soon as she graduated. She wanted to change things, and that was the best way to do it. Kinglsey, supported her one hundred percent and offered her a job in his office. She would be a vital part of reforming the world in a way that would never give rise to someone like Voldemort ever again. Hermione was hoping to at least make it more difficult, rather than never again. She was, after all, a pragmatic. Harry was the idealist and with the return of his family, he was unlikely to join the Ministry as anything unrelated to his House.

"Good evening my lovelies." James practically danced over to them when Kingsley took his exit. "The stars cannot compete with the beauty I am beholding." Lily rolled her eyes, Lavender laughed, and Hermione blushed. James wrapped Lavender and Hermione in a quick hug before giving Lily a kiss on the cheek. "My world is aglow with you in it." Lily shook her head. Hermione had still not gotten used to how easily James dealt out physical affection. He considered her family and thus the minimum he'd give is a one-armed hug. Lavender quickly found herself in the same category but adapted much faster.

"James." Hermione tried to sound stern, but could only laugh when he gave her his wounded animal eyes.

"I waited a lifetime to be graced with the chance to gaze upon you, Mrs. Potter." Lily's smile split her face, and Lavender sighed at the love displayed between them.

"Mr. Potter, I have it on great authority that you waited merely the day."

"The day is a lifetime without you in my presence! I lamented the distance!" James made a show of spinning Lily slowly toward the dance floor. Lavender and Hermione watched the two have their weird dance.

"That's beautiful." Lavender spoke first, gazing after them longingly.

"Cringy, you mean to say." Hermione tried not to smile, knowing Lavender would retaliate.

"Hermione! That was a perfect display of love and romance." She sighed. "We'd be half so lucky." Lavender looked out at the dance floor as a depressed cloud hung over her head. "At least it's still possible for you."

"You'll find someone Lavender." Hermione put her hand on Lavender's shoulder. "You are an amazing person, and anyone who say otherwise will meet the dangerous end of my wand." They shared a quiet moment of togetherness before Sirius interrupted it.

"Ladies." Lavender crossed her arms, and gazed at Hermione with a knowing look. Sirius barely glanced at her. "Care for a dance?" He looked at Lavender and offered his hand. Hermione was watching her with large hopeful eyes. Lavender wanted to growl but refrained. Sirius was not Lavenders Prince Charming, that much she was certain of.

"I'm good, but Hermione here, would love to." She shoved Hermione into his chest and flounced away an air of superiority surrounding her. Sirius laughed lightly and ease Hermione back onto her feet.

"Care for a dance?" He offered his arm this time, giving Hermione the impression, she was missing some etiquette. "I won't bite. Promise." His smile was dazzling, and Hermione knew her parents would be in awe of its perfection.

"Oh, as long as you promise." She wrapped her fingers on the elbow of his arm and let him lead her onto the floor. There were a number of couples, with the song being a bit faster than many were comfortable with. Hermione placed one hand on his shoulder and the other in his hand. His other hand came to rest on the small of her back, his thumb resting lightly on the skin of her back. She relaxed in the comfortable embrace, loving how at ease she felt, trusting that he wouldn't lead her wrong.

"How's your break?" His words washed over her along with the music, pulsing in time with her blood. She didn't reply, not knowing how to. She hadn't really done much besides research Druids and Wild Magic. Ginny helped her mother in the kitchen, while Mrs. Weasley seemed content to let her son's girlfriend wander around, unrestricted.

"Uneventful so far." She shrugged, hoping he would let it drop.

"Why'd you come back so early then?" His question was punctuated by a slower song. He drew her in closer, casually placing her other hand on his shoulder, while his moved to her waist. The fluidity he changed their positions surprised her. She looked at his chest, biting her lower lip, knowing that when Sirius put his mind to something there was no stopping him. He was like a dog with a bone, gnawing on it until there was nothing left.

"I just wanted to." His scoffed at her response, spinning her slowly toward the edge of the dance floor.

"I doubt that. What happened?" They moved off to the side, Sirius pulling her along. She didn't try to stop him, wanting to tell someone everything she was feeling. There were people that cared, she knew that. But none were as intrusive as Sirius. He did not like those he cared about in pain, and he knew when they were. He had experienced it enough to recognize it in others.

"I just... I don't feel welcome..." She was trying to keep her calm, despite the desire to cling to him and cry. Sirius always had a way of making her feel safe and unjudged. He made mistakes; he'd never judge her for doing the same. She caught sight of Draco and pulled away from Sirius moving toward her friend, who was frozen in surprise as the sight of them.

"Sirius, this is Draco Malfoy." Hermione stood beside her friend, wanting to get away from the situation of revealing her problems to the Lord Black. Sirius's face changed from open concern to a scowl when he looked at Draco, who was looked down. His eyes which had been a warm molten grey turned to steel.

"Lucius's son." His voice was cold, giving away nothing. Hermione was in awe of the way he flipped a switch and changed. She could see the Black in him like never before. The mask in place keeping his emotions hidden. She found it unsettling.

"Yes sir." Draco's voice was unsure and breathy, clearly not ready to meet Sirius Black.

"Are you anything like your father?"

"Sirius!" Hermione snapped at him, her own eyes turning to a glare. Sirius's eyes drifted away from the young Malfoy and locked on Hermione's. Her face showing her distaste for the way he was handling the situation.

"I'm trying not to be." Malfoy answered missing the exchange between Hermione and Sirius.

"Is that so." He turned his eyes back on Draco, who looked up with every ounce of courage he had. "We shall see." Sirius's jaw was tight and with a bow retreated, his body giving away his rage.

"Shit..." Draco's posture sagged. "I pissed him off." He looked at Hermione who was looking down.

"No, I... I did." She sighed, going to run her hand through her hair but stopping herself. Lily and Lavender had spent hours getting the wild curls under control; she didn't want to ruin it.

"You did?" Draco let out a sigh of relief. "Thank Merlin..."

"Draco!" She lightly smacked him on the shoulder. She was enjoying their easy friendship. Draco still had his moments when he would slip into who he had been, angering her. However, most of the time he was an intelligent thoughtful wizard, who would not just accept her opinion as fact. It was a great way to debate and learn. With Draco she was always learning.

"What? Hermione, he's intimidating. Most Blacks are!" He spoke quietly, keeping their conversation in their little bubble.

"Are you telling me, Draco Lucius Malfoy, is afraid of Sirius Black?"

"Psh. Only idiots aren't. If he's anything like Great Grandfather everyone should be afraid of him."

"Great Grandfather?"

"Pollux Black; he was the Lord Black before him." Draco casual gestured toward where Sirius left. Draco made a face. "From what Mother says, when Aunt Walburga kicked Sirius out..." Hermione went to disagree but remained silent when Draco rolled his eyes at her. "Or he left, whatever Granger." She stuck her tongue out at him, when he smiled. "Anyway, she demanded Grandfather Pollux disown him and remove him as heir." Draco waved the information off as if it was common knowledge, "See Pollux didn't like Orion or Cygnus, so that left Regulus and Sirius as possible Heir." Draco paused here and took a breath watching Hermione tense up in anticipation.

"And?" Her patience wore out. Draco laughed.

"Regulus was a soft child, far to kind, for Pollux. So, Sirius was named Heir at his presentation into society. Mother told me that Grandfather Cygnus and Uncle Orion were furious for being skipped over." At this point Hermione suddenly found Sirius inheriting the whole of the Black estate making much more sense. "Grandfather Pollux, flat out refused to remove him as Heir. Caused quite a fight, wands drawn the whole thing."

"So, Sirius was Lord Black while in Azkaban?"

"Merlin Granger, your lack of knowledge on wizarding customs is appalling."

"Malfoy." Her voice filled with warning, with an under lace of humor as well.

"Things like titles, estates, all that, need to be Claimed. The Black estates just sat after Pollux died, waiting for Sirius to Claim it, or die." Draco took a breath. "To be honest if I had been of age and cared, I likely could have Claimed it."

"What? But Harry was named Sirius's Heir!"

"Doesn't matter, I'm a male Black by blood. Closer to then him, at least and a pureblood. It gives me more rights to an Old Estate like the Black."

"Wow."

"Yeah, good thing everyone was too busy to give it any thought."

"We'd probably have lost if you'd been able to take over Grimmauld."

"Thank Merlin, I wasn't."

"Thank Merlin, indeed."

"Hermione." Draco tensed and whipped around to see Ron glaring at the duo. "What are you doing?" Hermione didn't react immediately, just stared at him like she couldn't believe he was there.

"I'm speaking to my friend." She ignored Draco shrinking beside her, trying to disappear into the wall.

"Kinglsey wants us." He held out his hand, inviting her to join him. She sighed a light smile on her face. She was looking forward to spending a bit of alone time with him after everything.

"Alright." She turned to Draco who had taken a few steps away from her. "I'll see you after the holiday." He nodded in response and disappeared into the crowd. She took Ron's hand with a smile, and leaned into him as they headed to the stage. The speech ended quickly and was just a long-winded way of saying, we need to stand together and stop isolating parts of our world. She spent most of it looking for Sirius. Ron wanted to leave directly after, and Hermione was inclined to agree. Formal events were never really for her.

The Burrow would be empty, and they could finally just talk. She wanted to know where they stood, since so much had happened. The Burrow was quiet as she used her wand to remove the ash from her clothes. Ron followed shortly after her and did the same. She smiled at him, happy to have a bit of time alone.

"I don't like you talking to him." Ron's voice was hard. "I know you can be friends with whoever you want, but I don't like it." He stared at her his blue eyes cold. "He let you be tortured, 'Mione. Just stood there while she... she... hurt you." Hermione tensed ready to argue when he put his hand up, "I just want to say my piece. Then... then we can talk about it." She swallowed and nodded. "Good." Ron took a deep breath. "He bullied us, all of us. Called you that word..." His eyes settled on her arm, where the scar was hidden under her beautiful dress.

She brought the arm to her chest, reliving the experience for a moment. She wanted to hide under covers, but that wasn't an option. If she let him know how much it still bothered her, he'd see it as another reason to hold Draco up as evil. She had tried all through school to convince Harry, Draco wasn't evil and now she'd have to convince Ron. The soft fabric of the dress pulled on the never fully healing wound, causing it to itch.

"He has never given us any reason to think he's change. He is still that self-absorb prat from year one." Ron's face was seldom. Hermione knew he believed what he was saying. She'd the first to admit Draco was not perfect. He still almost slips into calling her that awful word, but always catches himself and looks horrified. He would apologize over and over; Hermione could still see the fear in his eyes. He really did not think he was worthy of the chance she was giving him, and she knew the moment she pulled away from him, he really would fall. He was awkward while talking to muggleborns or half-blood from other houses. He would make assumption and put his foot in his mouth. But he was trying.

He'd take the time to listen to her tell stories about the muggle world. Draco was making sure the new Slytherins knew that they get the chance to shape their own future, regardless of their family. He'd sit with her for hours to study in the library and discuss everything from class work, to history. Draco, who would make fun of her lack of wizarding customs, only to teach her everything he knew she lacked. He shared her joy of learning, maybe not her ravenous appetite for it, but she doubted anyone would. Maybe a Ravenclaw. He was trying, which was more than Ron at the moment. She decided to try and stay within the points Ron brought up, bringing in more would turn Ron's opinion to stone, unmoving.

"He didn't let me be tortured." Ron scoffed and began pacing the room. "No, Ronald. It's my turn to talk. He did not let me be tortured." He was glaring at the Floo, his back turned slightly toward her. She felt the dismissal, but couldn't find it in her to care. "He was as trapped in the moment as I was." Her voice was rising in frustration. This was not the way she wanted to have this conversation, both of them with their emotions running high. "He has apologized to me over and over, taken so many steps to try and make up for it. Make up for something he didn't even do! Had no control over!"

"He could have done something!"

"What?" Hermione was tense. "What could he have done? Taken on Bellatrix and Greyback?! And what about the others? His family would have died!"

"He just watched them hurt you!"

"Yes, Ron, ME. I was tortured! I forgave him for whatever part you think he had in it. Why can't you?!"

"He doesn't deserve it!"

"And don't I?" She snarled. "Don't I deserve to move on? To find peace with it? Why do I have to keep reliving the worst moment in my life, because YOU WON'T LET IT GO!" Ron turned red, face tight.

"So, it's my fault? The nightmares? The way you shrink away from loud noises." She took in a breath. "That's right. I notice, I hear you screaming sometimes, and let's not forget the crying." She fought the urge to run. She didn't want to burden anyone. She would struggle alone, that's how she's always done it.

"If we're talking about the past." She was hurt and anger covered it. "You bullied me. Even when we were friends. Should I not forgive you?"

"I never bullied you!"

"Troll."

"That was year one, ages ago!"

"When I got the broom taken away."

"You went behind our backs!"

"You didn't speak to me for almost the whole year. Even after Harry got it back."

"Well, we couldn't exactly trust you anymore." Hermione's whole face paled at the statement. Not trust her? She tried to push down the pain that slashed into her heart.

"Yule ball?"

"You summoned bloody birds at me. I think we're even."

"Oh yes, even. I finally have a moment of feeling appreciated and you had to make it about you! Birds were the least I could have done."

"He only asked you because you weren't a Fan." Ron crossed his arms, triumph on his face. She felt her mouth fall open. Victor was many things, but he was not shallow. He asked her because she saw him as a person, not an icon. They exchanged letter upon letter talking about everything from their day to day to advanced runes and arithmancy.

"What happened on the train to Hogwarts?" It was Ron's turn to turn red.

"Nothing he didn't deserve." There was a snarl to his voice, Ron was losing the small amount of control he had over his anger.

"What happened on the Express?" She drew up to her full height, still more than a foot shorter than the youngest Weasley son, but not to be taken lightly.

"I just told him to mind his own at Hogwarts." He refused to look in her eyes.

"Why was his lip bloody?"

"Bloody hell 'Mione, I punched him! He made some stupid comment about deserving to be there as much anyone."

"Hermione. My name is Hermione! Not 'Mione, Not Hermy not anything else you come up with! Hermione. Hermione. Hermione." She was out of breath, shaking with suppressed rage. "He DOES have as much right! He is a wizard AND was order by the Ministry! You don't own Hogwarts RONALD!"

"I can't deal with this." His voice was cold and acted like a bucket of water on her anger. She was silent as he threw his hands up and stomped to the front door. She was frozen as he pulled the door open and quit the house. She was suddenly shaking and couldn't catch her breath. Her eyes burned with the need to cry. Memories of their hunt crashing into her.

She was back in the tent with Harry. Ron had left them and all she could do was cry. Harry needed her to be strong, and all she could do was cry. If she was going to be so useless, she might as well have gone with him. She had berated herself over and over after Ron had returned. Harry needed her and she told him with her actions that he wasn't enough. In that moment she couldn't imagine herself without Ron. She tried to take in another breath and bit back a sob, instead. He left. He left. He left. She was drowning in the feeling. This time it was her fault. She chased him away. Her eyes darted around the room, looking for what she didn't know.

The floo caught her eye and she thought of a place where she could be alone to let everything out. A place that had offered her sanctuary before. She took off toward it and with shaking hands grabbed a bit of Floo Powder and tossed it in.

"12 Grimmauld Place."

The front room came into focus as she stepped out of the Floo. She still couldn't breathe, trying to feel for the Wards. They snapped shut at her command, sealing the house against anyone else. Sirius, the older Sirius, had shown her how. Helped her find the Wards like looking for a lost friend. She had asked why he hadn't taught Harry; he laughed and said no but her had the patience. She took in a deep breath and started to sob. Her shoulders shook as she buried her face in her hands, trying to get her emotion under control.

"Hermione?" She jerked up and standing just inside the front room was the young Sirius Black. He was half underdressed, socks, shoes, jacket and button up nowhere to be found. He had a glass of Firewhiskey in his hand and concern etched on his face. "What's wrong?" He barely had time to set the glass down before she barreled into him and wrapped her arms tightly around his waist. He pulled her tighter against him as she sobbed harder into his chest. Her whole body shaking with the effort. "Shhh. I have you. It's okay." He kept whispering words of encouragement, holding her as tightly as she held him.

"Heleftme!" Her words were jumbled and said quickly. She repeated them over and over again. Sirius tried to stay calm, but every part of him wanted to find who ever hurt her and rip them into pieces.

"Let me get Harry."

"NO!" She was shaking her head. "No, he can't know. He can't!" Sirius took in a shaky breath trying to look through the memories he had been able to recover, nothing explained why she didn't want him to know.

"Okay, okay, I won't get him. But you have to tell me what's wrong." He was trying.

"Ron..." She gasped, fighting back another sob. "We had a row and he... he left me." Sirius's first thought was that Lily would be pleased. The second thought was that Ron was an idiot. The third thought was more of a feeling, something shifting in his chest, like a weight being pulled out of him.

"Okay. Okay." He kept repeating sweet words over and over, trying to stem her tears. She finally softened, the sobs turning into sniffles. "How about, how about we get a drink." He pulled away and looked down at her snot covered face and tried not to laugh.

"Alright..." He nodded and pulled her behind him toward the library. "No." Her eyes were red and swollen, but she was look up down the hall.

"No?"

"My room, I want to go to my room." Sirius hesitated.

"Hermione, I know... this was...but umm... I can't go to your room." He was so serious she laughed, grabbing his arm and pulling him down the hall toward the study. She wanted to share it with him, the feeling was overwhelming.

"Not my bedroom." She opened the door and was greet with the blank portrait and empty shelves. Sirius stood stone still in the doorway, watching her in shock.

"How... How... this room... it's..."

"Mine." She smiled and opened the globe to pour some of the muggle whiskey for them. "Sirius?" He joined her in the room, looking around like she showed him magic for the first time. He took the drink from her without a second thought and drank in one go, not missing a beat. "You're supposed to sip it." She tried laughing but it came out broken. They sat together on the little loveseat, neither knowing what to say.

"Hermione..." She jumped up when he said her name filled with question.

"I'm sorry... I didn't... I didn't know anyone would be here. I just needed to have a moment alone."

"Bit hypocritical. Don't you think?" He leaned back; his face oddly blank.

"No. I just wanted to be alone."

"Friends make the journey easier. If you let them help." Her own words on his tongue, turned her face red. He was right.

"I don't want to bother anyone."

"If you'd ask me. I'd say not letting them be there for you, is bothersome." She took a big drink and grimaced.

"You don't understand."

"Then explain it to me." She watched him cross his legs, ankle resting on his knee.

"Harry... always picks Ron..." She bit her bottom lip, fighting back a second round of tears. "He was his first friend. I get it. I'm just the girl who tagged along..." She gazed down at her drink, not wanting to see Sirius's thoughts on his face. "If... If... I asked Harry to be there for me... and so does Ron..." She let out a defeated huff. "I'll be alone."

"I'm here." She looked at him, his head cocked thoughtfully at her. "So's Lily and James, if Harry decides Ron needs him more. You have us. We look after our own, and sorry to burst your bubble, but you belong with us now. Marauder's Honor." He put his hand up, in a mock boy scout fashion. She laughed, rubbing her eyes with her hands. Sirius stood up setting his glass down to wrap her in his arms. "You're never alone. Not really." She looked up at him and smiled, warmth pooling in her chest.

"Thank you." She returned his hug, "I missed you so much." Sirius rested his chin on her head. They stood wrapped into each other's arms.

"What were we?" His voice was soft, hesitant. Hermione pulled away and looked at his face.

"Friends..." Her own voice faltering at a memory she'd rather not visit right at that moment.

"Friends?" His ran his fingers through her tempered curls.

"I kissed you once... but..." He watched her fight with something. "Right before you fell through the Veil. We were here because Mr. Weasley was in the hospital. I... You were trying to comfort me. It was all so scary and uncertain." She gripped the front of his top, as if afraid he'd pull away. "I shouldn't have... it wasn't right."

"Alright." He smiled, tugging her over to their seat. Letting her know he wasn't going to dwell in her discomfort. When they both had another drink, he pulled her into his shoulder, an arm wrapped around her. "Friends. Friends are there for each other." He took a sip of his drink and wait for her to do the same. "Promise me, you won't suffer alone." She snorted. "Seems fair, you made me make a similar promise." He gestured to himself. "Worked well so far." She nodded and made the promise.

They sat silently, each lost in their own thoughts, comfortable wrapped up in comfort.