A/N: Welcome back to God Save The Children.
Hi! How are ya?
I only have one more chapter ready for posting because the next one is pending final beta approval. Also, the last three chapters are in my head but I haven't gotten them typed. So after this chapter, the posting will be much slower.
It's my grandfather's birthday today but he passed away three years ago. If you enjoy my writing then we have my grandfather to thank for it because I inherited it from him since he used to write and make his own music and lyrics.
Also, it's Ron Weasley's birthday. Love him or hate him, he's part of the HP Universe.
This fic has really long chapters. If you've read my other multi-chapter stories, what do you think of this format? Do you enjoy shorter and more chapters? Or do you like it longer, super intense but few? Please let me know. Feedback about things like that is a great help.
As always, there's artwork for this chapter on A03 so check it out if you want to.
GOD SAVE THE CHILDREN
by: tweety-src-clt9
CHAPTER THREE: In Change, Surprises Can Happen
Harry Potter woke up feeling light and happy. Also, he felt a stirring of something in his heart… something that felt like Hermione. Oh, she must be awake, with that thought, he turned to his nightstand and looked at the magical alarm clock, October 30, 1994 – Sunday 6:00 AM. With a big smile on his face, he got out of bed and hurriedly took a shower so he could meet his beloved in the Gryffindor Common Room.
After getting ready for the day, he all but ran downstairs so he could see Hermione again. Seeing her sitting there, with a large book on her lap, he smiled. No one else was around so the coast was clear.
"Good morning, Hermione!"
"Hi, Harry. You're up early," Hermione smiled as she closed her book. Crouching down, Harry leaned in to kiss her on the cheek and she giggled.
"You're in a happy mood this morning," she remarked.
"Can't I kiss my girlfriend on the cheek?" He pouted.
"You have to ask me first," she huffed.
"Oohhh… Playing hard to get eh, Granger?"
"Can we talk in the Room of Requirement?"
"Naughty! I thought you'd never ask," he winked. Hermione playfully swatted his arm before standing up from her armchair. Harry offered her arm to her and she happily accepted. Walking out the portrait hole, they walked toward the moving tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy.
"I'll set the room," Hermione volunteered and he pouted.
"Nice try, Potter. No, we're not going in there to snog," she huffed, making her bond-mate chuckle. Walking three times in front of the empty wall, Hermione asked for a place to talk. When a door appeared, hand-in-hand, they stepped inside.
As the door closed, Harry gasped when Hermione tugged on his collar and proceeded to kiss him senseless. When they pulled apart for air, Hermione giggled at the goofy grin on his face.
"Be my boyfriend?" She asked with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Harry laughed and pinched her cheeks.
"You're so adorable."
"You know how I'm an advocate for women's empowerment. Besides, it's just technicalities anyway," she shrugged. Hermione walked towards a couch and sat there. Harry followed her lead and sat beside her.
"Here, I made an initial list of things we should and shouldn't do," Hermione handed him a parchment from the inner pocket of her robe. Harry perused the list and smiled at her amazing memory and organization skills.
"Hmm… these are brilliant. Since it's a Sunday, I reckon we should sneak into Gringotts."
"Why?"
"Betrothal rings for you and me. We have to make it official. That way, you would be protected from Rita Skeeter's journalistic flair."
"I have an idea," Hermione grinned.
"What?"
"The goblins hated us in the previous timeline because we snuck inside Gringotts… This time around, why don't we make them our allies?"
"How?"
"The basilisk remains. You could sell it to them for a good deal. The carcass would be worth a lot of galleons, potions ingredients, the skin as material for armor, and other things. Giving it to them for a decent price will make you earn a little bit of their trust; they'd see you as a valuable potential ally."
"But – do you honestly think Dumbles and Snape would let me handle the basilisk?" Harry had an incredulous look on his face.
"Per international law, slayer of the creature has the sole rights to its spoils," Hermione smirked.
"Somehow I am certain that the law has more fancy terms in there but you just summarized it in a way I could understand, Mighty Minister," Harry feigned offense.
"Oh, you know how much jargon is written in the law," she shrugged.
"You know, with your Avatar powers, your knowledge about the law from your experience as the Minister, and your innate brilliance, I feel really bad for whoever crosses you," Harry mused.
"You wouldn't want to be on my shit list then," the dark glint in her eyes made him shiver in fear and desire.
"You're so scary but it's a turn on… as long as you're not mad at me that is," he added and Hermione's face softened as she looked at him.
"Should we eat here instead and then sneak into Gringotts afterward?"
"Hermione, I have an idea… And before you explode on me – "
"You're thinking about hiring Dobby, aren't you?"
"Yes – but how did you know that?"
"Just a hunch… Go ahead, Harry. Call him. I know how much you miss the little guy," Hermione smiled at him reassuringly.
"You're not mad about this?"
"I have a better understanding of house-elves now," she snorted.
"Right… Dobby can you – " before he finished his sentence, his elven friend, someone who sacrificed his life to save them the first time around, popped in with a bright smile on his face.
"The Great Harry Potter Sir be calling Dobby!" The house-elf said excitedly. Overwhelmed with emotions, Harry stood and knelt so he could hug Dobby. With Harry's actions, Dobby blushed profusely as he sniffed. Hermione could only smile at the sight.
"Harry Potter be hugging Dobby! Dobby has never met any wizard as great as Harry Potter!"
"Well, it's just good to see you, Dobby," Harry was teary-eyed as he pulled away.
"What can Dobby do for Harry Potter Sir and his Miss Grangy?"
"Can I get a hug too Dobby? We really do miss you," Hermione said with a kind smile.
"Of course, Miss," Dobby flushed even more. Hermione crouched down and wrapped her arms around the kind and heroic house-elf. Glancing at Harry, they made a silent promise that this time around, Dobby would live a long and happy life.
"Dobby, how would you like to work for me and Hermione?" Harry asked as soon as she let go of their elven friend.
"It be such a great honor, sir! Dobby be liking that very much!"
"Alright… So, how do we do this?"
"You just be placing hand on Dobby's head sir and be saying, I, Harry Potter, claim Dobby as my house-elf and then the magic bond happens sir," Dobby was bouncing with eagerness.
"Okay then," Harry shrugged. Dobby bowed and Harry carefully placed his hand on top of his friend's little head. "I, Harry James Potter, claim Dobby as my house-elf and friend." Dobby glowed white and their bond was sealed.
Hermione wiped a stray tear away as she watched the reunion between the two friends. Dobby lovingly hugged Harry's leg. He could only smile at his friend's apparent delight at being a part of the Potter family.
"What can Dobby do for you, sir?"
"Why don't you start with calling me Harry, Dobby? You're part of our family now."
"O – okay, Ha – Harry," Dobby sniffed.
"Dobby… Can you please bring some food for us? We'll be sneaking into Gringotts afterward."
"Of course, Ha – Harry," with a snap of his finger, a table appeared and it was filled with all sorts of food. He was about to pop away but Hermione said, "Dobby, can you join as for breakfast? I think you may be able to help us solve some of our other problems," Hermione smiled and Harry understood that his bond mate just wanted their friend to feel welcome.
"Thank you, Miss Grangy." Dobby conjured a small stool for himself.
When they started eating, Harry had an idea. "Dobby, how much energy would it require for you to take me and Hermione outside of Gringotts in secret?"
"That's easy Harry. Elveses be popping all over with no one noticing," Dobby shrugged.
"You're brilliant, Dobby!" Looking at Hermione, they now had a plan on how they would secretly visit Gringotts.
oOOOOo
"Thank you, Dobby," Harry and Hermione chorused when they landed in front of Gringotts completely concealed under elven wards.
"Harry and Miss Grangy only call Dobby when they need to return to Hogwarts," with a big smile on his little face, their friend popped away. Per Dobby's explanation, as soon as they stepped inside Gringotts, the wards concealing them would be lifted.
With Hermione on his arm, Harry walked toward a teller. The goblin gave him a sneer but he said in a polite voice, "Good morning, sir. My name is Harry Potter. I was wondering if you could help me see my account manager, please."
"Good morning, Mr. Potter and friend. Please follow me," the goblin said in a nicer tone this time.
"Here we are," the goblin pointed to a large door that's marked Potter Family Account Manager.
"Thank you, sir," Harry and Hermione chorused. The goblin politely nodded at them before walking away. Harry knocked on the door and when they heard a gruff, "come in," they entered the room.
"Greetings, Sir. May your vaults be filled with gold and your enemies crush beneath your feet," Harry and Hermione greeted with a respectful bow.
"Greetings, Mr. Potter and friend," the Potter Family Account Manager recovered from his shock at the formal greeting but he too bowed respectfully.
"I believe we haven't been formally introduced, Sir," Harry started.
"Mr. Potter and friend, please call me Braveheart. I've been working as the Potter Family Account Manager for almost a hundred years. While it is a surprise to see you today, I am truly very pleased to see you here. We should've met during your eleventh birthday so you could arrange things about your current holdings," Braveheart explained.
"I'm so sorry Braveheart but I – "
"Oh! I am so sorry! Please do sit," Braveheart pointed to the two armchairs in front of the large shiny desk made of marble.
"Thank you," they chorused as they each took a seat.
"Braveheart, before anything else, let me introduce to you, my intended, Ms. Hermione Jean Granger," Harry gestured to Hermione.
"Pleased to meet the future Lady of the House of Potter," Braveheart lowered his head to Hermione as a sign of salute.
"Er, Braveheart? Lady of the House of Potter? What does it mean?" Harry glanced at Hermione who was as astounded as he was. In the original timeline, Harry never had any sort of title. Ginny was just Mrs. Potter, no other special title.
"Ah, yes. You see, the Potter Family magic is unique in the sense that it bestows titles only when the head of the family marries someone deemed worthy by the ancients. The last Lord and Lady Potter were your grandparents, Charlus and Dorea Potter. Your father and mother weren't able to see if family magic deemed them worthy before they went away to hide because of the war. Anyway, I am confident that Ms. Granger over here will be deemed worthy, of course. Something about your magic feels so special… If I may be blunt, she is the most magically powerful being I have ever met," Braveheart expounded as he looked at Hermione who blushed at the last statement.
"You're right, Braveheart. Hermione is very special indeed," Harry winked at Hermione who only flushed even more. "Anyway, we have some business that we seek your advice on. One of which is a betrothal arrangement for us. I want Hermione protected and to give her reassurance that I am very serious about our relationship. I plan to take no other but her. Also, I have a feeling that as we age, there might be people who would try and tear us apart, so we seek Gringotts' help in preventing this from happening," Harry continued.
"Those are very good points, Mr. Potter… Now concerning your betrothal, Potter family is rather strict about these things. So, we have to conduct a full test on you both. The test would make sure that none of you are bewitched as you make this decision. Also, it would check how magically compatible and healthy you both are. This is done so that you can be certain your relationship would be long and prosperous."
"What do you think, Hermione?" Harry turned to his best friend and intended.
"I'm perfectly alright with it, Harry. That way, no one can claim that I potioned you into getting together with me. Besides, who knows, maybe the goblin healers could find something physically wrong with us and by doing so, preventing us from getting sick, thus ensuring that we live a long and happy life together," Hermione touched her forehead to brush some strands of her hair away but Harry understood. She was indicating that maybe the goblins could remove the Horcrux in his scar.
"We'll do it, Braveheart," Harry said with determination and Hermione smiled at him.
"Alright! Please follow me," Braveheart stood up from his seat and led them towards another part of Gringotts that neither of them had seen in their past lives.
oOOOOo
"So… Who shall be undergoing the tests first?" Jewel, their goblin healer, inquired.
"I'll go first please, Jewel," Hermione volunteered.
"Alright… Please stand over there and remove your robes. The fewer clothes, the better the results," Jewel pointed to a small ritual circle in the corner.
"So… it's better if I take all of my clothes off then?" Hermione asked as she removed her robe.
"Well, yes. But Mr. Potter's here."
"I can go if you like," Harry shrugged.
"No, he can stay. I trust him. Besides, he can just turn around," Hermione suggested.
"Well then, Mr. Potter, if you could please turn around… Thank you."
Hermione removed all of her clothes and placed them on a conjured basket that Jewel handed over. Standing in the middle of the ritual circle, she took a deep calming breath before saying, "I'm ready, Jewel."
Jewel started to chant in goblin tongue and as Hermione felt an intrusive form of magic course through her, she closed her eyes. After ten minutes of chanting, a thorough record of Hermione's health and magical strength appeared on an enchanted parchment. As Jewel skimmed through Hermione's records, she cursed in anger.
"Ms. Granger you have been fed magical suppression potions ever since you're ten years old. Also, there seems to be some binding on your magic… Dumbledore! You've been fed loyalty potions keyed to the old wizard and the Weasley family ever since you arrived at Hogwarts," Jewel's voice was calm but you could hear her restrained anger.
"Oh… I see. Could you help me remove these blocks, Jewel?"
"Well yes. You only need to take some potions every day for an entire week. Also, I think I need to give you a monthly dose of flushing potions, dear. Just to be sure… I sense a connection between you and Mr. Potter over here, maybe it's a soul bond but that's really difficult to ascertain. Things like that could only be proven or disproven during weddings. Anyway, just to be sure, you better take a monthly dose of flushing potions. It's better to be safe than sorry given how much you've been dosed in the past," Jewel looked at Hermione with concern.
"Thank you, Jewel," Hermione held the goblin's hand and smiled gratefully.
"Of course, dear. Children are the most important thing for us goblins. What that old wizard did to you is punishable through a beheading in our nation… Since he is very powerful among your lot though, I will provide you a thorough health and magical report for now. That way, you can use it as evidence if you go after him," Jewel squeezed her hand in comfort.
"Thank you," Hermione was teary-eyed. Even if she already had an idea of what Dumbledore and the Weasleys had done to her in the past, learning the severity of their actions just opened up fresh wounds.
"You may now wear your clothes again, dear. I'll check on Mr. Potter first and then I will give you instructions for your new potion regimen… Also, er, do you mind if I show your test results to Director Ragnok?"
"Why? Is something wrong with my test results, Jewel?" Hermione asked as she continued to dress.
"Oh, no! It's just – you should know dear that you are likely the most powerful magical being alive… I can only remember power like this to be the tale of legends," Jewel explained sheepishly.
"Oh… Well, I trust the Goblin Nation, Jewel. So, if you think this information is pertinent to the Director, then I don't see a problem with it at all," Hermione shrugged.
"Thank you, dear… Mr. Potter, you can turn around now."
"Hermione, are you alright?" Harry ran to her and cupped her cheek gently.
"I'm fine, Harry. I'm really happy there's a check-up of sorts before we sign our betrothal contracts though. At least we're sure if our health and magic are working well," Hermione offered a small smile but it didn't reach her eyes. Harry wrapped her in his arms in a gesture of comfort.
"We'll make them pay, Hermione. For what they did to you and for what they plan to do to you. I'm always here. I'll help keep you safe," Harry whispered reassuringly as he rubbed her back.
"Th – Thank you, Harry," Hermione sniffed as she slowly pulled away.
Harry reached out a hand to wipe her tears away. "Now smile for me, please," Harry grinned. Hermione rolled her eyes but smiled anyway and Harry chuckled. "That's my girl."
"Mr. Potter, are you ready?" Jewel asked.
"As I'll ever be, Jewel," Harry said as he shrugged off his robes.
"Hermione, dear, your turn to look away." Hermione nodded and she picked a spot on the opposite corner and squatted on the floor facing the wall.
"Alright, Mr. Potter, please stand in that ritual circle… Thank you."
Harry felt self-conscious at being stark naked in front of a female goblin so he closed his eyes. As Jewel started to chant, he felt the rush of magic rising in his body starting from his feet and upwards. Since the magic felt light and caring, he relaxed. When the diagnostic enchantments reached the lightning bolt scar on his forehead, he screamed in pain.
"Harry!" He could faintly hear Hermione's scream before he passed out.
oOOOOo
"He – Hermione?" Harry muttered as his eyes fluttered open and the first thing he saw was Hermione's tear stricken face.
"Harry! You're alright! I was so worried," Hermione exclaimed before kissing his forehead.
"Hermione – you – you're naked!" Harry looked at the ceiling to avoid the very enticing sight.
"Oh – er, sorry. They needed to include me in the cleansing ritual. I was used as some sort of anchor for you... They used my blood to add to the mix of the potion used in the rune scheme – and – " Hermione blushed as she realized that she was spouting out facts.
"What happened to me? My head feels like a dozen bludgers crashed on it," he raised a hand to massage his forehead. His mouth widened in surprise when he could no longer feel his world-famous scar.
"Did they – they successfully remove you know," he whispered. Hermione nodded solemnly but her eyes sparkled with joy.
"Oh, so that's one victory, right?" He smiled despite the pain in his forehead.
"Yes, it is – " Hermione's reply was interrupted when they heard a loud clearing of the throat.
"Jewel!" They chorused as their cheeks heated up.
"Please get changed you two. Director Ragnok needs to talk to you both after this. We've removed the scar on Mr. Potter's head and we've learned about a possible explanation regarding Ms. Granger's extreme magical abilities," Jewel announced.
"Oh, er, okay. Thanks, Jewel," Hermione muttered as she stood up from her position by his bedside. Seeing Hermione's body, Harry immediately looked away because it would be so bloody embarrassing if he got an inappropriate reaction in front of the goblins.
"I'll wait outside for you two to get ready," Jewel nodded before leaving the room.
"Do you have any idea what this conversation is going to be about?" Harry asked Hermione as he hurriedly fumbled into his clothes.
"I just hope the goblins will be willing to help us. It would be great if they could help propel our plans forward," Hermione replied as she buttoned her blouse.
"Let's just hope it's good news for us," Harry sighed as he finished dressing.
oOOOOo
"Good afternoon, Mr. Potter, Avatar Hermione," Ragnok greeted them as they entered the elegantly decorated office. Hermione had met the Chief of the Goblin Nation in her past life so she knew the protocols about this meeting.
Placing her open palm against her chest, Hermione bowed. "Director Ragnok, may your vaults be filled with gold and your enemies crushed beneath your feet." Harry followed suit after Hermione's greeting.
"Please, sit! It is my great pleasure to meet the Avatar and the prophesied one," Ragnok grinned at them.
"How did you – "
"How did I know that you're the Avatar?" Ragnok interrupted. Hermione could only nod as they each sat on the empty armchairs.
"One of our many archives of old scrolls describe a magical being like no other. There had long been stories about a magical human being so powerful that he or she is the bridge between the mortal and spirit worlds. This person has the elemental magic to bend fire, air, water, and earth to follow his will. Also, this person is a reincarnation of the first human to have merged themselves with the spirit of light and peace… Based on your test results... You can only be the Avatar," Ragnok explained.
"Oh, um, okay," Hermione nodded.
"The Goblin Nation would be so honored to pledge our support to the spirit of the giver of magic, Avatar Hermione," Ragnok stood up and bowed to Hermione. Hermione was shocked that the leader of the goblins bowed to her. Even when she was the Minister for Magic, Director Ragnok never bowed to her. Recovering from her shock, she stood to return the respectful gesture.
"Now… let's talk about important matters. Avatar Hermione, you need goblin protection. I am confident that you can handle yourself being the most powerful magical being alive, but the results of your tests are alarming. A politically powerful wizard, Albus Dumbledore, has been dosing you with potions that would suppress your elemental magic. So, the goblins would like to offer you a boon… I would adopt you as my ward. That way, all your affairs in the magical community would be mitigated and watched by all of us. Through that, it would be legal to provide wards around your home as well. And, we can give your parents emergency portkeys in case of an attack or calamity."
"This is all so overwhelming but thank you, sir, so much… You don't know how much I appreciate all your support," Hermione said sincerely.
"It is the honor of the Goblin Nation to be in service to the incarnation of the spirit of light, the giver of magic," Ragnok replied in earnest. Harry reached out and squeezed Hermione's hand in support to convey that he was delighted that she would be protected from now on. He was reassured that someone else in the magical community, aside from himself, was going the extra mile to protect her.
"Now, Mr. Potter, I believe we have something to discuss regarding the taint in your scar," Ragnok turned to Harry with a grave face.
"Yes, sir. I would like to express how grateful I am to have that ghastly scar removed. It's been troubling me for as long as I can remember. Not to mention the dark visions that remind me of the person who killed my – "
"Yes, Mr. Potter. You are correct. Your scar is indeed related to the bastard, Voldemort. It is in fact, a piece of his soul created from the vilest of dark magic," Ragnok growled.
"I can't say I'm surprised, sir, with all the dreams and visions I've been getting that are all related to him… Not to mention the ability to speak to snakes, which I assume is something I got from him as well... It just makes sense really... So, I just want to say thank you so much, sir, for all the help from the Goblin Nation. You've finally freed me from his taint," Harry said earnestly.
"Yes, you are welcome. The Goblin Nation has always been treated by members of the House of Potter with the utmost respect. Besides, as one of our most valuable clients, it is our pleasure to be of service… There is an important matter you should know though," Ragnok's voice reflected his restrained anger.
"What is it, sir?"
"Voldemort has more soul pieces scattered around who knows where!" Ragnok slammed his large fist on the desk. The impact shocked Harry and Hermione making them lean back a little which the Chief of the Goblin Nation noticed. "Sorry, that bastard and his Death Eaters make me livid."
"I actually have an idea as to what happened to one of the Horcruxes, sir. This is one of our agendas for coming here. Aside from getting our betrothal contract in place… In my second year, I had to fight a sixty-foot basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets since Voldemort had controlled a student to open it with a Horcrux in the form of a diary," Harry started to explain and Ragnok's face went pale.
"Tell me all that you know, Mr. Potter... All that you know," Ragnok gritted his teeth. Harry told Ragnok about the diary, the locket, the cup, the ring, the diadem, and Nagini using the excuse that he saw visions of them through his scar.
And with that, Harry and Hermione found a formidable ally in their journey to make things right. Ragnok, Chief of the Goblin Nation, a cunning and brilliant war strategist, was now their comrade in the fight against Voldemort.
oOOOOo
"Bloody hell! Where were you guys? I've been looking everywhere for you!" Ron exclaimed as Harry and Hermione sat across their supposed best friend at the Gryffindor table during dinner. They had spent all morning and some parts of the afternoon at Gringotts before they visited the Office of the Daily Prophet to have a quick chat with Rita Skeeter. Instead of antagonizing the nosy beetle just like the last timeline, this time around, they decided to have her as an ally who would be exposing the secrets of their enemies for them. A win-win situation for them both. The headline tomorrow would surely make tongues wag and hearts of young witches break. After all, per Ragnok's suggestion, they needed the excuse to isolate themselves and to validate the presence of Hermione's goblin guards. Also, once outside Gringotts, Harry whispered to Hermione that publicizing the full details of their betrothal arrangement would keep Molly, Ginny, and Ron from interfering with their relationship.
"We were at the library, Ronald," Hermione huffed. With Dobby's magic, their little elven friend had made illusions of them studying in the library along with a charm that would keep other students away from them.
"Oh? Then why didn't I see you then?" Ron countered with a deep frown on his face. Being bonded to Hermione, Harry could feel her magic start to ripple in anger, so he calmed her down by discreetly holding her hand.
Before any of them could react, Neville intervened. "I did see them, Ron. They were sitting in a hidden corner. They looked busy so I didn't say hi."
Harry and Hermione exchanged glances before they smiled at Neville.
"You are welcome to come join us anytime, Neville," Hermione offered.
"Re – really?" Neville stammered.
"Of course! What are friends for? Besides, Harry could use another wizard in our mini study group," Hermione said and Harry nodded in agreement.
"Thank you! I might join you guys tomorrow if you're alright with that. I need to study for potions since, you know, Snape." Neville blushed.
"You're welcome to join us anytime, mate." Harry grinned at Neville.
"Great! Just what we need more bookworms. First Harry and then Neville. Bloody brilliant, Hermione," Ron said grumpily.
Since Ron was busy stuffing his face with dinner, Hermione leaned in so she could whisper to Harry. "Thank you for helping me rein in my temper, Harry."
"Anytime, darling," he whispered back. Ron being the oblivious moron didn't notice the way Harry and Hermione were sitting much closer than they normally would. Also, his mind failed to register the whispering from his supposed best friends. Neville Longbottom being the astute observer, since he's used to being in the background, smiled knowingly.
oOOOOo
The next day, Harry and Hermione were sitting beside each other on an armchair. She was on Harry's lap as a gesture of comfort. Today was the annual commemoration of all that he had lost. Aside from what this day meant to Harry, tonight, he would be chosen as the fourth champion of the Tri-Wizard tournament once again. While both of them knew what to expect, they still felt nervous. They had a huge task to do – change things for the better and save as many lives as they could. It was a colossal task and despite all the power and knowledge they both had, a lingering sense of fear that something could go wrong clouded them.
While the help from the goblins and their sneaky way of convincing Rita Skeeter to be on their side was a stroke of pure genius, they were still anxious about the reactions of the entire wizarding community, most especially Dumbledore and his cronies, about the headline that would shock everyone this morning.
"Harry?"
"Yes, darling?"
"Do you think – should I – I mean, how long do you think we can keep the full extent of my Avatar powers a secret?" Hermione muttered as her fingers traced circles on his palm.
"Are you afraid that people would start looking at you differently?" He whispered as he placed his chin on her shoulder.
"Well… yes. I'm used to being in the background, you know," she sighed.
"Hermione, you're hardly in the background… Besides, you did become the Minister," he tried to cheer her up with a joke.
"It's just, I feel like when everyone knows I'm the Avatar it's like being you – well, what people expect you to be. Boy who lived and all that," she summarized.
"Oh… Yeah, I see your point. Being the whole Boy Who Lived thing was hard. But you – you're like a goddess," he whispered as he tightened his hold on her.
"I know… Well, I'm lucky that the goblins are on our side now. More importantly, I have you with me," she turned to him and kissed him on the cheek.
"You will always have me. Our bond, our rings, and the way we feel about each other would make sure of that! Nothing and no one can keep us apart now, I promise," he kissed her shoulder.
"I can't thank you enough for doing all this – helping me through all this," she whispered as her thumb caressed the ruby on her betrothal ring.
"Are you sure you – you like that ring? We can get you another one if – "
"Harry, I love it! The last person to have worn it was your grandmother and it's been in your family for generations. Even if the ring was made of fake stones, I'd still love it because it was you who gave it to me," she reassured him.
"Oh… Okay… You know, once everyone knows that you're the Avatar, I believe the pureblood wizards will be all over you," Harry teased and she snorted.
"Honestly! If a bloody wizard challenges you for my hand, I'd duel that wizard myself," she huffed.
"Good to know that you aren't a damsel in distress, darling," he poked her side and she giggled.
"Harry – look!" Hermione pointed two owls hovering by the window.
"It must be from Director Ragnok and Rita," Harry muttered. With a wave of her hand, Hermione opened the window using air bending. The two owls entered the Gryffindor Common Room and immediately headed toward them.
After they gently removed the letters from the owls' legs, the birds only hooted in acknowledgment before flying away. Each of them picked a letter to read before switching.
"Hmmm… Harry Potter betrothed to Ward of the Goblin Nation, Hermione Granger… Seems rather tame for Rita," Harry mused.
"Yes, well, at least her stories are based on facts this time around," Hermione snorted.
"Well, Rita may be a lot of things but she isn't stupid. She wouldn't dare face the wrath of the Goblin Nation," Harry chuckled.
"She better not," Hermione said as she conjured a tiny ball of flame in her hand. Once again, Harry was amazed at the raw power she possessed.
"You have got to teach me how to do the air scooter," he pouted.
"Of course, I will. You better prepare yourself for training, Mr. Potter. I won't have my betrothed embarrass me in this silly tournament," she huffed playfully and Harry poked her hip once again.
"Not all of us could be the Mighty Avatar, you know," he feigned offense.
"And not all of us could be the great Harry Potter," she retorted smartly and they shared a laugh.
"Are you ready to face the wolves for today, darling?" Harry inquired.
"As I'll ever be," she nodded.
"Don't forget to remove the concealment charm on your ring," he reminded her.
"That's right. Thanks for reminding me," Hermione pointed her wand on her ring and now, everyone could see the ruby and gold beauty on her finger.
"Hermione? Since people will start hating me by tonight, do you mind if we destroy the diadem tomorrow? Maybe an exotic stroll down to the Chamber of Secrets? You know we have to do our part since the goblins already killed the Horcrux on the Hufflepuff Cup. We can't have them thinking we're slacking off after all," he said gallantly and she giggled.
"My! My! How romantic," she jokingly swooned.
"Bloody charming, aren't I? Dangerous dates of hunting soul pieces and a basilisk carcass," he said pompously.
"Come on, Ha – "
"Good morning, Harry, Hermione," Neville greeted so cheerfully that Hermione almost jumped out of Harry's lap were it not for his arms wrapped around her waist. "I see congratulations are in order," Neville teased as he saw the ring on his friends' fingers.
"Aren't I a lucky bastard, Neville," Harry smirked and Hermione elbowed him. "Ow!"
"A lucky bastard indeed, mate," Neville chuckled.
"Neville, do you want to join us for breakfast?" Hermione said as she stood up from Harry's lap.
"Sure. I'll even help you in shooing away the wolves," Neville smiled.
"Let's go then. I'm hungry," Harry pouted.
oOOOOo
One by one as the students and staff of Hogwarts entered the Great Hall, Hermione could feel her heart pounding erratically inside her chest. Since Harry was holding her hand in reassurance, no one else but Neville had seen her beautiful ring yet. When the post owls flocked to drop their respective parcels as well as copies of the Daily Prophet all over Hogwarts, Harry and Hermione waited for the explosion.
Just by looking at the headline, all eyes were then focused on Harry and Hermione. Deciding to show that he was not afraid of the news of their betrothal going public, Harry lifted Hermione's hand and kissed her knuckles with her ring on display.
As the murmurs got louder and louder, Ron Weasley was the first to react.
"You – you, traitor! How could you take Hermione away, Potter?" Ron snarled.
"Hermione does not belong to you, Ron. Besides, I love her and she loves me. She's the light of my life. If you were our friend, you'd be happy for us," Harry said with calm politeness.
"How dare you – "
"Ron! Stop! You wouldn't want to shame the name of our house by going against protocol. Harry will be the future Head of the House of Potter. Their business is no concern of yours," Fred Weasley intervened with a serious voice that shocked everyone.
"Fred and I offer our sincerest congratulations to this joyous occasion. To the future of the House of Potter, Hermione Granger, and Harry Potter!" George lifted his cup in a toast.
Supportive as ever, all the Gryffindors, except for Ron, Ginny, and Romilda Vane lifted their cups. All three had long run away in anger, tears, and disbelief while Fred and George were congratulating the couple extravagantly.
"To Harry Potter and Hermione Granger! The Golden Couple of Gryffindor!" Fred added.
"To Harry and Hermione!" The Gryffindors chorused. With all this commotion happening around, Harry glanced at Draco Malfoy who had recently read the short note he and Hermione wrote last night detailing the Slytherin's secrets. When Draco looked at him, he gave a subtle nod. The blonde Slytherin only stared at him for a few seconds before nodding as well. Harry looked at Hermione who was blushing profusely at the attention.
"Malfoy agrees to our meeting this weekend," he whispered in her ear. Since the Gryffindors were none the wiser, they good-naturedly teased the newly betrothed couple.
"Got it… Oops! Incoming," Hermione whispered back as she saw Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall coming to approach them.
"Mr. Potter and Ms. Granger! My office now!" Dumbledore bellowed in a way that stunned everyone. He had lost the grandfatherly twinkle in his eyes.
"Albus!" Professor McGonagall exclaimed. As if remembering himself, Dumbledore's signature loving grandfather persona reappeared.
"Yes, sorry about my outburst. I'm just surprised at this auspicious news of your betrothal… You both are so young. Perhaps, you can come with me to my office for a talk?" The twinkle in the headmaster's eyes was back. Harry and Hermione could feel a slight probe on their mental shields but they easily deflected it by thinking of something else.
"Albus! Ms. Granger and Mr. Potter are supposed to be in my class right after breakfast," Professor McGonagall reminded the headmaster.
"Come now, Minerva. Ms. Granger and Mr. Potter here could miss a few classes. It's just a talk with their dear headmaster – " before Albus could insist, the main entrance of the Great Hall opened and in walked two goblin warriors.
"What is the meaning of this?!" Dumbledore hissed. There was no one else who talked because everyone present in the Great Hall was slackjawed at this never before seen side of their fun-loving headmaster.
"Avatar Hermione, it is an honor to be your assigned guards," the two goblins bowed respectfully.
"A – Avatar Hermione?! Will somebody explain to me what the hell is going on?!" Dumbledore growled. He seemed to be getting angrier and angrier as the minutes pass.
"Avatar Hermione, you are not obliged to respond to this wizard's demands," a goblin guard drawled without looking at the livid old wizard. Instead, the goblins' eyes were focused on the witch they had promised to protect.
"It's alright, sir – sorry, what are your names?" Hermione politely addressed her goblin guards.
"My name is Sharpfang and this is my second-in-command, Riptooth. We are tasked to provide you with – "
"As the headmaster, I cannot allow a student to have armed warriors following her around! Also, I don't know what this Avatar thing means – "
"Albus! May I remind you that this matter, with Ms. Granger being a ward of the Chief of the Goblin Nation himself, is something that our laws cannot circumvent. Tread carefully, Albus. I don't want you to lose your head over a silly temper tantrum over something that is truly none of your business," interrupted Minerva McGonagall.
"Professor McGonagall, I don't want people to think that I am getting special treatment, so I think it's best to show everyone why I received the honor of being a ward of the Nation…. Will you, er, please step away… Thank you," Hermione glanced around. Seeing Harry there calmed her down.
Closing her eyes, Hermione moved her hands in a circular motion conjuring a throw pillow sized ball of flame. Pushing her arms upward, the scorching hot flame roared above her.
Gasps could be heard from everyone present except for Harry and the goblins. If they thought that was all there was to see, they were wrong. This time around, Hermione kicked her feet before she landed on an air scooter letting her ride around in circles for a few seconds. Landing flawlessly on her feet as the air scooter vanished, Hermione pushed her arms to the side and a strong gust of wind made the house banners swish wildly.
After that, Hermione conjured an iced dagger by moving her arms from side to side before making a hard push forward. The iced dagger nearly pierced through a portrait before Hermione stopped it with a gesture of her hand, letting it evaporate away. Lastly, Hermione kicked the floor and she was surrounded by a wall of rock covering her from the waist down.
"You – what are you?!" Dumbledore was pale-faced as he looked at Hermione with fear.
"I wish no harm to anyone. The Goblin Nation is just kind enough to offer their protection. Seeing how bigoted the Wizarding Community is, I accepted their help. I am at risk not just because I am Harry Potter's betrothed. I am in even more risk because of my special abilities," Hermione calmly explained. Since the goblin warriors immediately moved forward to cover their ward, Dumbledore stepped back.
"Fine! I will allow the presence of your protection but they can only stay outside classrooms and other rooms you occupy. They cannot enter the dorms. They must always stay outside. I don't want them to frighten the other students," Dumbledore acquiesced. The hardness in his voice told Harry and Hermione that this wouldn't be the last encounter they would be having with the headmaster about this matter.
"Alright, students! Nothing to see here! Off to your classes!" Professor McGonagall bellowed. Harry glanced at the male students and frowned. While some wizards looked scared at Hermione's display of power, there were a few others who saw his fiancée as the ultimate prize.
oOOOOo
The rest of the day, Harry and Hermione were followed by whispers, staring, and glares. The news of their betrothal and the unexpected showcase of Hermione's elemental magic, along with Dumbledore's ballistic reaction to the presence of her goblin guards, overshadowed the excitement of the selection of champions after the Halloween feast.
There were people genuinely happy for them, students and teachers, alike. For the hopeless romantics, Harry and Hermione were the perfect couple – the classic story of best friends relying on each other until their closeness formed into a love so true and beautiful.
On the other hand, some witches think that Hermione is too plain, boring, and undeserving of their beloved Boy Who Lived. Harry worried that Hermione would be affected by the jealous witches but she only snorted at that. She even whispered to him that if she were the fifteen-year-old Hermione, she would be bothered by it. Since she's already lived through her teenage years though, and not to mention her stint as the minister, her confidence in herself was strong enough to survive petty teenage gossip mongers.
Aside from the witches, there were wizards, most especially purebloods, who now wanted Hermione for themselves because of her very powerful magical ability. With her as a goblin ward, she had strong political backing too. Rita's article stated that she was the ward of Director Ragnok, Chief of the Goblin Nation after all. Despite being bigoted, a lot of purebloods lusted after money. Since the goblins control the flow of galleons and wealth, Hermione being the ward of their leader changed her status from brilliant muggleborn into premier access to getting ahead in business. So, Harry could feel the heated glares being sent his way as well.
Ron didn't sit with Harry and Hermione during classes, free periods, and lunchtime. Instead, it was Neville who spent the rest of the day with them. Ron was too busy glaring at them but they couldn't care less. Truth be told, they were relieved that Ron was keen to just glare at them from a distance. That way, he couldn't interfere with their plans nor could he lure Hermione into an abusive potion-based relationship again.
As the hours passed and got closer and closer to dinner time, Harry and Hermione would exchange wary glances at each other. If they created a ruckus this morning due to the news of their betrothal and Hermione's Avatar powers, then tonight, it was Harry's turn to be the center of unwanted attention because of the Tri-Wizard Tournament.
oOOOOo
They were sitting at the Gryffindor table across from Neville Longbottom. By now, the excitement of their betrothal and the events that happened had slowly died down. The only people sneaking glances, well glares at them, were the jealous witches and wizards who wanted to break the couple up. Harry and Hermione could also feel the eyes of Dumbledore and Snape frequently turning to their direction but they ignored it, for now. The tactics of these two cunning wizards were usually covert and suave so they weren't worried that the two would start any trouble.
Hermione leaned in and whispered to Harry, "I know we expected the prying eyes of Dumbledore and Snape. Also, the glaring from Ron, Romilda, and teary-eyed Ginny, but honestly! Check out the Slytherin table, Viktor Krum is seriously creeping me out… If you go to the Ravenclaw table, I feel the eyes of Fleur Delacour on us… I'm not sure if she's looking at you or me but it's really bothersome."
Harry checked the Slytherin table and indeed Viktor Krum was ogling Hermione in a way that made his blood boil. The Bulgarian Seeker must have noticed his staring and returned it with an icy glare. Harry shifted closer to Hermione as if to remind Viktor that she was spoken for. It was also a gesture of protection since Viktor's eyes on his fiancée was truly disturbing.
"Was Viktor like this the first time around?" Harry whispered while his eyes were still glaring daggers at an equally livid Viktor.
"Well, he watched me study which is rather creepy sometimes but it's nothing I couldn't handle… He could get a bit handsy but when I pushed back, he respected it… To be honest, I can't remember him ever looking at me the same way he does now though," Hermione mused.
"I see… Well, you shouldn't trust him this time around."
"Are you jealous?" Hermione teased.
"No, why would I be when I have you? It's just I'm worried he might do something to you," Harry said seriously.
"I'll be fine, Harry," Hermione held the hand in his lap and smiled at him reassuringly. He smiled at her and she resumed eating. This time around, he turned to the Ravenclaw table where the Beaubaxton students sat and looked at Fleur. When she gave him a fierce glare, he bit his bottom lip to stop himself from chuckling. Veela was attracted to the most powerful person in the room and right now, Hermione was the most powerful person in the castle. As the Avatar, she was special so naturally, the Veela in Fleur would be drawn to her.
"Darling?"
"Hmmm?" Hermione smiled at him.
"I hate to break it to you but Fleur is glaring at me and not you," he said teasingly.
"Right! Veela magic! This is going to be so awkward," Hermione sighed. Harry wrapped an arm around her and kissed the top of her head.
"I guess this is just the start of me having to fend off your ardent suitors, both witches, and wizards alike, it seems," he chuckled and Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Yeah, yeah laugh it up, Mr. Boy Who Lived," she huffed playfully.
"Now I know that Viktor and Fleur will be giving me a much harder time during the tournament this time around," he whispered.
"Don't worry, Harry. I'll protect you," she winked and he chuckled.
Neville noticed their antics and chuckled at his friends' interaction. Harry and Hermione smiled at Neville. They made the right choice of bringing the shy Gryffindor under their wing because, in the last timeline, Neville Longbottom was the fiercest and most loyal friend they had, just like Luna Lovegood.
oOOOOo
The Goblet of Fire was blazing with blue flames in front of the staff table. All eyes were now focused on the beautiful silver cup eagerly awaiting Dumbledore's announcement. As the flames ignited a nearly blinding light, a slightly burnt parchment floated in the air that the headmaster easily caught. Just like in the original timeline, Viktor Krum, Fleur Delacour, and Cedric Diggory were chosen to represent each of the competing schools to the delight of their respective peers.
Knowing what would happen next, Hermione turned to Harry. "Good luck, Harry… I just wanted you to know that I'm always here to support you. I love you, Potter," Hermione whispered while taking his hand.
"Likewise, darling. I love you, Granger," Harry whispered back.
When the Goblet of Fire emitted bright light once more, everyone was stunned since this wasn't supposed to happen. As a parchment of paper floated from it, Dumbledore caught it once again and he bellowed, "Harry Potter!"
Again, all eyes were focused on Harry. Kissing Hermione's forehead, he then stood up and pointed his wand to his throat as he muttered Sonorous. "I, Harry James Potter, heir to the House of Potter, hereby solemnly swear on my life and magic that I did not enter my name in the Goblet of Fire nor did I ask someone else to do it for me. This I swear, so mote it be!" Harry's voice was heard by everyone present in the Great Hall.
Thinking of Hermione and his parents, Harry whispered, "Expecto Patronum!" As Harry's large corporeal stag Patronus floated all around the Great Hall before disappearing away, no one doubted the validity of Harry's statement except for Ronald Weasley since he was a jealous unthinking git.
"Ms. Granger! Did you enter your betrothed's name in the Goblet of Fire?" Dumbledore inquired with a deep frown.
Sensing a threat to their ward, Hermione's goblin guards immediately opened the door of the Great Hall. They were about to run towards her when she raised her hand and gestured for them to stop. Nodding at Hermione, the goblins halted but their eyes were scanning the entirety of the large room for any sign of danger.
Facing Dumbledore, Hermione closed her eyes to calm herself and pointed her wand to her throat. "I, Hermione Jean Granger, did not enter the name of my betrothed, Harry James Potter, into the Goblet of Fire. This, I swear on my life and magic. May the Spirit of Magic attest to my claim," Hermione said in a voice loud and clear. Raising her left hand, she showed everyone the ball of blue flames hovering on it.
"Thank you for your clarification, Ms. Granger. Now will Mr. Potter come over here please," Professor McGonagall broke the silence. She glared at Dumbledore to convey her displeasure at the headmaster's rash actions. The stern Transfiguration Mistress found herself doing that a lot ever since the news of her cubs' betrothal. Frankly, she couldn't understand why the headmaster was so upset at this wonderful news. Young Harry needed love in his life and Ms. Granger, her favorite student, could use someone to balance out her seriousness so she could learn to let loose and have fun. Those two were perfect for each other so she couldn't understand why the headmaster seemed upset at the news of their betrothal.
Harry walked to the staff table and when Professor McGonagall pointed to the anteroom, he smiled gratefully at his Head of House. Once inside, Viktor and Fleur looked at him with disdain. Harry sighed. It seemed that his competitors were out to get him because Fleur and Viktor fancied Hermione.
Feeling the awkward tension in the room, Professor McGonagall decided to nip it in the bud. "All of you heard Mr. Potter and his betrothed's magical oaths, so I expect no animosity due to his being selected as the fourth champion. He was entered into the tournament against his free will. Now if we can get to the bottom of this, is there a way for Mr. Potter to be removed from the roster of participants?" Her question was addressed to Ludo Bagman, Barty Crouch Sr., and the three heads of the competing schools.
"We can't do anything about it, Professor McGonagall. If Mr. Potter doesn't participate, he would lose his magic because the enchantments in the Goblet of Fire make each entry a binding oath," Barty Crouch Sr. explained.
"This is so exciting! The Boy Who Lived as the mysterious fourth champion!" Ludo Bagman exclaimed and everyone could see the dollar signs in his eyes.
"Let's carry on with the briefing then," Dumbledore muttered. He was astounded at what had happened again.
The meeting and the briefings were pretty much the same as the first time around. The only thing different was the glares Fleur and Viktor kept throwing at Harry. Also, Cedric Diggory's friendlier attitude was a happy surprise since the Hufflepuff champion treated him coolly before.
oOOOOo
Harry wasn't surprised to find Hermione waiting for him outside the anteroom. She was watched like a hawk by the two goblin guards standing a few meters away from her. He greeted her with a tired smile and she wrapped her arms around him to offer comfort. He sighed happily as he inhaled the sweet scent of vanilla, jasmine, and parchment from her wild curly hair. It was a scent that he always associated with peace and the comfort of home even in the past timeline. They reluctantly pulled apart when they heard a throat clearing.
"You are Her-mio-ninny Granger, correct?" Viktor Krum said in a suave voice.
"It's Hermione Granger," she replied politely but Harry could see the beginning of a frown.
"It's my pleasure to meet such a beautiful lady," Viktor gave Hermione his most winning smile but Harry could see that she was trying her best not to snort. Harry bit his lip to stop himself from laughing at Viktor's thick accent.
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Krum," Hermione nodded.
"Call me, Viktor, da," he winked.
"Right. If you'll excuse us, Harry and I really need to go – "
"Excusez-Moi, 'ermione," Fleur cut in.
"Yes, Miss? How can I help you?"
"Eez just I want to say you are very powerful, no?" Fleur fluttered her eyelashes. Any ordinary man or woman would have been on their knees singing love sonnets to the quarter-Veela but it didn't affect Harry and Hermione.
"Oh. Thank you, Miss – "
"Fleur. Fleur Delacour!" She flipped her platinum blonde hair.
"Right, nice meeting you Miss Delacour, Mr. Krum. You must excuse Harry and I. We're tired. See you around," before they could say anything else, Hermione dragged Harry's hand and hurriedly walked away from the two champions. Harry turned around and saw the angry look on Fleur and Viktor's faces. He knew that this wouldn't be their last encounter with Hermione's overly besotted admirers.
"Are they following us?" Hermione asked.
"Er, no. But the death glare I got from them would have weaker men cowering in fear," Harry replied.
"Can we go to the Room of Requirement for a while? I don't want to go to the Gryffindor Common Rooms yet," Hermione sighed.
"Of course, darling."
oOOOOo
Once inside the Room of Requirement, Harry and Hermione lounged on the couch feeling tired and exasperated because of the very long day they just had. Harry sat on the couch with Hermione's head on his lap. They were content to just enjoy the peace and quiet. Since there were so many things that happened today, they just needed some time to be together and think.
"Harry?"
"Hmmm?" Harry was busy twirling a ringlet of her hair around his finger. He was just enjoying the domesticity of the moment.
"Did something happen in the briefing or was everything the same as the previous timeline?"
"Pretty much the same. It's just Viktor and Fleur that's different. Oh, and Cedric is friendlier. But everything else is the same. Why?"
"Nothing. Just curious… So, when do you think Amelia Bones would finish perusing all the details about Sirius' case?" At the seriousness of her question, Harry stopped playing with her hair.
"I hope she'll finish soon, darling. Our letter and documented evidence, my parents' will and our memories of what happened at the Shrieking Shack, along with the backing of the goblins should help speed things along," he traced a finger to her button nose.
"Amelia Bones is a really good DMLE Head. I read her profile when I became the Head of the DMLE. She's one of the best – "
"Until you came along of course," he teased and she rolled her eyes.
"When do you think we'll be hearing from Umbitch and Fudge?" She asked.
"Soon enough, Hermione. Soon enough," Harry sighed.
"So… When do you wish to start training?", she changed the subject.
"How about during the afternoon? Free period tomorrow?"
"Hmmm… Good idea. Should we – do you think we should invite Neville to join us?"
"Well, we can invite him to join us but we can't give too much away. He might notice something odd about us," Harry remarked.
"That's true," she agreed.
"Do you think you need to talk to Avatar Aang right now? I mean – we were able to accomplish a lot and it's just our second night back," he mused.
"You're right… Besides, I do need to keep up my meditation," she sighed as she slowly got up from her comfy position.
"I'll wait for you here… Maybe I can read up on dragons or something. I don't want to use 'Accio Firebolt' this time around, as effective as it was before," he snorted.
"You better get that bloody egg and live to tell the tale unscathed, Potter. I don't want a limping date for the Yule Ball. I intend to fully enjoy the dance this time around," she feigned stern.
"Yes, Ma'am," he winked.
Hermione playfully blew him a kiss which made him laugh. She sat on the floor in an Indian squat and closed her eyes. A few minutes later, she opened her eyes and the familiar white glow in them that Harry had seen when she's in the Avatar State was present once more. Hermione's hair was rippling with magic as she was surrounded by a ball of wind that's circled by rocks, rotating flames, and a wave of water.
Since Hermione's entry into the Avatar State was not caused by a sudden outpouring of emotion, Harry knew that she was alright. So, he asked the Room of Requirement for books about dragons. As he read a few chapters from the books, he made a very important discovery that would help him complete the first task quickly and with ease.
oOOOOo
At breakfast the next day, Harry and Hermione were so ecstatic to read the letters from Director Ragnok detailing the schedule of the basilisk carcass extraction that they didn't notice the frightened barn owl holding a red envelope in its talons. They also didn't see the wicked gleam in Ron's eyes as he looked at the red envelope. When the owl dropped it in front of the couple, the poor bird immediately flew away.
"Hermione Granger! You little tart – " the angry screams of one Molly Weasley that could be heard all around the Great Hall was halted when Hermione pointed her wand to cast a Silencio and Impervius charms on the offending howler. Her goblin guards who were just standing outside immediately ran to the direction of their ward upon hearing her name being bellowed.
"Avatar Hermione, what's the matter?" Sharpfang inquired.
"Just a silly howler from a mother who disagrees about my recent betrothal to Harry," Hermione replied.
"Do you know who sent it?" Riptooth asked.
"Molly Weasley, obviously. We know that loud screech from anywhere," Harry supplied.
"Would you please hand it over to us so we can send it to Gringotts for a thorough inspection? It could also serve as evidence should we find any foul play here," Sharpfang suggested. Hermione was about to hand the red envelope when Dumbledore attempted to summon it.
Luckily, Harry's auror reflexes kicked in and he cast a series of spells. First a Protego around Hermione and himself, and then, an Expelliarmus to disarm the headmaster. While Albus Dumbledore was a powerful wizard, he didn't have young Harry's speed. So, with that spell combo, Harry Potter disarmed Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.
The Elder Wand was once again in Harry Potter's possession.
Feeling the strong pull of the magic from the wand and in his magical core, Harry smiled. He was the master of the Elder Wand again.
Dumbledore went pale as realization dawned on him. Harry Potter was now in control of the two Hallows, the Elder Wand and the Cloak of Invisibility. With Hermione Granger, his betrothed, as a ward of the Goblin Nation and the most powerful elemental mage he had ever seen, this young couple was too much of a threat to his envisioned balance in British Wizarding Society.
Standing straight, Harry turned to the headmaster. "Professor Dumbledore, may I remind you that the personal mail sent to your students is none of your business. With your attempt to summon the harmful letter addressed to my betrothed, Hermione Granger, who not only is a ward of the Goblin Nation but is also under the protection of the House of Potter as its future Lady, then I bid to have this investigated by the goblins. No one shall harm Hermione. Not if I can help it," Harry said sternly.
"Trust a Potter to be this self-important," Snape drawled.
"Shut up, Snivellus. This is none of your business," Harry retorted and despite the tense situation, the students and even some of the staff chuckled at this.
"Why you insolent little – "
"Expelliarmus," Harry muttered and Snape's wand flew to his hand.
"Sharpfang, can you please take this reformed Death Eater's wand to the custody of Chief Ragnok? That way, he along with Madam Amelia Bones can check for any dark spells this wizard planned to cast," Harry handed the wand over.
"I don't need a wand, I'm gonna strangle you – " before Snape could pounce on Harry, Hermione kicked the floor and he tripped at the sudden indent he stepped on. Since Hermione conjured a wall of scorching hot flames, the greasy-haired wizard almost got burned since he landed just a few inches away from the fire.
"Harry is protective of me but I'm also protective of him. Consider this a warning," Hermione said with a cold voice that sent chills down Snape's spine.
Wiser wizards would have noticed the serious threat coming from a very powerful person but Snape let his emotions rule him. He would never accept getting bested by a filthy little mudblood, the future wife to another cocky bastard Potter at that!
Fumbling around to search for his spare wand in the inner pocket of his robes, he poured out all his anger for Potter and his mudblood and yelled, "Avada – " before he could finish the words to the killing curse, Hermione only moved her hand as if to swat an annoying fly. This caused Snape's wand to fly away to the opposite side of the castle and it was now beyond his reach.
What happened next, surprised everyone except Harry.
Hermione's eyes glowed white, her hair rippling with raw power as she got surrounded by a ball made up of all four elements. She levitated a few feet from the ground and spoke in a voice that belonged to all the incarnations of the Avatar.
"Severus Snape, you have caused so much pain to the lives of people. First as a Death Eater, second as a petty potions teacher that destroyed the future of so many students who dreamed of being aurors and healers. You are a disgrace to the blessing of magic and for that, you shall pay the ultimate price," Hermione spoke in the unified voice of all her incarnations. She raised her hands bending the ground to follow her will which resulted in Snape getting locked on the floor with his arms and legs held together by four solid rocks – one for each limb.
Hermione landed and walked toward Snape. Dumbledore wanted to save his beloved spy but he found himself stuck. Looking down, he saw that his feet were locked in rocks too.
"Ms. Granger, this is the path to darkness – " his pleading was interrupted when he felt the magical focus of Hermione – no, this goddess or magical spirit – using her body to perform the most extraordinary feats of magic he had ever witnessed.
"Shut up, Dumbledore! You blocked Avatar Hermione from discovering her true powers. The spirit of magic will deal with you later. This is your final warning. Nobody messes with life, magic, and the spirits and gets away with it!" the Avatar incarnations spoke as one in a cold angry voice that made Dumbledore tremble in fear.
If you asked anyone who had witnessed the scene what happened after that, nobody could give you a straight answer. They could only remember a blinding light and Hermione Granger touching the forehead of a struggling Severus Snape. His screams of pain reminded witnesses of their worst nightmares. And then, minutes passed before the light finally dissipated. They then witnessed that Hermione Granger was normal again. There was no elemental ball surrounding her, and her eyes weren't glowing that eerie shade of white.
Severus Snape wobbled on his feet as he tried to get up but to no avail. "Wha – what did you do to me?" he asked in a voice so frail and weak.
No one who witnessed the scene would ever forget Hermione Granger's answer even if she spoke in her normal voice. "I took away your magic. That way, you can never use magic to harm anything or anyone ever again."
It was at this particular moment that Ronald Weasley, the stupid wizard who thought that Hermione Granger should be his, made a startling realization that would save his life. He promised to whatever spirit or god or whatever was out there that he would never ever cross Hermione Granger again. Harry fucking Potter or whoever was silly enough (or brave enough) to be with Hermione could have her. There was no bloody way that he would try anything on a witch that was some sort of elemental spirit goddess! Hearing Hermione speak in the unified tongues of the spirit within her was enough to make him cry and run for the hills. Yes, Ronald Weasley would never go near Hermione Granger ever again if he wanted to keep his life and magic.
Young Ginny Weasley was a whole lot smarter than her brother, Ronald. If he came to the conclusion that he should not cross Hermione Granger, then she had long arrived at the same line of thought at the first chilling sound of the spirits emanating from the curly-haired elemental witch. Yes, Ginny would move on and find some other wizard. Harry Potter, with all his wealth and fame, was just not worth losing her life and magic for.
While Ginny and Ron had already conceded, Fleur Delacour and Viktor Krum were even more determined to have Hermione Granger as their life mate. They were both hoping that Harry Potter would die in the tournament. When that would happen, they'd swoop in and woo the most powerful magical being in the world. The fact that she was a subtle innocent beauty only accentuated her desirability in their eyes.
With the raw power Albus Dumbledore had seen from Hermione Granger today, he knew that the only way he could defeat her was through the use of politics. It was time to manipulate his puppet, Minister Cornelius Fudge, to do his bidding. He would revoke the Goblin arrangement and have Hermione Granger as his ward. And then, when she was under his wing, he would weaken her magic and stage an accident to explain her sudden death. Her level of power was just too dangerous. No one should have the ability to control such raw magical energy. Her existence was a threat to the entire wizarding world. It was time to make arrangements for her death. It was all for the Greater Good.
Barty Crouch Jr., the impersonator of Mad-Eye Moody, watched all that had happened with a sinister glint in his twitching eyes. The mudblood's powers were beyond anything he had ever seen. Even his Master, powerful as he was even in his prime, was never able to do something like that. The little mudblood just removed the cowardly bastard Snape's magic forever. His Master should be made aware of this very important detail. Potter's alliance with the mudblood should be broken because his Master needed Potter killed. If the mudblood helped Potter then his Master would never succeed in killing the bloody Boy Who Wouldn't Fucking Die. Barty had faith in his Master but even he knew that the Dark Lord wouldn't stand a chance against the mudblood who was the embodiment of a spirit goddess. If she weren't a mudblood, he would have eagerly switched his allegiance. But no! It's a pity really that Lady Magic chose someone so filthy to be blessed with phenomenal elemental powers.
A/N: I love the Avatar Universe. Isn't it obvious? If I retire from HP fanfiction writing, I might move to Avatar fandom because of Appa, MoMo, and Team Avatar.
There are readers out there that haven't seen the show but they gave this a whirl because it's Harry Potter fanfiction. Well, if you like the fantasy/adventure genre, you'll enjoy Avatar: The Last Airbender. I can't wait for the Netflix Live-Action remake.
I see this story as a Book 1 and Book 2 kind of thing.
I guess it depends on how it wraps up in the end. I love the Avatar Universe so I'm enjoying the merge of all the folklore.
As you know this fic features a very strong independent Hermione.
And it's March 1st y'all. It means that it's officially the start of Women's Month.
Here's to all the single badass ladies, the strong career women, and the loving moms. Keep being true to yourself and stay awesome.