Chapter 49
Disclaimer: The Harry Potter world obviously belongs to JK Rowling and not me. Obviously.
… … … …
Leila's thoughts were swirling mercilessly through her head. Harry, her focus was her brother. Her lips trembled as she looked to her brother who sat there silently staring at the floor as he rested his arms on his legs. After all this time Harry had to die? Thoughts of guilt plagued Leila. Why did Harry have to be the one to become the Horcrux? Why not her? Why was he the one destined to die? Aside from the whole gender part of the prophecy, it could have just as easily been her prophecy. But no, she was prophesied to bring him to Voldemort. Sometimes life just seemed so messed up. Leila wiped away the tears that stung her eyes and face as Harry looked to her once more. Leila opened her mouth but she couldn't find the words to say. Thankfully, Harry found his voice first.
"So…you knew?" Harry asked.
"I knew how Snape felt about Mum," Leila responded. " no idea about the other part."
"The part about me being a Horcrux," Harry sighed. "And needing to be destroyed."
"Harry there's got to be another way," Leila said tearfully.
"You and I both know there isn't," Harry responded.
"I know," Leila sniffled. "I just wish there was."
Harry sighed before he nodded his head. Leila reached her hand over and placed it on Harry's hand and gently squeezed it. Harry was acting so calm about this. It just showed how brave he was, something Leila had always envied. There were so many times she had wished she could be as brave as her brother. So many times she had felt completely inadequate because Harry's bravery easily outshone her. So many times when she felt that Harry had a stronger connection to their parents because he was brave just like them. Leila shook her head at her thoughts. It didn't really do to dwell on her jealousy now. She turned slightly away to wipe away a tear when her eye caught something: the Sorting Hat.
The Sorting Hat had placed her in Slytherin all those years ago, knowing she wasn't capable of much bravery or so she had thought. Maybe she had been the one to hinder her bravery. For so long she had always used the excuse that she was in Slytherin for why she couldn't possibly be brave. Her eyes then found the case which had once held the Sword of Gryffindor, or at least what she had thought was the Sword; but what was or wasn't in that case didn't matter. What mattered was that Snape, a Slytherin had risked his life, going above and beyond simply being brave. Granted, in general, Snape probably wasn't the best 'role model' but when it came to bravery; Leila wouldn't hesitate to agree that the man knew a thing or two. She looked to her brother once more. He always had such faith in her. While he was stubborn and sometimes didn't admit it, Leila was pretty sure he believed in her more often than she believed in herself, especially in perilous situations. The more she thought about it, she was the one holding herself back; always had been.
Harry released Leila's grip on his hand and stood up as he ran his fingers through his messy hair. Leila followed after him and she gently placed her hand on his chest where his heart should be. It was still beating…for now. So much of her wanted to be sad; to break down and continue to cry. But right now her brother needed her. He needed her to be brave or at least attempt to put on a brave face. Leila and Harry looked to each other, no words spoken between the two of them before Harry broke the glance and looked to the small clock on one of the shelves behind Leila. Harry closed his eyes and inhaled slowly before he looked to his sister.
"I think it's time, we should get you to the Great Hall," Harry said.
Leila looked at her brother oddly for a moment. He wanted to do this on his own? She bit her bottom lip as a sense of determination surged through her. For too long she had just played along with everyone else's idea of what her destiny should be and she wasn't about to let her brother make her next decision for her. No, this was her decision to make. She would bring Harry to Voldemort, just as she was supposed to do; but it wasn't to betray him as she had thought for so long. She would do it because that's what she wanted to do. She wanted to be there with her brother. She was brave enough to be there with her brother. It was as if there was a moment of clarity after all these years: bravery, love, fate, destiny, acceptance… As all these thoughts swirled inside her head, her normal sense of complacency snapped.
"No!" Leila retorted.
Harry looked to his sister, the shock evident in his eyes.
"Excuse me?" Harry questioned.
"You heard me," Leila responded.
"Leila you need to stay in the castle where it's safe," Harry argued.
"No, I'm coming with you," Leila furthered.
"I need to do this, you can't stop me," Harry countered.
"I'm not stopping you; I'm going with you. You don't always have to everything by yourself. I've never been one for destiny and fate; but Harry this is my destiny. I'm not leaving you," Leila said confidently.
"I can't let you go out there with me, to die," Harry said with a strained voice.
"You can't stop me; it's my choice, my destiny. Don't you see?" Leila furthered.
"If this is about your bloody prophecy I've already told you…" Harry began.
"Harry, it's going to fulfilled one way or another; but I want it to be on my terms. Please understand that," Leila pleaded.
Leila clutched Harry's hand as she looked into his emerald eyes that matched her own. Harry looked to fighting himself on the issue. She knew that as her older brother Harry would do everything to protect her and keep her safe; but on the other hand, he could also understand what he was saying. But knowing Harry, this wasn't going to be the end of their conversation. He was probably going to try everything in his power to convince her not to do this. Hell, part of Leila even felt insane about what she was insisting; but she knew the consequences and had somehow already come to terms with them.
"You deserve better," Harry faltered.
"So do you; but this is how it has to be. This is how it's going to be. Besides, now would be a hell of a time to leave your side after everything we've been through," Leila said.
"Leila, I still don't think…" Harry began.
"My mind's made up and I'm every bit as stubborn as you are," Leila said.
"Is there anything I can say or do to convince you not…" Harry started again.
"No," Leila interrupted.
"Leila, it's not you he's been after," Harry continued.
"He's been after me just as much as you, Harry Potter," Leila said poking her brother's chest.
"But you're not the one he's hell-bent on killing," Harry added. "You'll die!"
"Do you really think he's going to keep me alive? Do you think it's in his best interest to keep me around after he kills you?" Leila scoffed.
"Well I…" Harry fumbled.
"Either way I'm dead. Like I said, just let me do this on my terms," Leila said.
Leila could swear she saw a few tears slip from her brother's eyes as he flung his arms around her, holding her tightly. She leaned into her brother with her eyes closed and breathed slowly. It really felt as if it was them against the world. After standing there silently for a few minutes, which seemed like an eternity, Harry nodded his head toward the door. Leila looped her arm through her brother's. This was it, they were on their way to confront their fate; only unbeknownst to Voldemort, they were doing it on their terms, not his. With her arm still linked to her brother's, they slowly began to descend the once hallowed stairs at Hogwarts knowing that this was going to be the last time they did so. It seemed as if the memories of their childhood here flashed before Leila's eyes. So many good memories of this castle, granted they came with many bad ones; but she wouldn't trade the good ones for anything. As they rounded the staircase to go down another one, Harry and Leila spotted Hermione sitting alone at the bottom of the stairs.
"You know, when we were younger, I thought you were going to end up with Hermione," Leila whispered.
"You did?" Harry asked.
"It definitely wasn't a good thing. In my mind she was going after you just to piss me off," Leila chuckled.
"Seems almost like another life ago that you two hated each other," Harry responded.
"It was," Leila sighed.
Harry then led his sister down the stairs, attempting to avoid the rubble that had fallen and blocking their path. Hermione must have heard them coming down the stairs because her head swung around to look at them before she quickly stood up. Hermione climbed a few steps to meet them with a flustered look on her face.
"Where're Ron and Draco?" Leila asked.
"They're in the Great Hall still; I just needed some air…" Hermione began. "But this isn't about me; where have you two been? We thought you went to the forest."
"I'm going there now," Harry responded.
"We're going there now,' Leila added.
"What are you mad?" Hermione gasped.
"Hermione, it's our destiny," Leila explained.
"What is it you think you know?" Hermione questioned.
"There's a reason I'm connected to Voldemort," Harry said. "And I think you know why."
Hermione gasped and threw her hands over her mouth.
"I'll go with you," Hermione sniffled.
"No, you, Ron, and Draco need to kill the snake. Kill the snake and it's just him," Harry said.
Hermione practically flew at Harry and wrapped her arms around him.
"Why does Leila get to go?" Hermione asked.
"Because this is how it's supposed to be," Harry whispered.
Hermione clung a little tighter to Harry as Harry held her for a second before Hermione released him. The girl then flung her arms around Leila. Leila met her friend with open arms. She closed her eyes and leaned into Hermione's hug. This was probably the last person besides her brother she was going to see while she was alive. That fact made everything seem a little more real and a little more final. A final goodbye, only she wasn't going to get to say goodbye to the one person who deserved it. He needed to know. He deserved to know.
"I'm sorry for all those years," Leila sniffled.
"No, it's me who should be apologizing," Hermione whispered back.
"I need you to do something for me," Leila said.
"Anything," Hermione responded.
"I need you to tell Draco something, but please wait a while. I don't want him trying to come to my rescue," Leila said.
"What do you want me to tell him?" Hermione began to sob.
"Tell him that I'm sorry for everything and that I love him," Leila said as tears streamed down her face.
"Leila," Hermione sniffled.
"Promise me," Leila insisted.
"I promise," Hermione whispered.
Leila held onto Hermione for a few seconds longer. Hermione had become such a dear friend to her, probably one of her closest friends. Leila hugged her friend until she heard her brother gently call her name. The girls released, but Hermione's hands remained on Leila's arms for a few seconds as she searched her friend's face for answers. Leila smiled at Hermione, trying to reassure the girl that this was the right thing to do. Hermione nodded her head. She understood. Leila was thankful that it was Hermione they had encountered. Had it been Draco or even Ron, she doubted they'd be as quick to understand as Hermione. Hermione quickly hugged Leila once more before she backed away and wiped the tears from her face. As Harry and Leila once again started down the stairs, Leila could swear she faintly heard Hermione whisper 'goodbye.' Leila tried to hold back the tears from her friend's goodbye as she and Harry moved swiftly across the deserted courtyard. Harry looked down to her with a look of concern on his face.
"You don't have to come you know," Harry said.
"You know that I do," Leila said.
"Leila, just stay here. I can see how hard this is going to be on you. Just go back to Draco inside," Harry pleaded.
Leila didn't respond with words, instead she gave her brother a look which he could easily read. Harry sighed as they continued to move out of the courtyard and onto the grounds. Leila's eyes found the stars shining overhead. Looking up at them always made her feel not so alone in the world. It seemed as if they were shining on her and Harry for what they were about to do. Even though she had dropped Astronomy, she had usually found the class absolutely fascinating. Not because they could predict things, but just for their sheer beauty and awe.
"Part of me wishes that someone would stop us, make us go home…" Harry began.
"Harry, we are home," Leila said.
Harry and Leila took one last glance back at the castle. Leila knew they weren't the first to call Hogwarts their home. Voldemort and Snape had once viewed that very castle the same way. And if everything worked out the way it should, they certainly wouldn't be the last. This was bigger than the two of them. The fate of the Wizarding world rested in their hands. For a moment, the burden overwhelmed Leila, but she knew that other children who came from broken families deserved to know the comfort and security Hogwarts could offer. It would be selfish to let that end with them. They passed by Hagrid's Hut and moved to the edge of the forest. A swarm of dementors were gliding overhead amongst the trees which caused Leila to cling tighter to Harry's arm. By this point, both of the twins were trembling as they walked further into the forest.
"Leila, are you scared?" Harry whispered.
"Of course," Leila whispered back.
"Then why are you doing this?" Harry questioned.
"Because I'm braver that I think I am and I'm the one in charge over my destiny," Leila responded.
"Who are you and what have you done with Leila Potter?" Harry asked.
Leila attempted to chuckle, but it seemed as if there was something stuck in her throat preventing her from doing so. The further they stepped into the forest. The more real everything came. The end was almost near, the closing on their lives…the closing? Leila's eyes somewhat widened in amazement.
"Harry, do you have your Snitch?" Leila questioned.
"Yeah, why?" Harry asked.
"I open at the close," Leila recited.
"I know what it says, Leila," Harry responded.
"Take it out," Leila commanded.
Harry fumbled to open the pouch around his neck before he pulled out the Snitch.
"I think this is the close," Leila whispered.
Harry looked to his sister for a moment before he fully comprehended what she had said. He then nodded his head before he gently pressed the golden metal to his lips. Leila couldn't understand what he whispered, but she heard the shell of the Snitch break open. What had Dumbledore left them for their last moments alive? What sort of tool would prepare them for death? Harry pulled out his wand and whispered "Lumos." Leila looked to the foreign object in Harry's hand. It was a black stone with a jagged crack running down the middle of the stone. It appeared to be cracked along a faint line.
"What is it?" Leila asked.
"The Resurrection Stone," Harry responded. "Told you the Hallows existed."
"If I recall correctly, I said I wasn't sure. I never gave a definitive answer," Leila retorted.
"Do you think it will work for both of us?" Harry asked.
"There's only one way to find out," Leila started. "I'm guessing we'll have to do it…"
"Together," Harry finished.
"Together," Leila repeated.
Harry outstretched his right hand, with the Resurrection Stone in it, toward his sister. Leila tightly clasped her hand around her brother's hand. Slowly, their clasped hands dropped to their sides and the twins closed their eyes. Leila's finger's reached inside to turn the stone.
"One," Leila whispered.
This time Harry's finger's turned the stone.
"Two," Harry whispered.
The final time, they both turned the stone.
"Three," The Potter twins whispered simultaneously.
The twins opened their eyes and Leila released a small cry at the sight. Of course they weren't fully there; but they weren't like ghosts either. If Leila had to say what they closely resembled, she would probably say they looked somewhat like Riddle had when he had escaped from the diary in the Chamber of Secrets. They weren't flesh-like, but more than ghosts. Not to mention that the figures before them weren't evil nor were they attempting to conquer the world. They moved toward Harry and Leila with loving smiles on their faces, at least most of them did. James Potter stepped forward first and stopped right in front of his beautiful daughter. He reached out to touch his daughter, but he couldn't actually touch her. Somewhat like a ghost, his hand went through her, causing shivers to go up her spine.
"Dad," Leila whispered.
James chuckled somewhat at himself and somewhat at Leila's response. He was a little taller than Harry was and only looked a little older than him as well. He looked exactly like he did when Leila saw him in the pensieve on that fateful night in Godric's Hollow. His hair was disheveled, like Harry's often was and his glasses crooked, like Harry's; but there was one thing for certain Leila recognized on her father than also belonged to her: his smile. Sirius had been right about that. Even though her emotions weren't completely in agreement, Leila couldn't stop grinning at the grin that matched her own.
Sirius Black stood to James's left on the other side of Leila. He was tall and handsome. His body no longer looked haunted by the years he had been wrongfully imprisoned in Azkaban. The smile on his face seemed contagious. Leila could hardly feel any emotion other than joy with the smiles on her loved ones' faces. Sirius's arms were shoved into his pockets until one of his arms jabbed at James'. James wrapped a hand on the spot where Sirius had touched him as he looked to his friend. James shook his head at Sirius, the grin still on his face.
"Your daughter's a looker. You did good, Prongs," Sirius grinned.
"Because she obviously looks so much like him," Lily Potter said sarcastically.
Lily Potter stopped right in front of her son; but she smiled at both of her children. First the oldest and then the youngest. Part of Leila wondered if she had made the time she had spent with her mother the last time up in her head; but seeing her again, she was certain that she hadn't. It was hard to believe that the smile on her face was even bigger and more contagious than James and Sirius', but it was. Lily pushed her hair back from her face, better revealing her emerald green eyes. Stunning eyes which both of her children had inherited. Lily could hardly look away from her children.
"You've been so brave, both of you," Lily spoke softly.
"You're nearly there," James said. "Very close. We are…so proud of you."
"Why are you here?" Harry asked.
"We never left," Lily said gently.
Leila found herself choking up at this. Harry must have had death on his mind because he spoke once more.
"Does it—does it hurt?" Harry asked. "Dying?"
"Quicker than falling asleep," Sirius responded.
"Not to mention that he'll make it quick. He wants this over," a voice drawled from behind.
Leila's eyes looked to the shadows behind Lily. Walking closer to them and staying on Lily's right side was Severus Snape. Even in death he still wore his billowing black cloak and his hair looked as if it hadn't been washed in a month. But he did look younger and dare she say it, happier. Snape stopped walking and folded his arms across his chest.
"No one asked your opinion, Snivellus," Sirius scoffed.
"Even in death you're a barking imbecile," Snape retaliated.
"How you ever got in…" Sirius began.
"Mate…" James started.
"Don't you think he'd do better to just run off to that great-big chemistry set in the sky," Sirius scoffed.
"You think that just because…" Snape began.
"Severus and Sirius stop," Lily chided. "You'll have all eternity to bicker. Right now we need to focus on Leila and Harry."
Leila couldn't help but grin that her mother had said "Leila and Harry" and not "Harry and Leila." She also found it rather entertaining that even in death, Snape and Sirius still couldn't get along. Apparently, some things never change. But James did seem a bit calmer around Snape than he had seemed in his youth. He must know what the man had risked for his children. Risking his life in order to keep them safe, something James himself had done. Something like that changes a person and that change seemed to be an unspoken respect.
"I never wanted you die, any of you," Harry said.
"Me either," Leila added. "It seems like everyone dies because of us."
"Sweetheart, you know that isn't true," Lily said.
"But Cedric, Sirius, Fred…" Leila began.
"And what about Daphne, Theo, Hermione, Ron, Draco, the rest of the Weasleys…Remus? They're still alive, because of you," James responded. "Remus will get to see his son grow up, something your mother and I were never able to do with you and your brother. Don't you see, bad things are always going to happen, even to good people; but so do good things. Just because bad things happen doesn't mean the good things stop."
"For once I agree with Potter," Snape drawled.
"Shut your yap, Snape. Let the girl talk to her father," Sirius interrupted.
"Sirius," Lily groaned.
Sirius rolled his eyes at Lily's response. Leila looked to the five people surrounding her; they all had one thing in common their bravery and determination to see an end to Voldemort. But Leila realized that she could categorize herself in the same group. Funny, how even though they had that in common, Snape still seemed the odd one out. She needed to find the right words to say to the man who had risked so much for years. He needed to know that she appreciated what he did. But no words seemed to fully express what she wanted to say, so she opted to diffuse the tension a bit.
"I suppose you have to be brave to put up with them for eternity, huh?" Leila asked.
Leila could swear that she saw the start of a smile begin to form with Snape's lips; but as soon as it started, it was gone. Leila looked once more to those whom she had lost. Tears slipped down her face.
"Leila, it's time," Harry breathed.
Leila's bottom lip began to quiver. They would be reunited soon; but she still couldn't bear to part from them.
"You'll stay with us?" Harry asked.
"Until the end," James answered.
"Promise?" Leila asked.
"Promise," James smiled.
"And he won't be able to see you?" Harry asked.
"We're right here you see," Sirius smiled.
Sirius reached for the spot where Leila's heart should be and then reached for Harry's. Leila sighed; she should have known better. All those times she had felt so alone or at her weakest, they had always been there, right there in her heart. Of course, her mother had told her something similar the last time she had seen her; but this time, this time they would be reunited permanently. As scary as dying sounded, the end result didn't seem too bad.
"Stay close to us," Leila whispered.
"Always," Lily smiled.
Leila felt a sense of relief flood over her. That was exactly what she needed to hear. If she had any doubt in her mind before that this wasn't the right thing to do, all those thoughts had now fleeted from her mind. Leila looked to Harry and nodded her head to tell him that she was ready. They were both ready to confront their fates…together. Harry and Leila set off once again through the forest, this time with Lily, James, Sirius, and Snape. The dementors still surrounded then, but this time they had no effect on the twins. Their companions seemed to act like Patronuses as the twins walked through the forest. Leila held tighter on to Harry's hand when she spotted light ahead.
"You do realize where we are don't you?" Leila whispered.
"Right outside of the Death Eater's camp," Harry answered.
"Yeah, but I was thinking of something more related to second year," Leila continued. "Something you, me, and Ron have fond memories of."
"Aragog's lair," Harry breathed.
"Let's just kick the evil spiders out of their home and make it our own evil place," Leila muttered sarcastically.
"Leila it isn't too late for you," Harry started to argue. "Make him think that you've switched sides. You're good enough at Occlumency…"
"Harry, I know these could very well be my last words to you; but shut up," Leila said.
Harry looked to his sister and shook his head. Looking to his parents, he could tell they were trying hard not to laugh because this was a serious matter, but they were shaking as if they could break into laughter at any moment. He wasn't sure where she had found this bravery, but it rather suited her. Leila motioned with her head that they should head closer to the light, literally and metaphorically speaking. As they drew closer Leila could easily spot the Death Eaters so she pulled Harry behind a large tree trunk close to the scene and slowly poked her head to get a better look. While still holding onto Harry's hand, she ducked lower so that Harry could look over her shoulder. Some of the Death Eaters were still wearing their masks, while others had discarded them. Fenrir Greyback had somehow managed to retreat after the blow Theo served him because he was sitting on a rock chewing his nails. She then spotted Lucius Malfoy who looked uncertain of himself; but Leila refused to feel any pity for him. Especially after what he had done to Draco. Narcissa stood beside her husband apprehensively. From what Draco had told her, Narcissa had never officially joined the Dark Lord's ranks and therefore wasn't considered a Death Eater. But still, Leila was curious as to why Narcissa was there.
Leila's eyes then moved to Voldemort who stood at the head of his group tightly clutching his wand. Leila then looked to the hand she held with Harry. If this really was the Resurrection Stone, then that meant that the wand Voldemort was holding was the Elder Wand. Nagini slithered close to Voldemort's feet. If only there was a way to kill the snake without drawing any attention to themselves. She longed to reach for her wand which she had tucked in her sock before she and Harry had gone into the penseive. Two Death Eaters, Leila knew to be Yaxley and Dolohov approached Voldemort and looked up at him.
"No sign of them, my Lord," Dolohov reported.
Voldemort ran his fingers down his wand slowly, turning his back to them. Bellatrix drew closer to him, unsure of what to do. Leila slightly shivered at the sight of Draco's deranged aunt, but her feelings toward the woman didn't really matter anymore. Voldemort looked to Bellatrix before he took a few steps away from her. The woman moved to run to him, but she held herself back.
"I thought they would come," Voldemort said aloud. "I was it seems…mistaken."
Without even thinking of the consequences, Leila released Harry's sweaty hand causing the stone to slip to the ground. Her parents, Sirius, and Snape disappeared from sight as Leila took a step out from behind the tree. Harry followed after his sister before she vocally gave away their position to Voldemort.
"No, you weren't," Leila shouted.
Voldemort slowly turned around as an evil grin spread across his face, but that was soon interrupted by shouts.
"Leila? Harry? No! What're you doing here?" Hagrid shouted.
Leila turned to see Hagrid bound and tied to several trees. The half-giant struggled to get away. The only damage he did was cause a few branches overhead to shake. Hagrid continued to shout at them until Rowle pointed his wand at Hagrid and with a flick, the giant man was silenced. Hagrid still tried to fight to get away, but his voice was no longer heard. Bellatrix skulked toward Voldemort, her eyes wide with delight.
"I brought him to you, just like you told me I would. Happy?" Leila called.
"How dare you talk to the Dark Lord like that!" Bellatrix hissed.
Bellatrix shot a curse at Leila, which hit her square in the chest, causing her to fall to the ground in pain. The bloody woman cast a few more Crucio's at her, but Leila refused to allow her the satisfaction of her screams. Leila was surprised when the pain stopped. She opened her eyes and propped herself up using her elbows to see Bellatrix thrown back on the ground, looking up at the Dark Lord.
"Enough Bella," Voldemort said.
"Let me take care of the girl," Bellatrix pleaded.
"I haven't decided what to do with her yet," Voldemort responded.
"If you're going to kill Harry, you're going to have to kill me too!" Leila shouted from the floor.
"Looks like there's your answer, Bella," Voldemort hissed. "Is that bravery I detect Leila?"
"I suppose I do have to thank you for something," Leila scoffed.
"Trying to distract me isn't going to spare your brother," Voldemort said as he narrowed his eyes at Harry.
"Leila, run," Harry whispered.
Leila looked up to her brother who until now had stood there silently, just waiting for his fate. Leila on the other hand at least wanted to irritate Voldemort a little while she was still living. Give him something to remember her by. Voldemort's eyes were still focused on Harry.
"Harry Potter…" Voldemort began. "The Boy Who Lived, come to die."
Harry stood there breathing slowly as Voldemort's fingers tapped his wand. Leila looked to Bellatrix. There was no way in hell she was letting that woman kill her. She knew Bellatrix liked to play with her food. Knowing the woman, she would probably even want to make a show of it in front of Draco. Besides, she and Harry were in this together. As Voldemort began to raise his wand, Leila pushed herself off the ground. Voldemort shouted the words that had killed so many. To Leila, everything seemed to move in slow motion as the spell hurtled toward them. She flung her arms around her brother just as the green light hit them both. Then everything went dark.
Leila could feel the sun beating down on her and a cushion of grass surrounding her. A smile spread across her face and peace settled within her body. She knew where she was. Leila opened her eyes and sat up. Once again she was in that same meadow in the same white dress with her hair dangling down in curls. Leila squished her toes in the grass. She scanned the area, but not a single soul was in sight. She thought for sure she'd see someone here. Harry? Mum? Dad? Sirius? Fred? Hell, even Snape. The only thing that made sense to her was the afterlife was one big place. It had to be right? To be able to hold all the people who had gone before.
She stood up and walked over to the lilies that were just as beautiful as the last time she was here. Bending over, she picked herself a small bouquet before placing a single lily behind her ear. She sighed as she twirled her bouquet in her hands. She had never imagined the afterlife to be quite so lonely. It made her miss being with Hermione, Ron, Ginny, Daphne…Draco. Had Hermione told him by now? Was he mourning her loss? Would he move on with his life? Would he get married? Would he have kids? Would he help defeat Voldemort? What kind of world would he live in if Voldemort wasn't destroyed? It seemed that even in death; Leila had too many unanswered questions.
Just beyond the patch of lilies, Leila noted a tree swing in the distance. During the summers she had spent at Privet Drive, she often found herself going to the park and swinging to deal with her thoughts. And Leila had plenty of thoughts to deal with, so she slowly waltzed across the field to the swing. The swing was a flat wooden bench tied to the tree with rope, just like the old swing at the Burrow. The last time she had been on that swing…well, she had been with Fred. So much had changed since then. Leila plopped herself onto the swing. For a moment she swung from side to side until using the power from her legs, she forced herself into the air. Leila continued to swing higher and higher. She closed her eyes and leaned back as she swung.
"I told you I'd stay with you," A voice said.
Leila opened her eyes as she swung backwards to see her father striding toward her. The sight of him startled her causing her to tumble from the swing and onto the grass. Leila grinned sheepishly as her father drew closer. James chuckled as he reached out his hand to help his daughter up, which she accepted. James motioned with his hand toward the swing. Leila nodded her head and sat back down on the swing before James started to push her. Leila felt so happy to finally be making up on a moment they had missed while she had been growing up. With a smile on her face she turned her head back toward her father as he pushed her.
"I always wanted to do this," James said.
"Daddy," Leila sighed.
"Just one of those things a dad dreams of doing with his kids," James shrugged.
"What else did you dream of?" Leila asked barely above a whisper.
"Quidditch games, pranking, intimidating your future boyfriends; you know, the usual," James grinned.
"I don't know how I feel about that last one," Leila laughed.
"Oh Sirius, Remus, and I had it all planned out," James smirked.
"Knowing even some of the havoc you two wreaked on Hogwarts, I'd be scared," Leila responded.
"Well, the original plan was that you weren't allowed to date until after you were married," James said with a wink.
"You really think I would have listened to that?" Leila chuckled.
"No, but once Sirius, Remus, and I got a hold of the bloke, he would have," James grinned.
Leila dragged her feet across the ground, to slow down her momentum and stop her from swinging. She sat there silent in her thoughts. James must have known because he got down on his knees in front of his daughter and lifted up her chin. He softly smiled as they made eye contact.
"You were so very brave sweetheart," James said before he placed a gentle kiss on Leila's forehead.
"For the longest time I never thought I could be brave…like you, Mum, and Harry," Leila sighed.
"Some things take some growing into," James responded.
"I always felt like I was such a disappointment because I wasn't brave enough," Leila whispered.
"You Leila Mae Potter, I have never considered a disappointment. Have you made some choices in your life that I've been disappointed about? Of course, I wouldn't be a parent if there weren't those moments. But given the circumstances of how you had to grow up, you turned out far better than any of us ever imagined," James explained.
"Really?" Leila asked.
"Really, you're brother on the other hand…" James said sarcastically.
"Speaking of Harry, where is he?" Leila asked.
"He's a bit preoccupied at the moment," James answered.
"With what?" Leila questioned.
"He's trying to get some things figured out," James smiled.
"I need some things figured out too," Leila added.
"Sweetheart, you and I both know you're more perceptive than your brother," James chuckled.
"Very true," Leila acknowledged.
James stood up in front of Leila. He appeared to be looking up the hill before he nodded his head. Leila looked up there, but she saw nothing.
"It won't be much longer, I'm guessing," James muttered.
"What?" Leila asked.
"Cedric and Fred say 'hello' by the way," James added.
"That's slightly embarrassing," Leila muttered.
"Why?" James asked.
"Because they told my dad to say hello to me," Leila groaned.
"Well, it's not often I get the pleasure to talk with one of your boyfriends," James teased.
"They're not my boyfriends, at least not anymore…sort of," Leila countered.
"Because of the boy who stole your heart?" James asked.
"Draco's not a bad person," Leila retorted.
"Never said he was. Actually, the bloke reminds me of someone…well a couple of someones really, but a lot of a certain someone," James said.
"Who?" Leila asked.
"For starters, he seems to like a pompous, arrogant prat who chased a pretty girl until she was utterly annoyed by his very presence, was a complete menace to his rival without much warrant, but ultimately changed his ways for good," James grinned.
"Wonder who that could be," Leila said sarcastically.
"They do say that girls tend to look for blokes like their father," James chuckled.
"You don't say?" Leila said rolling her eyes. "I was so terrible to him before I…you know, died."
"Can't say I was fond of the bloke at first, but he's grown on me…much like he grew on you," James said. "Your mother on the other hand called it from a mile away."
"Well, it doesn't really matter anymore, does it?" Leila sighed. "I'm dead. There's no Draco to pull me out of the water this time. You and I both know there's no coming back from a Killing Curse."
"You'd be surprised what you're capable of," James responded. "The Girl Who Lived."
"I don't understand," Leila stammered. "The whole 'Girl Who Lived' thing was a mistake, a mere technicality because Voldemort…"
"Maybe it's just the proud parent in me, but you were destined for greatness," James said. "I know it was rather hard for you to live somewhat in Harry's shadow; but you learned to grow with your brother and without him. For that I'll always be proud of the person you are."
"Dad, you're not making any sense. Have you been spending too much time with Dumbledore up here?" Leila furthered.
But James responded by placing a finger over his mouth to silence his daughter. Leila opened her mouth to say something when James placed one of his hands over her mouth. James then closed his eyes and this time Leila copied him. For a few seconds she heard nothing. What was her father trying to get at?
"Leila!" a voice called.
Leila opened her eyes wide before she tightly closed them and listened for the voice to call again. It did and this time she instantly recognized it. She looked to her father, her eyes full of excitement.
"Harry," Leila whispered.
"Go up that hill, can't miss him," James smiled.
"I'll be back right back, Dad," Leila said.
"Take your time," James responded.
Leila started up the hill. She knew if her heart could be racing, it would be right now. She wanted to tell her brother how proud she was of him. But most of all, she just wanted to see her brother: simple as that. She was about halfway up the hill when she turned around to look to her father. He practically beamed as he waved to her. She waved back before continuing up the Leila got to the top of the hill she spotted Harry standing next to what looked like the lake outside of Hogwarts. It looked eerily similar to the spot where the first years get into the boats to make their trip to Hogwarts for the first time rather than taking the carriages. She looked to her brother who appeared to be in conversation with someone, which made her shake her head in confusion. But Harry turned his head and caught sight of her.
"Leila, there you are. Took you long enough," Harry said.
"Sorry?" Leila apologized uncertainly.
"We've been waiting for you," Harry responded.
"We?" Leila questioned. "Harry, you and I are the only ones here."
"Dumbledore's right there you lunatic," Harry answered.
Harry pointed to his left, but all Leila saw was the lake. Leila looked to her brother pointedly but he pointed to the spot again. Leila rolled her eyes and looked again. This time Dumbledore was standing right where Harry said he was. He had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, much like how Leila remembered the man. Leila's own eyes grew wide as she gasped at the familiar sight of her former Headmaster..
"Bloody hell," Leila muttered.
"Told you," Harry retorted.
"What do you want, Harry?" Leila questioned.
"I think I've got to go back," Harry said.
"Harry, I know you've always been rather thick but it doesn't take a Curse Breaker to figure out that we're dead," Leila argued.
"Maybe not, Leila," Harry said. "Explain it to her please, sir."
"Explain what?" Leila asked.
"That night in the graveyard three years ago his ignorance, greed, and cruelty go the best of him. You might say his plan has a fatal flaw," Dumbledore explained.
"I'm supposed to be the smart one and I'm afraid I'm not following," Leila said.
"Leila he took my blood! My blood runs in Voldemort," Harry said excitedly.
Leila wanted to be happy for her brother, she really did; but yet again, there was a pang of jealousy where her brother was concerned. Because that night in the graveyard Pettigrew had made a blundering mistake, he had only taken Harry's blood. He had never taken her blood. She had always considered that her saving grace and now after all this time it was proving to be her downfall. Leila knew that had they been alive, tears would be forming in her eyes.
"Harry, he didn't take mine," Leila whispered.
"Then I won't go back, not without you," Harry said.
"No, you've got to go back. Voldemort has the Elder Wand, not to mention that someone's got to kill Nagini," Leila rationalized.
"Selfless, brave, and true Leila," Dumbledore smiled.
Leila tried to smile at her brother; but Harry looked to his sister unsure of what to say before he looked to Dumbledore.
"If I go back…what will happen to Leila?" Harry furthered.
Dumbledore motioned for Leila's hand. Hesitantly, she reached out her right hand which Dumbledore took and examined closely. He gently tapped a faint scar on her finger before he smiled.
Author's note: Dun dun dunnn...Dumbledore smiled. Leila's come so far as a character. Also it was rather enjoyable writing her standing up to Voldemort. Before I get into my thank you's I'd first like to apologize about the last author's note. It was one of those times when you get down on yourself, so I'm sorry to those of you whom I offended. I never intended to do so, it was just me being selfish. But thank you so much for the positive response to the last chapter. I really appreciate it. So, here's the next chapter a little early as one thank you to you! We're almost to the end!
Part 2 of my thank you: Is I'm letting you vote for the title of the sequel. If you go to my profile, you'll find song titles listed that I think could fit. You can vote for them right on my poll! And for those of you who don't have accounts, feel free to let me know what you think too! Really, I wouldn't be writing the sequel if it wasn't for you…so GO VOTE! :D
If you don't have an account, feel free to put your choice(s)...up to 3 in a review. I'll add them in!
SkippingPumpkin: Thank you, pumpkin. You're just too kind, sometimes. You're also a freak, whom I call my friend. :D
RHatch89: Thanks so much, as an author I really try to put myself in my character's position and feel what that person is feeling. So thanks for the review! Hope you liked this one too.
Vampiremuggle:Yes, I have some plans for Remus in the sequel…it was a hard decision though because I had my storyline planned both ways…with saving Remus and killing him; but ultimately, he's needed in the sequel. Here's a rather quick update for me anyway, so thanks for reading. :D
Gabrielhelena: Yeah, I love Draco/Leila too…but Fred will always have a piece of my heart too, just as he will always have a piece of Leila's heart. I'm glad that you like the twitter account. As long as someone keeps reading it, I'll keep updating it. I wasn't sure I'd keep it at first, but because of you, I will. Thanks for the review!
Hannah: I was sad…but here's the next chapter.
Marlene: I'm glad that as an author I was able to make you cry. It makes me realize that I've grown as a writer, something always good to see. I love Fred too! It was so hard writing his death scene and killing him off. By far probably one of the hardest scenes I had to write. But on a positive note, I did save Remus? Lol. Thanks for reading and reviewing! I truly appreciate it.
xXMizz Alec VolturiXx: It was an intense chapter, even to write. I think it was actually one of the most difficult chapters for me to write. It was funny how much easier this chapter was to write. Lol. I'm happy to reply to reviews. When I first started, I wasn't really sure what to do with the reviews. Lol. But now I think I've got a better handle on them. Haha. I'm terribly flattered that you love my series. It really means a lot, considering you've been here from the beginning. It was such a hard decision to decide to keep Remus or not. I had the storylines planned both ways and I didn't ultimately decide until this chapter. Remus has some important storylines in the sequel, but I figured there should still be some tragedy for him…so Tonks. I always had the Fred/Leila goodbye planned. I never thought that their journey was officially done, even though Leila went back to Draco. There were some things that still needed to be said and done…and there they were. While it was hard to write, it was rather beautiful to write too. I also figured it would add more heartbreak to Leila if she was the last one to say goodbye to Fred. I wanted to still use Snape's memories because Leila didn't know the part about Harry being a Horcrux so I wanted to find a creative way to do it. So ultimately, I decided for the most part it was going to be Harry/Leila's commentary except for the two scenes I added in. I'm updating sooner than normal for you, my fans. I felt kinda terrible about the last author's note. Thanks for your wonderful review. Really do appreciate them. :D
CasperGirl523: Aww…thanks for calling it beautiful. I'm glad you were saved some embarrassment because of your fixed computer. I even bawled while writing the scene. I really wanted to get more emotion into Fred's death because that was something I almost missed when I read the book. The first time I read Deathly Hallows, I nearly missed Fred's death scene. Thanks so much for the compliments to my writing and for the reviews! Hope you liked this chapter too!
Savil: I'm sorry that it was so heart-wrenching for you, just know that it was the same for the author too :P I do hope that your day got better after that! I also bawled my eyes out when I was writing Fred's death, because quite frankly, I loved him too. Part of the reason I paired him with Leila for a while too. Leila's emotions were definitely tricky to write because the emotions over death are so confusing. So, it was something I could easily relate to…but I will admit that what Leila said to Draco was harsh, but it was designed that way. She knew she was terrible to him and then everything that happened above…it's going to play some factor. Snape, yes poor Snape. Thanks for your response, even though you were heart-broken, I do appreciate it. :D
LeilaxDraco Fan: That song really helped me get into the mood for writing the chapter and I felt that you the readers deserved the same experience I did. It's funny, when I write a chapter I usually find a song with the emotions I'm trying to portray in the chapter I put it on repeat…needless to say that my "view count" on my iTunes is a little skewed now. Haha. Sorry that Fred's death caught you by surprise. In my original planning, I actually had it the chapter before, but for me it was too much to have Snape and Fred's deaths in the same chapter. I've been saying that Fred and Leila weren't completely over yet…and then they finally got their moment. I'm tearing up even writing this to you. Haha. It was a bad time of the month for me when I posted this chapter…haha, I was completely selfish, for which I felt slightly guilty, so I'm uploading earlier than intended AND then the voting for the sequel. Just read the above author's note if you wanna take part in that. :) Thanks for the reviews! I continue to appreciate them. Even though we don't know each other, I feel that as a reader to her author, you completely understand where I'm coming from, which is awesome, so thanks :)
Slytherin-Heiress1: Believe me, I cried like a baby too! Which made the chapter a little harder to write ;) Thanks for the review!
Nadi: Thanks for reviewing! It's really not a big deal about you not reviewing…just an author being selfish and insecure. I always loved that scene with Snape and Dumbledore. There's not much more left to this story, but there will be the sequel and prequels. I'm glad that you think I did Fred's death justice, that's what I was going for. Thanks for reviewing!
Thelonglostpotter: Tears seem to be a common reaction to this chapter, but never fear, the tears didn't escape the author. Bawled my eyes out. *Fred* I'm thankful that you love my story. Thanks for the review!
Guest (1): Sorry, it wasn't ready that day. But on a positive note, it was updated earlier than normal! Thanks for the review!
Bloop: I'm glad that you liked this chapter. Yes, poor Draco. First he had so witness Fred/Leila and then Leila went pissy on him. But she always says things she eventually regrets right before big life-changing moments.
The Big Hosepipe in the Sky: First and foremost, I would like to apologize for my insecurity and selfishness in that author's note. I never intended to offend anyone with it. Like I said, just my insecurity and selfishness. Funny, it still seems to hit us authors who even have over 1,000 reviews. But as part of a way to make it up to you, I would appreciate it if you'd vote for the title to the sequel. Poll is on my profile. I also have to thank you for getting me out of that funk I was in because of your review. So thanks for that and for reviewing, I really do appreciate it.
LP: Awwwww…I cried too if that helps at all.
HarryPotterFan103: Sorry I made you wait on purpose. I was in one of those funks. I have no plans of giving up. Already have a good head start on the sequel and even started writing the sequel. So no baseball bat required. Lol. This chapter was incredibly sad. It's all right that you didn't cry, we all react differently to things…that's part of what makes us, us. Remus is alive…at least for a while, he has some storylines for the sequel, which is what ultimately made me save him. As far as your two questions: when did I start writing? Well, I suppose the cheeky response to that would be ever since my Kindergarten teacher forced me to pick up a pencil. ;) Normally, I would only write what I had to do for school. It wasn't until a few years ago that I actually found out that I enjoyed writing and decided to start writing my stories on here. As far as how I got so good…lots of practice! So, my encouragement to you is just to keep writing. Believe me, my first few "works" were utter flops. I also tend to find a song that conveys the emotions I'm trying to get across in that chapter and put it on repeat. Music really helps me when writing. Haha. I'm glad that you've enjoyed reading about Leila as much as I enjoy writing her. Your reason for reading is the same reason for my writing it. :) Also, I kinda wondered about the other account, but no matter. As long as you keep reviewing. Thanks!
Luli Cullen: Thanks for the review! Glad that you liked the chapter, hope this one was just as good!
XxShadowhunterxX: Nothing to apologize for. :) Yeah, Freddie…Draco…Fred…hurts your heart, doesn't it? Lol. While it hurts that he's gone from this story, I'm actually rather glad that I still have the prequel because he's still alive in that. Haha. I think Snape's redemption struck a little more because Leila's a little more perceptive to things than Harry is. She puts her heart on the line every time, which does tend to cause more heartache, but it's who she is as a person. But I do agree that she is one confused girl. As far as her heart goes…as cheesy as this sounds, I kinda think it's a bit like "Sweet Home Alabama" seen that movie? Leila gave her whole heart to Draco and when they ended things, she never really got it all back. Leaving only a little room for Fred. Fred does have a piece of her heart, but it's nothing compared to the hold Draco has on it. As far as Cedric, you're exactly right, she loved him but was never "in love" with him…mostly the same thing as Fred too. She is a lucky girl…but like I said earlier, she puts her heart on the line every time. And yes, the light has 4 Slytherins! That was something I definitely wanted to show in this story…to show that not all Slytherins are evil. Phew! Sorry for my rambling! Lol. Thanks for the review!
xxxRena: I'm flattered that you loved it! I cried when I wrote the chapter too if that makes you feel any better! Lol. Thanks for the reviews! I really do appreciate them! I'm excited to see how people react to what's next. I must confess that I'm rather nervous for the sequel because I really don't have much of Jo's work to follow…haha, but I suppose this will kinda be my making or breaking point as an author. Haha. :)
Chevrolet18: Yay! You found my stories! *does happy dance* I'm glad that you've enjoyed them and that you think I'm a good writer. That was definitely not something I ever intended to happen when I started writing. Lol. If it makes you feel better, I cried when I wrote Fred's death. Thanks for finding my story and the reviews (I got the one on We'll Be a Dream too ;))
Guest (2): Thanks for the nice review! Hope you like this one too!
Hollis Annalise: I'm sorry I caused you physical pain from my writing! Should I put that in the disclaimer at the beginning of that chapter "might cause physical and emotional pain'? haha I'm glad some people found my song suggestion. That's the song I used when I was writing it to really help me get the emotions come across. I suppose that's what I normally do with a chapter though…but this last time I thought I'd share my inspiration. I'm glad that you 'enjoyed' it as much as you could considering *Fred* As far as Theo goes, I figured someone had to somewhat take Draco's place…seeing as Draco switched sides. Leila's been so much fun to write and I hope that ya'll like where she's going…especially with the epilogue and then the sequel. So thanks for this awesome review (as well as all the others) I really really am thankful for them!
Olivia Antonov: Hello! I'm terribly flattered that you love my story and think it's one of the best potter fanfictions. Really, makes me feel somewhat humbled. I'm rather fond of Draco/Leila myself…haha Snape and Fred's deaths were hard to write, but I definitely wanted to give Leila a moment with them both before they died. I think Leila needed a little more closure with Fred. Part of what makes Draco/Leila Draco and Leila is that they're not scared to fight with each other…it's just the admitting they were wrong part that's rather difficult for them. As far as the daughter's name, I kinda have them figured out already…but grandkids names are still open! Lol Thanks for finding my story and thanks for the review(s)!
AbominableSnowman23: There seems to be a lot of crying over that last chapter! I'm glad that you thought the song worked. I let you guys have an insight to where I get my inspiration to write! Haha. I'm glad that you like that I saved Remus, I have plans for him for the next story. Yeah, Leila was kinda pissy…but she's a character who puts her heart on the line, whether it was warranted or not. I'm glad you caught the younger Draco/Leila scene. It made me laugh when I wrote it considering all the tears that were already flowing from that chapter. Thanks for the review!
LilyLuna123: Yes, Fred…*sobs* Thanks for sharing the story about your ten year old sister looking at you weirdly. It made me laugh and rather thankful that my ten year old sister wasn't anywhere near me when I was writing this chapter otherwise she definitely would have given me weird looks I'm sorry that the story is ripping you to shreds! But you've almost made it through! :) Thanks for the review!