No sooner had Voldemort fallen did chaos descend.
The Death Eaters had no time to process that their Lord had fallen, no time to react as the Order and the DA entered, wands ablaze in a fury of spells and curses.
Neville couldn't move, only watch surprised as Malfoy stepped away from Hermione's lifeless body cursing Amycus Carrow instantly. Ron too was freed and standing at once, somehow his own wand in his hand as he dashed over to him.
Neville felt his bonds vanish instantly, his muscles protesting in agony as Ron pulled him to his feet with a steady hand.
Neville opened his mouth, not having time to even comprehend that Hermione was dead, his thoughts spinning, sickness building, he wanted to offer his apologies, but Ron's expression was set as he flicked his wand to incoming death eaters, defending them both.
He could do nothing but watch defenceless, his stomach beating, his heart churning.
Bellatrix alone seemed to switch instantly into the fight. Her wand sharply cursing down anyone who approached, her eyes ablaze in anger as she defended her Lord's fallen body.
Other Death Eaters were attempting to come to her aid, to try and help Voldemort but they were outnumbered and caught off guard in the surprise and confusion of the attack.
Ron however was straight in, his wand swishing down sharply to the distracted Bellatrix causing Neville's own wand to fly towards him.
Neville barely managed to grab it as Ron threw it towards him, he only vaguely managed to pull himself together as the red head kept his head level, cursing an incoming death eater.
How Ron was so steady and so ready to fight was beyond him. Hermione lay lifeless only a few metres away.
Some death eaters were scattering, the wards somehow broken as they apparated away. A few remained, desperately sheltered their Lord, all loyal and desperate to defend with their lives.
Neville felt hope flutter in him, which was only confusing and wrong as he and Ron tacked another death eater to the ground, cords binding them tightly. They were greater in numbers, they actually had a chance at this, maybe no one else needed to die.
Neville ducked another curse, cursing as he felt it ripple through his hair. He turned towards Bellatrix who fighting Kingsley and McGonagall.
Snape wasn't fighting, he held Harry close to his side and it seemed no one dare attack. That didn't stop the furious wands trained on him though as he held his own carefully. One wrong move and they would have Harry safe. Snape couldn't take them all.
Neville made to curse someone else when his voice caught in his throat.
Everything had stopped. Neville felt like his heart had frozen too.
Voldemort was awake and he was furious. His death eaters rallied behind him, pleased that they seemed to have a chance.
There was a moment when nobody moved. Snape stood alone, in the centre of the fight, one hand on Harry's shoulder, keeping him locked to his side, Hermione's fallen body to the side.
McGonagall reacted in the calm, desperately firing a curse in an attempt to free Harry but it was hopeless as it was deflected.
But it was not Snape who defended. Harry was so quick and fast as he deflected McGonagall's curse. Neville blinked startled, was Tom back, was this a trick? How did Harry have a wand, Voldemort should have it, so many questions flooded his mind but no answers came.
The Order had no time to counter as Voldemort moved forwards, jabbing his wand towards Harry, hissing madly.
Harry had no time to turn and Neville felt like all hope nearly died then and there, but the curse never met it's target.
Neville blinked, unsure of what he had seen, but sure enough Snape was standing in front of Harry protectively his wand directed straight back at the Dark Lord.
Everyone stilled, curses on the tip of their lips at this confusing development.
"What is this?" Voldemort hissed, his whole body aggressive, ready to fight and kill. His death eaters gathering behind him, wands raised as Snape defended Harry.
Hermione's crumpled body lay in the middle of the battle field, sticking out for all to see, but no one dare cry out their torment, they couldn't let down their guard now. Neville was amazed how Ron's resolve still held as he raised his wand towards Voldemort.
No direct answer came, Snape seemed to hold his position without fear as he directed his wand away from Voldemort.
Instead he directed it at Hermione's fallen body.
The spell must have been non verbal, as Neville jerked forwards confused, his own wand rising although he didn't know what he could do to help.
Snape moved again now and this time his own wand flicked around to Harry.
Voldemort did not move, his eyes a blaze in fury, cold and calculating as he tried to understand what was happening.
It happened in an instant, Harry began to change.
His body shrank downwards, his black hair shooting into long waves of brown as Snape steadied him. Neville could feel his trepidation building as he found himself staring at a very much alive, although injured Hermione.
"NO" McGonagall's scream shook him to the core as he felt his own eyes drift back to the body on the floor.
Neville stood their numbly. It was the weirdest thing, his grief shifting from one person to another, he felt hollow as he stared at Harry's lifeless body.
He couldn't tare his eyes away, his own sickness rising once more.
Hermione and Harry had switched.
He held his wand loosely not knowing how to react, Hermione was alive but Harry was gone, what had happened.
Voldemort was deadly still, his intense red eyes baring down at Harry with such icy coldness.
It seemed those around him were regaining their bearings, shoving their grief aside as they readied once more, wands raised, but Neville couldn't bring himself to move. He just stood at stared at the still body lying crumpled on the floor.
Harry's eyes were wide open, it was so chilling. He didn't look in peace, he looked empty and pained. As if his passing had been anything of a relief.
"Explain" Voldemort's shrill voice demanded, tearing Neville's gaze away.
Snape stood in front of Hermione protectively.
"Potter always had to die" He stated, his face still expressionless.
Voldemort snarled, his own hand shaking with rage as if preventing himself from attacking. Neville didn't understand, what was stopping the Dark Lord from acting. His death eaters too seemed anxious to fight, confused by their lack of Orders.
"Very clever" He hissed, his eyes flashing. "Dumbledore's work?" He demanded.
"Yes" Snape responded coolly. "I have been Dumbledore's from the start"
Neville almost stopped breathing, his breath catching, but Snape continued.
"I asked you to spare her" Snape spat, his mask breaking into one of fury, his hand shaking from pure emotion.
Voldemort stilled at this, his eyes narrowing before sneering. "Lily Potter" He jeered. "You betrayed me for her?"
"You should have realised" Snape hissed, "That killing Lily would result in this"
Neville's head was ringing.
"How weak" Voldemort mocked. "That you be influenced by such a pathetic emotion as love"
Voldemort stepped forwards, eyeing up his prey with vengeance.
"And Dumbledore?" Voldemort demanded.
"Dumbledore was dying" Snape hissed. "He asked me to finish it" He stopped short but nothing more needed saying.
Neville couldn't believe it, everything had been planned, Snape wasn't against them. He was fighting Voldemort and had been from the start. It was a hurtling blow, all those times seemed to fly by in his head now. All the memories of where Snape could so easily have tortured them but he had only been put in detention. He felt sick and ashamed all at once.
"Traitors deserve nothing but death" Voldemort snarled, sparks flying from his wand. Neville could see his surroundings death eaters eyeing Snape up with fury, they wanted to kill.
Snape didn't respond, only held his wand steady.
Voldemort however seemed distracted, as he changed his line of thought.
"The girl" He hissed. "Give her to me and I might at least consider to make your passing quick" He hissed cruelly.
Neville tore himself forwards, at the same time the first spells flew.
Hermione staggered as Snape pushed her back, his own curses flying around to defend against the Dark Lords. The air ablaze with curses.
Neville reached Hermione first, catching her as she collapsed. Ron was by his side in an instant as they both pulled her back behind the lines of defence.
Snape and Voldemort were dulling fiercely now as Ron quickly checked Hermione was okay.
She looked really tired and weak.
"What happened?" He whispered, but Ron cut across him.
"Give them to me" Ron pleaded "You're not safe"
Stone shattered above them as they heard Voldemort scream in fury. "The mudblood, seize her"
His voice sounded desperate.
"What's going on-" Neville started but Hermione moved her hands shaking as people crowded to protect them. Ron's own parents were sheltering them from the onslaught of curses.
"Hermione-" Ron begged. "Please"
Hermione was shaking, as she slowly moved to remove something from around her neck.
"Destroy it" She rushed "You have to now" She moved to pass Ron what looked like a small crown and locket.
Ron was shaking, as he fumbled, his wand nearly falling from his hand.
Hermione took his, meeting his eyes.
"It's okay" She whispered, her voice trying and failing to be reassuring. "You can do it"
Ron nodded, his eyes full of fear.
"Seize her" Voldemort screamed again, but there were too many of them, Kingsley, Tonks, Remus and most of the teachers had to pull themselves in closer just to stop the onslaught.
"Now" Hermione pleaded.
Ron pointed his wand at them, his whole body screamed of fear.
"What are you-?" Neville started, but something else caught his eye, something shiny and long.
His eyes widened as he followed Gryffindor's sword up to the hilt and his eyes locked onto the familiar Slytherin.
Neville's breath caught as Malfoy moved the sword quickly, it's hilt being presented towards Ron.
"From Snape" He whispered hurriedly, ducking down to their level to avoid the curses.
Ron and Hermione stared in wonder, almost entranced.
"How?" Hermione breathed.
"Snape retrieved it after we left you" Malfoy rushed. "He said you'd need it"
"But-" Ron started
Malfoy rolled his eyes. "I know some rubbish about retrieving the sword under brave conditions, but this isn't the time to be all Gryffindor" He hissed, pressing it firmly into Ron's hands.
"Just finish this" He stated, before standing and nodding his head sharply.
Ron it seemed didn't need telling twice, as he quickly placed them together. The crown covering the locket.
Neville didn't understand, but he kept his guard. Ron was distracted, and Hermione seemed unfit to fight, he didn't know what was wrong with her, even with everyone protecting them he stayed close and alert.
He flicked his eyes briefly towards Ron, not understanding as he aimed the sword high above the items. He didn't understand the significance but it had to be important.
The crown and locket were both filled with pure darkness, their presence consuming. Neville cringed, they felt unnatural, as if they were living.
Ron plunged the sword sharply towards the ground.
They shattered instantly, and Neville felt as if his ears were flooded with screams of torment, but this was nothing compared to the real noise screaming in his ears. He turned alarmed to see the source.
Voldemort was howling, whether it be from pain or intense rage.
The broken crown and locket now lying for all to see as the Dark Lord staggered. He looked like he had been stabbed and suffering great pain before he steadied, looking more deadly then before.
The fighting stilled as Voldemort gestured his hand sharply down to command his death eaters leave.
Neville felt his breath catch in his throat, they had won.
His death eaters didn't hesitate as they disapparated as one.
Debris flooded the hall, it's once pristine look now a mess of rubble.
Voldemort stood alone, and Neville had never felt such fear for Ron and Hermione before.
"I can promise you this" Voldemort's voice was evil, the hiss quiet and malicious as he glared at the friends. "You shall suffer for your crimes" He hissed.
They didn't reply, but Hermione visibly swayed, her eyes full of complete fear. Ron held her close, his own expression filled with his own anger and defiance.
And then he was gone. Voldemort vanished before Neville had time to blink, the chill running through his body. What had happened, the items now lying smoking on the floor had caused the Dark Lord to flee.
And then everything was silent. No one stirred, Voldemort's promise lingering like a death sentence hanging over everyone.
Neville eyes closed briefly, his fingers pinching the bridge of his nose. Now the panic was over Neville felt reality descend.
He didn't want to accept it, but he knew as soon as he turned around he would have to face the hard truth.
It was with a shaky breath that he turned around, and he felt like his heart had been stabbed once more.
Harry was still lying in the middle of the room, his body undisturbed from the fright. He tensed, his body going rigid with despair, as his thoughts swirled.
Hermione moved, her footsteps slow and soft as she approached Harry's body. She fell to her knees, tears soaking her face.
Ron was beside her and he too dropped down to rest by Harry's head, he was shaking but not a tear was shed.
Hermione's hands moved as she sobbed, rocking back and forth slowly, clenching Harry's shirt in desperation as if somehow he could come back.
No one dared approach. Neville's heart ached, as his friends stood apart, the teachers and the Order also holding back, unable to deal with their grief. It was consuming, he couldn't get his head around it. Harry couldn't be gone.
His own eyes stung as his stomach felt hollow but he couldn't bring himself to move. This was so wrong, Harry didn't deserve to die. Neville's heart pounded, blood rushing to his head. There was nothing he could do, he felt hopeless and trapped.
Snape reacted first, his footsteps echoing as he stepped forwards away from the crowd. He surprisingly put a gentle hand on Hermione's shoulder.
She didn't react.
"We should move him" He said, his voice expressionless, as if locked up once more from his emotional outburst to Voldemort.
Ron only nodded slowly as he took Hermione by the waist, pulling her up gently. She winced slightly, her hand clutching her stomach as if she was injured. She certainly looked pale, but her face was already a mess of tears.
"I don't understand" Neville's voice rung out, echoing painfully throughout the hall, now was not the time but he had to know.
"Why did you trick Voldemort? Why did you give Harry to him?" His voice was thick and lingered in the air, awkward and pained.
Ron turned to look at him his face broken but his voice held.
"Tom had to die" He stated. Neville's insides churned and he couldn't help but accuse.
"And it was worth sacrificing Harry?" He demanded, standing rigid, his hands shaking.
"Neville" Ginny approached him now, she too looked distraught but again like this had been expected.
Neville stepped back, shaking his head. "Why?" He demanded, had he been kept out the loop again, did everyone know that Harry was going to die.
Ginny looked apologetic, as she shook her head, grief consuming her. "If Tom lives, so does Voldemort"
Neville shook his head, still not following, this was Harry they were talking about, not Tom. They were not the same person, Harry would have recovered surely.
"What's that-" He started
"Tom kept Voldemort immortal Neville" Ron stated, his voice echoing throughout the great hall. "That's why Harry had to die."
Neville actually staggered, as if he'd been hit over the head, a sharp pain coursing through him.
"No..." He whispered. "He...Harry"
His thoughts raced, but he finally understood. His fists tightened, his throat constricting as his eyes flicked to Snape who was now hovering Harry's body gently away.
Kingsley spoke now, his voice pulling them all back to their harsh reality. "We must act now" He stated. "Voldemort is mortal. We must take back the ministry before he has time to gather his forces together"
McGonagall nodded, as her words washed over Neville. "We shall secure Hogwarts." She gestured to the DA and her colleagues. "Do what you can"
Kingsley nodded and left quickly, Professor Lupin and others, including most of the Weasley's among them.
Neville couldn't bring himself to move, he just stood their dully. Guilt consuming him, washing through his very being. He had sworn to protect Harry no matter what the cost and he had failed. He would never forgive himself.
Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Harry's coffin was beautifully crafted, it seemed to glow in the afternoon sunlight as hundreds of people looked on.
Hermione stood right at the front, her hands knotted together tightly as Ron was beside her. He could only squeeze her shoulder comfortingly in response as Kinglsey, the newly elected Minister for Magic led the coffin which was floating along through the square.
It had all been so easy to take back the ministry, Hermione had remembered staying up late into the night after Voldemort had fled.
Voldemort had nothing to fall back on, his own mortal body weakened and his soul shredded. He had retreated defensively and so had his forces. Even now the ministry was on a knife edge, delicately balanced as it picked off the spies within.
It would be so easy for Voldemort to challenge again but his confidence must have been shattered as the aurors gained ground. It would not be long before Voldemort attacked again. However it gave her little hope, today of all days was not going to be easy regardless.
Behind her the Weasley's were in complete silence, Ginny hadn't spoken to anyone as she held herself deadly still. It was also strange to see the twins looking so sombre and quiet.
It really was the miserable faces of everyone around her that really effected her, Neville was a short distance away, a steely expression on his face. Even Malfoy looked reserved as he followed beside him. Her stomach twisted uncomfortable, as she placed her hand on the still tender wound, her lips tightly sealed together.
Today was wrong, everything about it was stifling. The crowds were suffocating, and their grieving nature caused her to just want to leave.
They were in Godric's Hollow. Of course there would be no other place for Harry to sleep, and it really was a beautifully. The statue of Lily, James and a baby Harry appeared as they followed the coffin towards the graveyard. It made her heart pound uncomfortably as witches and wizards looked on in sadness.
The wizarding world truly appreciated Harry, it sad to only see it now at his funeral.
Ron steadied her as she drew a painful breath, his arm wrapping around her waist. She turned to him and was comforted by his weak smile.
They were at the entrance to the graveyard now, where James and Lily Potter were long ago buried.
A smaller progression of people stepped forwards. The majority of the large group stayed back in the square allowing them the space as they followed the path up through the small gate.
The air was cold, it felt suffocatingly thick as she stared at the empty grave, Harry's coffin now floating above it. The graves of James and Lily Potter were already covered in fresh flowers. Beside her Mr and Mrs Weasley stood their expressions sad but still. Ginny caught her eye and gave her the smallest of smiles as Ron squeezed her hand in reassurance.
"It'll be over soon" He whispered. "Just a little longer"
Hermione felt her throat constrict painfully but she nodded. She glanced around, unable to look at the coffin still floating above the deep cold ground.
Aurors lined the graveyard, impressively dressed in their robes of red, Kingsley it seemed had taken every precaution, not wanting to risk anything if Voldemort decided to show. Herself and Ron were in such danger now, they had personally taken the Dark Lords immortality from him, it wasn't like he was going to forget or ever stop hunting them.
Hermione's hair rippled in the breeze as she pulled her coat tighter around herself, her stomach was tidied in knots as she didn't know how to feel.
The coffin was lowering deep into the ground now and she looked away, trying to find something to lock onto that wasn't reflecting the mood of sadness. She found herself staring at Harry's parents graves, it was odd that they had never been before. They would have to come back, when this was all over.
Xxxxxxxxxx
The venue was busy, it was a nice hotel close to where the Weasley's lived. Thankfully the ministry had catered for the whole affair after the funeral, but unfortunately it wasn't as small as Hermione would have preferred, but it that was the case they wouldn't even be here.
Ron passed her a drink
"Thanks" She said grasping it, she really needed it.
"To Harry" He said smiling gently, holding up his own glass.
Hermione's own lips twitched. "To Harry" She agreed.
They were both currently hiding in the corner of the room. Ministry officials had been constantly coming up to them and giving them both their condolences.
The current person making their way cautiously towards them however was not entirely unwelcome.
Neville stopped in front of them, his hands fidgeting nervously, his face ashen and distraught.
Hermione felt her heart sink, she didn't think she could do this. Strangers it had been a different matter, muttering her thanks and remaining quiet had gotten her through most of the day, but Neville would be entirely different.
She forced a sad smile onto her face, trying not to let her true feelings show.
"I'm sorry" Neville started at once.
Hermione blinked, not understanding, however Neville continued.
"I took the Dark Mark" He confessed, his voice spilling out awkwardly and ashamed.
Hermione was completely thrown by this as she gaped, sickness engulfing her as she glanced down horrified at his covered left arm.
Ron too seemed taken aback as his eyes widened.
"What?" He demanded. "Why?" His voice reflecting her own shock of sounding betrayed and confused.
"I don't know if what I did was right" Neville continued distraught as if he needed this to be said. There was fear in his eyes. "Voldemort would have taken Harry out of the castle" He started as if knowing this should never have excused his actions. "I had to keep Harry at Hogwarts" He repeated. "I know it was stupid, but I didn't know what else to do"
Hermione at once was piecing everything together. Of course, she should have guessed this from the start.
Neville had been adamant in keeping Harry safe, even though his own actions had prevented Harry discovering Tom. It was a weird twist where she could not say if he was right or wrong.
Neville continued anxiously.
"I don't know if I forced Harry to death or if I prevented some of his discomfort" He admitted painfully, his eyes darting around the room, nervous that they would be overheard.
Hermione settled in her mind, it was deeply upsetting to see him so hurt but she could not reassure him properly.
"I just...it's killing me not knowing" He finished awkwardly upset.
Hermione shook her head, trying to prevent her tears. "Neville" She said gently as her voice shook.
She stepped forwards, looking at him sincerely.
"You did more than enough. Thank you" And she moved forwards and pulled the cold boy into her grip. He froze under her embrace but she held him close.
"You will one day realise this. I promise" She tried to encourage him, however he pulled away and shook his head.
"I don't think I will ever come to terms with it Hermione" He said bitterly. "Harry was suffering so much. I should have helped him to leave the castle sooner...I don't know...I could have done so much more."
"You shouldn't blame yourself" Hermione said, trying to keep her own voice from shaking.
Ron who had been silent till now spoke up firmly. "Don't dwell on it Neville" He said firmly. Hermione nodded in agreement as he continued. "Everything that happened is over now. What more can we do?"
Neville shook his head as he spoke bluntly. "Voldemort is still out there"
Hermione nodded. "Yes, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't move on with our lives. The Mark means nothing. You took it for Harry and if anything you should remember that"
She wanted Neville to realise that she understood and that it was okay, however he didn't look reassured, if anything he looked more disheartened.
"You should stop moping and listen to her" A voice spoke from behind them.
Hermione, Ron and Neville all turned to see the steely face of Draco Malfoy. He stepped towards them unwavering as he fixed Neville with a very hard stare.
"Seriously" He added. "What could anyone have done in your situation?" He replied.
Neville's expression hardened.
Ron and Hermione hadn't spoken to Malfoy at all since they had tricked Voldemort with the polyjuice potion, the Dark Lord would no doubt be after his blood as well now.
"Glad to see you're not spilling any guilt about it" Neville retorted coldly.
Malfoy raised his eyebrows at this but instead of replying shot both Ron and Hermione a very intriguing look.
"I have good reason not too" Malfoy said lightly, he crossed his arms and gazed at them both curiously, a slight smirk on his lips.
Hermione shook her head slightly as Ron's expression darkened. "Go away Malfoy"
Malfoy was not phased as he only shrugged. "Well whatever your reasons it's not my problem" He stated.
Neville looked more confused and offended. "What are you talking about?" He demanded gazing between them all.
"Nothing" Ron stated coolly, glaring at the Slytherin. "It's not our decision to say"
"Just forget about it Neville" Hermione replied curtly.
Neville obviously knew he was out of the loop.
"Look" He started. "I know that I separated myself from pretty much everyone at Hogwarts, but that doesn't mean I'm not a part of this. I might not have done the best for Harry but I tried damn it" Neville was clearly agitated as he clenched his fists together, his expression furious.
Hermione felt guilt flood through her as Malfoy only smirked.
"Calm down Longbottom. It's not like I know anything" He stated, his eyes shinning.
Hermione didn't say anything as her stomach churned. Neville however still looked confused.
"Neville. Just don't worry about it" Ron said trying to ease the tension. "Like Hermione said, you did more then enough. You shouldn't feel guilty about what happened to Harry. It was You Know Who's fault and his alone."
Neville didn't look settled as Malfoy grasped his shoulder.
"Come on Longbottom. You look like you need a drink" He stated.
"I...How can-" He started but Malfoy pressed on lightly cutting across him.
"Today is going to be pretty rubbish for all of us regardless. Honestly we should leave Granger and Weasley alone." Malfoy pressed. "Stop beating yourself up about it"
Neville opened his mouth again to respond, his eyes shadowed, but he didn't seem to find the words as he stood there awkwardly.
Thankfully Neville relented and Malfoy began steering the distraught Gryffindor away. Hermione shot Ron an quick glance. She had never been so grateful to the Slytherin before. Now that Malfoy's actions had directly gone against Voldemort, he could do no more damage then had already been done. It was if he too was free of the situation as he played damage control.
After all they now knew how much of a part Malfoy had played in Harry's imprisonment. Hermione chewed her lip anxiously knowing that at least the Slytherin could be trusted and would make sure Neville would be okay. He deserved that much at least.
Sighing heavily she glanced at the large clock on the wall. It would soon be acceptable for Ron and her to leave, she just couldn't wait much longer.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Unknowingly to Hermione or any of the vigilant aurors on guard, they had not been alone in the graveyard. A much darker and more sinister presence had been there, watching with such powerful hate.
Voldemort stood in the shadows, hidden away, his expression unreadable as his eyes narrowed at the small crowd of people with disdain.
He gripped the Elder Wand tightly in his hand, restraining himself from acting on his fury alone.
It would be unwise to attack now, despite how many death eaters he had hidden in the crowds back in the square. The war was not over yet.
Potter's coffin had already lowered into the deep depths of the ground as his own temper simmered.
The boy had cheated him, snatched away his insurance from death. Of course this was a fitting punishment for the boy after the destruction of his beloved Horcrux's but Voldemort was not satisfied. After all Potter had welcomed death.
His eyes flicked away from the crowd of people, knowing the aurors would not be able to detect him. He attention and thoughts were on something entirely different now as his lips curled in cruelty.
He moved the Elder wand gently, causing the ring to hover in front of him, his eyes glinted as he eyed the resurrection stone.
Voldemort was now Master of Death and he would have Potter's soul, the boy deserved this suffering, no one escaped him ever. He would drag him back to the world of the living and Voldemort would make sure Potter would suffer indefinitely.
Without hesitation Voldemort turned the stone three times with the wand and hissed Potter's name coldly under his breath. Potter would never escape him.
The wind picked up as Voldemort waited in silence eagerly.
Nothing happened.
Voldemort understood as his eyes narrowed dangerously, the resurrection stone floating gently above his palm. A thin smile crept to his snake like face at this interesting new development as his mind raced.
Could it be true, he flicked his eyes up calculatingly to the funeral party standing around the grave. He was almost flattered, this whole day had been set up for him to see. As the stone pointed to one thing and one thing only.
Potter was alive.
Lord Voldemort grinned, he would have his revenge after all.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
It was with such a relief that they were finally able to escape the gathering after the funeral. It had certainly been awkward as dozens of people had approached them both. Many of them had been official's Hermione hadn't recognised, but she had only nodded and kept her words short. So when both her and Ron apparated back to Shell Cottage separate from the rest of the Weasley's she was eager to find Fleur waiting for them in the kitchen.
She smiled at them softly, her eyes sad as she spoke, immediately answering Hermione's unasked question.
"He's down on the beach, Remus is with him" Fleur said gently as she dried the dishes.
Hermione nodded as she linked hands with Ron pulling him forwards.
It didn't take them long to move onto the soft sand, it's dune's stretching out for miles along the shoreline.
Ron was quiet as he walked with her, the sea wind blowing gently in her hair, today had been a long day and she was glad it was finally over.
It wasn't long before they found Remus standing on the grass his wand drawn.
He nodded to them as they approached, his face calm.
"How was the funeral?" Remus asked, his eyes scanning across them both to check if they were both okay.
"Odd" Hermione replied honesty as her eyes focused on the messy black haired teenager sitting a short distance away on the sand.
"How is he?" She asked as Ron squeezed her hand gently in response.
"Better" Remus said, the creases on his forehead apparent. "He's calmer today. Snape was here this morning so I think he drugged him up on potions" He admitted.
Hermione nodded, not knowing how to feel.
"Is he secure?" She asked, her chest stinging uncomfortable, it had to be asked.
Remus nodded, his expression guarded. "He knew you would be back soon, I think he wanted to take the precaution"
Hermione smiled weakly as Ron only pulled her forwards away from him. Remus remained, watching over them both carefully.
She was grateful as they walked across the sand, her smart shoes sinking in. She vaguely wished that she had changed before hand from her stuffy funeral outfit, but it didn't really matter. Ron had already pulled off his tie and it hung loosely around his neck.
It didn't take long before they had reached the person she had wanted to be with all day.
"Hey" She said gently as she sat herself down on the warm sand. The sun was shining brightly and it really was a pleasant day despite the small amount of frost.
She was pleased when Harry turned and smiled lightly at her, his head turning to the side curiously. His wrists had cord gently wrapped around them tying him to the ground, it pained her to see him restrained, even in such a beautiful place as this but Harry did not want to take the risk. He never wanted to hurt them again.
"How was it?" Harry asked lightly, his eyes gazing at them carefully.
Ron who was sitting on the other side of him only shrugged. "Alright as far as your funeral could go, I don't know what all the hype was about"
A smile twitched on Harry's lips as Hermione added. "It was all very proper, I mean everyone was there it was very surreal."
"I hope it wasn't as bad as that article in the daily prophet" Harry asked.
Ron couldn't help but laugh at this as Hermione frowned. "I actually thought that was very well done" She responded, although she was pleased when Harry only shared a smirk with Ron. "The Prophet did you justice"
Harry wrinkled his nose at this as Hermione continued. "The wizarding world needed to say goodbye. You can't blame them for how they went about it"
Harry snorted. "If it was your Eulogy I sure you wouldn't be saying the same thing"
Hermione only frowned at him but Harry's eyes were shinning.
"How many potions did Professor Snape give you?" Hermione accused, her eyes narrowing.
Harry only shrugged, a grin still tugging at his lips.
Hermione couldn't help but roll her eyes, but she still let a smile creep onto her face as well. Ron too was grinning.
She felt an odd warmth run throughout her, it was nice to see Harry looking relaxed and happy.
Since leaving Hogwarts he had been very temperamental. There were days when Harry had been completely silent, speaking to no one and shutting himself off. He hardly ate anything then, but that was generally true. Mrs Weasley had been panicking greatly about this, eyeing up his every meal and he only pushed it around the plate.
One particularly bad day Harry had to be restrained for hours. Hermione had been in tears as he had sank back into the wall, terrified and desperate with no release.
At least Snape had been there and had been a great help. The Professor had not missed a day when he hadn't spent hours by Harry's side.
Snape had been going through Occlumency with him, very carefully at Harry's own pace. Clearing his mind would be the best way forward, where he could control his own thoughts and actions.
Mrs Weasley had fussed at first, saying Harry needed to rest after his ordeal but Snape had been insistent. The quicker they started, the more chance they had at reversing any permanent damage. It was if Harry needed to reset himself before he could ever move forwards with any hope.
But fortunately today was a good day. Harry looked very relaxed as he gazed out at the lapping waves, not even bothered by their company. Hermione still was very aware of where her wand was, both her and Ron knew they would be able to calm him, at least somewhat with the presence of their patronus's.
Her stomach was still aching from where Harry had stabbed her but that didn't matter, her pain was nothing compared to Harry's.
Snape thankfully had been aware of most of the triggers that Bellatrix had implanted. Malfoy too had given them as many tips as he knew, particularly on getting Harry to eat.
Her thoughts wondered to Neville again, she wished that she could have told him the truth but now was not the time, the fewer people knew that Harry was alive the better.
Harry had not yet said a word about wanting to see Neville and everything was to be done at his pace. Hermione would respect this completely.
They sat in a relatively comfortable silence as Hermione's thoughts wandered, everything would be different now.
"Kingsley offered to pay my tuition for St. Mungos" She explained, watching her friend carefully.
Harry's eyes softened a fraction. "I thought you wanted to go into law" He asked. He really did seem calmer today and she smiled back.
"This is more important" Hermione said warmly, holding Harry's gaze, she would have normally moved to hug him but anything that would cause him to react negatively would be bad. She tried to repress the shiver that automatically ran through her, it frightened her to think back on how Harry had held her close and plunged the knife straight into her.
Harry was silent and didn't reply, as Ron continued beaming "He also said I was into auror training."
Harry's eyes flicked between them both, his expression guarded. Voldemort was still out there after all and Ron was now a target.
They would both always be in danger, as long as the Dark Lord was alive, but at least for now their part was done. There were no more Horcrux's left.
It was going to be difficult, but somehow Hermione couldn't help but feel hope for the first time in many months.
Harry didn't seem to want to comment which was okay, Hermione didn't expect anything from him.
As the sun began to set, Ron continued playing with the sand beneath his feet as Harry stared out to sea, watching a small Muggle fishing boat. Hermione couldn't remember the last time she had felt this calm. It had been a long time since the three of them could be together like this, it felt like such an age ago when they were laughing together in the Gryffindor common room.
She watched as a flock of seagulls came to land on the shore, water lapping at the sand.
Even if it would take months or years before Harry was at no risk of attacking them, before he would even hope to recover, to reverse the damage that Voldemort had done. All they had to do was keep Harry safe, after all hardly anyone in the wizarding world knew that the Boy Who lived was still alive and that most importantly included Voldemort.
The war was still very much in full swing but it was odd. Hermione's own priorities had changed completely, she just wanted to look after Harry, she wasn't in the fight anymore.
Ron had taken the opposite approach to her, eager to start auror training in the next couple of weeks, excitedly pondering out loud what it would be like.
She smiled gently to herself as Harry continued to speak to Ron, but it was a sad smile. Harry had always wanted to be an auror.
She didn't want to ask but she doubted even Harry knew what he wanted to do now, but regardless,
Hermione knew that whatever happened, Harry would be okay.
Fin.
I'm sure everyone remembers the first time they read the end of Deathly Hallows...I cried so much when Harry was walking into the forest...and then to find out he was going to live, I felt happy, sad and a bit cheated that he didn't actually die...anyway, I'd like to think this sort of encapsulates something along the same sort of themes, it's been fun running certain things in parallel throughout the story.
I know there were many mixed feelings as we approached the end...I hope this is sort of satisfactory, I'm a little anxious that it's not what people expected. I debated for ages whether Harry should have boarded the train but I couldn't leave his soul to the cruelty of Voldemort for eternity however tempting...although some of you may have preferred this!
Anyway...Thank you to everyone who has read this rather dark and twisted version of Deathly Hallow and also for sticking with it.
I really want to say thank you to everyone who has reviewed throughout. It's always a buzz to see that someone likes or wants to discuss something, I really really appreciate your comments. I hope you all enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing and sharing it with you.
Sorry for ranting on...but I've never finished a fan fiction before so this is pretty exciting for me...Thanks again for reading! Now this is done I can finally catch up on all the fics I've not finished reading!