Note: Hi! I can't leave here the link to AO3, but I saw that someone asked about it. If you search it along with the name of the story and my username, you'll find the story there!

(Title: Nothing else matters - Metallica)

June 11th, 2006
The Palace

Harry woke up first and he confesses that he used a simple charm on Hermione. He wants her to keep sleeping for a while. He has a lot to talk with the others and he also wants to surprise her. So, he left their room with half of a heavy conscience - Crookshanks looked at him with judgmental eyes - and went to the Great Hall to find the others.

They're all there, eating in silence. With tiny smiles, they greet Harry. Bellatrix makes a face, though, and he promptly calms her down.

"Hermione is sleeping." He says while sitting with them. "And I want her to keep sleeping because we have a lot to talk about."

Ron whistles. "So, spill it out."

"First, the counselors? Any change?" He pours himself some juice, noticing how extremely hungry he is.

"None." Ginny is clearly sad. Worried. "It doesn't look like they're about to wake up any time soon. Their vitals are good and they're physically fine. The healers were able to heal them from whatever remained from the torture they suffered."

Harry purses his lips.

Draco continues, "Apparently their memories are intact, but there's no way of being sure if Riddle invaded their minds or not."

"But, let's be hopeful they'll get better soon. The healers are searching for a solution." Bellatrix tries cheering them up.

Harry nods. "Indeed. We need to count on that." Inevitably he thinks about the Book. If Riddle put them under some Ancient magic bullshit, the counter spell might be in his book. But that's not what he wants to talk about now, specially because he hasn't tried reading it. He's not even sure it would work, so, there's no need to get everyone's hopes up. "Well," He clears his throat, his eyes traveling all of them on the table. The students are walking around, trying to go back to their normal routine, but Harry knows this is impossible. The entire Palace is in a state of uproar. They all want to fight. They all want to make a difference. "I- Hermione feels terrible about what happened yesterday." They make faces, Harry can tell they're angry - not with her, of course, with Riddle. "She thinks she's a liability. Riddle put her under some command or enchantment and she's questioning if she shouldn't… leave."

Ron snorts, shaking his head. "She thinks we want her gone?"

Harry nods.

"Oh, please, Hermione sometimes needs to be slapped across the face." Ginny rolls her eyes. "And I say this with love."

"But do you think she's a liability, Harry?" His aunt asks and a small silence follows.

He inhales deeply. Harry knows his position changed. He knows he calls the shots and he knows they trust his judgment. The best he can do in this situation is… be honest.

"I'll give you the facts and you decide for yourselves, okay? She told me that Riddle was able to see through her. He's trying to figure out where we are. She's scared he might be able to put her under this spell at any time. Hermione doesn't want to compromise our position... she fears he might read her mind." Bellatrix lets out a sound of indignation, sharing a look with John. Harry raises a hand, wanting to continue. "But, we don't know if that's going to happen a second time. We don't know if he really can tell those things. When we shared our bond I could tell that he was trying to take her magic. I think he wants her power more than anything else. The rest doesn't quite matter to him. That's my opinion." He runs a hand through his hair. "Honestly, Hermione is too powerful and essential to us. Essential to our plans. I'm willing to take the risk of having her here."

He gulps, waiting for them to say something. With the exception of his aunt and Snape, the others agree that she should stay. They agree that it's better having her here than not.

And Harry chews the insides of his cheeks while he waits for Petunia and Snape to say something. It feels like he waits an eternity.

"Harry," His aunt sighs, "I want to protect this place with everything we got." He's ready to convince her, but- "Hermione is an incredible witch. There's no reason for her to leave us."

Relief takes over him and he nods, feeling a thousand times better. This was heaving on him. He knows Hermione is going to be insanely pissed when she finds out that he had this conversation without her, but he knows this was for the best. He knows she would be here trying to convince them that she should leave. And she's not thinking clearly. She's not seeing the bigger picture. She's a strong protection for the Palace too. Who knows if that's not exactly what Riddle wants? To separate them? Maybe he wants them in a more vulnerable position.

"Okay. Good. She'll try to convince you all otherwise." He warns them and by the faces they make, Harry knows she won't be able to. "Now," He straightens himself, opening a smile. "Do you guys think you can help me put together a party?"

They look at him with wide eyes. Harry snorts a chuckle.

"I'm sorry, a party?" Chiara asks, frowning.

Harry still has a smile on his face. "To be precise, a wedding."

Bellatrix is the first one who understands. She squeezes his arm, a smile playing on her lips. Then, the others slowly catch up. When all of them are on the same page, Harry is glad that this decision is something that can distract them a bit. He knows everyone is tense. And even if they have a lot to plan and do, he and Hermione need this. They need this moment. They need to also be connected this way. Mostly because they don't even know if they'll be alive in two days.

There's no more reason to wait, no more reason to delay this.

And in a blur they begin to plan. It sparkles some happiness inside him. But the pain from Bellaverde's death and the darkness that took over his heart are also there. And he tries juggling it all.

Someone is trying to wake her up. Hermione mumbles something. Her head is heavy and she feels a need to keep her eyes closed. She doesn't want to leave the cozy bed.

"Hey, come on."

She recognizes the voice. It's Ginny. And she makes a face. She's only waking up if Harry wants to kiss her for hours, otherwise, she doesn't think there's a good enough reason to-

"What charm did Harry use?" It's Chiara talking now.

Hermione frowns. A charm? What are they talking about? And why are them inside their room? Where's Harry?

She feels someone shaking her more violently and this time she does open one eye to see Sally there.

"See?" Sally smiles at the others that are behind her.

But Hermione closes her eye again. She's so tired. Exhausted.

"What's the counter charm?" Ginny asks.

She doesn't hear what they're saying, but she snuggles more to her pillow and sighs, delighted that she can continue to sleep. She's a bit angry they interrupted the amazing dream she was having: her and Harry and their children having a blast-

A charm hits her and she immediately opens both eyes, waking up in one breath. Hermione sits on the bed, blinking a few times, confused.

Luna, Ginny, Sally and Chiara are there, looking at her.

"Hey, there, good morning, tits of a Goddess." Chiara teases her. Hermione snorts a chuckle, noticing that she's not wearing a t-shirt, just her panties. "And fuck, what an amazing tattoo." The others agree, in awe. They're all looking at her phoenix. Hermione smiles. She's not going to conceal this tattoo ever again.

Then, Chiara throws her a t-shirt and after she dons it, she inhales deeply. It's way past noon.

"Okay. What's going on?" She asks, yawning. "Don't tell me Harry forced me to keep sleeping."

"Of course he did." Chiara answers, smiling.

"Why?" She squints.

They share a knowing look and Hermione tilts her head.

"Well, you see, today is a special day and you're going to spend it with us for a while." Ginny says. Luna is nodding her head so enthusiastically that Hermione can't contain a chuckle.

"Guys, come on." Hermione says in a playful tone. "We have a lot to talk about and I don't even know if-"

"Stop right there." Sally says. "We already talked with Harry. No one wants you gone, so chill out."

She raises an eyebrow, pursing her lips. Harry is un-fucking-believable. He knew she would use some pretty good arguments to convince them that she's a liability, so, he put her under a charm to have this talk all by himself. And if he thinks this is not going to be a fight between them-

"Where is he?" She asks through her teeth. "What the hell is going on?"

"You can slap him later." Chiara says. "Now, you're going to forget that you're angry with him." Hermione snorts. "And we're going to get ready for your wedding."

Hermione opens her mouth. They're smiling, clearly excited and happy. She closes her mouth. She knows they don't have time to waste. She knows they should be inside a room talking about the many ways they could try to bring her father down. She also knows that this is not a priority on the list of things they need to do.

But it's undeniable how eager they all look. How eager they are to forget for just a day that there's a battle in their near future. Hermione gulps. Life is about good and bad moments. And after what happened, after their loss- it- this celebration is a necessity.

And she wants it. So damn much. Particularly and selfishly there's nothing she wants more than to marry her soulmate. She's been wanting this since they stopped their dance at that Ball.

So, she opens a smile. She can fight Harry later. They can plan after they dance their first dance as a married couple.

"Well, I'm not sure I have a dress." She says to them and their smiles get even wider.

This is not as easy as he thought it would be. And he can't help giving Hermione some reason in the little fight they had yesterday.

Controlling phoenix fire is a pain in the ass.

He knows Chiara, Ginny, Sally and Luna are with Hermione, having a relaxing afternoon before the wedding. He smiles. Bellatrix was with his aunt, trying to sew a wedding gown for her. Both the Muggle way and magically. Harry has no idea what the final result will be, but even if Hermione was wearing a trash can while walking down the aisle to marry him he would find her perfect.

Draco, Ron, Oliver and the other guys are trying to find him a nice tux. If they don't he can ask Dobby to go back to their house to fetch the one Harry used at the Ball. But he knows the elf has a few obligations to fulfill at the Palace so he hopes it doesn't come to it.

And now, Harry's concentrating on the task he gave himself. To forge their wedding bands. With phoenix fire.

He has the gold and he was able to magically design it the way he wanted. But the phoenix fire is the most important aspect. He wants it to magically protect the ring. He wants it to make it last forever. These rings can't be scratched or bruised. They're going to be beautiful and strong just like their relationship and love.

But, yeah. Since he discovered this fire, he hasn't exactly tried to control it like this in such a closed space. Even if he's sitting out in the open with the Quidditch field close by, Harry can't lose control over it or else he might put people's lives in danger. So, he's having a hard time. And he inevitably snorts thinking that Hermione was right yet again.

There's no way he can beat Riddle if he's not able to be in total sync with this fire. Because it battles him. It's wild and powerful and Harry has to make a huge effort to will it to behave how he wants. He's sweating, frustrated.

He has no idea for how long he's been there, molding it, magically making it perfect. But after a while he hears voices behind him and he extinguishes the fire. He's not comfortable to reveal this power yet.

His aunt and Bellatrix are walking to him. There are smiles on their faces and he also opens one.

"So, the dress is ready." His aunt says, winking at him.

Harry stands from the grass and shows them the rings. "Do you think she'll like them?"

He's asking Bellatrix. She shakes her head in a gentle way. "She would love it even if you gave her a ring made of wool." And she cups his cheek. "They're beautiful. But we're here exactly because of this."

He frowns and his aunt takes his hand in hers. "Harry, I-" She clears her throat. "Lily sent me a few things, I think she did when she realized they were going to die…" He sets his jaw and certain tension takes over them. But his aunt continues, "This," She takes a red velvet box from her pocket, "Your father gave her this. A Potter heirloom."

Harry takes the box, shaking a bit. This can only be- He opens it.

Indeed, there's a gorgeous diamond ring inside. It's not huge, but it's surely imposing and it shows how well carved it was. It shines. It has unique intrinsic patterns around the stone.

"It was your mother's." Petunia says in a low voice. "She loved this ring. James gave it to her when they were still dating, before they had to flee. I know she would want you to have it. I know that there's no one better than Hermione to wear this."

His chin trembles and he feels a few tears running down his face. Harry brushes them away fast, his heart squeezing inside his chest. There are no words for the moment and he only nods, hugging his aunt tightly.

"Thank you." It's all he manages to say.

He also shares a hug with Bellatrix and then they tell him that the guys found a tux. They urge him to go get ready. The ceremony is taking place at the Great Hall and it's all set.

If it weren't for Bellaverde's death, it would be the happiest day in Harry's life.

Hermione wets her lips, looking at herself in the mirror. Differently from the sensation of sheer desperation she felt when she was ready to marry Asmodeus, the only thing that's taking over her now are the insane butterflies in her stomach. The anticipation is so overwhelming that she's a bit high. She can't quite explain. It feels like… she can't describe it. As if they're about to share the first kiss of their lives. As if they're about to hold hands for the first time.

It's amazing.

She thought she wouldn't feel this. Never. Days ago she was ready to be miserable. And now her happiness is taking over her in a way that makes her feel like floating. Even so, what happened to Bellaverde is still a sore point, an open wound. But she keeps it dormant for now.

The dress is beautiful. She has no idea how her mother and Petunia did this in such a short notice but she's thankful. It's simple yet so fucking elegant. It's so her. It's the perfect dress.

Sleeveless, it goes down snuggling to her body not in an obvious way. The tail is not long and the slit that comes up on her right leg stops a finger above her knee. Her hair is up in an elaborated bun that Chiara was more than eager to put together. Ginny took care of the makeup. Sally found her the perfect white stilettos and Luna made a bouquet with gorgeous flowers she picked around the Palace.

She knows they decorated the Great Hall. She knows the elves made a huge feast. And she knows they're all eager to see her and Harry tying the knot.

Her mother enters the room. She's also gorgeous in a golden dress.

"Look at you." Bellatrix says in a teary voice, hugging Hermione. "You look gorgeous. And I can tell how happy you are." Her mother touches her forehead with hers and they share a moment of affectionate silence. Then, Bellatrix continues, "I know it's not ideal, but I hope it's everything you ever wanted."

"It is." Hermione says with a full heart. There's no doubt in her mind.

Bellatrix nods, smiling. "Even with Bellaverde gone," Hermione gulps. "Even with Sirius and the others the way they are, I want you to enjoy this, Hermione. I want you to feel this happiness. I want you to consider yourself deserving of it. Because you are." Her mother squeezes her hands. "You both are."

Hermione inhales deeply, hugging her mother one more time.

"Ready?" Bellatrix asks her.

She nods. She's more than ready.

He's chewing the insides of his cheeks, almost jumping in place. He knows Bellatrix is coming with Hermione, but he can't contain the sheer excitement that's taking over him.

He's getting married to his soulmate. He's officially tying himself to the love of his life until they die. And even if this ceremony seems secondary to what they already share, he doesn't see it that way.

This ceremony is the representation of their love. It's a way of telling the fucking world how much they cherish each other, how much they want to be together. And it warms his heart. It makes his insides melt.

This is important for them. It's their decision and their way of flipping off Matteo and Riddle. The thought brings a boyish smile to his face.

The Great Hall looks incredible. The lights are lit and the place has amazing flowers scattered around. It's warm, it embraces people. Filled with students, parents and everyone else that's part of the Palace, they're all waiting for Hermione.

Harry cracks his knuckles. He's wearing a navy blue tuxedo with a white shirt and a black bow tie. The shoes are shiny and he used some gel on his hair. He didn't shave his stubble because he knows Hermione loves it.

He looks over at Ron and Draco. They look happy while they wait. His aunt has a huge smile on her face and Harry can't describe how much it means to him to have her there in this occasion. Of course the circumstances are not perfect - especially with the counselors in a deep sleep - but he feels that this is right.

Then, his eyes find Chiara's. She's smiling widely and Harry can't help smiling with her. To imagine that they should be married by now is… funny. If he'd never caught her cheating, they would be. Maybe he wouldn't have came to London. Maybe he would have never met Hermione. Chiara tilts her head, mouthing words to him. Harry can discern the clear 'Ti amo'. He says them back to her, his best friend.

Someone clears their throat and Harry looks at the boy that's standing close to Chiara. Victor looks incredibly nervous. Of course. He's the one in charge of giving them their wedding bands. It's a big responsibility and Harry made sure that the boy felt comfortable with it.

And with everything, maybe the biggest surprise is… Dumbledore. Snape told the Headmaster about the wedding and he came. In fact, he's the one who's going to officiate it. Harry has a few things he wants to say to Dumbledore, but that can wait.

Because, right now, he can smell Hermione getting closer. And it quickens his heart. She's also nervous. But it's not something bad. It's a good kind of nervousness that's taking over his body and giving him the best sensation ever. He can hear her heart beating. Freaking fast. He can tell that she's trying to calm down, but she's not succeeding. He's the exact same way.

A faint music starts, something magical and slow. And in a breath, Hermione appears at the end of the big corridor that leads to the Great Hall. He gulps. His heart might burst.

She's breathtaking.

And the moment their eyes lock, nothing else exists. Nothing else matters.

Inevitably he thinks about everything they've shared till this point. How he first resisted what he felt for her, how he tried to fight the undeniable pull. Their dance. And their first time. How they began to discover the other bit by bit. Her wide smiles and loud laughs. Their endless nights looking into each other's eyes. Their hugs and kisses. Their arguments. The way she takes care of him and how they protect each other-

She's getting closer and the smile on her face is… worth it.

All they've done to get here was worth it.

When she finally stops close to him, his heart swells. They hold hands, their fingers intertwining.

"I love you." She whispers, her expression soft.

"I love you." He kisses her hand and they look at Dumbledore. Harry can smell Hermione's slightly confusion at the sight of her former Headmaster, but she keeps smiling.

And Dumbledore does have some nice words to say. Harry was not expecting something so poetic and deep. So, it's a nice surprise. Hermione is clearly agreeing to every word, squeezing his hand.

"A love like this is more powerful than time. More powerful than life itself." These are Dumbledore's last words before he asks for the rings.

Hermione smiles even wider when she sees Victor coming to them with the velvet box. And she gasps when Harry opens it. The golden bands are shining and when he touches the smaller one to put on her finger, there's a phoenix feather that appears craved into it. Hermione widens her eyes. This feather only appears when they touch each other's rings.

"Hermione." Her eyes meet his. There's total silence inside the Great Hall. "I could speak about my love for you for hours. But I think everyone is pretty hungry, so," There's a collective laugh among them. She also laughs. "You know, don't you, beautiful? I'll love until my last breath."

She inhales very deeply and he watches her chest moving up and down. Hermione is holding back some tears.

Taking his wedding band, she puts it on his finger with gentleness.

"Harry." He wets his lips. "I thought I had everything figured out. I thought my life was set on stone. I thought having an incredible job and behaving according to the rules was the best I could do. But you changed everything." He opens a soft smile. "You changed me and you brought me to life. I only realized I was not really living until I met you." He also holds back some tears. "I'll love you until my last breath."

Their smiles are so wide that Harry is not sure how his cheeks are not hurting.

"For those who are gathered here," Dumbledore says, "and support this union, I ask of you to raise your wands. I ask you to fortify this love and bond."

Both look around, shocked that practically everyone - except the Muggles - are raising their wands, golden and silver threads of magic leaving them. Harry squeezes her hands when they feel the power of all this magic surrounding them. She's unable to hold back her tears now.

"I declare you bonded for life." Dumbledore says. The threads of magic close around their hands and in a strong gush of air, it's all gone. "You may kiss you wife, Potter." Dumbledore winks.

Harry chuckles. And then, they're kissing.

It's a soft and smiley kiss. He squeezes Hermione in his arms and she pulls back to look at him, one of her hands on his hair. They touch their foreheads. Everyone is cheering. And it makes him happy that they decided to do this.

"Hey, Mrs Potter." He whispers to her.

"Hey, Mr Potter."

It's the calm before the storm.

She's looking at her wedding band, fascinated. Harry forged it with phoenix fire and it's amazing how the gold seems to change colors - to a deep red, or orange, or blue - depending on how you look at it.

He embraces her from behind, kissing her shoulder, their hands coming together over her middle. The Great Hall is full and everyone is celebrating. There's some music and the food is delicious. But she had to step outside for a moment. She had to see the full moon and breathe the fresh air.

Harry keeps kissing her shoulder. Then her neck until he reaches her ear, biting on her lobe. She closes her eyes, a delicious shiver going down her spine.

"I can't wait to have sex with my wife." He whispers, still provoking her, biting on her lobe. He knows it's a soft spot. He knows it makes her knees go weak.

"Uuuum." Her toes curl at the way he keeps kissing her. He already got rid of his jacket and tie. His sleeves are rolled up and his tattoo is exposed. She thinks he never looked so extremely sexy in his life. "I'm such a lucky woman." She mumbles when he rubs his stubble on her neck.

"You are." They chuckle at his smugness. Then, Harry sighs, pulling her closer to him. They stay in their embrace, looking at the full moon. "Bellaverde is surely flying among the stars." He whispers and her heart squeezes inside her chest. "Happy that we finally did this."

Hermione gulps. "Yes. I'm sure of it." She turns her head to kiss his neck. And they share a small kiss. "Are you happy?"

He opens a bright smile. "I've never been happier."

"Same." She says, admiring him. But, since she's who she is, some worries begin to take over her mind-

"Tomorrow, okay?" He whispers. "I know we have a lot to talk about and decide, but I don't want to ruin our day. I don't want to think of anything else that's not you and how I'm going to undress you very slowly."

She smiles, raising an eyebrow, and then in a low voice, she says, "Chiara gave me a wedding present, you know?" He tilts his head, "Some very revealing lingerie. Red." Harry groans, squeezing her. "That I'm wearing right now."

He bites on her neck and she exhales heavily, a hotness taking over her. But he stops, taking a deep breath. "There's something else I wanna give you."

"Besides the many orgasms?"

He laughs sincerely and winks at her. Hermione turns around to face him and she widens her eyes when she sees a red velvet box in his hands.

"This is…" He sighs. "My mother sent it to my aunt. My father gave it to her." He opens the box and Hermione gasps. She never saw such a beautiful diamond ring. "It's a Potter heirloom. And now, it's yours. You're a Potter now, love."

Her chin trembles when he takes her hand to put it on her finger. It- it fits perfectly with their wedding band. She admires the ring for a while, not sure of what to say. This is so important to him.

They're a family now.

A family of two.

Hermione purses her lips to stop a few thoughts. He takes her hand, kissing it. She can't hide things from Harry. Not on a normal basis, specially not when it's a full moon. He can smell her emotions, he knows what kills her inside.

And he does his best to comfort her.

"Dance with me." He says, bringing her closer.

Their embrace is warm and all her worries are tucked away for now. There's nowhere else she would rather be.

June 12th, 2006
The Palace

He's tired, and they have a long day ahead of them. Now, after the celebration yesterday and the way they worshiped each other all night, Harry knows that the responsibilities are going to crash down on them. Even if his werewolf traits are gone, he knows that Hermione is thinking the same thing.

He glances at her. They're walking to the Great Hall to eat. Their hands clasped together. Small smiles on their faces. He still can't believe that she's a Potter now. He can't believe they're married. It's… everything.

But well, the second they step inside the Hall, Ron raises a newspaper in the air, waving it at them. He shares a look with Hermione. They've been waiting for this. Riddle already made his statement. He told everyone that Harry is a liar and that Hermione must be under some kind of spell. But the press was at the Mansion by the sea. They saw what happened with their own eyes. He can't deny he's insanely curious to see what they have to say about it.

They sit down with the others. Chiara and Oliver are sharing a few small kisses. Ginny and Draco are holding hands. Ron has one hand over Luna's belly. Harry knows that the atmosphere from their wedding is still in the air. Which is good. It's nice that they were able to relax.

Hermione tries taking the newspaper from Ron, but he keeps teasing her, pretending that he's going to give it and then pulling his hand back. Hermione loses her patience and bangs a hand on the table, using a spell to tie both Ron's hands in front of him, the newspaper coming to hers.

Harry laughs. "You asked for it." He murmurs while drinking some coffee. Then, he turns to Hermione, "Read for me."

He doesn't think it's that bad since the others are pretty relaxed. Which he's right. Hermione shows him the headline:

IS TOM RIDDLE A LIAR?

And she begins to read the article:

"It's undeniable that dark times loom over us. An era of doubt. Hermione Riddle's wedding was more than an indication of it. The night began splendorous as expected. The guests were anxious and the bride and groom seemed happy while at the reception. The Minister was all smiles and jokes. But the night took an unforeseeable and revealing turn at the ceremony." Hermione stops, their eyes meeting briefly. "No one other than Harry D'Angelo, Auror, known grandson of the Italian Minister Matteo D'Angelo, invaded the ceremony. With the help of a rare Dragon, D'Angelo melted down the wards around Riddle's Mansion by the sea." Hermione inhales deeply at the mention of Bellaverde. Harry does too and squeezes her thigh. "Shockingly, or not, if we take into consideration what happened last year at Riddle's Ball, Hermione Riddle took Harry D'Angelo's side. The soulmates shared a kiss in front of everyone and the wedding to Asmodeus Pettigrew was officially canceled by the bride. But these are not the staggering news. What truly brought everyone's mouth to their chests was the revelation made by Harry D'Angelo." Hermione makes a face, murmuring that they're very dramatic. Then, she continues, "With undeniable proof, D'Angelo showed to every single wizard and witch inside that Mansion that he's in fact, a Potter. Apparently, no one knew of his existence. As stated by the man himself, Matteo D'Angelo took him as a baby to raise all these years. Harry Potter has been living in London for months, acting as Auror and working under Tom Riddle's nose." Hermione snorts half a chuckle at the phrase. Harry opens a tiny smile. "Which leads us to questions that need answers. Tom Riddle made a statement two days ago affirming that Harry Potter was a liar. But we can't help questioning if the liar is not our own Minister." Hermione wets her lips, moving a bit forward to read better. "It's worrisome that the man that's been calling the shots in Wizarding UK for more than twenty years has never been questioned or doubted. Riddle's allegations towards Half-Bloods and Muggleborns have always been filled with harshness. They also have been treated mercilessly. And after Harry Potter accused Riddle of murdering his parents, Hermione Riddle may be the only one capable of answering these questions for us. We urge the Riddle Heir to come forward and show us what kind of man our Minister really is. It's a civil duty not to close our eyes to this."

Hermione raises her eyes to him and Harry opens a tiny smile.

"So, I think it's time to give an interview." He says.

She inhales deeply and puts the paper down, her eyes going to the others in a questioning way.

"I think they're just waiting for you." Ron says to her in a low voice. "They want to know that you'll support them even if your father stops doing so."

"Exactly." Bellatrix says, approaching the table. Harry looks up at her, she's with Sally and her eyes are glinting. "They want you to show them that taking your side is worth it, Hermione."

Harry watches while Bellatrix squeezes Hermione's shoulder and they share a meaningful look. Hermione slowly wets her lips, her hand over the paper, her eyes on it now, that wrinkle between her brows while she thinks. It doesn't look like she's going to say something, so he does it:

"We can come up with a plan for you to talk to the press." She turns her head to look at him. They're all paying attention. "I want to go to the Ministry to seize Ludwig. We could use your speech as diversion." He shrugs.

Hermione bites on her lower lip. "The press won't be there unless we announce we're going. And if we do announce, my father will be extremely ready." She stops for a second. "If we want Ludwig, we need to surprise everyone or else we won't pull this off."

He makes a face. Her logic is undeniable.

"I-" Sally begins and stops. They wait. She's blushing, a bit embarrassed. Harry has no idea why. Bellatrix nods at her, as if encouraging her and she continues, "I might know how to help. I've been in touch with Neville." Hermione stiffens a bit and the others are pretty shocked. This was clearly a well kept secret. "Even after… what happened the Longbottoms continued to be a influential Pureblood family in the right circles." Harry cocks his head. He can tell Hermione is uncomfortable but curious. And Sally is talking directly to her. "They were shun by the higher circle Riddle keeps around himself. But many Purebloods live marginally because of something they did that displeased the Minister." She sighs. "After your father's announcement, Neville got in touch, wanting to know details of what happened. I told him everything."

Sally stops, as if waiting for a reaction. Harry's not sure how this can help them. Hermione blinks a few times.

"Okay. That's good to know, but how-"

Sally cuts Hermione, "They run a newspaper, Hermione. They never stopped." Hermione opens her mouth. Ron lets out a sound of satisfaction. "I know your father said that they were prohibited, but the family that took over was just a facade. They have the contacts. They know the right people. If I talk to him I know he can make it happen, I know the press will be at the Ministry exactly when you want them to."

Harry raises his eyebrows and Hermione turns to look at him. This is actually perfect. He had no idea the Longbottoms owned a newspaper.

"It can't get better than this." Ginny says firmly. "It's the perfect opportunity."

Hermione inhales deeply. "Okay." She says. "We need to plan this. We need to be sure of what we're going to do so we have all the possible outcomes in mind." She leans over the table.

Harry does the same. And they begin to plan how the hell they're going to enter the Ministry through the front door, seize Ludwig, let Hermione have her go with the press, and then walk out of there without Riddle murdering them.

If it were her choice, their first move on this day would be going to the Muggles' house across the Potters'. Hermione can't shake the image of that poor couple from her mind. They had absolutely nothing to do with what was happening. But they weren't spared. They weren't given a chance. Her father could have just obliviated them and be done with it. But no. They were brutally murdered.

Harry sits by her side and takes her hand in his. She looks at him. They're inside their room, getting ready for what's ahead of them. And a heavy atmosphere lingers. They didn't encounter her father while rescuing the counselors, but there's no way they won't now that they're going to the Ministry.

She dreads what might happen. Harry also does. She fears for him and he fears for her.

Hermione touches his forehead with hers, their thumbs caressing each other's hands.

"If you feel like you can't keep going… please, just leave." He says in a painful way.

She gulps. It's undeniable that Riddle will be there watching her while she gives her speech and talks to the press and employees.

"If you need me, I'll be there." He says.

"I know."

Harry will join her only if he's able to fetch and imprison Ludwig at the Palace before she ends her speech.

"Do you know everything you're going to say?" His voice is low, unsure.

"Yes." She pulls back to look at him. Hermione gives him a small peck. "It's gonna work."

He exhales heavily. It's kind of a crazy plan, but they have to be confident about it or else they're going to fail without even trying. Of course she's also nervous.

"You have to be careful with Ludwig." She hates even saying the name. A chill runs down her spine. Hermione still remembers pretty well what happened when she invaded his mind.

"If he pisses me off I'll burn him down to a crisp."

She inevitably snorts a chuckle and Harry smiles.

Someone knocks on their door. It's Draco.

"All set?" He asks.

Harry and Hermione rise from the bed together. They're wearing black clothes, as if ready for a mission.

She nods at Draco. "Have you talked to Petunia?"

"Yes. They do have a place we can put Ludwig if we succeed in bringing him."

Harry nods. "Good. So, let's go then."

They decided they're not going to keep giving the others or each other any kind of motivational talk. They're all Aurors. They know what they have to do. They know the mission and each one has to be able to take care of themselves or else they'll go crazy.

So, without any further ado, they go.

Outside the Ministry

He has his back against a wall, Hermione is in front of him and they're disguised. They just took two Polyjuice potions. They look like fellow Aurors. Draco and Ginny were in charge to lure these two out in order for them to do this. They succeeded. Hermione looks like a woman that she told him would probably have access to her office. He also looks like a man that her father might have put in charge given the extreme situation.

The potion will last a fair amount of time. At least enough for them to reach Hermione's office, fetch Ludwig's golden watch that's hidden inside a safe and make sure that she overrules her own order of prohibiting anyone from going to the dungeons to see Ludwig.

At least until this point they'll be together. Then, they'll separate and Harry hates this next part.

They share a final look and he squeezes her hand.

"Are you ready, Dobby?" Hermione asks the elf.

Dobby can't apparate inside the Ministry. Riddle magically prohibited any magical creature to do so. But the elf will be here, waiting for them so he can apparate everyone safely back to the Palace.

"Yes." The elf says with confidence. Harry opens a tiny smile.

Then, they go.

It's raining and it gives him a flashback of the first time he ever stepped inside the Ministry. He had no idea what was about to happen. He knew his life was about to change, but he never expected Hermione. No. She was a surprise and the best thing that ever happened to him.

They walk keeping a fair distance between them. Hermione is serious and he's doing his best to walk just like this fellow Auror. Harry saw the man enough times to know that he's kind of a pompous ass.

He can't stop thinking about what they might find inside. Who. Since the Mansion by the sea they haven't seen the Pettigrews. Or Dolohov and that woman. Which is very unsettling. Weird. Hermione even brought up the possibility that Dolohov might be Head Auror now. If that's the case, they really hope he won't be inside the office.

In a blur, the magic from the fireplace is pulling him in and Harry opens his eyes next to see the Atrium. Nothing changed. And a chill runs down his spine. He dares looking at the big window that faces it from many floors above. Riddle's window. He's not there right now. Harry's not sure if he likes it or not.

He can see Hermione entering an elevator and he jogs a bit to catch the same one, not sparing her a glance. There are others inside with them but silence fills the metal box. Harry can feel certain tension in the air. Of course people are afraid. The world they used to know is changing. It's turning upside down.

They reach the floor and exit the elevator fast. There aren't many Aurors there and Hermione immediately goes to the bathroom. Harry heads to his office - the one that's isolated from the rest of the floor. He doubts someone will be there. His name is not at the door anymore, but he opens it nonetheless. There's no one inside and his stuff are gone - not that he had anything important there. In a blink he takes the coin/portal from his pocket. Hermione also has hers and they're supposed to meet inside her office.

Harry closes his eyes and inhales deeply, he hopes her office is closed. He hopes no one is already occupying her spot and using the room. If they meet someone inside, it all could go to shit. He rubs a thumb on the coin and-

He opens his eyes. She's already there. They share a look. The office is dark and they don't dare switching on the light.

It seems like Hermione's office is kind of precious to Riddle. It feels like he's putting on a show, waiting for her to come back to her family. Waiting for her to see that she was wrong about turning against her father.

Not wasting another second, Hermione goes to a shelf and uses a spell to reveal a safe. Harry goes to her and they both let out a breath when they see the golden watch there.

Taking it in her hand, she makes a face, murmuring:

"It's filled with magic. Strong. Even more than before." They share a look. "I don't like it."

He can tell that she's thinking a thousand things but they don't have the time to talk about this now, so, Hermione puts the watch inside the inner pocket of her vest. Harry doesn't like that she'll be carrying this, but he knows it'll be worse if he does since he's about to meet Ludwig.

Slowly, Hermione goes to a drawer on her desk. He watches while she takes a memo and uses a spell that enables it to recognize her and her authority. She wets her lips. They have to synchronize this. The moment she writes the memo has to be the same one the others - Ron, Draco, Ginny, Sally and Chiara - alert the press and the employees.

If Riddle is distracted enough with the commotion they're about to make at the Atrium, then he won't notice this memo. Then he won't notice Harry going to the dungeons.

They look at each other and he takes out another coin from his pocket. The one Hermione shares with Chiara. They're both tense and changing back to their real selves, the effect of the potion over. Harry opens a tiny smile at the sight of her and they briefly kiss to give them the final push they need.

Hermione writes the memo, allowing him inside the dungeons and Harry sends a message to Chiara.

In a few beats, a commotion takes over the Atrium and they know it's time to move. Hermione squeezes his forearm.

"I love you." She says.

"I love you."

Not looking back at her, he uses their little portal of one to reach the elevators. Harry enters one and with the memo in his hand, he goes down and down.

He can hear loud voices. The warning message they agreed on repeating itself through the entire place: 'All employees to the Atrium. This is an emergency.'

He knows that they're going to be there to protect Hermione, he knows they're powerful and capable. And he doubts Riddle is going to attack his own daughter in front of everyone. But still, a heaviness lingers on his chest. He can't help thinking that Bellaverde was a powerful Dragon and they were all there, regardless, Riddle killed her in front of everyone. It was fast and no one reacted in time to stop it.

Swallowing the lump in his throat, he inhales deeply when the elevator stops. He didn't bring his Cloak. He doesn't want Riddle to have the chance of seizing it back. So, he's completely exposed. But he puffs out his chest and strides fast to the cell.

Before he reaches it he can hear Ludwig. The man is singing an old song. One that his grandfather used to sing to him when he was young. It's an Italian version of a magical tale about three brothers. Harry doesn't quite remember it.

His heart quickens, though. And when he stops in front of Ludwig, the man is smiling maniacally. His needs were magically tended for these past days that no one came here and he seems fine. But the glint of madness in his eyes is undeniable. Harry sets his jaw.

Ludwig crosses his arms. And he finally stops singing.

"I was wondering how much longer it would take for you to come visit me. Where's Hermione?" Ludwig moves his head from one side to the other, searching her. "I really enjoy her company." And he clearly strokes his cock while saying this.

Harry has to take a very deep breath not to kill him right there.

And he's had enough of this.

With a swift flick of his wrist, Harry puts Ludwig down. The man falls on the floor, knocked out. Harry waits a few seconds before opening the cell's door. Even if he knows that there's no way of Ludwig faking this, he's prepared for any slight movement.

Harry holds his breath a bit when he levitates Ludwig out of the cell. This was the easy part. There was no way for Ludwig to put up a fight with Harry since he doesn't have a wand - Harry stops at the thought. He wasn't with a wand. It hits him. It… he was using his magic through the golden watch, wasn't he?

Shaking his head, he puts Ludwig under another sleeping spell. He can't wake up.

Now comes the almost impossible part of their plan. He needs to reach a fireplace with Ludwig and get out of there in front of everyone.

He's going to use a charm to magically confuse people that might look his way. Draco and Chiara are going to help him with this when he steps out the elevator, but even so, he dreads Riddle might feel his presence in a way. It's going to be dangerous but he has to do it. There's no other way. And then, after he and Dobby make sure that Ludwig is well imprisoned inside the Palace, he's coming back for Hermione.

Harry vanishes through the portal and Hermione gulps. She's nervous. She fears her spells might fail if it comes to it and she can't help hating the situation. This dark hole inside her where the rest of her magic should be is terrible. It got worse after Bellaverde died. It took her a while to perceive it, but she's sure. And she's coming to the conclusion that this is never going away. She's coming to the conclusion that she's always going to be a liability for them in many aspects. With her spells failing and with the possibility that her father might control her in a way.

But she inhales deeply and uses the coin to transport herself to the Atrium. The message is being yelled at all corners inside the Ministry and she has no idea where her father is, but he's going to appear. She knows he'll be here.

She's right in front of the statue and Ginny, Draco, Chiara, Ron and Sally are coming to her. If it was her choice Sally wouldn't be here, but Hermione can't decide for her. She's an adult.

Moving both her hands, she magically conjures up a platform for them. And they quietly get into a formation they previously agreed on. She's at the middle and they're all shielding her.

People are entering the Atrium with wide eyes and they all stop at the sight of her and the others. And her eyes catch the press arriving. Neville is among them. Sally inhales deeply by her side and Hermione hopes this works. She hopes this goes as they planned. There's still no sign of her father, but she's not here to talk to him.

She's here to talk with the Wizarding Community. She's here to let them know who Tom Riddle is. What he's done.

And when Neville gives her the thumbs up, Hermione raises her arms, using a spell to ask for silence.

The silence is heavy. They're all looking at her. And Neville is broadcasting this to every wizarding house or place they were able to reach out.

Hermione is ready.

But when she opens her mouth she sees him.

People part ways for Riddle. The Minister is coming from a fireplace. He wasn't at the Ministry and it spikes her curiosity to know what the hell he was doing.

Their eyes lock. She sets her jaw. He's coming closer and closer. His eyes scanning the scene, the employees and the press. He knows there isn't much he can do in front of them if he wants to keep up good appearances.

She's not going to be intimidate by him.

"I'm here today to talk about the man Tom Riddle is. The man who he really is." Murmurs take over the place and her father crosses his arms, squinting at her. "Yes, Tom Riddle is a liar!" She raises her voice at the last words, now that she began she can't stop. "The Potters' Persecution was never about the love between a Pureblood and a Muggleborn. It was about insanity from a man that is never going to stop seeking for power. I've read the file on the Persecution and I can tell you that he already knew where the Potters were. He murdered them mercilessly in a vain search for inexistent Ancient Magic. He killed a young and magical couple! It could have been you! It could have been your parents! Your offspring!" People begin to talk a bit more loudly and she asks for silence again. Her father is not showing any kind of emotion. "Tom Riddle is a dangerous man. He uses his position of power to blackmail Pureblood families!" She takes many folded papers from her pocket. "I have proofs of what I'm saying and I'm talking directly to these families, stop giving in to his wishes. Let go of these shackles. On October last year, after the attack at the Fair which killed ninety-eight wizards and witches, Tom Riddle did nothing! He even tried to stop the investigation because he couldn't accepted venturing into Muggle London!" Her voice is getting higher and higher. Ron and the others move a bit and she can tell that Riddle is trying to get to her through the shield. But they hold it up in place. She can't help wondering where Harry is. "Tom Riddle claims that only Purebloods matter, but when a squib is born into a Pureblood family he silences himself! He uses the Ministry to frighten these people and send them to their death! Harry Potter and I recently saved a mother and a daughter that were about to be practically executed! It's not about our blood! It's about fear! It's about power! It's about submission!" She's breathing hard now. Riddle is looking at her with a nasty sneer. Of course he suspected they were the ones who'd saved Lucinda Summers, but now he's sure. "In all these cases it could have been your own daughter, your own family!" She sets her jaw, the others are making an effort to keep the shield up. She only wants to use her magic if it becomes extremely necessary. "And it was Tom Riddle's own family!" Now she's shaking. He frowns. Oh, this is hard. "He's not a good father. He's not a good husband. He used to experiment on me when I was younger! He abused me. He drained me and made me fear and obey him." The silence is- "He doesn't care about me. He was going to force me to be away from my soulmate because of a marriage of convenience!" Oh, this angers her so much. "And he was the one who tried to murder his own wife!"

People begin to talk. They're all taking steps back from Riddle, looking at him with distaste. She can see that it bothers her father because he looks around himself, widening his eyes, not quite believing they're listening to her. She's trying to do this as fast as possible since she can see that the others are already a bit tired from holding up the shield. She knows how powerful her father can be. And with the corner of her eye, she sees Harry exiting the elevator, Ludwig floating behind him. Her heart quickens. From where her father is standing he can't see Harry yet. And she discreetly snaps her fingers to warn Draco and Chiara. They're supposed to help Harry with this and she knows the shield is going to get weaker. So, she uses her own magic now.

"And I'm not done!" She raises her hands again, asking for silence. She can tell that Harry wants to stay and help her. He wants to be here to see how this is going to unfold. But he needs to go. They agreed on this. He needs to be sure that Ludwig is contained inside the Palace and he's the only one powerful enough to make sure of it. She falters a bit when Draco and Chiara discreetly redirect their magic to help Harry. Her father is hammering the shield with everything he has. She's not sure her, Ron, Ginny and Sally are going to be able to keep holding it. "Tom Riddle is also helping the procured Alchemist Khan Moritz! He's killing wizards and witches with illicit drugs! I tried arresting Moritz months ago, but the Minister stopped the whole operation! It's no wonder the IWO is onto him!" This makes her father even more furious than the way she just exposed what a terrible human being he is. "And I'm tired!" She yells. "Tired of his tyranny! Tired of bending down to his wishes!" People are backing her up on this. "I know many of you also are! I know you don't want this to be your lives anymore! Our blood doesn't matter! Our ancestry do not define us! We should embrace our magic and those who also carry it! I'm here for us to build a new society together!"

She can hear people agreeing with her and she bites hard on her lower lip. Her father is managing to destroy the shield bit by bit. And just when she's wondering if Harry has already reached a fireplace, one of them fires up with the green fire. It distracts her father and they use the moment to reinforce the shield, now with Draco's and Chiara's help. She breathes a bit more relieved. Knowing that Harry is gone gives her peace. She knows it will be hard for her to leave. She knows her father is going to do whatever he can to keep her there.

Hermione continues to talk.

"I'm here with my friends and they're representing big and traditional Pureblood families. The Malfoys, the Blacks, the Weasleys! They're not afraid and neither should you be!" She's looking at everyone, looking at the device that's broadcasting this - glad that her father wasn't able to perceive it. "And now I am a Potter!" She raises her left hand in the air, their wedding band shining bright. Her father fists his hands, taking a few steps to her. She can see how this makes him completely mad. "Yes! Harry Potter lives! And as long as he does, even after he's gone, we're going to be here to defy people like you, Tom Riddle."

Her eyes set on his.

And Hermione can see the fury. The hidden fury that he always kept under the surface. She inhales deeply, knowing what's coming.

With a roar, he shoves people to the sides, and many begin to flee through the fireplaces. Her message is out there. People know what to do now. They know they can count on her. They've heard from her who Tom Riddle is. They can choose.

"He's coming for me and I want you to flee when you get the chance. It's an order." She says to the others. They don't try to go against her words.

The Atrium is practically empty now and Riddle is still looking at her, his arms open by his sides. She knows he's gathering magic. She can feel it.

"You sure are ungrateful, Hermione!" He yells.

Her friends don't move. They're still there protecting her, the shield around them. Hermione can't help wondering where the Pettigrews are. Dolohov. She was sure he would be here with her father, sure they would-

The gush of power is so strong that it obliterates their shield and hits all of them in one go. They fly backwards and Hermione tries cushioning their fall. She does it, but it costs her own landing and it fucking hurts when she hits the marble floor. She screams. Surely something broke inside her.

"Shit." Ron mumbles, coming to her, his eyes wide while he observes Riddle.

Her father is sneering from afar.

"YOU MARRIED A POTTER!" He screams, completely furious. "YOU KEEP BRINGING SHAME TO THE RIDDLES!"

Ron is murmuring a healing spell and Chiara is getting closer to them. Sally, Ginny and Draco are shaking their heads, trying to send away the shock and hurt from the spell that hit them.

Her father sends another wave of pure magic towards her and Chiara is fast enough to put herself in front of Hermione and raise a shield, but it just takes some of the hit and she hurts herself, yelling.

Hermione purses her lips, she knows Ron is still healing her, but she can't stay there while her father is surely going to kill her friends. She squeezes Ron's arm.

"Leave. Right now." She's furious and he hesitates. He wants to stay and protect her. But he also knows that if they don't flee, they'll die. "You have a son to think of." She whispers and he visibly gulps. Her father is yet again gathering magic to hurt them.

"We're not going anywhere." It's Ginny saying.

And it makes Hermione fucking livid. She stands from the floor and with a yell, she uses her magic to shove them into a fireplace. It's fast and effective.

It takes a huge toll on her. But they're finally gone.

It's just her and Tom Riddle then.

Hermione is breathing hard, this is going to be hell. She knows she just needs to reach one fireplace. Her father let the others go. But he wants her. She knows. And they're walking towards each other.

"This was very surprising, though." He says when they're closer. "This little stunt." He opens his arms. "Do you think people are going to take your side?"

"Yes. They will. The same way you hate them, they also hate you." She's almost spitting the words. And Riddle sneers.

"Well, let them hate me. Let them turn against me. I don't care about that." He shrugs. She sets her jaw. "You know, I wonder, were you able to wake up the counselors?"

Hermione doesn't answer, she just throws a jinx at him, trying to hit him with magical arrows. Riddle moves fast, but one does go deep into his thigh. And he makes a face of pain. It gives her immense satisfaction. She's weak. But she's not done. Not even close.

"I could see your surprise when you found out Harry is a Potter." She says in a low voice, they're circling each other slowly, thinking about their next step.

"Indeed." He's limping because of the arrow, angry. "But I can't say it brings me sadness. Someone with the magical Evans blood lives." Hermione inhales deeply, masking her reaction. And Riddle laughs loudly. "Oh, I see it. You know what I'm talking about." He squints. "That's the only thing that matters to me. This power. And I'll do whatever it takes to have it."

He uses a spell to hold her in place and Hermione tries using the counter spell but it fails. Her magic fails and then, Riddle is in front of her. She can't move. His hand closes around her neck. Hermione can't believe this. Is he going to murder her? Is this it?

"You have so much power." He whispers. "But you're getting weaker and weaker, aren't you?" She only swallows, his hand closing more around her neck. "You really thought I wouldn't keep you on some kind of leash? I have power over you, Hermione. I've raised you. You're my daughter." He's seething. "I've nurtured your power so I could take it for myself." She widens her eyes. "But you see, if you became too powerful I wouldn't be able to do it, so…" In a blink she understands what he's saying. It wasn't the collateral damage from the potions. It's something her father did to her that's eating away her magic… he's taking it. "Maybe now you're vulnerable enough. Maybe now I can finally do it."

And he utters some bullshit in Latin. She can feel his magic entering her. Invading her own, searching it and extracting it. She closes her eyes, she needs to resist, she needs to find a way to stop this. Her left hand is burning. But she doesn't have the healing fire from the phoenix. She can't stop this.

Bit by bit, she's losing more of herself. He keeps brutally damaging her. Her father keeps hurting her. He's never going to stop. She's never going to heal. The magic he's taking, her power, is gone forever.

And suddenly she wants to give up. How in the world can she fight this? He's been planning this since she was a child. And she was right, she's a liability-

His grip loosens around her neck and Hermione opens her eyes. Harry is there. And he's squeezing Riddle's throat.

The fire of the phoenix is engulfing him. And he shines like a vengeful angel. Her D'Angelo.

And she never saw her father move away so fast. She never saw him act so scared. His eyes are wide and he's screaming because of the fire that seized his neck. Hermione crumbles down on the floor, she's… so fucking weak. Harry is furious and she can feel it. She can feel his utter rage. His bloodlust. And the fire-

He throws a ball of it at Riddle, but her father is fast enough to stop it from getting to him with multiple shields. Harry is snarling. And her father is still trying to heal from the fire on his neck. He's cowardly moving away from them, trying to reach a fireplace. But she knows Harry won't let him go. She knows Harry wants to kill him.

And Tom Riddle can see the same thing.

So, he sends a Crucio in her direction and the pain blinds her. She screams. The second it takes for Harry to look at her and stop the torture is enough for Riddle to flee.

And when her husband closes his arms around her, she succumbs.

It's total darkness.