To Train A Bad-Ass
By Stargatesg1fan1 Disclaimer: I own nothing of any recognized characters or universes within.
Women Bonded to Harry Potter in This Story
Ros is Played by Esme Bianco Leaf is Played by Kae Alexander Ygritte is Played by Rose Leslie Missandei is Played by Nathalie Emmanuel Daenerys 'Daeny' Targaryen is Played by Emilia Clarke Melisandre is played by Catrice Van Houten
Margaery Tyrell is played by Natalie Dormer Sansa Stark is played by Sophie Turner Tyene Sand is played by Rosabell Laurenti Sellers Myrcella Baratheon Lannister is played by Nell Tiger Free Cersei Lannister is played by Lena Heady
Arya Svit Kona is played by Sienna Guillory Hermione Granger is played by Emma Watson
Chapter 33
A group of young people appeared on a deserted beach.
"It's so beautiful here," Hermione declared as she laid down a beach towel.
"I agree," Susan declared with delight. "Where exactly is this beach?"
"It's in the Mediterranean. The Potters warded it centuries ago so that the muggles don't ever come here. It's simply called Potter Island," Harry explained.
"I wonder if the crumple horned snorcack could be living on an island warded and protected," Luna mused before dancing into the waves with a laugh.
"I think Luna has the right idea," Neville said as he too ran into the waves. Susan laughed and also ran into the ocean.
"You look absolutely stunning in that bikini," Harry told Hermione as he looked her form over. "I could totally power a patronus off this image alone."
"Is that so," Hermione said as she bit her lip and looked him over. "I could say the same about you Mr. Potter."
The couple kissed as he pulled her into his arms. They let the kiss last a few moments before pulling back.
"You know. I don't know if coming here will make Neville's decision harder or easier," Harry said.
"Choosing between Susan and Luna was already going to be a tough choice. I think you're right that this will definitely make something harder," Hermione teased as her hand brushed over his groin.
Hermione then ran laughing into the waves. "Witch," Harry shouted after her while laughing and following her in.
Harry passed out some gillyweed he had brought. Soon, they were all swimming beneath the waves exploring the coral reef surrounding the island. When the gillyweed wore off they returned to the beach where the ladies began to sun themselves.
"This wine is wonderful," Susan declared. "It makes me feel so warm," She added with a grin after taking a sip of her glass.
"I can't believe I'm drinking it," Neville admitted. "But it is good."
"I like wine," Luna declared with a giggle. "It makes me fansy a threesome," She added while eying Susan and Neville appreciatively.
Neville and Susan blushed quite a bit but didn't otherwise say anything.
Harry laughed and said, "Well there is plenty more wine where that came from. The winery my family owns has a huge storehouse preserved just for Potter use."
"If only my parents could see me now," Hermione said.
"If the younger version of you from first year could see you now. Slipping out of school on the weekend to go frolic on a beach and drink," Harry teased.
"That Hermione would be quite cross with you," Neville added with a grin. "Life should be enjoyed," Hermione said firmly. "To enjoying life," Susan said while raising her glass. "I'll drink to that," Luna declared with a giggle before taping another sip of her wine.
The group of friends spent that Saturday on the beach enjoying the company of one another. They had gotten a picnic basket packed with all kinds of delicious foods from the castle elves. Whether or not Neville ever got that threesome Harry wasn't sure. He just knew that at one point he and Hermione went off to have their own bit of fun. He simply couldn't resist with how delicious she looked in that bikini. When he came back the trio of Neville, Susan, and Hermione looked a bit more rumpled. Neville definitely looked quite happy.
Harry sat beside a fire with Arya leaning back against him in his arms. The two of them had just finished a meal. Saphira was sleeping nearby having needed a rest after her own meal.
"This is nice," Arya sent mind to mind, not wanting to disturb her peace by even talking. "It is," Harry agreed.
The two of them had made love in the forest while gathering their meal. Ever since that first time they frequently had sex. The newness of it made their love-making exceedingly passionate.
"I could just lay here forever," Arya declared. "We could do it with magic," Harry teased. "We probably could," Arya agreed.
It was then that an unnatural wind began to blow. Saphira awoke and raised her head while looking in a particular direction. Arya sat up and turned her head in the same direction. Something was coming. Harry tapped into the sensors on the Harion. A cloud of powerful spirits was sweeping towards them.
"Spirits," Harry warned just before a swarm of orbs rapidly changing color and size flew into the small camp.
The cloud swirled around the camp in a frenzied pattern before two of them broke off. One of the orbs approached Saphira and the other approached Harry and Arya.
"You can place your hand on it," Arya said as she did so herself.
Her features looked enraptured. Harry placed his hand on the orb and understood why. The power in the spirit was immense. The feeling of euphoria it gave Harry was equally powerful. He felt it examining him. He knew from his studies that spirits gave off good feelings to those they encountered as a defense mechanism. The mental contact lasted for some time. Then the spirit drew back. It rejoined the swarm which changed colors as the orb that had left them along with he orb that had left Saphira shared what they had learned. Then the swarm departed just as quickly as it had come.
"That was quite the interesting experience," Harry said.
"Very few times in my journeys have I encountered swarms of spirits," Arya said. "But it is always an invigorating spirit. I'm glad I got to share it with you."
She smiled happily at him and then kissed him. Their kiss lasted a few wonderful woments. Then they laid back down together.
"What did you think of the spirits?" Harry asked Saphira.
"I do not think it liked when my mind wandered to a stray thought of what they would taste like,"
Saphira replied.
Arya let out a laugh at this response which caused Harry to grin. The group settled back down to enjoy their rest. Soon enough they would resume their journey back to the Varden. Saphira was content. She had a full belly. Her rider was happy. His mate was happy. The sensations from their most recent bout of lovemaking still coursed through Saphira's body. Being able to connect with their minds made her feel less alone.
Arya too was very happy. She enjoyed being in her lover's arms. She could feel his enjoyment gradually firming against her backside. If that was any indication they may just join together again before they leave. The thought pleased her. Eragon was a good lover. Harry was happy to have Arya in his arms. He had not known this about her. He had learned that she enjoyed her cuddles immensely. He was all too happy to oblige.
"We're close," Harry sent to Saphira and Arya. "You had better set down so we can take the others out of storage."
Saphira touched down. Blodgharm, the guards, Roran, and Katrina were removed from storage and woken up. The guards immediately fanned out in their surroundings and took stock. Harry could sense their magic and the consciousness of the elves reaching out into the surroundings assessing for threats.
"We're back?" Roran asked.
"Yes. The Varden encampment is just over that ridge," Arya said while indicating a ridge just ahead.
Katrina was leading her father by the hand. Even if their last exchange before leaving with the Ra'zac had not been a pleasant one, Sloan's blinding changed things. Sloan may have had some part in the Ra'zac taking Katrina. Yet he was still her father. There were surely some difficult conversations ahead for father and daughter. Yet she was still his daughter.
"All went well on the journey back?" Blodgharm asked as the group began to walk towards the ridge.
"It did. We had no problems," Harry confirmed. "Flying on Saphira allowed us to stay above the clouds most of the time," Arya added.
"Good," Blodgharm said as the group came into view of the army of tents below. "I must admit that while this method of travel is incredibly expedient it is disconcerting to wake up knowing you have been asleep for many days. Still, it is the quickest way to travel great distances."
"It is," Arya confirmed.
As they walked down towards the Varden encampment several patrols spotted them and galloped towards them on horseback. When the patrols reached the group they offered to escort the group to speak with Nasuada. It was worded politely since it was known that Eragon was an ally of the Varden yet didn't report to Nasuada. Harry accepted. He would speak with Nasuada to get an update on events. Even though Harry knew a lot of what was going on due to his probes monitoring of the situation it was still polite to speak to her.
As they approached the sea of people, many members of the Varden congegrated to see the new arrivals. Harry didn't really blame them. How often does one see a Rider and so many elves. Most humans were lucky to see even one elf in their lifetime. Here were many fine specimens of Arya's race. Still, having so many eyes upon him was a little disconcerting.
"This makes me long for the days when it was just you, Saphira, and I," Harry sent to Arya alone.
"That was a very enjoyable time," Arya replied with thoughts tinged with a remembrance of the feelings she had experienced at that time.
It was a mixture of lust, love, and contentment. During the journey back with it just being the three of them it seemed as if the troubles of the struggle against Galbatorix had not intruded upon them. They hadn't been the last hope for the resistance against Galbatorix. They had just been Eragon, Arya, and Saphira enjoying what it meant to be alive.
"Perhaps after this is all over we can spend some time with just us alone along with Saphira of course," Harry suggested.
"I'd like that," Arya agreed.
The crowd swelled around the group as Harry's party began to move among the tents of the Varden. Shouts of blessings, requests for help healing this or that, requests to fix something, and even a few offers of marriage were cried out. The guards kept the crowd at bay. When many of the villagers from Caravahall appeared Harry personally greeted them.
"Thank you for avenging us Eragon, Roran," Horst said as he emerged. "It's good to see you alive," Elaine added as she hugged Katrina.
He was thanked by Birgit for avenging Quimby's murder. Harry wasn't sure when to reveal that Quimby was in fact alive. A plan began to form in his mind. He would rely on Leaf to enact it later. The villagers greeted Katrina happily and for the most part ignored Sloan. His choice to go with the Ra'zac won him no favors. But the sight of him without eyes blunted a lot of anger the villagers would have been feeling for him.
The procession continued to the command pavilion. Nasuada and Orrin were waiting out front with many of Orrin's nobles assembled. Both rulers greeted Harry's party and praised their bravery. Both gave short speeches that roused the crowd.
"If you would say a few words to the crowd," Nasuada requested. Harry silently cast a sonorous charm on himself and spoke quietly.
"Thank you for the warm welcome upon my return. My companions and I set out to rescue one cherished by my family and obliterate an ancient enemy of mankind. The Riders of old destroyed all but a single pair of Ra'zac. That single pair eluded them afraid to come out of the woodwork until the Riders fall. Emerging from hiding was their undoing. For now the Ra'zac are nomore. No longer shall they plague mankind and hunt humans with impunity," Harry said.
Harry was channeling a spell Salazar had taught him. It was a spell which projected charisma to those who listened to the speaker's voice. Those listening couldn't help but pay attention. The crowd cheered for a few moments until realizing their Rider had more to say.
"I know it has been a hard fought battle to this point. It will be a hard fought war going forward. But we will succeed. For the state of affairs with Galbatorix ruling cannot continue. HE WILL FALL!" Harry cried which was punctuated at the end by a roar from Saphira.
The Varden cheered furiously. What followed was Harry being introduced to the whos who amon the Varden's elite. Harry politely greeted them all. Nasuada then asked everyone but a few to leave.
Meanwhile
Birgit had returned to her tent thinking over the vengeance that had just been achieved for the death of her husband Quimby. She was contemplating what action to take if any towards Roran Stronghammer. Having her due of him would mean angering Eragon Shadeslayer, one of the most powerful beings now in Alagaesia. Her thoughts were derailed when she entered her tent to find Quimby standing there.
"Q...Quimby?" Birgit said with shock.
"Yes. It's me. I understand everyone thinks I died," Quimby said. "Leaf saved me."
"How?" Birgit asked.
"I asked. All she would say was magic," Quimby replied.
"Where have you been all this time?" Birgit asked.
"I woke up a short while ago in a strange room. Leaf explained how she had saved me and not much else," Quimby explained. "Where are we?"
Birgit hugged her husband finally believing it was really him. She hugged him for all she was worth. She began to fill him in on what was going on.
Back in the Command Pavilion
"Well that was as tedious as usual," Orrin declared as he sprawled in a chair near Nasuada's own.
Only Orrin, Nasuada, Arya, Harry, and Saphira remained in the tent. Saphira's head stuck through a flap in one side of the tent.
"Indeed," Nasuada said. "What can you tell us of events during your journey?" "We had a swift journey there and a swift journey back," Harry began.
"I still do not understand how it is you could get there and back with so many people. It is not possible for Saphira to carry all," Orrin said curiously.
"I'm sorry. You will just have to continue wondering. That is a Rider only secret," Harry said. "Very well," Orrin said though immensely curious.
"It would be easier to show you with an illusion of the events that transpired when actually at Helgrind," Harry said.
Harry then proceeded to share the memory of the fight with the Ra'zac. Harry edited the memory to keep secret any magical techniques he didn't wish to share. It was actually the cloaked probe following Harry which projected the memory for those in the tent to see.
"I am very glad to see them gone," Nasuada said. "I was fortunate to never meet them myself
but have heard tales." "As have I," Orrin agreed.
"You must be tired from your journey. I would like to invite you all to dine with me tonight along with Roran and Katrina. I would meet the woman who inspired such devotion in Roran Stronghammer," Nasuada said.
"We would be delighted," Harry agreed.
Harry, Arya, and Saphira bid the two rulers farewell and then headed out of the pavilion. It was a simple matter to set up their tents once more near where the villagers from Carvahall were staying. Harry set up two more small magical tents next to the two he had for himself and the elves. One small tent was for Roran. The other tent was for Katrina and Sloan. Until they were officially married, Roran and Katrina wouldn't live together. Katrina and Roran were both amazed at the magical tents. But they quickly recovered given all the magic they had seen.
Not long after, Harry was in a shower in his tent's bathroom washing Arya's back.
"That feels wonderful," Arya said with a pleased tone as she let the hot water flow over her and her lover's hands work their magic on her flesh.
"I quite enjoy it to," Harry said as he took his time.
A few minutes later when he was taking an extra long time to soap up her butt Arya said, "If you keep that up we won't be making dinner with Nasuda and the others."
"I think you underestimate how expedient we can be," Harry replied.
A half hour later, Harry and Arya exited their tent fully dressed and looking much more relaxed. They found Blodgharm and the other guards waiting for them. Harry and Arya walked hand in hand to Nasuada's pavilion where they found her also waiting.
"You might just change Nasuada's mind about magic if she had a magical tent such as yours. The comforts could convince anyone of the usefulness of magic," Arya pointed out mentally.
"You may be right," Harry mused. "Good evening Nasuada," Harry greeted. "Good evening Eragon, Saphira, Arya," Nasuada responded. "If you will follow me."
Nasuada led the small group with her guards and the elven guards trailing behind to a pavilion. Harry's ability to constantly sense the minds of those surrounding him ruined the surprise.
When he opend the flap Harry heard, "Surprise."
At the table were some of the villagers from Caravahall that Harry knew best. Horst's family was there. Roran and Katrina were present. Jeod and his wife were there as well. Angela and Solembum were also present.
"Well don't just stand there," Angela called. "I'm hungry."
Harry had a very pleasant time being reunited with some of those from Eragon's childhood. At first they weren't sure how to act around Arya. But soon enough they grew accustomed to her presence. Elaine with her advanced stage of pregnancy was the first to have to leave. It was still quite late. Nasuada was the next to go due to her duties requiring her to be up early. Before the party broke up Roran asked to speak to Eragon.
"I wish to ask you to marry Katrina and I the day after tomorrow," Roran said with little preamble.
"I would be delighted to. Is there something you wish to tell me from the rush of things?" Harry asked.
"Judging from your question I think you already know," Roran said. Harry grinned. Katrina was pregnant.
"I see," Harry said. He produced a pouch from the pocket of his breeches and handed it to Roran. "For wedding expenses."
"Thank you Eragon," Roran said surprised. "I did not expect that."
"You are my cousin. My family," Harry replied.
The two men embraced before parting.
"What did Roran wish to speak of?" Arya asked. Harry told her. "This is wonderful news," She declared with a smile.
"That it is," Harry agreed.
"Where are you taking me again?" Sloan asked as he was led by Katrina to a tent nearby his own.
"Eragon just told us to go to this tent," Katrina said.
The trio entered the small tent to find it was another enchanted tent. The interior was much bigger than the exterior suggested.
"Eragon," Roran greeted his cousin.
"Alright you three. I brought you here because there are some members of the family missing. I couldn't very well let you get married with events like this," Harry said.
Roran began to smile as he had some inkling of what was coming. Then the flap of cloth behind Harry parted revealing Garrow, Marian, and Ismira. Garrow and Marian had already been reunited with Eragon and one another. They immediately went to Roran and pulled their son into an embrace.
"Mother," Katrina whispered in awe. "What about her?" Sloan asked in confusion unable to see. "She's alive," Katrina said as Ismira pulled Katrina and Sloan into an embrace. Sloan stiffened and said, "What is going on?" "It's me Sloan," Ismira told her husband. "One of the Grey Folk brought me back." "How is this possible?" Sloan asked. "Magic," Harry answered with a grin.
There wasn't a dry eye in the place. Over the next half hour many questions were answered. It was explained that Harry had placed an enchantment on the three so that only those in the tent, Arya, Saphira, and the elven guards would be able to perceive the true faces of the three returned to life. To everyone else they would have other faces. It was decided that this was the best way to protect Eragon's family, anonymity. To everyone else their presence would be explained as being household servants for Eragon's family.
An Hour Later, The Same Tent
"What is it?" Arya asked as she sensed her lover's mood after he led her into a magical tent near their own.
"By now you have realized I have a special relationship with the remaining Grey Folk," Harry said.
"I have realized this. It is a truly wonderous thing," Arya said.
"Well they offered to bring several people back from the dead for me. This is not an easy task for them. But they can do it. My Aunt Marian, my Uncle Garrow, Katrina's mother Ismira have been brought back. What kind of lover would I be if I didn't do something for you," Harry said.
The curtain behind him parted and Arya's breath caught in her throat as she was faced with her living breathing father. She was so young when he died that she had very little memory of him.
"Arya," Evandar said. "Father," Arya replied. Harry had stepped aside. Evandar pulled his daughter into a hug. "How much you have grown," Evandar declared.
Harry left the tent for the two to get acquainted. Evandar would possess the same face-hiding enchantment that Garrow, Marian, and Ismira wore. Blodgharm and the other elves were brought in on the news as well. They were overjoyed.
"What will we do about your guard my King?" Blodgharm asked. "You cannot walk these lands unguarded."
"I will be staying with you for some time. You guards will serve excellently as guards for all of us," Evandar said. "I do not want any guards taken away from Eragon. He is our best hope against Galbatorix."
"Of course," Blodgharm agreed.
There was much celebration amongst the elves that night. When Arya returned to their tent for the night Harry got a very special thank you.
Earth
"This is really nice," Hermione said as she sat across from Harry at a very classy restaurant on Earth.
"It is nice to be around people from time to time even if I tend to prefer solitude. We are getting a lot of stares," Harry pointed out as he reached out and took Hermione's hand.
"Well having a world famous billionaire amidst them probably doesn't happen very often," Hermione mused.
"I think it also has something to do with how absolutely drop dead gorgeous you look," Harry said.
"That has nothing to do with it," Hermione replied.
"Oh please. You'd be disturbed how many of the men nearby are undressing you with their eyes," Harry said.
Hermione cocked her head and tilted it saying, "Show me." Harry reached out with his mind and showed her what his passive telepathy looking for threats had discovered. "That's...oh wow," She said with a deep blush.
"I told you," Harry said.
"You did. It's hard to believe," Hermione said. Casting about for another subject to talk about she said, "How is it going with the egg?"
Hermione had offered to help Harry with the clue of the Triwizard Tournament egg. But Harry had declined. The Harion had detected the preparations being performed in the Black Lake leading to the Merpeople village.
"It wasn't hard to figure out. The egg needed to be listened to underwater. The horrible screeching sound becomes the singing of Merpeople underwater. It basically says we have an hour to get was taken from us or it will be sorely missed," Harry explained.
"What do you think they will take?" Hermione asked with her brows furrowed.
"Not what, who," Harry said. "I think they will ask you to go."
"Oh," Hermione said with surprise. "How will they do that? Put a bubblehead charm on us?"
"I imagine they will put the hostages into an enchanted sleep," Harry said.
"That's disturbing," Hermione said. "Being at the bottom of a lake unconscious."
"I don't blame you for feeling that way. I could trick them into thinking it was you but actually replace you with a convincing golem," Harry said.
"I'd like that," Hermione said. "Could we do it in a way that I'm actually down there to watch or better yet swim alongside you without them seeing me?"
"Of course," Harry agreed. "If you would like we can head up to the penthouse in LuPot and practice in the private pool using our metamorph abilities to give ourselves webbed feet and hands."
Hermione was still getting used to being a metamorphmagus. But it was an ability she was very happy to have.
"You just want to see me in a bikini," Hermione teased.
Harry suddenly had a dazed pleased expression.
"That sounds lovely," Harry said.
Harry had opened the LuPot resort to the public a week before. It was already booked solid for a year. He had made sure to have a private penthouse suite just for himself.
"Going for a swim with you afterwards sounds wonderful," Hermione agreed.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me," Evandar said as Harry sat down in the tent the elf was staying in.
The two males were sitting in some of the comfortable chairs the tent came furnished with. "Of course," Harry agreed. "What is it you wished to speak to me about?"
"I first of all wanted to thank you. I understand it is you who I have to thank for my return to the land of the living," Evandar said.
"I had the opportunity. So I took it. I love your daughter," Harry said.
"From what I can see that is true. And Arya loves you. Your relationship is very new, especially in the terms of what my people consider a relationship," Evandar said. "Keeping in mind that I am truly grateful for you returning me to life, I do not believe this Grey Folk explanation. It is a little known fact. The Grey Folk have always been one of my interests. I spent many years searching out their remnants. Their descendants are rare yet still around. They do have abilities which would appear strange to others. I admit it is possible that a Grey Folk in their form before they interbred could still exist. Yet I am extremely skeptical. My only question is if you know of the true origin of this Leaf or if you are ignorant of her true motives."
"Has Leaf done anything to make you suspect she bears us ill will?" Harry asked.
"She has not," Evandar admitted. "Yet her power is great, perhaps even greater than Galbatorix."
"I am aware of her true nature. Yet her secrets are not mine to share. Unless she tells you herself you cannot be privy to those secrets," Harry said. "I am satisfied her motives are pure."
"I see," Evandar said silently. "I think then I will wait and continue to observe her actions. I wish to get to know what kind of man my daughter has chosen to invest her heart in."
Harry and Evandar continued to talk for some time.
Later
"It's beautiful Eragon," Arya said as he led her into a cavern nearby the Varden's camp which had crystals growing in the walls and ceilings.
Harry had cast a magical light which caused the crystal to glow. A table was set up with a meal for the two of them.
"I wanted to have a meal alone with you," Harry said as he led her over to the table and sat with her.
"I appreciate it," Arya said. "My father said that he and you spoke. What do you think?" "He cares deeply for you," Harry said. "That is only natural for a good father." "I never knew what it was like to have a father," Arya admitted. Harry took her hand gently and gave her a reassuring smile.
"Now you do," Harry said. "He seems like a good person."
"The way my mother spoke of him he was. And from what I am finding he is. He's very intelligent," Arya said.
"I've noticed," Harry said. "How do you think your mother will react?"
"I'm not sure. I was told as a child that his death hit her very hard. I have questioned if that was part of the reason for our estrangement. I wonder if my mother had not closed off her emotions because of his death," Arya said.
The two had begun to eat the meal Harry had prepared for them. One of the dishes was the special meat that hadn't come from a sentient animal. Judging from her reactions, Arya was very much enjoying the flavor.
"Maybe you'll be able to tell after his return," Harry said.
"Maybe," Arya agreed. After chewing her next bite of food, Arya asked, "Why did you not bring back your own mother or father?"
"They have been brought back. Both are in an enchanted sleep. I am still trying to decide the best time to wake them," Harry admitted.
"Why do you have hesitation?" Arya asked in surprise. "They are your parents."
"I don't really have a good answer. I have just been putting it off," Harry admitted. And just like that Selena and Brom were seated in the cave on comfortable chairs. "I suppose I have to watch what I say around Leaf."
"Mother, Father," Harry greeted calmly. Brom's head whipped towards Selena and a look of true wonder overcame his features. Selena's confused gaze was upon Eragon.
"What is going on?" Selena asked. "Why do you call me mother? I never thought to see you again Brom," She added glancing at him. Then she did a double-take when she saw his youthful features. "What happened? You look young."
"You died," Brom whispered while ignoring the comment about his youth.
"Perhaps I should explain. I am Eragon, your son. Eighteen years have passed since you gave birth to me in Carvahall. You have both been rescued from the grave," Harry said.
"By me," Leaf said as she appeared in the cavern. Then she was gone just as quickly as she had come. "Who was that?" Selena asked. "Was that a Grey Folk?" Brom added.
"Quite possibly. Her name is Leaf. We don't know much more about her than that," Arya said. "It is good to see you again Brom."
"Sit back for a long story," Harry said before launching into a brief summary of his early life, his discovery of Saphira, his flight from Carvahall, and the adventures after that.
"You slew a shade!" Selena said when she heard that part. "He did," Arya confirmed.
She looked proud at that as did Brom. Selena looked pained when the subject of Murtagh was brought up. When the story finished they were all quiet for a while.
"An astounding tale," Brom said.
Selena nodded her agreement. Then she stood up and approached her son. She laid her hands upon his face gently as if seeing if he was real. He stood. Selena embraced her son. Brom came forward and also embraced them. The moment lasted for quite a while. Then they broke apart.
"I'm glad to have this second chance. Thank Leaf for me," Selena said. "And for me," Brom said.
"Oh she heard you," Arya said. "And my guess is you have the same enchantment that the others who were brought back have. Only certain people will be able to see your real faces."
"We should get you settled in a tent," Harry said reluctantly. Picking up on the mood of the setting Selena said, "Surely we can find our way back." "Yes. I believe we can manage," Brom said. "I'll ask one of the guards to escort you back," Harry said.
Harry walked ou to the cavern and briefly conversed with Blodgharm. The elf took it in stride as he had begun to learn to do with the miracles that happened around Eragon Shadeslayer. When he returned to the cavern, Harry found Arya still seated looking contemplative.
"What is on your mind?" Harry asked.
"Just amazed at the age we live in," Arya said. "You're not wearing Aren," She noted of the ring he had always worn since Brom's death.
"I returned it to Brom. He almost wouldn't let me give it back to him saying that I could better use the store of energy. I insisted that I didn't need it," Harry said.
"With the techniques you've learned from Leaf I believe that is true," Arya mused.
The two lovers continued to enjoy their intimate meal. Afterwards they sat together just sharing the company of one another.
"You look stunning," Lily said as she admired Hermione in her gown.
"Yes. This will definitely knock Harry's socks off," Emma agreed.
Hermione spun in front of the mirror and looked at her dress critically.
"You don't think it is too over the top?" Hermione asked. "Like it makes me look full of myself," She clarified.
Lily threw Emma a look that said, "I've got this."
Coming from her mother Hermione wouldn't believe it.
"Hermione, you are absolutely gorgeous. All this dress does is emphasize that fact. If a less beautiful girl wore this dress it would still draw attention. Yet it wouldn't have nearly the impact that you wearing it will," Lily said.
Hermione looked at Lily in surprise and then to her mother who said, "She's right."
Hermione smiled then and it lit up the room. She walked over to Rhaezael and wrapped the AI in his HFR body in a hug.
"Thank you for making me this dress," Hermione said gratefully. "It was my pleasure," Rhaezael replied. "It will be Harry's pleasure," Lily mused in her thoughts. Christmas, Earth
Harry woke up on Christmas morning and grinned. Tonight would be the Yule Ball. He would get to see Hermione in her dress which she had been teasing him about for some time now. Lily had promised it was a sight to behold. Harry got himself ready. The other guys gradually left the dorm room until it was just Harry by himself.
"Good morning love," Hermione greeted as she strode into his room dressed in a red Christmas sweater that looked very soft.
"Good morning," Harry greeted with a smile and a kiss.
"Here," Hermione said as she produced a gift box and sat on his bed.
"Here is yours," Harry replied.
They sat side by side and opened their gifts. Harry found some intriguing glowing glass balls that looked somewhat like a rememberal.
"Hold that one first," Hermione said as she pointed to one of the balls glowing with a pink mist. Harry picked it up and immediately felt Hermione's love for him. It was breath-taking. "The enchantments were really difficult but worth it. Now try that one."
The ball she pointed to was a darker shade of red. Harry picked it up and this time felt Hermione's intense desire and lust for him. She blushed as he looked at her. Hermione didn't say anything. So, he picked up the last orb which held a mist that was changing colors. Harry immediately felt like he was getting a BJ from Hermione.
"Oh wow," Harry said.
"I wouldn't hold onto that one for too long if you don't want a certain result," Hermione said.
"These are fantastic," Harry said before he kissed her. "Thank you so much!"
"I thought you might like those," Hermione said with a grin. "I got the idea from your advanced pensieve."
Hermione set about opening her present. Inside was a single book. The title said, "Hermione Granger's Favorite Book."
Hermione opened it and found blank pages inside. "I don't understand," Hermione admitted. "Think of a book from the library," Harry said.
Hermione thought of Hogwarts A History and suddenly the book she was holding transformed to show that. She was amazed. She thought of a different book. Then a different book. The book in front of her transformed to the book she thought about it.
"Can this do any book in the Hogwarts Library?" Hermione asked.
"Yes," Harry confirmed. Hermione tackled him back on the bed and kissed him heatedly. "I am so hot for you right now."
Hermione felt even better about the present she planned to give him later after the Yule Ball. Harry and Hermione spent most of the day with their families at Granger-Potter Manor. That was what the had decided to call the second manor house Harry had built on the same property as Potter Manor. It had recently been finished. It was a perfect time to debut it. Dorea, Charles, James, and Lily Potter were in attendance. Dahlia and Peter Evens had also come. Sirius, Amelia, and Susan were present. Remus had brought his recent girlfriend Nymphadora Tonks after swearing her to secrecy on the survival of the Potters. Baby Rose Potter was in Lily's arms for the start of the party but was passed around quite frequently to all of the admiring females. Rose had been born a month before. Harry was quite happy to have a little sister.
At five PM, Susan, Harry, and Hermione returned to Hogwarts so that the two witches could begin getting ready for the Yule Ball. Harry hung out with the guys until closer to the ball. Then he began getting ready.
"Ron, your robes are appalling. Let me help," Harry said as he took out his wand. "Anything would be better than this," Ron admitted.
"That looks loads better," Neville said as he looked over Ron's now transfigured dress robes with a critical eye.
"Thanks Harry," Neville said as he twisted and turned to admire his stylish dress robes. "I'm just surprised you didn't think of it," Harry said. "You are a wizard." "Sometimes I forget to apply what we learned in class out of class," Ron admitted.
Harry went down to the common room and waited with several of the guys. When Hermione stepped into view Harry's breathe caught in his throat. She was wearing a dress of periwinkle blue that actually glowed. It was a purely magical effect which only enhanced Hermione's natural beauty. Her hair was sleak and smooth.
"Breathe Harry," Hermione teased as she reached the bottom stair while inwardly pleased with his reaction.
"Beautiful," Harry whispered in awe while the other guys who were staring nodded as well.
Ron looked a little jealous yet Harry ignored it. The other girls began coming down. Luna had gotten ready with the Gryffindor girls. Neville had both Susan and Luna on his arms. Ron was going with Lavender Brown. Seamus was going with Parvati. Dean was taking Ginny.
"Champions over here please," Professor McGonagall called in the crowded entrance hall as 8'oclock came closer.
Fleur was with Roger Davies. Krum had asked Daphne Greengrass to the ball. Cedric was with Cho Chang. And then Harry was with Hermione. Hermione was getting many disbelieving stares from the Hogwarts students as they filed past into the Great Hall.
"It's like they didn't realize you were so beautiful," Harry said mentally to Hermione. "I don't think they did," Hermione sent back a little sadly.
"I certainly did," Harry replied. "You just look especially stunning tonight. I think you look delicious enough to eat."
That was the little code they used to let the other know they were hopeful for some oral action later.
"Do I," Hermione said teasingly. "I think you look good enough to eat too. I think we'll be having a feast tonight."
Hermione's response had Harry thinking they would be having oral sex that night. Hermione intended to go much further. The attendees of the ball all clapped as the champions and their partners were led into the hall towards the head table seating the judges. Many round tables
seating around a dozen people lined the hall. The hall had been redecorated with a Christmas theme. Harry arrived at the head table where the judges were already seated. He pulled Hermione's chair out for her and saw her seated before sitting himself.
"Thank you Harry," Hermione said.
Harry smiled at her and took her hand. Harry was sitting next to Percy Weasley who was apparently there in place of Bartemus Crouch.
"Hello Percy," Hermione greeted. "I take it you are here in place of Mr. Crouch."
"Hello Hermione, Harry," Percy said. "Yes. I've been promoted to Mr. Crouch's assistant. He is ill I'm afraid."
Percy launched into a bit of a monologue about Crouch and his position. Harry politely nodded.
"Well congratulations on your promotion," Harry said. Then he turned to Fleur who was seated next to Hermione and asked, "Fleur, I was wondering if Beauxbatons allows visitors to tour the grounds."
"We do 'ave visiting days. It iz truly a beautiful zite," Fleur replied. "Are you thinking about touring it?"
"We always like seeing wonderful magical sites," Hermione confirmed. "I'm rather curious about Beauxbaton's library myself. My written French isn't as fluent as my spoken French. But I get by."
"Parlez vous Francais?" Fleur asked in surprise, asking if Hermione spoke French.
The two girls launched into a pleasant discussion in French which Harry had no trouble following along with and even joining in on thanks to his neural link with the Harion. Otherwise he wouldn't have been able to follow along. By this point, everyone had ordered their food by speaking into their plates and was eating. Harry thought the food was delicious and the company even better.