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Chapter Text

The morning at Perevell Manor was a symphony of peace. Sunlight streamed through the windows of the main dining room, dyeing the curtains amber and making the enchanted marble floor shimmer like water.

Hermione adjusted the black cloak with silver details that hung over her shoulders. Her wand rested at her belt, though she rarely used it and carried it only for the sensitive minds of other wizards—next to a dark dagger she usually wore only when she wanted to leave no doubt about her intentions. She looked elegant. Determined. Beautiful.

Harry watched her from the doorway, a steaming cup of tea in hand, leaning casually with that soft smile only Hermione knew. He was barefoot, his hair tousled from early games with Emma and Edward.

” Are you going to tell me exactly where you're going, or do I have to guess with Freya's mirror? ” —Harry joked, raising an eyebrow as he stepped closer.

Hermione turned on her heels, smiling with those stormy eyes that always managed to calm him ” I'm off to find a toad.” 

Harry let out a low, rough laugh ” A toad? By any chance, one with luxurious pink suits and a fake smile?” 

” Maybe... ” Hermione tilted her head, amused” . Perhaps one that croaks louder than it should. Are you worried?” 

” Not if you're the one going after him. ” Harry set the cup aside and stepped forward, cupping her face in his hands” . Just promise me you'll be back soon. Or at least before our kids blow up another room.” 

” I know you, Harrison Perevell. When I return, it’ll probably be you to blame for the chaos, not them.” 

” Slander! ” Harry feigned offense, catching her by the waist” . I am the very image of stability and sanity in this household” 

Hermione let out a muffled laugh, leaning in until her nose brushed his ” You're adorable when you lie.” 

” And you, my angel, are dangerous when you smile like that.” 

Harry kissed her gently, caressing her cheek as if he still couldn’t believe she was his. Hermione responded with a shorter kiss, then one at the corner of his mouth, and a final one on his forehead before pulling away slightly.

” See you in a few hours ” she murmured.

” I’ll be waiting… though if you take too long, I’ll have to comfort myself with wine, books, and your favorite shirt ” he replied, winking.

” Don’t you dare ruin my shirt.”  Hermione vanished in a swirl of shadows, leaving behind a scent of lavender and ink” and a completely smitten husband.

Harry lingered for a few seconds, staring at the empty space she had occupied. He smiled, shaking his head.

” Off to find a toad... only Hermione could make that sound poetic.” 

The house felt bigger without her… but not for long.

Silence wrapped around the main hall of Perevell Manor. Harry still stood in the hallway, where just minutes before he had said goodbye to his wife, now gazing through the window as sunlight gently bathed the enchanted gardens. His fingers absentmindedly played with a small rune stone Cassie had left on the table the night before.

Sometimes, it all felt unreal.

A house full of laughter, children, scattered books, training in the yard, and a wife who loved him… It wasn’t the future he had imagined as a boy. And yet, it was better.

” Daaad! ” Teddy’s voice interrupted his thoughts like a protective charm.

Harry blinked and turned toward the entrance. The four-year-old was running toward him with a toy broom under one arm and his other hand clenched with determination.

” You said we’d fly after breakfast!” 

” And we will, my little sun” Harry answered, crouching to lift him with a spin through the air” . But we need our senior pilot, don’t we?” 

” Cassie? ” Teddy tilted his head”  She’s in the library… telling Emma about the magical clan wars. Again!” 

Harry smiled. His eldest daughter had an obsessive fascination with magical history. And with her little sister, Emma, who barely spoke in full words yet stared at her with utter devotion every time Cassie opened a book.

” Then let’s go get her. Maybe we can bribe her with free flying and ice cream after ” Harry joked, carrying him down the hallway toward the grand family library.

The carved oak door was ajar, and golden light spilled over the carpets. Harry pushed it gently and stepped inside, Teddy raising his voice in a dramatic whisper.

” This is where the wise women of the castle hide…”

” be grateful your mother’s not here or we wouldn’t be able to get a single one out ” he assured calmly, though that didn’t make it any less true.

In the center of the room, atop a rug embroidered with living runes, Cassie sat with Emma in her lap, a large tome floating in front of them. The teenager spoke as she pointed to animated illustrations depicting ancient battles between wizards and elemental creatures.

” ...And that’s how the Fire Raven Clan defended the northern territories during the Second Runic Uprising ” Cassie explained in a calm voice, while Emma traced the path of a magical flame in the floating image with one finger.

Harry leaned against the doorframe, his heart warmed by the scene ” I don’t want to interrupt Professor Perevell, but her flying students are ready.” 

Cassie turned her head slightly and raised an eyebrow ” Flying now? I’m in the middle of a critical magical history lesson.”  she followed her father’s dramatic tone

Teddy puffed his cheeks ” But you promised! And you said that if I beat you at wizard chess, we’d go flying” 

Cassie sighed theatrically, closing the book with a soft magical snap. She kissed Emma on the cheek and stood with grace” You can’t use my own words against me, Apollo ” she joked, carefully handing Emma to Harry” . Give me five minutes and I’ll be ready” 

Harry nodded” Five minutes. Then, flight field. Bring your wand, your broom... and your reflexes” 

Cassie grinned mischievously and vanished up the marble staircase, leaving behind the echo of her laughter. Harry watched her go, then looked down at Emma, who was still staring at the door her sister had gone through.

” Do you want to fly too, little princess? ” he asked softly.

Emma responded with a giggle and a babble that sounded dangerously close to “Cassie wiiins!”

” Traitor ” Harry muttered, pulling a mocking face as he headed out with his two youngest children toward the garden.

-------------------------------------------------------

The apparition was silent.
Hermione emerged from the shadows of the alley, calmly adjusting the dark cloak draped over her shoulder.
The house ahead was a garish, tasteless pink, with floating fake flowers and poorly woven privacy enchantments.

Exactly as she remembered it.

She approached unhurriedly. The protections unraveled at her presence like dry leaves before a flame.
It was strange to be there, in a past that no longer existed, in a story she had already rewritten… except for a few ghosts who still deserved answers—and vengeance.

She entered.

The décor hadn’t changed in decades—pictures of falsely smiling cats, carpets with slogans like “Purity and Order,” armchairs with golden trim, and porcelain cups on dusty shelves.
Hermione walked to the desk. There were the documents.

A list of surnames.
Some underlined.
And beside them, in red ink, notes: “suspicious semi-human influence,” “weak lineage,” “deviant emotional affiliation.”

Hermione didn’t blink.
She merely ran her fingers across the page and turned it to ash with a whisper.
She sat in an old chair that groaned beneath her weight, crossed her legs, and waited.

Minutes later, a sharp crack echoed.
Dolores Umbridge appeared in the hallway, with her usual short, hurried steps. She was muttering something about ministry meetings and regulations—until she froze at the sight of the figure sitting in her study.

” Lady Perevell…? ” she said, with a strained smile” . How… unexpected. What brings you here? Has the Ministry sent an unannounced inspection?” 

Hermione didn’t answer immediately.
She simply observed her in silence. Her gaze was a velvet-covered blade.

” This isn’t an inspection. It’s… a conversation ” she said at last, her voice low, soft, measured.

Dolores tensed.
She swallowed, her fingers unconsciously touching the cat-shaped brooch on her cloak.

” Is this about your husband’s proposals, perhaps? ” she asked” . I’m certain the Blood-Magic Integrity Committee will review everything carefully. Some of us… are simply concerned about the risks of fully integrating… creatures.v

” Creatures ...? ” Hermione repeated with an almost imperceptible smile” . What an… eloquent word.v

Umbridge cleared her throat.

” Lady Perevell… if you’ve come because of rumors about my opposition to the new lycanthrope decree, you should know that my actions are always in defense of the wizarding people.” 

Hermione stood and walked toward her, unhurried.
Each step seemed to wrap the room in a growing chill.

” And when you were a professor at Hogwarts, were you defending the wizarding people then too? ” she asked gently.

Umbridge blinked, confused ” Professor…? What are you talking about? I’ve never taught there” 

Hermione stopped in front of her.
Her eyes gleamed with a dangerous shadow.

” That’s the beauty of time. Sometimes… a lesson comes before the crime is committed.” 

Dolores stepped back, half a pace.” Crime…?” 

Hermione raised her hand.
The shadows stretched from the corners of the room, wrapping it in an oppressive veil. The walls began to ripple, as if breathing—as if dark memories from the future were searching for a crack to seep into the present.

"I met children who cried because of you "Hermione said, her voice steady, without emotion"  Children punished for using their magic. For writing their names. For defending themselves. Neville. Fred. George. Luna."

Umbridge turned pale.
Something about this woman terrified her, though she didn’t know why.
It felt as though some part of her had lived this before… and hadn’t survived.

"I… don’t know what you’re talking about "she whispered.

"You will."

The magic tightened over the room like a net.

"I didn’t come for politics, Dolores. I came for revenge "Hermione leaned in, her voice a frozen whisper"  And this time… I’m the professor."

Umbridge never got the chance to scream.
The shadows closed in around them both.
And the lesson… began.

-------------------------------------------------------

The sound was faint. Like the crack of a leaf breaking in autumn.
Hermione rose from the velvet armchair, worn by years and poor decisions.
She adjusted the black cloak that fell elegantly to the floor and cast one final glance at the pink-fronted house that once tried to impose order through fear.

Behind her, the silence was absolute.
Dolores’s nervous squealing could no longer be heard.
Nor remained any trace of her grating voice, her excuses, or her repugnant laughter.
Only a ghostly echo fading slowly into the walls… as if the house held its owner's last breath.

Hermione sighed—not in sorrow, but in weariness.

"I took too long to leave "she murmured to herself as she crossed the threshold". This place was already starting to stink."

The house, pink on the outside and rotten within, shuddered.

From the outside, there were no screams, no warnings.
Only a faint creaking… as if the walls breathed one last time.

The street remained quiet, barely busy at that hour of the afternoon.
A pair of witches chatted near the flower shop.
Two young Aurors walked toward the adjacent alley.
Everything seemed the same.

Until the first silent explosion hit like a magical slap.

The windows cracked from within, breaking without shattering.
The paint on the façade began to flake.
A deep fracture split the front door in two, revealing an impenetrable darkness beyond the threshold.

” By Morgana! ” exclaimed a woman, stepping back” . What was that?” 

” A curse? Sabotage? vasked a young wizard, clumsily drawing his wand.

” Isn’t that Dolores Umbridge’s house? ” said a voice from further back, tinged with venomous mockery” . I doubt there’s anyone in there worth saving…” 

” Watch your tongue ” grumbled an old man passing by” . Maybe no one’s inside. Hopefully.” 

The house groaned.

This time the sound was sharp, brutal—like the roar of a dragon trapped in stone.
The foundation sank slightly, and the roof began to fold inward, collapsing in a slow, almost ritualistic motion.

Several wizards rushed toward the scene.
Some cast protective spells.
Others retreated, sensing the dense aura hanging over the ruins.
An Auror attempted to cross the shadow barrier now surrounding the property.

” District Four Aurors! ” shouted one, communicator in hand” . Requesting immediate backup. Umbridge residence collapsing. Possible magical detonation. Unknown if there are survivors.” 

But among those trying to help, voices of skepticism also rose.

” Who would even be in there? That witch never had visitors. Everyone avoided that house.” 

” I heard she was conspiring again… against the Ministry’s new reforms…” 

” What if she did this to herself? You know… old magic, forbidden artifacts…” 

The house tilted with a thunderous crack—a final exhale before the complete collapse.
A blast of magical dust darkened the street like a storm of ash.

From a nearby rooftop, a hooded figure was already walking away with silent grace.
No one saw her.
No one felt her.
As if she had never been there.

“For Neville. For Luna. For the twins. For all those who never had justice.”

The afternoon air was warm, scented by the jasmine that climbed freely along the back walls of the Perevell mansion. The leaves whispered in the wind.

Hermione appeared from the shadows at the edge of the forest, just where the property’s protective shield ended. She made no sound. She simply stopped. Observed.

A few meters ahead unfolded a perfect scene—her home, her family, her life.

The improvised Quidditch field was filled with laughter.
The sun bathed Harry from above, highlighting golden streaks in his dark hair as he flew in circles with Emma in his arms. His little princess shrieked with excitement, wide-eyed, clutching his neck with her tiny hands. Harry soared upward, then dove sharply just to make her laugh.

It was so natural.
So different from the orphan boy with the lightning-shaped scar.
Now he was a father. A protector. He laughed without fear. He loved without guilt.

Below, her little angel walked with a firm step next to her little sun, both carrying brooms, deep in a strategic discussion.

Hermione placed a hand on her chest” not because she couldn’t breathe, but because love was overflowing inside her.

How many times had she dreamed of this?
How many times had she thought she’d have to pay too high a price for dreaming of something so simple” peace, a family, afternoon games.

And yet she was here, seeing it with her own eyes.

Harry flew in the air, twirling with Emma, who cried out ”  More! More! Daddy!”

And Harry, delighted, replied ” At your command, my princess!” 

Hermione laughed quietly.

 ” What a beautiful fool you are, Harry ” she murmured with a smile.

It was then that she noticed Cassie crouching next to Teddy, adjusting a magical kneepad for him. She spoke softly, and the boy nodded with confidence. He felt safe with her. Hermione knew Cassie” even if she didn’t always admit it” was fully committed to being the big sister.

Her eyes returned to Harry.
She watched him laugh with his head tilted toward Emma, kiss her forehead tenderly, and spin the broom in a way that made the little girl clap in delight.

That man, who had faced gods and monsters, was now just Dad .
And that made him more powerful than ever.

Hermione sighed. Took a step forward.

” Harrison James Perevell. Cassie Artemis Perevell. Edward Apollo Perevell. Emma Athena Perevell ” she called with a clear, warm voice… and with that unmistakable tone that meant: recess is over .

It was like a spell. Everyone froze.
The wind seemed to pause.
Even the basilisk napping at the edge of the field lifted its head.

Teddy was the first to react ”  It was Dad’s idea!” 

Cassie immediately nodded, serious ” Yes, Mum. He said it was safe.” 

Harry descended slowly with Emma still in his arms, wearing a betrayed expression.
” Really? You’re selling me out that fast?” 

Emma looked at him. Then turned her head toward her mother and, with the most innocent face in the world, said ” Daddy wanted to fly…” 

Hermione couldn’t hold back the laugh. She covered her lips with one hand and shook her head.
” Oh, blessed Merlin… Harry can say what he wants, but these kids are just like him ” 

Harry landed with a theatrical sigh, stepping closer.
” Am I in trouble?” 

” After lunch ” she replied with a dangerous smile, leaning in to give him a slow, sweet kiss on the lips” . In the meantime, go wash the troublemakers you call your children.—

Cassie was already carrying Emma, and Edward came running toward Harry with his arms up.
” Dad, pick me up! Hurry, before Mum notices!” 

Harry scooped him up with ease, spinning him in his arms.

The buzzing of magical brooms faded completely as the family walked back to the house, laughter echoing between quick footsteps and half-baked excuses.

” By the count of three, all of you better be in the bath! ” Hermione announced with a barely-contained smile, closing the door behind them with a subtle spell” . One…” 

” Mum, wait! ” shouted Edward, arms still raised as he dangled from Harry’s neck like a living cape” . It was Dad’s idea!” 

” Traitor! ” Harry exclaimed, feigning indignation as he set him down.

” It’s the truth! ” the boy insisted, changing his hair and eyes to look more like his mother, raising one hand as if testifying” . I was just following orders” 

” Orders? ” Cassie repeated, one eyebrow raised while holding Emma on her hip”  Who do you think you are, a knight already?” 

” Aren’t I one? ” asked the boy, wide-eyed.

” Not with those kneepads ” Cassie said mockingly” . Especially not if you rat out your superiors.” 

Hermione crossed her arms as Harry approached, as if to step in But she glanced at him sideways.

” Don’t think you’re off the hook for bath time ” she said in a soft, mischievous voice, brushing his neck with the tip of her fingers” . You started this aerial revolution.” 

” Revolution? ” Harry gave a crooked smile” . I call it magical training and strategic family bonding.” 

” Of course you do, Mr. Minister of Domestic Flight ” Hermione replied, taking Emma from Cassie’s arms as she passed him, and planting a slow kiss on his cheek that left him speechless for exactly two seconds.

” Was that a threat or a promise? ” he asked, following her.

” Depends. Are you going to help bathe the children? ” she said without looking back, while Emma waved her arms from her privileged position.

” Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles! ” the baby shouted.

” That’s a yes ” said Cassie, smiling as she let Teddy go ahead down the hallway, ruffling his hair playfully right after.

” Cass! ” the boy protested, dragging his feet dramatically” . Mum, your daughter is attacking me!” 

” Then run faster ” said Hermione, as Emma clapped gleefully.

” Already in the main bathroom, steam was beginning to rise from the bathtub, which bubbled with” 

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The Ministry of Magic’s deliberation chamber had been transformed. It was no longer a shadowy chamber where laws were decreed in whispers, nor an intimidating hall for imposing punishments on those who didn't fit in.
Now it was a living space.

The marble had been polished, the tapestries updated, and the dark symbols removed. On the walls hung magical maps of Great Britain, updated with every magical village, creature sanctuary, and registered school. The old portraits of past Ministers had been replaced by murals depicting the shared history of wizards, witches, and magical beings.

Lord Harry Perevell, standing beside the central table, listened as a young aide read the latest CSAM report.

” The data shows that, since admitting students with lycanthropic heritage, academic performance has risen by 18% ” the young man read enthusiastically” . Absenteeism has dropped and reports of disciplinary incidents have been halved” 

” And international exam results? ” asked a more distant voice, Lord Nott, one of the traditional Lords but an ally of the reforms.

” Hogwarts has climbed three places in the European rankings ” —Harry answered, calm but firm” . The new CSAM courses are yielding results: Advanced Magical Control, Magical Heritage, Integration Ethics, Modern Magical Artefacts… all that Dumbledore removed for being “non‑essential.”

A murmur of approval ran through the chamber. Even Lady Selwyn, a consummate conservative, had to nod with a furrowed brow.

A wizard in grey robes raised his hand. He was the new Head of the Department of Magical Security, appointed after the fall of the old regime.

” And on the employment front? What about adult lycanthropes who have come out of anonymity?” 

Harry retrieved an enchanted scroll from his robes and unfurled it. Figures floated in the air like constellations.

” In the last quarter, over 120 adults with magical creature heritage were hired in formal employment. Some in magical shops, others as research assistants at St. Mungo’s, and even five as instructors in northern magical academies ” he said with a subtle smile” . The key was training. We gave them tools, not charity.

Lord Black, Arcturus, watched from one side. His gaze was attentive, stern… yet pleased. His words were brief, as always:

” Magic changes. We must change with it. The Blacks support these reforms. There is more dignity in lifting the marginalized than pretending they don’t exist.” 

A reverent silence followed his words.

The Ministry’s main hall still held the solemnity of the last announcement about werewolves. Several magical representatives, from both the Wizengamot and the International Confederation, remained in their seats as documents floated magically above the large round table.

A new enchanted folder descended with a faint magical squeak. As it opened, the room fell silent. The emblem etched in black ink” a downward‑pointing rose, an ancestral symbol of vampiric clans” emerged on the treaty’s cover.

Lord Edgar Bones rose and looked directly at the assembly ” The next point concerns agreements with Britain’s vampiric clans. After more than three centuries of living in the shadow of our laws, the Akarale have agreed to negotiate a treaty of magical autonomy, trade regulations, and representation on the international council. ” 

A tense murmur spread around the table.

Lord Perevell took the floor, his characteristic calm but firm tone returning:

” For years we treated them as threats, when in truth they reflected our fears and ignorance. This treaty is not a concession… it’s a historical correction. The vampiric community will have the right to:

• Establish their own businesses, including nocturnal libraries, enchanted restaurants, and potion markets.
  • Participate legally in magical market transactions, with licenses and transparent oversight.
  • Receive dignified medical care. A new wing at St. Mungo’s, specializing in biological and regenerative treatments for nocturnal species, has been agreed upon.

From the left side of the chamber, a tall figure in a black cloak stood. The Akarale of London, ancestral leader of Britain’s vampiric clans, inclined in respect.

” Our trackers and healers have been hunted, our libraries sealed, our children taught to fear the sun… but today, thanks to this reform, we take the first step toward a new pact.” 

A conservative witch on the council murmured

” And what if they attack innocents? What if they don’t comply?” 

Edgar, without hesitation, replied:

” They are subject to the same punishments as any magical citizen. No more, no less. And the clans have agreed to establish their own internal enforcement body.” 

Lord Perevell crossed his arms, calmly surveying the entire chamber ” We are not stronger by staying apart. We are stronger when we choose to see that being different is not a reason to be enemies. This is the Magical Britain we are fighting for.”
The treaty floated to the center of the room, and one by one, signatures began to appear in golden light. Silence gave way to murmurs of awe and approval.
When the floating quill traced Lord Akarale’s signature, he looked at Harry with solemnity.
” Our children will no longer fear studying at Hogwarts, Lord Perevell. You’ve started something not even the night will be able to darken.” 

And so, as the parchment closed itself with magic, a new era was sealed in blood... but not of violence—of understanding.
The echo of the sealed parchment still lingered in the air when Lord Bones rose once more, holding a ceremonial goblet of dark crystal in his hands.
” This Ministry wishes to formally express its gratitude to the vampiric clans for their willingness to sign these treaties and for setting an example of historical reconciliation ” Edgar announced” . May your nights be filled with knowledge, not fear.” 

Lord Akarale, tall, with eyes like liquid obsidian, bowed gracefully, accepting the goblet, which filled itself with dragon wine. He took a ceremonial sip. No words were needed. His silence was ancient and reverent.
A restrained, solemn applause followed. At the far end of the chamber, a soft breeze drifted through the enchanted stained glass. A scent of fire blossom. Golden lights danced as though the chamber itself was breathing magic.

From the double doors, a radiant figure advanced.
Dressed in pale fabrics that shimmered under the enchanted light, Apolline Delacour, leader of the Delacour Clan of France, walked with firm steps. Her silver-gold wavy hair seemed to hold sunlight itself.
Lord Perevell was the first to speak ” It is an honor to receive the representative of the veela, one of the oldest and most resilient magical cultures in Europe. Today, they do not come merely to speak… but to claim, with dignity, what has been denied to them for generations.” 

Apolline stopped in the center, her gaze sweeping across the room ” For centuries, our songs were deemed dangerous. Our magic, a weapon. Our very existence, a threat. But today, Magical Britain is listening.”  She bowed her head slightly” Thank you, Lord Perevell. Thank you, Lady Hermione. And thank you to this new generation of witches and wizards who have begun to correct the mistakes of the past.”  The applause now was less restrained.

Lord Bones lifted a new folder. ” The next item: regulation and recognition of the veela clans as an integral part of magical society.”
Apolline spoke again, now standing before them all ” We do not seek sympathy. We seek recognition. And we are not asking for privilege… but for equality.” 

A parchment floated to the center: “Veela Cultural Integration Protocol – 1981.” The proposed reforms included:

• Official recognition of veela clans and their leaders as heads of magical communities.
  • Inclusion of veela history and culture in the academic curriculum of all British magical academies.
  • Right to hold public positions, including magical judgeships, healers, and teaching roles.
  • Elimination of the term “magical creature” when referring to veela in official documents.
  • Permanent representation on the interministerial council.

A stern-faced witch stood up, clearly concerned.
” And what about emotional control? What of their seductive magic?”
” That question reveals more prejudice than concern. Our magic is not used to manipulate… it is part of who we are, just as your wands are part of you.” 

Lord Black, who had remained silent all this time, finally spoke in his deep voice ” If vampires and werewolves already have their place… why not the veela? We, the old guard, must either adapt—or step aside.” 

Lord Perevell added with a half-smile ” Magic is neither a weapon nor an advantage. It is heritage. And the veela have every right to see their heritage no longer treated as a threat.” 

Edgar concluded ” We will vote next month. But today… we’ve already made history.” 

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The French breeze played with the leaves of the tall trees surrounding the magical villa where the Perevells had decided to stay for a few days. The vineyards, protected by ancient spells, shimmered in the sunset light, and the sky was dotted with soft clouds that drifted as if dancing.

Harry and Hermione were barefoot on the warm grass of the back garden, resting under a blooming pergola, a glass of wine in each of their hands. She was laughing, her head resting on his shoulder, while he tried to convince a restless Edward not to turn into a dragon… again—or try to, really.

” But Mum, I promise it’ll be a small dragon ” said the boy, his hair shifting to a bright orange that flickered as if it were on fire.

” A small dragon who knocked over three bookshelves last night ” Hermione replied sweetly, one eyebrow raised”  No, my love. Today you're a boy. A boy with feet.” 

Cassie, sitting on a hanging chair nearby, was flipping through a book on rare potions, chuckling quietly. ” I say let him. I could train him. He could be the first dragon ever domesticated by a teenage witch. And also, adorable.” 

” Cassie! ” Harry said, feigning horror” . Are you encouraging your brother’s rebellion?” 

She simply shrugged, amused. Edward took the moment and changed his hair to a deep blue with black tips, then to a shade of green with golden flecks.

” Look, now I’m a Quidditch field ” he said, running around them with laughter.

Hermione cast a gentle spell that made a floating cloud wrap around him and lower him softly onto her lap.

” You are many things, little sun, but for now, you're our son” and that’s enough.” 

Emma, sitting on the blanket spread over the grass, clapped her hands excitedly. She was surrounded by paper butterflies fluttering around her, enchanted by Harry to keep her entertained. Her little eyes sparkled with innocence and mischief. She was in the sound-repeating stage, and in that moment she shouted joyfully ” Daddyyy! the best!” 

” That was crystal clear! ” said Harry, beaming like the proud father he was.

” That was emotional manipulation, more like ” added Cassie from behind her book, still smiling.

Hermione leaned toward Harry and kissed his cheek, then rested her forehead against his. ” Did you ever imagine this?” 

” Never. Especially not in France, with a shapeshifting kid, a teenager with a sweet assassin look, and a tiny girl who rules the house with a single smile.” 

” But it’s perfect, isn’t it?” 

” It’s everything I never thought I’d have… and everything I always wanted ” he whispered.

Cassie pretended to gag ” Oh please! Don’t start the romance in front of minors. There are children present!” 

Edward raised one very serious hand ” I’m not a child! I’m a basilisk! Fsssshhh!” 

Their laughter blended with the gentle sway of the wind.
In the distance, enchanted bells chimed, marking the magical hour of rest.

” Tomorrow we meet the Delacours ” Hermione said, gazing at the sky” . Do you think they’re ready for us? ” she paused, amused”  Or rather, for the kids” 

Harry chuckled softly ” No one is ever ready for the Perevells… but that’s never stopped us.” 

Cassie closed her book, grinned conspiratorially, and added ” Heaven help them… Though I think our case is more of a hell one.” 

” Wouldn’t it be the Veil? ” Teddy asked, confused, jumping onto his father’s back”  But that’s Uncle Anu’s house.” 

” Don’t listen to your sister, my sun” Hermione said with a playful tone, ignoring the teen’s sideways glance”  and tomorrow, no one mentions your uncles, understood?” 

” Fairy godmother Frey? ” Emma asked, confused, taking her sister’s offered hand”  Not godmother either?” 

” No one mentions any deity, got it? ” Hermione clarified, looking not just at her children but also at Harry”  No hounds, no weavers, no clockmakers, no basilisks” whoever even thinks of joking won’t fly for a month.”  Her gaze settled on Harry and Teddy, who nodded quickly. ” No library visits”  she turned to Cassie, who wiped the smile from her face and nodded promptly. ” Goodbye cookies and desserts.”  Emma looked at her, then nodded too”  Good. Glad we all agree.” 

” That’s why Uncle says Mum is scary ” Teddy whispered resignedly from Harry’s back”  But we’ll still fly, right?” 

” I’d love to say yes, but your mother always finds out, and I don’t want to sleep on the couch ” Harry replied.

The Delacour estate was like a crystallized dream. Garden enchantments kept the rose bushes eternally in bloom, and a gentle charm made the air smell of lavender and honey. Small orbs of golden light floated around the house.

Harry adjusted his hold on Edward as they stepped down from the magical carriage. Hermione, holding Emma’s hand, smiled as she saw Apolline Delacour” upright, elegant like an enchanted marble statue” walking toward them with her husband Lucien, a noble-looking wizard with short silver hair and a serene gaze.

” My dear friends! ” exclaimed Apolline, arms wide open” . We can finally welcome you to our home as you deserve!” 

Hermione stepped forward and embraced her warmly ” Thank you, Apolline. As always, you’re impeccable. And your garden remains any herbalist’s dream.” 

Lucien bowed his head respectfully” Lady Perevell, Lord Perevell… An honor, as always. And these must be” 

” Our three little tornadoes ” said Harry with a smile” . This is Cassie, our eldest. The one with curls and changing hair is Edward. And the little princess of the house is Emma.” 

Cassie nodded politely, while Edward greeted them with a blend of reverence and dragon-roar. Emma simply looked at the couple and then focused her gaze on the veela before smiling at her.

” Welcome ” said Apolline with a maternal smile” . My daughter Fl”  Well, she’s not down yet. But soon. Today we wanted the children to meet each other before the school year begins. Our children are bound to cross paths sooner or later.” 

” And since the world is changing, it’s best they start as powerful friends ” added Lucien diplomatically, with a hint of humor.

The morning advanced gently over the French magical countryside, where the Delacour gardens swayed under a clear sky. The families gathered beneath an enchanted canopy that cast cool, golden light.

Hermione couldn’t stop watching every corner of the estate. However, her gaze kept drifting to the young girl with platinum-blonde hair descending the main staircase of the house.

Fleur Delacour, still with childlike features, radiated an ethereal beauty inherited from generations of veela. Her presence was delicate yet firm, and her curious eyes surveyed the visitors with the solemnity of one who knows her magic speaks even before she does.

Hermione felt a knot in her throat.

"Fleur… my Fleur… the one who once risked everything to save me. My friend, my ally. And now here she is, a child. How strange life is, what a gift to see you again… And gods, I hope this time you won’t have to fight in a war."

Harry approached from behind, placing his hand gently on her waist. ” Are you okay, my love?” 

Hermione nodded, holding back an emotion difficult to explain ” Yes… it’s just that… I didn’t realize how much I’d missed her until now.” 

Lucien motioned his daughter over ” Fleur, come. I want you to meet our guests” 

The little girl approached gracefully, her blue eyes fixed first on Hermione and then on the child in her arms. Emma was playing with one of the floating orbs decorating the area.

Hermione smiled softly.

” Well, Fleur, this is little Emma Athena, our youngest daughter ” she said gently, presenting her old friend in her new life.

Fleur stood still for a few seconds. Something in her gaze shifted. She stopped looking with curiosity and slowly inclined herself toward Emma. Her eyes narrowed, and a slight magical vibration filled the air.

Then, without warning, little Fleur extended her hand and took Emma’s carefully, as if confirming something.

And then, in a confident and charmingly childish voice, she declared ” Mine” 

The adults fell silent.

Hermione raised an eyebrow. Harry’s mouth opened, then closed.

Fleur held Emma’s hand between hers, now smiling with radiant sweetness while the baby’s green eyes locked onto hers with full attention.

” She is mine ” repeated Fleur without looking away.

Apollite went pale for a second, then covered her lips ” By the goddess...” 

” Apolline ” said Harry slowly, his tone restrained but with a certain paternal panic hanging in the air” . Tell me I’m misunderstanding this or… did your daughter just say that my daughter, barely a year and a half old, is her mate?” 

Lucien murmured something quietly in French as Apolline gave a slight nod.

” It seems that… veela magic doesn’t understand age, Harry. If it’s a sacred bond, we’ll know by the slave” 

That’s when they noticed it.

A silver mark, a soft and magical ribbon like a band of light, materialized around both girls’ wrists for a few seconds before fading into the air.

Emma looked at her little hand, then at Fleur, and simply clapped as if it were part of the game. Emma’s laughter broke the tension but did not dispel the surprise.

” Wonderful! ” said Hermione dryly” . My year-and-a-half-old daughter already has a betrothed… thanks, universe.” 

Harry ran his hand over his face, muttering under his breath ” This is supposed to happen decades later… decades, Hermione. How am I supposed to handle this?” 

Hermione gave his chest a gentle pat ” With maturity, darling. Or with a list of rules for teenage veela. We’ll write it together” 

Cassie, from a corner, barely whispered ” This is going to be fun” 

Edward peeked out from behind a rosebush. ” Is she going to train with us too?” 

” Only if she can dodge my curses ” Cassie replied quietly, teasing, while Fleur shot her an inquisitive look as if she had heard.

” Curses. And here I thought I only had to worry about Artemis and not Athena ” lamented Harry, ignoring the Delacours’ confused looks at the Parseltongue.

” Hey, don’t drag me into this mess” the redhead quickly defended herself”  The one who has her sights on now is the little Veela” 

” It’s rude to speak a language the other doesn’t understand ” Hermione reminded them both”  but being a mate of a veela doesn’t mean anything’s happened yet” 

” I can still interrogate whoever Uncle Anu said, right?” 

Cassie just looked at her brother before ruffling his hair and approaching Emma, smiling at her as Emma gave her hand.

” No need, believe me, if anyone catches my attention they’ll have to go through mom and dad first… That won’t be for just anyone” 

-------------------------------------------------------

The afternoon sun caressed the gardens of the Delacour vineyard with a golden warmth. The vines swayed in the summer breeze as the Perevells enjoyed a peaceful family stroll. Emma rode on Harry’s shoulders, giggling softly; Lucien walked beside them, hand in hand with Fleur, while Hermione chatted with Apolline about wines and ancient crop-protection spells. Cassie and Teddy trailed a few steps behind, speaking quietly between themselves.

That’s when Caliste Delacour, a woman with silver hair and ice-blue eyes, approached them with a charming smile and an elegant posture befitting her veela heritage. She walked barefoot on the grass, wearing a long, light linen dress that fluttered as if floating in the breeze.

” So… these are the famous Perevells ” she said with a playful smile, her French accent strong but melodic”  They look less imposing without cape and sword” 

Hermione turned with a raised eyebrow, amused ” That’s because we save those for special occasions” 

Caliste let out a giggle and placed a hand on her hip before looking at the children with curiosity ” And these must be your children… Mmm, what an interesting mix. ” She looked at Cassie and Teddy with that effortless air only a veela could project, then turned back to Hermione with a mischievous smile” . Tell me something… have you ever seen a woman more beautiful than a veela?” 

The air filled with playful tension for a moment. Apolline was about to tell her sister that wasn’t how to behave with guests, although realistically, that was one of the least invasive questions a veela could ask.

And then, as if rehearsed a thousand times, Cassie and Edward answered in unison with complete seriousness ” Yes. My mother” 

Hermione barely managed to stifle a laugh, covering her mouth with her hand, while Harry smiled with a hint of pride.

Caliste blinked for a second, clearly taken aback. Then she looked at Hermione, whom Edward and Cassie were now directly pointing to, with an almost challenging expression. The witch simply smiled, folding her arms.

” Well, darling ” said Hermione” , I’m sorry, but it seems you lost the beauty contest today.

” And rightfully so ” added Harry, adjusting Emma in his arms as she clapped delightedly at the moment.

Far from offended, Caliste laughed heartily, raising her hands in surrender ” Touché… Wow, if that’s how you defend your mother, I don’t want to imagine how you’ll defend your partners when you’re of age ” she joked, giving Hermione a conspiratorial glance.

Cassie, unfazed, replied in a cold but elegant tone ” You won’t have to imagine it if anyone dares to try” 

Everyone laughed as they continued walking through the gardens. Hermione looked down at her children, eyes full of pride. In that small moment, surrounded by vineyards, French breezes, and family.

-------------------------------------------------------

The Perevell mansion was surrounded by a golden and silver halo that night. The backyard had been transformed with living magic—flowers glowing with moonlight, floating torches fueled by enchanted fire, and a soft breeze carrying scents of lavender, myrtle, and orange blossom.

At the center of the garden stood a small altar of black stone carved with runes of shadow and time. Hermione and Harry, dressed in dark linen robes embroidered with silver and gold, stood hand in hand. Around them, Cassie, Edward, and Emma, also wearing ceremonial garments, watched the ritual solemnly.

” Are you ready, my love? ” Hermione whispered.

Harry nodded and raised his other hand. Shadows danced around him as if they had known him forever.

” May the fire remember... ” he murmured.

” ...may the earth breathe... ” Hermione continued.

” ...may time keep us ” they said together, their voices blending like a lost spell on the wind.

A violet flame rose from the altar, climbing in a silent column, reflecting in their children’s eyes. Cassie closed her eyes and let the shadows surround her, while Edward’s hair shifted colors twice in excitement, and Emma looked at him calmly, smiling as she felt the magic in the air.

Then they appeared.

From the hill on the other side of the garden, three figures stood still in the darkness. None made a sound. None needed to.

The three watched silently.

” They never stopped being mortal ” Ananke commented, with a nostalgic smile” . And yet they changed everything” 

” They formed something unprecedented ” Freya murmured” . Strength, love, destiny. And living magic... their youngest daughter carries that on her skin.” 

” And what about the son? ” Anubis intervened with barely concealed pride” . The little sun, with death’s laughter and a soul of light. And Cassie… she has her mother’s edge and my shadow behind her.” 

The three deities watched as Harry lifted Emma into his arms and twirled her, making the girl laugh while the fire crackled.

Hermione stepped toward Cassie and Edward, hugging them both, closing her eyes for a moment, and the five were united in a bond as old as the world.

” They need no temples ” Ananke said” . Nor prayers. They are the offering.” 

” And we… the guardians who now only watch ” Freya whispered.

The altar’s fire had already died out, but the warmth of the night lingered as if magic still sang among the leaves. Harry and Hermione spoke in low voices, Edward munched a cookie on his mother’s lap, and Cassie lay on her side, Emma hugged to her chest, both covered with a blanket.

Then the magical silence was broken by a burst of laughter and hurried footsteps.

” AUNNNNT AAANANKE!! ” a youthful, excited voice shouted at the sight of her aunt. He jumped up, ready to run with lightning speed, his hair turning golden with excitement, and without pausing even a second, he threw himself into Ananke’s arms, who caught him gracefully without moving much ” I told you you’d be late if you kept playing with the threads of time ” the boy said, settling into her embrace while she, surprised, could only look at him with a soft smile and a raised eyebrow.

” Who taught you to scold like that, little insolent? ” she answered theatrically, lifting him into the air.

” Mom ” he said confidently, pointing at Hermione.

Freya was turning discreetly, intending to leave as she always did after observing… but a familiar, firm, warm voice stopped her.

” And why are you three still standing over there? ” Hermione asked, crossing her arms, approaching with a half-smile and sparkling eyes”  Today is no day for ritual or duty. It’s family day. And you… are family.” 

The three gods fell silent.

Freya lowered her gaze for the first time in centuries. Anubis cleared his throat lightly with a smile ” he had already heard Harry and Hermione call him family himself, he knew his sisters were different”  and Ananke blinked slowly before looking down at the little sun, who immediately ran to his mother and clung to her waist like a koala.

” We’re not used to… this” Ananke murmured, her voice almost vulnerable.

” We know ” Harry said, appearing at her side with a glass of wine in hand and a calm smile” . But you’ll get used to it. You already have, more than you think… Believe me, if I got used to you, so will you” 

Freya let out a light laugh, as if something ancient cracked inside her, and walked toward the family group.

” And why were you three late getting here, huh? ” Harry asked, approaching with a raised eyebrow while Cassie laughed from under the blanket and Emma happily told her about the stars from her sister’s arms.

” You almost missed the party ” Hermione added, smiling conspiratorially.

Anubis just shrugged ” Some souls resist leaving, and well, we have meetings about, you know, life, death, and all that” 

” Meetings... ” Hermione murmured.

” About, you know, everything? ” Harry asked.

” Don’t ask ” the three deities said in unison, causing the whole family to burst out laughing.

-------------------------------------------------------

The backyard had been transformed into an intimate corner. Hermione, Cassie, Anubis, and Freya had settled around a low, round table. Enchanted candles floated above them, casting soft shadows that curled between glasses, books, and an ancient Egyptian map spread out among plates of fruit, cheese, and fig pastries.

Cassie, sitting cross-legged with a glass of sparkling juice in hand, watched her uncle Anubis closely as he pointed to a red line marked on the map.

” This temple was hidden from the eyes of mortals and wizards alike. It only responded to those who carried shadow in their hearts and fire in their souls” he said in a low, almost reverent voice.

” And you got in? ” Hermione asked curiously, leaning on her daughter’s shoulder without taking her eyes off the drawing on the map.

Anubis shrugged ” Of course. I just had to convince the guardian that I was older than his questions ” 

Cassie smiled, rolling her eyes ” That doesn’t count as a test ” 

Freya, holding her wine glass elegantly, barefoot with her feet crossed on an enchanted cushion, let out a melodious laugh ” Half the ancient trials were labyrinths. The other half were riddles. And the rest, well… monsters with bad tempers and questionable hairstyles” 

” Hairstyles? ” Hermione repeated, amused.

” There was a gorgon in Greece with such a twisted bun that it scared more than her gaze ” Freya added with a dramatic gesture, making the little angel burst into laughter.

Anubis took the floor again ” Have I told you about Thasros the Silent? ” 

The teenager shook her head eagerly ” Another ancient madman? ” 

” The first wizard to master magic without speaking. In theory, his power was unmatched. He only had one problem… he had hiccups. ” 

” Hiccups? ” Hermione repeated, incredulous.

” Yes. The day he faced a basilisk, he tried to conjure a barrier without uttering a word… but the hiccups messed up the spell and it turned into a shower of wigs” 

Cassie covered her mouth to avoid spitting out her juice from laughter ” That can’t be true ” she said between laughs.

” Want a wig? I still have one in Egypt ” Anubis replied solemnly.

Freya sighed and looked at her niece knowingly ” Thasros was brilliant, yes, but also a romantic. He fell in love with a banshee because he thought her screams were celestial music. A shame he never understood that what she really sang was a death warning.” 

Cassie rested her head on Hermione’s lap as she gently stroked her hair.

” Do you think one day I’ll be in the history books? ” 

Freya looked at her intently.

” Cassie Artemis, dear, there are already constellations that turn when you’re named. History isn’t always written in ink. Sometimes, it lives in the shadows you shape” 

Hermione hugged her tighter. Anubis looked at her with a hint of pride. The silence that followed was a comfortable one, full of small smiles and glances that said more than words. They were an unlikely family, woven with threads of love, fire, and destiny.

” Well, now I’ve told you about the time a soul refused to follow my hounds because the man was allergic to dogs” 

-------------------------------------------------------

The French afternoon breeze was soft, scented with wild grapes and lavender. As the children’s laughter faded in the garden, on a side terrace of white stone covered by a magical vine with golden leaves, Harry Perevell and Ananke sat before a small round table, decorated with a platter of French cheeses and a bottle of Delacour wine.

” I’m not going to lie ” Harry said, swirling the amber liquid in his glass” , I thought this wine was good... until you arrived and said you could improve on everything I’ve ever tasted in my life. ” 

Ananke smiled with barely curved lips, her elegance as timeless as her existence ” What you’ve tasted is young, still without history. I’ve drunk grapes that grew in vineyards planted by sorcerers before runes were even invented ” she answered with a touch of nostalgia” . Though I must admit, this bottle... has charm. It tastes like happy afternoons. Like a love harvested slowly. ” 

Harry chuckled quietly ” Hermione says I have the palate of a sick hippogriff. But if you approve, then… I feel validated ” 

” And what do you think she’d say if she knew we were planning to start our own vineyard? ” Ananke asked, raising an eyebrow.

Harry leaned forward, his green eyes sparkling with complicity ” We’re planning? ” 

” Well, if you’re going to put your name on a label, the least I can do is help you not fail spectacularly ” she replied with refined sarcasm.

” And what would you call it? ” 

Ananke looked at him as if she’d been waiting for the question all eternity ” The Time of the Chosen. ” 

Harry nearly spat out his wine laughing ” No way Hermione would approve that. Do you know how hard it was to get rid of that nickname? ” 

” What if we put her face on the label? ” Ananke joked”  An ethereal design, with her hair waving like fire, surrounded by a sand serpent. Nothing more elegant.” 

” She’d kill me. With love, but she would ” 

” It’d be a poetic death ” Ananke concluded as they both toasted, their glasses chiming amid shared laughter.

A warm silence settled between them. From the terrace, they could see Edward chasing Emma in the distance, who waved her little arms as if flying.

” Would you have imagined this? ” Ananke asked suddenly, watching the children” . You, here, at peace. With a family. No visible scars ” 

Harry took a deep breath. ” No. Never. And if someone had told me years ago… I wouldn’t have believed it. But now… ” he sighed”  I wouldn’t change any of this. Not if it means losing them. ” 

Ananke nodded, a soft, almost maternal expression on her face ” Then maybe the wine isn’t the best thing you’re cultivating, Harrison Perevell ” 

” You know? ” he said, standing with his glass” . Sometimes I forget you’re literally Time. But on days like today… you seem just part of this family ”  the godmother and aunt to my children ” 

She looked at him with a small, sincere smile ” Maybe because in this timeline… I am ” 

They stood there, watching as the lights began to glow among the trees and the sounds of play and laughter filled the dusk like a quiet symphony.

” Now, about making our own wine, how much money do you think we could make? ” Harry asked after a few minutes of silence, earning a playful look”  Come on, I’m a millionaire and all, but have you seen my three kids and wife? None of them have a hobby that doesn’t cost money ” 

” Well, putting aside the fact that your family is probably the richest of all and your kids have three uncles who’ll never let them run out of money ” she paused, taking the last sip of her wine”  I have some ideas where it could be ” 

” Great, but we’ll need another name ” 

” What’s wrong with mine? I like it… And we won’t put anything about my Angel ” she assured before the wizard could say anything” . Everyone here knows Hermione is anything but an angel ” 

” To me and the kids, she is ” 

” Now say that without sounding like a lovesick fool ” she challenged playfully”  You’re her soulmate, husband, and the love of her life, your opinion doesn’t count, Harry ” 

-------------------------------------------------------

At one of the garden tables, Emma and Edward sat surrounded by pencils, pens, magical paints that changed colors, and parchments with quick-dry enchantments.

Emma, her hair tied into two slightly crooked buns, kicked her little feet against the bench as she drew with all the concentration a one-and-a-half-year-old could muster. In front of her, Edward frowned intensely while putting the finishing touches on his work.

” Done! ” he announced with a proud smile, turning the drawing toward his sister” . Look, Em. It’s our family ” 

The drawing was vibrant, chaotic, tender. It showed Hermione with a shining cloak and her wand raised like a fairy tale heroine. Next to her, Harry, with tousled hair and a sword wrapped in shadows. Then Cassie, serious-faced, riding a creature made of ink and magic; Emma with a flower crown; their grandmother Andi also beside them smiling; and himself with phoenix wings.

And around them… more figures. Surrounding the family core.

” Look ” he said, pointing with his finger”  there’s Uncle Anu with his black armor. And there, Aunt Frey with her dress that shines like the sun. That’s Aunt Anan, who makes time seem like a game ” 

Emma nodded very seriously, then looked at her own drawing, still full of unfinished strokes and blurry colors. Edward looked at her curiously.

” And you? Who did you draw, Em? ” 

The little girl didn’t answer immediately. She looked at her paper, then at her brother, and said with that sweet, determined voice that seemed to pierce through the years —I don’t know… but I wanted to draw them —

Hermione, who had just arrived quietly with a tray of sweets that Anubis had sent for the children, stopped when she heard the conversation. She didn’t want to interrupt, only watched.

Then Hermione approached with a smile and set the tray on the table.

” Uncle Anu said these sweets are for the bravest artists in the world ” she said warmly.

Both children shouted excitedly and ran after the floating tray that had begun moving through the air as if playing with them. Hermione sat on the bench, looking at both drawings tenderly… until her gaze fixed on Emma’s.

The stroke was simple, but the details unmistakable.

First, a girl with blonde hair, large blue eyes, oversized round glasses, holding a magazine upside down and a faint smile.

” Luna… ” Hermione whispered.

She moved on to the next drawing. A boy with a kind expression, surrounded by small smiling plants, fearlessly petting a mandrake.

” Nev…” 

Two other children, redheads with identical smiles, setting off fireworks.

” Fred and George…” 

A woman with messy black hair, a firm but warm expression.

” Andi. ” 

Finally, a young woman with platinum blonde hair, elegant dress, and sparkling blue eyes.

” Fleur…” 

Hermione swallowed hard, feeling the knot in her chest that only memories from another life could bring. Her gaze rose to the edge of the parchment, where in crooked letters and the handwriting of the little sun simply said

“Family.”

She stayed silent a few more seconds. Then carefully folded the parchment and put it away among her things, a moved smile on her face.

-------------------------------------------------------

The celebration took place at a simple but charming countryside estate, where Frank and Alice Longbottom lived. Their garden was spacious, full of magical flowers that laughed with the wind, and enchanted ivy climbed the stone walls, emitting a golden light with every child’s giggle.

The atmosphere was warm, filled with children playing with floating enchanted bubbles, cakes that self-sliced, and enchanted hats that threw confetti of their own accord.

Hermione, dressed in a floral summer dress deliberately ignoring the horrible robes of the 10th century, held Emma in her arms while Harry walked beside her, with Edward hanging on his back laughing, and Cassie, with her elegant yet relaxed attitude, talked with Alice, interested in her new educational botany project.

” There go the Perevells! ” exclaimed Frank, crossing the garden with a big smile, carrying a little one with round cheeks and light brown hair.

Hermione fell silent for a second at the sight of the baby in Frank’s arms. She recognized those curious eyes, that calm expression… Little Neville.

It was like watching time stop and start again. In her mind, the image of the brave young man who faced a snake, Horcruxes, and his destiny with a flaming sword struck her with unexpected tenderness.

” This is our Neville” said Alice proudly” . He turns one today. Want to hold him?” 

Harry was the first to react, smiling as he brought Edward closer to greet the little one.

” Hello, little Lion ” he said to Neville” . You’ve got a great roar hidden inside, don’t you? ” 

Cassie, curious, watched from a distance. Hermione approached and gently stroked the baby’s head while Emma reached out fascinated.

” We were waiting for you, Neville ” whispered Hermione so no one else could hear” . But now you’ll have something you lacked before: a life without war and with your family ” 

Frank laughed ” We don’t know if it’ll be that quiet. He gets excited every time someone pulls out a wand… He already tried to levitate his food this week ” 

” That runs in the family ” joked Alice, looking at her husband” . Sometimes magic finds those who need it most too early. ” 

Emma, as if she understood everything, leaned in and gave the baby a small kiss on the cheek, and he laughed delighted.

” Look at that! ” exclaimed Alice” . Neville’s got his first admirer ” 

Cassie let out a soft laugh, while Edward copied his little sister’s gesture, sparking a little contest of kisses on the Longbottom baby’s forehead.

The party continued with magical games, cakes that tasted different for each guest, and songs that adapted to the mood of whoever listened.

Hermione and Harry, holding hands as they watched their children play with others, shared a knowing glance. In their eyes was the certainty that every step they had taken—painful, risky, impossible—had led them here to see Neville Longbottom celebrate his first birthday, loved, cared for, and with his whole future ahead.

And that, for them, was a victory that needed no further words.

-------------------------------------------------------

The Potter Mansion looked especially charming that afternoon. The gardens were immaculate, with flowers dancing gently to the rhythm of the breeze, and a row of enchanted tables floated along the central path, filled with desserts and steaming cups of spiced tea. Everything had an air of quiet, familiar celebration.

Lord and Lady Potter, Fleamont and Euphemia, warmly greeted guests in the backyard. Hermione approached them with a smile full of respect and affection. Harry, walking beside her, gave a small nod to Lady Potter, who quickly took his hands with a smile.

” Harry, Hermione ” Lady Potter said tenderly” . What a joy to have you here. The house always feels calmer with you around” 

” Thank you for inviting us, my lady ” Hermione replied, giving her a slight embrace” . We couldn’t miss this day. A miracle like this deserves to be celebrated” 

” And twice over” added Lord Potter while shaking Harry’s hand firmly”  Two grandchildren. And hopefully, only one with James’s temper” 

Harry laughed openly, but it was Edward, their four-year-old son, who interrupted the moment by pointing to a table full of sweets ” Does that cake float, Mom?” 

” It floats, yes ” said Hermione, stroking his hair” . But only if you eat well first” 

Behind them came Cassie, watching everything with a mix of curiosity and analysis, and Emma, asleep in her father’s arms, her head resting on his shoulder.

Inside the mansion, James and Lily waited, nerves still visible. When the Perevells entered, Lily was the first to approach, holding Harry with a mix of excitement and reverence.

” Thank you… for everything ” she whispered” . If we are here, if they are here… it’s because of you.” 

” There’s no need to thank us, Lily ” said Hermione, placing a hand on her shoulder” . You made your own way. We just helped clear the path” 

James nodded from the side, respectful, though his gaze nervously settled on Lord Potter, his father, who watched everything with that characteristic critical eye.

” Would you like to meet them? ” James asked.

They were led to the nursery. There, two cribs with a silent protective enchantment. The twins slept peacefully, wrapped in fine blankets with hand-embroidered edges.

” Hadrian and Elian ” Lily murmured” . They are… identical for now” 

Harry watched silently, as if time had stopped. He never thought he’d see James with children. Not in this timeline. Not in a world where the Potters lived as a complete family.

” They’re safe. That’s what matters ” he finally thought, his voice heavy with restrained emotion.

Cassie approached, looking at the babies with an almost imperceptible smile ” They don’t seem as noisy as Ed vshe remarked, prompting Hermione’s soft laughter.

” Not yet ” added Lady Potter with irony” . Give them a few weeks. If they take after their father, it’ll be quite lively” 

-------------------------------------------------------

Night had fallen softly over the Perevell Mansion, and the sky stretched out like a dark blue velvet tapestry, dotted with twinkling stars. In the backyard, where the enchanted stone absorbed the cold so the place stayed warm, Harry and Hermione rested together on a blanket spread over the grass, with glasses of wine nearby.

The garden slept in a comfortable silence, interrupted only by the distant hum of a magical firefly and the occasional crackle of branches. From afar came Emma’s sleepy laughter, from the living room. Teddy, exhausted from a full day of playing with his sister, was still awake. Cassie had not yet returned from Hogwarts, spending her last days with her siblings.

” You know? ” said Harry, his arm around Hermione’s shoulders, his fingers absentmindedly stroking her arm” . I never thought this would be real” 

” This? vshe asked, leaning against his chest, a calm smile on her lips.

” Us. This. A home. A family. Peace ” he replied, then sighed” . After everything we saw… everything we did” 

Hermione lifted her head just enough to kiss him softly on the jawline ” Sometimes I still dream about it, you know. The other world. The battles. The losses” 

Harry nodded, his gaze fixed on the sky.

” Me too. Sometimes I wake up and check you’re here. That it wasn’t just an illusion. That Cassie is still ours. That Teddy became our sun. And that little witch who calls me dad is not a dream” 

” Emma ” Hermione whispered, her voice trembling with tenderness” . Our little princess” 

” And Cassie… so much like you, but with my bad temper ” Harry joked.

Hermione laughed ” And Edward… well, Edward is charming chaos on legs. The only one who can convince Anubis to dress up as a unicorn to play hide and seek” 

They both laughed quietly, then hugged each other tighter.

” Do you think we did well? ” Hermione asked in a whisper.

” I think we did what no one else could. We changed the world. And gave ourselves a second chance ” Harry replied, looking at her intensely” . With you, everything was possible” 

Hermione returned his gaze, her eyes reflecting the stars. Then she leaned in and kissed him. A slow, deep kiss, full of shared years, healed wounds, and fulfilled dreams.

” I love you ” she said, her voice barely a whisper.

” Always ” he answered, resting his forehead against hers” . Since you had that frown in the first-year library” 

” And you since when? vHermione asked, raising an eyebrow.

” Since you tried to kill me with your logic in third year ” he replied, making her laugh.

The wind blew softly, lifting a leaf that fell between them. Hermione took it between her fingers and let it go, watching it fly away.

” Our friends are so different now ” she murmured” . Neville, with his parents alive. Susan with her mother. Draco now has two mothers. Luna... Well, her soul is ours. And everything will be different” 

” What if I told you nothing would change? vHarry said.

” Not even the bad? ” 

” The bad was necessary. But it no longer dominates our story. Look at what we have now” 

Hermione closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of her husband, the peace of their home, and the echo of laughter that once was only a wish.

” We have everything vshe whispered.

Hermione moved closer silently, not interrupting the moment. She settled next to Harry, taking his hand naturally.

” Remember Neville in our timeline? vHarry asked, not taking his eyes off the sky.

Hermione nodded ” Burdened with more responsibilities than an adult. Too alone. Too hurt” 

” And now you see him ” Harry murmured” . Happy. With both parents. Living his childhood… as it should be” 

Hermione glanced at him softly ” He won’t have to be the hero. He won’t have to lift anyone up. This time, someone will lift him if he falls.” 

There was a pause. Then Harry squeezed her hand ” Everything changed, didn’t it?” 

” Yes ” Hermione replied with a barely noticeable smile” . Everything changed” 

Harry nodded. Then, without changing tone, said ” Susan is an adorable baby, don’t you think?” 

Hermione chuckled softly ” She’s precious. She has Edgar’s eyes and that calm look… like she knows the world won’t break her this time” 

” And it won’t ” Harry affirmed, with that soft conviction he only used when talking about those he loved” . Not as long as we stand. Neither you, nor I, nor anyone will allow itv

” Do you realize, Harry? vHermione lifted her gaze toward the bright sky” . In our time… Susan didn’t even remember her mother. She grew up without her. Without roots. Now, she has a family, a lineage. She’ll inherit more than a surname. She’ll inherit history, power, land… living magic” 

” And love ” Harry added, kissing her temple” . Above all that” 

The fresh wind carried with it the scent of the French vineyards. The night was already late, but neither Harry nor Hermione seemed in any hurry to leave. The shared blanket and the warmth of each other were enough to keep them there, in peace. From time to time, soft laughter drifted from the rooms where their children slept, dreaming of worlds without wars.

” You know who else is living a different story? ” Hermione asked, her tone lazy.

” Who? ” Harry replied, caressing her hand.

” Draco” 

Harry laughed softly, tilting his head ” Draco? That name again?” 

Hermione burst out laughing vYes, again. But now he’s Draco Aeron Bones Black. Narcissa picked the name, I have no doubt” 

” Aeron ” Harry repeated thoughtfully” . Sounds elegant. A bit dramatic, like her. I’m sure Amelia just raised an eyebrow and nodded” 

” Exactly! ” Hermione laughed even harder” . I can clearly see her saying, "If you want to name him Draco again, fine. But at least make it sound like a future Minister."” 

Harry feigned outrage ” Draco Aeron Bones Black? He’s going to need three scrolls just to write his full name” 

” And he’ll do it in perfect handwriting ” Hermione joked”  Don’t forget he has Narcissa teaching him diction and Amelia teaching him magical law before he’s five” 

They both burst out laughing. Then silence returned, comfortable, accompanied by warm smiles.

” You know? ” Harry said in a softer tone” . I’m so happy for them. Amelia and Narcissa. I never thought they’d be… compatible” 

” And yet, they are. Narcissa is softer with Amelia. And Amelia, well, she’s crazy about her. It’s so nice to see them fight over whose turn it is to put the baby to bed” 

” And now they have a Draco who probably won’t grow up with trauma or a father obsessed with blood purity” 

” Now he’ll just be… a happy kid. One with a lot of character, yes, but happy” 

Harry glanced at her sideways, still smiling ” And with those blue eyes… so much like Amelia’s. He looks like an elegant miniature. Didn’t you laugh when Sirius said he looked like a wand catalog model?” 

” Yes! And then Bella said if they trained him right now, he could be the first Black heir to pose for a business magazine cover before he’s ten” 

” That family needs therapy ” Harry said solemnly.

” And they have it ” Hermione replied with a smile” . In the form of dinners, board games, and diapers” 

They laughed again. Then, calmer, they looked at each other tenderly.

” So Draco was… inevitable” 

” And this time, he’ll be free ” Hermione concluded.

They took each other’s hands once more. In the distance, the house lights shone like beacons of hope.

And although the past would never be completely forgotten, in that present... there was redemption. Love. And second chances.

Both fell silent for a few seconds, contemplating the ebb and flow of their own emotions.

The comforting silence between them was filled again by the night breeze. Harry fiddled with the empty glass while Hermione rested her head on his shoulder. They watched the clouds tinged with orange without speaking for a long while, until Hermione spoke.

” Have you seen the Potters lately?” 

Harry let out a soft laugh ” Which ones do you mean? The little earthquakes running around screaming through the mansion, or James trying not to die in a race every week?” 

Hermione smiled ” All of them. But yes, mostly James. He’s so… alive. Did you notice?” 

” Yes ” Harry nodded, his voice carrying something between relief and wonder” . And happy. I never imagined seeing my father like that. It’s funny, isn’t it? When I was a kid, I wondered if he had been like Snape said… arrogant, immature… and now I see him racing brooms with passion and taking care of his kids like they’re his greatest treasure.” 

” They are ” Hermione murmured, stroking her husband’s arm” . And you were too, even if he never knew it. Now he has the chance to do it right. No wars. No prophecies.” 

” Lily is amazing ” Harry added, with a proud smile” . She’s about to finish her master’s degree and still has energy to raise twins and put up with James” 

” I’m the one who puts up with you ” Hermione said, mock solemn” . You should get a medal just for that” 

” I’d get all the medals for you ” Harry replied, kissing her on the cheek” . But seriously… isn’t it strange?” 

Hermione lifted her head to look at him ” What?” 

” Seeing my parents like this. In love. Whole. With two kids. And Petunia… well, that one I really didn’t see coming” 

Hermione burst into genuine laughter ” You mean Petunia who studies magical history with more passion than a Ravenclaw?” 

” And now she’s involved with all things magical ” added Harry, amused”  The very same” 

” She’s adorable. Strange, but adorable ” said Hermione” . And so different from the bitter woman we knew” 

” A different person ” said Harry, looking up at the sky, serious” . Maybe that’s the most magical thing of all. That even someone like Petunia could start overv

” We all could ” whispered Hermione, taking his hand” . But you more than anyone, Harry. You didn’t just change your life, you changed the world of everyone you loved” 

” And you helped me do it ” he said, raising his hand to caress her face” . Always you” 

Hermione smiled at him, that special smile she only showed him ” So… will you finally accept it?” 

” Accept what?” 

” That the Potters live. That Susan has her mother. That Neville plays in the gardens with his father. That Draco laughs with his mother and his mother. That Luna… well, she’s being reborn as an adorable little girl” 

” And that our children are growing up in peace ” Harry finished, in a low voice.

” Exactly” 

They hugged tighter, while the sky began to fill with stars. It was a new world. One they had fought to forge. And though they knew not everything would be perfect, in that moment, everything was right.

Hermione rested her head on his shoulder again and murmured ” Stay here. Just a little longer” 

-------------------------------------------------------

” Not everyone had a fresh start, you know? ” said Hermione, her voice softer, eyes fixed on the stars” . Not everyone wanted to see the change” 

Harry turned toward her, immediately recognizing the tone in her voice. It wasn’t anger, nor sadness. It was… resignation ” Are you thinking about the Weasleys?” 

” Yes ” she answered” . I suppose I always will, a little” 

Harry sighed. They already knew where this conversation was going ” Are there still five?” 

vYes. Bill, Charlie, Percy, Fred, and George. Molly… ” she paused, her eyes reflecting a shadow of the past” . She never accepted Dumbledore’s fall. And when the reports started coming out, when it was exposed what he did with Hogwarts, how he was damaging the education and future of the country from within… she didn’t believe it. She didn’t want to believe it. She defended him to the end” 

” I remember ” Harry murmured”  the last we heard was that she was preparing a potion in the Burrow’s greenhouse. According to the Aurors, it exploded. No one knew exactly why” 

” A minor explosion, but enough. Permanent magical damage ” added Hermione” . She can’t have any more children. And she locked herself in a room for weeks” 

” That… hurts ” said Harry, with a lump in his throat. No matter the distance between them and Molly, it was still hard to digest.

” I feel sorry for Ginny ” said Hermione, this time her voice honest, soft” . She… apologized. In the end. Not with grand words, nor with a dramatic letter. She just came, looked at me, and said: "I was wrong about you. About everything." And that was it” 

Harry looked at her, surprised. He didn’t know ” And did you forgive her?” 

” I accepted her ” corrected Hermione” . It’s not the same. But yes… I was glad to know she found some peace” 

A long pause, during which only the distant song of a night creature could be heard.

” What about Ron? ” asked Harry, as if still expecting a different answer.

Hermione narrowed her eyes ” Ron… ” she repeated, then laughed without humor” . Sometimes it bothers me that there’s no one else to blame but him. That everything he did was so conscious. So cowardly. So… dirty and horrible” 

Harry didn’t answer. He just let her continue.

” I hate him, Harry. I’m not ashamed to say it. Not because of how he treated me or how he behaved with the two of us… I got over that a long time ago. I hate him because I can’t keep avenging him ” her eyes shone with muted fury”  Because Draco already did. Because everything he was no longer exists. And because even that… he took from me, by killing her” 

Harry let out a low chuckle ” Does it bother you that Draco was crueller than you?” 

” Obviously! ” exclaimed Hermione with mock indignation” . At least I had style. Draco just used power. Brutal, cold, but without my level of irony” 

” Maybe that’s why it worked ” joked Harry.

Hermione gave him a sly smile ”  maybe” 

They both looked back at the sky, feeling lighter.

” Do you regret anything, Mione? ” asked Harry after a while.

She thought for a moment. Then shook her head.

” No. I’d change things, of course. But regret… no. Because even with everything we left behind… look at us now” 

Harry looked at her. And said nothing.

She was his home. His war and his peace.

And even though the past hurt, they knew the present they had built… was worth every wound.

The French wine was still in their glasses, now warmed by the night as the stars began to dance across the garden sky. Hermione, leaning against Harry’s chest, looked up with a knowing smile curling her lips.

” You know what? ” she said in a mysterious tone.

Harry raised an eyebrow, stroking her arm —What mischief are you planning now?—

” Not me. Life ” she replied with a giggle” . I’m convinced I already know where Lu was reborn, we both know it, right?” 

Harry looked at her surprised before smiling ” Yes, from the first moment she saw me it was impossible not to notice” 

Hermione nodded with a sigh, both amused and melancholic —Yes. I think our lives were always connected, she was my other half, you know, and now she’s part of my life—

Harry just looked at her, then leaned in to kiss the witch’s cheek ” We just have to take care of her and love her like we’re doing” 

There was a pause filled with tenderness until Harry, with narrowed eyes, murmured ” What about Fleur?” 

Hermione turned her head toward him with a mischievous smile ” Ah, the little possessive Veela… Still worried about that?” 

” She’s four years old and already claimed Emma as hers! She said “mine”! ” exclaimed Harry with theatrical indignation” . How am I supposed to survive that?!” 

” Oh, come on, Hay ” she teased him” . Didn’t you hear Cassie and Teddy? They’ve been planning with Anubis how to intimidate anyone who gets close to Emma. Veelas included” 

Harry covered his face with his hand ” Perfect. My family is officially an emotional protection army… led by gods and vengeful teenagers” 

” And yet, you’re in love with me ” said Hermione with a teasing smile, raising her glass.

” To the soul… after all, you are my soulmate ” Harry answered softly before kissing her shoulder.

Then he grew thoughtful for a moment, looking at the distant lights of the house.

” You know? If it really is Fleur… I’m glad” 

Por supuesto, aquí tienes la traducción manteniendo el estilo y formato originales:

Hermione turned her head, surprised ” Oh really? I thought you were going to prepare an anti-Veela spell for Emma’s room” 

” I’m still considering it ” he said with mock seriousness, before laughing” . But if it’s Fleur... well, the Fleur you told me about, the one who fought with you, who saved you... I couldn’t ask for a better companion for our daughter. Although” 

” Although you’ll have that serious talk with her someday ” Hermione finished, laughing.

” More than one. With schedule, notes, and certified copies ” 

Hermione looked at him sweetly and stretched to give him a soft kiss.

Harry lowered his head, kissing her again. Slow. With love.

-------------------------------------------------------

The large door of the Perevell mansion closed softly behind them, leaving the starry sky behind and bringing them back into the warmth of their home. Hermione still held Harry’s hand, fingers intertwined, as if that simple touch could anchor her to this moment, to this life they had both built from ashes and a future.

“Listen…” Harry said softly.

Laughter. Small, genuine, filled with childlike magic.

They followed the sound to the main living room. There, the scene stopped them at the doorway, not daring to even breathe for a second.

Cassie was sitting on the sofa, her serene and protective figure enveloping little Emma, who rested in her arms. Though her head lay against her older sister’s chest, her eyes were open and a faint smile played on her lips. Both sisters laughed quietly, restrained, sharing that unique bond only sisters have.

In front of them, Edward, their little sun, moved his hands enthusiastically, bringing his latest story to life. His hair shimmered in shades of brown, then turned red with every dramatic twist in the tale, and his green eyes sparkled as he narrated.

“…and that’s when the knight, riding his flying basilisk, looked at the dragon and said, ‘I don’t want to fight you, I just came to find my family.’ And the dragon, who was really just lonely… started to cry ”

Emma’s laughter echoed softly. Cassie stroked her hair tenderly.

“I like the ending better this way, Ed,” she whispered.

Edward shrugged “Mom says stories always need a heart,” he said simply.

It was at that moment the three noticed their parents at the entrance. Emma was the first to raise her arms from Cassie’s lap.

“Mommy!” 

“Daddy!” Edward shouted excitedly.

Cassie just smiled tenderly.

“Welcome back. I suppose your romantic getaway is over,” she said.

Hermione approached first. She knelt down to hug Edward, who was already running to her with all the strength of his four years. She lifted him into her arms as his hair shifted to a dark brown, just like hers.

Harry walked over to Cassie, who still held Emma. He gently stroked her head, and the teenager tilted her face toward him in greeting. Then, Emma stretched her tiny hand toward her father.

“Daddy, come,” she whispered.

Harry didn’t hesitate. He took his youngest daughter in his arms and turned to Hermione, who had already come closer.

She took his hand.

“See?” he said, not taking his eyes off their three children. “This is our story.”

Hermione smiled, her eyes shining with emotion —The best I could ever ask for—

Harry leaned down and gave her a soft kiss on the lips, full of love, fulfilled promises, and new ones to come.

“Let’s join them,” she said, taking his other hand.

They both moved toward the sofa, joining the scene—Edward in Hermione’s lap, Emma in Harry’s arms, and Cassie stretched out with her legs resting across both laps, with teenage boldness and pure affection.

They laughed, shared stories, and played with intertwined fingers. It wasn’t perfect, but it was theirs.

A family built with pain, with stolen time, with deep love.

A family that, despite everything, had made it.

And as night wrapped around the Perevell mansion, only one truth remained:

Nothing would ever be the same. But, finally, everything was right.

THE END.