Cherreads

Chapter 5 - Chapter 5

Date: Tuesday, March 8th, 1988 (3 years, 5 months, 22 Days remaining until August 30th, 1991)

Location: Harry's Office attached to his Personal Bedroom, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London

I sat at my desk, looking at the two letters in front of me. The wax seals from both the British Ministry of Magic and the French Ministry of Magic were stamped at the bottom, confirming that they were official. They were about the Apparition tests for me, Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Nymphadora. It seemed that since I had Apparated once when I was five, fleeing from Dudley and his gang at school, they wanted to test if the others could do it as well. If my bound mates could Apparate without ever learning or practicing, it meant something bigger…our bond might be passing on abilities.

I leaned back in my chair, contemplating the implications. If Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Dora could Apparate because of our bond, what else could they do? Could they share my magic, or even more? If that's the case, when I bound with others, would they inherit the same abilities? My mind raced with the possibilities.

The door to my office creaked open, pulling me from my thoughts. I looked up to see Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Dora walk in, chatting casually with one another. I couldn't help but smile as I watched them. Their presence was always a comfort.

My eyes drifted to Hermione, and I blinked in surprise. Her hair, which had always been a mass of bushy curls, was now slowly transforming. The bouncy curls were turning into long, straight, flowing locks that cascaded down her back. It looked just like Fleur's and Gabrielle's hair, and the realization hit me hard.

It wasn't just my ability to Apparate they could inherit, it might be more. Hermione had never been able to change her hair like this before. That was Dora's gift, being a Metamorphmagus. Could it be possible that Hermione was now tapping into that ability through our bond? And if she could, did that mean the others could also learn to use powers from one another?

I opened my mouth to speak but Fleur beat me to it. "Harry, what's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"Hermione," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "Your hair…"

Hermione reached up and touched her hair, her eyes widening in surprise. "It's straight," she muttered in shock. "But… how?" She turned to Dora, her gaze questioning. "Did I just… use your ability?"

Dora chuckled, a wide grin spreading across her face. "Looks like it. You might have just borrowed some of my Metamorphmagus magic."

Hermione blinked, astonished. "I could change my appearance like you?"

Dora shrugged. "Looks that way."

Hermione's eyes lit up with excitement. "So… I could throw fireballs like Fleur and Gabrielle?"

Gabrielle smirked. "If you could, that'd be fun."

Fleur chuckled. "You'd probably enjoy that, wouldn't you?"

Hermione grinned mischievously. "Oh, I know exactly who I'd throw a fireball at."

We all laughed, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning. If Hermione could inherit Dora's abilities, and potentially Fleur's fire powers…what else could happen? My mind was buzzing with the possibilities when there was a sudden pop in the air.

Four people Apparated into the room, startling all of us. Two wore the dark robes of the British Ministry, while the other two wore the elegant attire of the French Ministry. They all looked slightly out of breath, and the British official stepped forward, bowing slightly.

"Prince Harry, ladies," he greeted, his tone formal. "We apologize for the abrupt arrival, but we are here to conduct your Apparition tests today."

I froze, feeling a pit form in my stomach. Today? My eyes darted to the letters on my desk. I grabbed them and reread them quickly, my eyes narrowing. The dates weren't matching up. The letters said the test was scheduled for next month, not today.

My heart pounded in my chest as the truth hit me like a freight train. These letters were copies…no it worse, they are fakes. The originals had been intercepted. I clenched my fists, feeling a wave of anger wash over me. Only one person would go to such lengths to interfere with something as important as this.

Dumbledore.

The realization burned through me, and before I could stop myself, my magic surged uncontrollably. The letters in my hands burst into flames, disintegrating in seconds, leaving behind nothing but ash.

The ministry officials gasped, startled, but I was too furious to care. I stood there, breathing heavily, trying to calm myself down. Fleur was at my side in an instant, pulling me close. Her warmth and the gentle touch of her hands grounded me.

"Sweetheart, it's okay," she whispered, her voice soothing. "He'll get what's coming to him in time. Just focus on me, on us, on the bond. Don't let him get to you."

I nodded, my breathing slowing as I wrapped my arms around her. Feeling her heartbeat against mine helped calm the storm inside me. She was right. Dumbledore would pay for this meddling in time, but now I needed to focus on the test at hand. This was important for us.

I looked at the others, who had been watching me with concern. "We'll go through with the tests," I said, my voice steady once more. "But the British and French Ministries need to know about Dumbledore's interference. This could cause real harm."

The ministry officials exchanged glances, clearly shaken by my reaction, but they nodded in agreement. The French official spoke first. "We will inform both Ministries of this matter immediately, Your Highness."

I took a deep breath, my anger subsiding, though a flicker of it remained. Dumbledore wouldn't stop. He would try again. But no matter what, I wouldn't let him win. I wouldn't let him control my life. Not now, not ever.

Location: Harry's Office attached to his Personal Bedroom, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England

The anticipation in the air was almost palpable as we all stood in my office, ready for the Apparition tests. The tension was heavier for me because of the recent revelation about Dumbledore's interference, but I had forced myself to calm down for this moment. It wasn't just about me...it was about all of us. If this worked, it would be a significant step in showing how our bond truly connected us, not just emotionally but magically as well.

Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Nymphadora stood around me, each of them focused and a little nervous, although Dora was trying to make light of the situation by changing her hair colors every few seconds. It helped ease the tension, a little.

The French officials, one of whom was a woman with sharp eyes and an air of authority, called my name first. "Prince Harry, you will go first."

I nodded, stepping forward, and felt Fleur's hand lightly brush my arm as I passed. It was a small gesture, but it grounded me, reminding me that I wasn't doing this alone. I gave her a small smile before focusing on the French official.

"Are you ready?" she asked, her voice brisk yet professional.

I took a deep breath, letting the tension ease out of my shoulders. "Yes."

The Apparition test was simple...pick a location, focus, and Apparate. For most people, that would have been a daunting task, but I had done it before, albeit unintentionally when I was five years old. Still, there was an odd comfort knowing that the place I had in mind was one I held dear: Amelia's office.

With a single crack, I felt the familiar pull of a magic tug at my body, and in an instant, I was no longer in Buckingham Palace but standing in Amelia's office. The walls were lined with dark wooden shelves, filled with legal documents and ancient tomes. Amelia herself sat at her desk, calm and composed as always. What caught my eye immediately, though, was the small stack of Apparition licenses on her desk...my name on one of them, and the others belonged to Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Dora.

"Welcome, dear," Amelia greeted me warmly, standing and walking over to me with a slight smile on her face. She handed me my Apparition license, which bore the seals of England, France, and the United States. I looked at it, feeling a sense of accomplishment and pride settle over me.

I couldn't help but grin at her as she approached, handing me the license. "So, I can Apparate in all three countries without issue?"

Amelia nodded, the warmth in her expression never faltering. "Exactly. You're now officially licensed in England, France, and the United States." Her voice softened, and she leaned in, placing a soft kiss on my lips. It was brief but enough to make my heart race. "I'm proud of you, Harry."

I blushed slightly but couldn't stop the smile from spreading across my face. "Thank you."

She stepped back, her gaze full of affection. "Now, send Fleur in next. I'd like to tell her and the others the same thing... and maybe give them the same reward." Her eyes twinkled mischievously as she said that last part, making me chuckle.

"Alright, I'll send her over," I said, pocketing my license carefully.

Amelia gave me one last nod before I turned, focusing my mind on my office back in Buckingham Palace. With another crack, I Apparated back, the familiar surroundings of my office instantly replacing Amelia's workspace.

The others were still there, watching me closely as I reappeared. Fleur stepped forward first, a questioning look in her eyes. "How did it go?"

I pulled out my license with a proud smile. "I've got my license for England, France, and the United States. Amelia's got yours ready too, and she wants to tell you herself."

Fleur's eyes brightened at that, and without wasting any time, she disappeared with a soft crack, her Apparition clean and smooth.

I couldn't help but smile as I watched her go, proud of how much she had grown over the years. We were all changing, growing stronger together. As I waited for Fleur to return, I took the license and carefully placed it into a picture frame I had on my desk. Once it was secured, I hung it up on the wall behind me, letting the sense of accomplishment settle in.

I could hear the soft murmurs of conversation from Gabrielle, Susan, Hermione, and Dora as they talked about what it would mean to have this kind of freedom, to be able to Apparate anywhere without restriction. It felt like we were stepping into a new chapter in our lives, and I couldn't help but feel that we were on the cusp of something even greater.

After a few minutes, Fleur reappeared in the office with a wide smile on her face, her own Apparition license in hand. She looked over at me, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Your turn, Gabrielle," she said softly, motioning for her sister to take the next step.

One by one, they Apparated to Amelia's office, each returning with their licenses, smiles on their faces, and an undeniable sense of pride. Finally, Hermione returned, clutching her license tightly, her eyes still wide with amazement.

"I can't believe it," Hermione said breathlessly, holding up her license for us to see. "I've got a license to Apparate in three countries. And Amelia… well, she's very generous with her praise."

I chuckled at that, imagining Amelia giving each of them the same treatment she had given me. It was more than just the licenses...it was the connection we shared with one another, the bond that made us more than just a group of people brought together by fate. We were bound by something deeper, something magical.

As everyone gathered around me, proudly showing off their licenses, I couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility settle on my shoulders. Dumbledore had tried to interfere again, but we had pushed forward. We were building our own path, creating our own futures.

Date: Sunday, March 20th, 1988 (3 years, 5 months, 10 days remaining until August 30th, 1991)

Location: Harry's Personal Bedroom, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England

I stood in my bedroom, surrounded by those who meant everything to me. The air was thick with anticipation, excitement buzzing beneath the surface. Fleur, Gabrielle, Hermione, Susan, Amelia, Dora, Bella, and Minerva all looked at me with curiosity, each of them wondering why I had gathered them here today. I could feel their emotions...a mixture of curiosity and excitement...but none of them truly knew what was coming.

I took a deep breath, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "We're going to the United States," I announced, watching their reactions. Confusion flickered on their faces before curiosity took over again. "To visit my godly family."

Fleur tilted her head, her blue eyes sparkling with interest. "Your godly family?" she asked softly, her French accent adding a musical lilt to her words.

I nodded, my smile widening. "Yes. My father and mother are two of them… Zeus and Hera."

There was a collective intake of breath as the realization hit them. I watched as the others exchanged glances, the weight of my words sinking in. Meeting the King and Queen of the Olympians was no small thing.

Amelia's voice was calm but curious. "And we're going to meet them? All of them?"

"Not just Zeus and Hera," I clarified, my gaze sweeping over all of them. "We'll be meeting Athena and Hestia as well. They're two more of my bound mates." I paused, letting the gravity of that sink in. "They don't know we're coming, though. The only one who knows is Zoe...she's waiting for us on the 86th Floor of the Empire State Building."

"Zoe," Bella murmured, a smirk playing at her lips. "Of course, she'd be involved."

Dora shifted, her pink hair turning a deeper shade as she grinned. "This is going to be fun. I always did want to see how the other side lives."

I chuckled, but there was more. "It's not just them," I continued, meeting each of their gazes in turn. "Artemis and all of my daughters are there as well. It's been a long time since they've gathered like this. It's… a family gathering. That means all the Major Olympians will be there. For most of them, this will be the first time I've met my godly brothers and sisters, aside from Aphrodite."

Hermione's eyes widened. "The entire pantheon?" she asked, her voice soft with awe.

I nodded, feeling the weight of what this meant. It wasn't just a visit; it was a reunion of sorts. A reunion that stretched across eons, bringing together my mortal and godly families.

Gabrielle, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "So… how do we get there?"

I smiled again, this time with a hint of mischief. "Apparition."

They all blinked at me, surprised. "Apparition?" Susan asked, sounding doubtful. "To the United States?"

I nodded. "Thanks to Zoe and the bond, we know exactly where to go. It won't be a problem. Think of it like traveling from the front gate of Hogwarts to Paris. It's one smooth go." I looked at Gabrielle and smiled. "You visited your parents last Friday without a hitch. This will be just like that."

Gabrielle gave me a small smile, the memory of her recent visit clearly giving her confidence. She nodded, her eyes shining with determination.

Minerva, always the practical one, spoke next. "Harry, this is no small thing. Are you certain we're ready for something this large? Meeting the Olympians is…"

"Overwhelming?" I finished her thought, understanding her concern. "It is. But this is something I've been preparing for my whole life. I have you all by my side, and that makes it less daunting. We'll face it together."

Fleur stepped forward, her hand reaching for mine, her touch warm and grounding. "We're with you, Harry," she said softly. "Always."

I squeezed her hand, the warmth of her support filling me with confidence. The others nodded, their expressions resolute. We were ready for this.

"Let's go meet the family," I said, my voice steady as I prepared to lead them into the unknown. My heart raced in anticipation of what was to come...the reunion, the revelations, and the beginning of something far greater than we had ever imagined.

With a final deep breath, I focused on the rooftop of the Empire State Building, where Zoe was waiting for us. I could feel the pull of the bond guiding me, making it as simple as breathing. One by one, we would Apparate, and when we arrived, I knew that everything would change.

With a crack, I disappeared, leading my family into the world of the gods.

3rd Person Point of View

Location: Empire State Building, New York City

The rooftop of the Empire State Building was bathed in the glow of the setting sun, casting long shadows over the iconic skyline. The wind whipped gently around the tall spires, carrying the distant hum of the city below. Standing near the edge of the roof, waiting patiently by the entrance of the elevator, was Zoe Nightshade, her sharp eyes scanning the horizon. She knew what was about to happen.

A minute later, a soft crack broke the air as Harry and his bound mates arrived, one after another. Harry, Fleur, Gabrielle, Hermione, Susan, Amelia, Dora, Bella, and Minerva stood together on the roof, each of them taking in their new surroundings. The air felt different, charged with magic and ancient power.

Zoe stepped forward, a knowing smile spreading across her face as she saw them. "You're right on time, as expected."

Harry smiled back, feeling the weight of this moment settle over him. He had been here before, but this time was different. This time, it wasn't just about him. His family...both mortal and divine...was about to meet. His heart pounded in his chest as he looked at the elevator behind Zoe, knowing that on the other side of those doors stood the Olympians, his godly family, and his daughters, all waiting, unaware that he was coming.

Fleur's voice broke through the quiet, soft yet tinged with anticipation. "So… we're really doing this."

Harry turned to her, squeezing her hand gently. "Yes, we are. It's time."

Gabrielle, her face a mixture of excitement and nerves, looked up at the imposing building surrounding them. "I've heard stories about the Olympians, but I never imagined I'd be meeting them."

"Nor did I," Susan added, her voice steady despite the unease that flickered in her eyes. "I've always been more comfortable with logic and rules. This is… something else entirely."

"Don't worry," Dora chimed in with a playful grin, her hair flashing bright pink. "We're all in this together. We can handle gods, no problem." But despite her bravado, there was a hint of nervousness in her eyes.

Amelia, ever the composed one, glanced at Harry. "Are you ready, Harry? This is no small gathering."

Harry's gaze softened as he looked at Amelia and the others. They were right to be nervous; meeting the gods was never easy, even for someone born of divine lineage. But the warmth of their bond, the strength they gave each other, gave him courage. He could feel each of their emotions...anticipation, excitement, fear...mingling with his own. They were all in this together.

"Ready as I'll ever be," Harry answered, his voice calm but determined. He turned back to Zoe, who had been watching the exchange with quiet understanding.

"They don't know you're coming, you know," Zoe said, stepping aside to let them approach the elevator. "Your father, Zeus, is going to be particularly surprised. He wasn't expecting a family reunion today."

Harry chuckled softly, the thought of surprising his godly father strangely amusing. "Good. It'll make things interesting."

"And Artemis?" Bella asked, her dark eyes flicking between Zoe and Harry. "You mentioned she and your daughters are already here."

Zoe nodded. "Yes, all of Artemis's Huntresses...your daughters...are here. It's been a long time since they've gathered like this. They don't know you're coming either." She paused, a glimmer of warmth in her eyes. "It's going to be a family gathering unlike any other."

Minerva, ever pragmatic, spoke up. "And the rest of the Olympians? They'll all be there too?"

Zoe's expression turned serious. "Yes, all the Major Olympians. Even Hestia and Athena, who are bound to Harry like the rest of you." She gave Harry a significant look. "They're in for quite the surprise when they realize who you've brought with you."

Hermione let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "This is… overwhelming."

Harry turned to her, his expression softening as he gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "I know it's a lot, but we'll face it together. This is a part of who I am, and by extension, a part of who we are now."

Gabrielle looked up at Harry, her eyes filled with both awe and affection. "We trust you, Harry."

Harry smiled warmly at her and the others. Their unwavering support and love were a constant source of strength for him, grounding him even in moments like this.

Zoe pressed the button for the elevator, and as the doors slid open with a soft ding, she looked back at them. "Well then, shall we?"

With a deep breath, Harry stepped into the elevator first, followed by his bound mates. As the doors closed behind them, sealing them in, the air inside felt thick with anticipation.

"Last chance to back out," Dora joked, though there was an edge of excitement in her voice.

Harry smirked. "We're all in this now. No turning back."

The elevator began its slow descent, and with each passing second, the weight of what was about to happen settled in Harry's chest. He was about to introduce his mortal family to his divine one. The gods...his parents, siblings, and daughters...were waiting below, unaware of the reunion that was about to unfold.

As the elevator neared its destination, Harry closed his eyes for a brief moment, centering himself. This was more than just a visit...it was a collision of worlds. But with his bound mates by his side, he felt ready to face whatever came next.

The elevator doors slid open, revealing the grand hall where the Olympians awaited. Harry stepped forward, his bound mates following close behind, and together they walked into the heart of the divine.

Location: Olympus

The air on Olympus was different. Charged, ancient, and heavy with power. I could hear the voices of the gods and my daughters just beyond the massive doors ahead of us. My heart beat faster, a mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through me. My bound mates...Fleur, Gabrielle, Hermione, Susan, Amelia, Dora, Bella, Minerva, and Zoe...stood beside me, each of them radiating their own emotions. Anticipation, curiosity, even a bit of apprehension. I felt it all, their feelings blending into my own as our bond thrummed with energy.

I turned to face them, giving a small, reassuring smile. "This is it," I said quietly, my voice steady, though inside I could feel the magnitude of the moment. "We're about to meet everyone. My godly parents, Zeus and Hera, along with the others."

Fleur reached out, her hand brushing mine gently. "We're with you, Harry."

Gabrielle, standing beside her sister, nodded, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "No matter what happens, we face it together."

Hermione, ever the practical one, gave a small smile. "I never thought I'd be meeting the Olympians, but here we are."

I chuckled softly, looking at them with warmth. "Thank you. All of you." My gaze moved over each of them, my bound mates...my family. "Let's do this."

With a deep breath, I placed both hands on the grand doors of Olympus and pushed them open. The sight that greeted me was overwhelming. There, seated at the long marble table, were all fourteen of the major Olympian gods. Zeus and Hera, at the head of the table, radiated power like a blinding light. And gathered around the edges of the grand hall were twenty Huntresses...my daughters.

Before I could fully process everything, I heard a voice cut through the air. "DAD!" Amy's voice, filled with excitement and love, echoed across the hall as she ran straight toward me. I barely had time to react before she threw herself into my arms, hugging me tightly.

The other nineteen Huntresses were quick to follow, all running toward me with wide smiles and eager shouts. They surrounded me in seconds, their excitement infectious as they each took turns hugging me, some even clinging to me. I felt overwhelmed with love, their presence filling me with a warmth I hadn't realized I'd been missing.

I could feel the weight of the gods' gazes shifting toward me and my group, but it didn't matter. Right now, it was just me and my daughters.

"Dad, we missed you!" Amy exclaimed, squeezing me tightly before stepping back to let the others have their turn.

"I missed you too," I said, my voice thick with emotion. My arms were full of my daughters, their laughter and love filling the space around me. It was pure chaos, but in the best way.

As I looked up, I caught sight of three goddesses whose presence I felt more strongly than the others...Artemis, Athena, and Hestia. Their marks, the ones that bound them to me, were glowing brightly, as were mine. I could feel the connection between us pulsating with magic. It was as if their very souls were calling to mine, and I could feel the strength of our bond intensifying in the moment.

Before I could say anything, I noticed Aphrodite approaching, a radiant smile on her face. She moved with grace, her eyes twinkling as she took in the sight of me surrounded by my daughters and bound mates. But then, something shifted in her expression. She stopped just short of us, her eyes narrowing slightly as if she were seeing something that wasn't immediately obvious to the rest of us.

"Aphrodite…sister?" I asked, curiosity lacing my tone.

Her smile softened as she stepped closer. "Harry," she said warmly. "I'm happy to see you here, with your soulmates and your daughters." She paused, her gaze sweeping over the group before settling back on me. "But there's more. Your soul bond… it's different. I can feel the added protections, some even from outside of England. One of your mates… is a Valkyrie." Her eyes widened slightly, as if the realization had only just dawned on her.

I blinked in surprise. "A Valkyrie?"

Before I could respond further, Aphrodite's gaze shifted to Hermione. Her eyes seemed to unfocus slightly, as though she were seeing something beyond the physical. After a moment, she blinked and focused back on Hermione. "In a vision… I saw you, Hermione, but you were different. You had the features of a Neko."

Hermione's eyes widened in shock. "A Neko? Like a cat-person?"

Aphrodite nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, it was unmistakable."

Hermione and I exchanged a look, our bond flaring with understanding. I knew what this was...this was connected to the first time around. The life we had lived before everything had been reset.

Taking a deep breath, I stepped forward. "Aphrodite… what you're seeing, it's connected to something… something from the first go-around."

The gods in the room fell silent, their attention fixated on me now. Athena and Artemis exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable.

I continued, my voice steady but filled with the weight of the truth. "In the first life, I didn't know about my divine heritage. I didn't know that James and Lily weren't just ordinary wizards...they were Zeus and Hera. I didn't even know that my grandmother was the Queen of England. I lived a different life. One where everything was a lot darker."

Artemis moved forward, her expression soft as she stepped behind Hermione and me, pulling us both into a gentle hug. "He's right," she said quietly, her voice carrying through the room. "That first go-around… our bond was interfered with. Lives were lost...lives that should never have been taken." She paused, her eyes flicking to Dora, whose expression had grown somber.

"In that life," Artemis continued, "Dora's magic was drained to the point where she lost her life in the battle at Hogwarts. She had a son… Teddy, who looked more like Harry than his father, thanks to his Metamorphmagus abilities."

Dora nodded, her face pale as the memories resurfaced. "I remember it," she said softly. "I had a son. And I died before I could raise him." Her voice trembled slightly, but she held herself together.

The room was silent, the gravity of the past weighing on everyone. The gods, my bound mates, even my daughters...everyone was absorbing the truth of what had been lost and what had been gained in this new life.

"We've been given a second chance," I said, my voice strong. "This life is different. We know more now. And we're going to make sure that the mistakes of the first go-around don't happen again."

Hermione nodded beside me, her hand gripping mine tightly. "This time, we'll do it right."

Artemis smiled softly, the bond between us glowing warmly. "Yes, this time, we will."

3rd Person's Point of View

Hermione stood quietly beside Harry, her eyes fixed on the scene before her. Artemis was talking to their daughters..Harry's Huntresses…and the warmth between them filled the room. But as Hermione watched, her thoughts drifted back to a time she had nearly forgotten. Flashes of memories surfaced, distant and blurry at first, but becoming clearer as they overwhelmed her.

It was her second year at Hogwarts.

The sudden realization hit her like a cold wave, and her breath caught in her throat. "Oh no… I forgot." Her voice, strained with panic, broke the warm atmosphere, causing everyone to turn toward her.

Amy was the first to react, stepping closer with concern etched on her face. "Mom? What did you forget?"

Hermione's heart raced, her memories coming back in vivid detail. "I… I was permanently turned into a Neko in my second year," she whispered, her voice trembling as the weight of what she had just remembered settled over her. The potion Poppy had given her had been to hide it, to suppress the physical change, but now the effects were breaking through, like a flood gate opening.

Before anyone could react, the transformation began. Hermione gasped as her body started to shift. Her human ears disappeared, merging into her head, only for two cat-like ears to sprout on top. Fur, soft and dark…began to spread across her skin, covering her face and arms. Her muscles stretched and shifted, her body becoming more agile, more feline. A long tail swished behind her as her eyes morphed, the pupils narrowing into slits like those of a predator.

It was undeniable now. Hermione had fully transformed into a Neko, her appearance stunning and unmistakably different. Her face, now more feline, was marked by wide, shocked eyes that brimmed with tears.

"I forgot…" she cried out, her voice breaking with sorrow and shame. "I forgot that I was permanently turned into a Neko in my second year." The flood of emotions was too much, and she started to sob, overwhelmed by the sudden, irreversible transformation. She felt exposed, as though she had lost part of herself in front of the people she loved most.

But before she could fall deeper into despair, Harry was there, his arms wrapping around her, pulling her close. "Hermione," he said softly, his voice full of love and understanding. "It doesn't matter. We love you for who you are, not what you look like."

Hermione buried her face in Harry's chest, tears soaking into his shirt as she clung to him, her body shaking. "But… I didn't tell any of you. I hid it. I thought I could be normal…"

Amy, who had been watching with wide eyes, stepped forward and placed a hand gently on her mother's fur-covered arm. "Mom," she said, her voice full of love, "whether you're a witch, a Neko, a god, or even a dragon, it doesn't change who you are to us. You're still our mother. Nothing can change that."

The other nineteen Huntresses nodded in agreement, their love and acceptance flowing through the room. Hermione could feel their support, their unwavering devotion to her, no matter what form she took. The bond between them was strong, unbreakable, and in that moment, she felt it more than ever.

Tears still glistening in her now cat-like eyes, Hermione looked around the room, seeing the love reflected back at her from each of them. Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Amelia, Dora, Bella, Minerva, Zoe, Artemis, Athena, and Hestia...they all stood with her, their expressions soft and full of understanding. There was no judgment, only love and acceptance.

Harry gently wiped away her tears with his thumb, his eyes full of warmth. "You're still Hermione, the brilliant, strong, and incredible witch I've always known. Nothing changes that."

Hermione looked up at him, her heart swelling with the love she felt radiating from him and everyone else in the room. "I… I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything," Fleur whispered, stepping forward and taking Hermione's hand. "We're family. And no matter what form we take, we're always going to stand by each other."

Gabrielle smiled softly, joining them. "You've always been perfect to us, Hermione. This doesn't change that."

As the soul bond pulsed with warmth, Hermione felt the depth of their connection. She could feel their emotions, their love, their acceptance, and it wrapped around her like a protective embrace. It was overwhelming but in the best way possible. For the first time, Hermione allowed herself to fully embrace her transformation, no longer feeling the need to hide it.

Looking around the room, she saw her family…mortal and godly…standing with her, supporting her. She met Harry's gaze, and in that moment, she knew that no matter what, they would face everything together.

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice steadying as the tears dried on her cheeks. "I don't know what I would do without all of you."

Harry smiled, pulling her close once again. "You'll never have to find out. We're with you, Hermione. Always."

10 minutes after Hermione turns into a Neko

The grand hall of Olympus had returned to a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere, though there was still a sense of wonder and curiosity in the air. Hermione, who had transformed into a Neko in front of her family and the gods, now stood in the center of the group, still feeling the warmth and love radiating from the bond she shared with her bound mates.

Just as Harry had said, the love and support coming through the bond was undeniable. She could feel it from everyone…Harry, Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, Amelia, Dora, Bella, Minerva, Zoe, Artemis, Athena, and Hestia. The acceptance washed over her like a warm embrace, easing the lingering tension she had felt moments earlier.

Nearby, Dora was playfully using her Metamorphmagus magic, changing her hair to match Fleur's glossy, silvery blonde. Fleur grinned and joined in, altering her own hair to match Susan's soft long red hair, resulting in the two of them laughing as they admired each other's transformations.

Watching them, an idea began to form in Hermione's mind. She could feel it growing, a spark of inspiration that suddenly caught Harry's attention. He tilted his head toward her, his brow furrowed slightly in curiosity.

"Hermione," Harry asked, his voice soft but curious, "what are you thinking?"

Hermione's lips twitched into a small smile as she turned to look at him. "Hair," she said simply, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

Harry's eyes widened immediately, understanding the implications of what she was planning. "Wait, Hermione, are you..."

Before he could finish, Hermione focused inward, tapping into her own hidden abilities. With a deep breath, she called upon her Metamorphmagus magic…the gift that Dora had passed to her through their bond. Her body responded instantly.

What happened next shocked everyone in the room.

Hermione's fur and hair color began to shift, morphing and changing right before their eyes. Her once fur-covered Neko form smoothed out, and her hair darkened and lightened at will. She began to blend the traits of her Neko transformation with her human form, skillfully removing the more exaggerated feline features while keeping the underlying power and magic she had gained from the transformation.

Within moments, Hermione looked completely human again. The fur was gone, her muscles were relaxed, and her hair flowed freely down her back. Yet, she still retained the essence of the Neko, a quiet power that hummed beneath her skin. It was as if she had mastered her transformation, learning to control and integrate it with her own magic.

A collective gasp echoed through the hall as everyone turned to see Hermione standing in her "normal" human form, but with the ability to transform back and forth effortlessly.

With a proud smile, Hermione closed her eyes briefly and shifted again...this time back into her Neko form. Her fur returned, her tail swished behind her, and the cat-like ears reappeared on top of her head. But it was different now...she was in complete control, moving between her forms with ease.

"How…?" Gabrielle breathed, her voice filled with awe.

Hermione opened her eyes and looked at her bound mates with a radiant smile. "I realized that I could use my Metamorphmagus magic to control the changes," she explained, her voice steady but excited. "I don't have to stay in one form or the other. I can shift between them as I grow, as I train, and as I work out. It's like I've gained the ability to adapt as I age."

Harry, still wide-eyed, stared at her in disbelief, but his expression quickly softened into one of admiration. "Hermione… that's incredible," he said, his voice filled with pride.

Hermione shifted back to her human form once more, the transformation smooth and effortless which shows as she does it out closing her eyes. She looked around the room at her bound mates, their expressions ranging from astonishment to delight. Fleur and Susan both gave her encouraging smiles, clearly proud of her accomplishment.

"I didn't know you could do that!" Dora exclaimed, her pink hair flashing a bright shade of purple in excitement. "You've just mastered something it took me years to control!"

Hermione chuckled softly, feeling a warmth spread through her chest at Dora's praise. "I think it's the bond," she said, glancing at Harry with a soft smile. "It's given us all so much more than we realize."

Harry stepped closer to her, his eyes still reflecting the awe he felt. "You've always been brilliant, Hermione. But this… this is something else entirely."

Hermione smiled at him, the love between them palpable. "Thank you, Harry," she whispered, her voice full of emotion. "I couldn't have done it without all of you."

As she looked around at her bound mates and the gods who were watching with interest, she felt a deep sense of belonging. No matter what form she took...whether she was a Neko, a human, or something else entirely...she knew she was loved for who she was, and that was all that mattered.

With a final smile, Hermione shifted back into her Neko form, her tail swishing behind her playfully. "I think I'll keep practicing," she said with a playful glint in her eyes, "but for now, I'm pretty happy with this."

Laughter filled the room, the tension and worry from earlier completely dissipating as everyone marveled at Hermione's newfound control and strength. Harry's smile lingered as he looked at her, filled with pride and love for the woman who had just mastered something extraordinary.

Harry's Point of View

Date: Saturday, April 30th, 1988 (3 years, 4 months, 1 day remaining until August 30th, 1991)

Location: Harry's Personal Gym, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England

I could hear the soft, rhythmic breathing of Hermione, Fleur, Gabrielle, and Susan as we worked out together in the private gym I'd built into Buckingham Palace. Each of the girls was focused, dressed in sports bras and workout pants, their bodies moving gracefully as they worked through the routines we'd perfected together.

Hermione, in her Neko form, was pushing herself hard, her ears twitching as she stretched and lifted, her tail flicking as she focused on the weights. I couldn't help but admire the ease with which she adapted to this form during our workouts. Her strength, her agility...it was a reminder of how far we'd all come since our bond had formed.

Suddenly, the room filled with an intense, bright light. I instinctively stopped, blinking in confusion, and noticed the girls doing the same. My eyes darted to the table in the corner of the room where the light was coming from, and I saw a box had appeared out of thin air.

"What… what is that?" Fleur asked, her French accent thick with curiosity.

I didn't have an answer, but I was drawn to the box. Stepping forward cautiously, I lifted the lid. Inside were several pairs of magical gloves, each adorned with the Potter family crest. What caught my attention immediately was that each glove had a name embroidered on it...Fleur, Hermione, Gabrielle, Susan...and even more names: Amelia, Dora, Bella, and Minerva.

"What does this mean?" Gabrielle asked softly, peering into the box beside me.

Before I could respond, Amelia, Dora, Bellatrix, and Minerva walked into the gym. They stopped, their eyes fixed on the gloves in my hands. I glanced at them, noticing the same confusion reflected in their expressions. Something stirred in the air, thick and potent, like the hum of ancient magic. I handed the gloves out, and one by one, the girls slipped them on.

As soon as Hermione's glove settled into place, a glow surrounded her body, starting from the top of her head and spreading downward. Her muscles tensed as if the magic was transforming her from the inside out. Her entire form seemed to shift slightly, becoming more… perfect, for lack of a better word. The glow intensified around her chest, her hips, her very core. I could feel the magic pulsing through the air, like it was attuning to something primal within us.

The pulse radiated outward, passing through me, then extending to the others in the bond. I watched in awe as Hermione's body adapted, her breast size changing, her frame growing stronger, more defined, more matched to the bond we shared. She gasped, her eyes glowing with the intensity of it all.

Then it happened. The gloves…each one of them…seemed to absorb the mate marks on their hands, shifting and merging with the symbols of our bond. The marks now gleamed brighter, clearer, showing that these girls were truly mated to me, bound to me in every way.

"Look," Hermione whispered, raising her hand to show the glowing symbol on her glove.

Just as I processed what was happening, there was another flash of light. Artemis, Zoe, Athena, and Hestia appeared in the room, their presence filling the space with divine energy. Each of them held their own pair of gloves, and it was Athena who stepped forward, her eyes shimmering with a knowing smile.

"I made these," Athena said, gesturing to the gloves. "After I met you and your other bound mates back in March. They cover and improve the mate marks of those bound to you. It's a sign of the strength of your bond."

I nodded, my heart filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Athena," I said earnestly. "Thank you for supporting your bound-sisters."

Athena gave me a small nod, her gaze warm. I turned back to the box, intending to hand out the remaining gloves. But as I reached for them, I noticed something strange. The gloves for Amelia, Dora, Bellatrix, and Minerva were gone. In their place was a note.

Frowning, I picked it up and read it aloud for everyone to hear:

"The gloves have gone to their respective owners. Each bound mate will find their own gloves when the time is right. These gloves will help them find you, wherever you may be. Signed, The Fates."

A wave of understanding washed over me. The Fates had intervened, guiding the course of our bond in their own mysterious way. I glanced at the girls, their eyes glowing with a mix of wonder and reverence.

"Well," I said, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "It looks like we're in for an interesting ride."

The girls smiled back, the glow of the gloves still radiating softly from their hands. There was a sense of unity, a deepening connection between all of us. Whatever challenges lay ahead, we were ready...together.

The pulse of magic still thrummed in the air, and I knew that this was only the beginning.

Location: Harry's Office, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England

I leaned back in my chair, rubbing my temples as I shuffled through another pile of paperwork. Being a member of the royal family certainly came with its own set of responsibilities, more than I had ever anticipated. It wasn't just magical matters or the bonds that tied me to my mates…it was managing affairs, legal documents, international relations, and the never-ending correspondence.

As I reached for my coffee, my eyes caught a small form that seemed out of place. It was an official document from the French government. Curious, I picked it up and began reading through it. As I did, I felt the blood drain from my face. The letter stated that during an audit of old files, they discovered that I had dual citizenship...something I had never known before. Apparently, my parents, Lily and James Potter, had filed the necessary paperwork before they died.

What truly caught me off guard, however, was the note about my mother. According to this, she had Veela blood running through her veins, something I had never been told. The French government, the French Ministry of Magic, and the Veela community were notifying me that because of this, a member of the French Veela community would be coming to visit soon. They wanted to determine if the Veela traits had manifested in me and if it did within the bonds I shared with my mates, especially Fleur and Gabrielle. If they had, the Veela community wanted to provide training in controlling these abilities.

I stared at the paper for a long moment, feeling the weight of this new revelation settle over me. Veela blood. From my mother. Hera… or rather, Lily, during her mortal life. I knew that James and Lily Potter were just mortal identities taken on by Zeus and Hera, but this...this was new.

Just then, the door to my office opened, and I looked up to see Fleur, Gabrielle, my mother Hera, and my grandmother Elizabeth walk in. Their faces were lit with warm smiles, but as soon as Hera's eyes fell on the letter I was holding, her smile faltered.

"What's wrong, Harry?" Fleur asked, noticing my expression.

I gestured to the document and handed it to Hera. "You might want to read this."

She took it from me, scanning the lines quickly. Her brows furrowed in confusion, and I saw her eyes narrow as she read through it a second time. Suddenly, her face paled.

"Oh, gods," Hera muttered, her voice barely a whisper. She looked at me, her eyes wide with realization. "I…I forgot."

"Forgot what?" I asked, trying to understand.

"When I was… Lily," she started slowly, as if the memories were coming back to her piece by piece, "I knew I had Veela blood, but I didn't think it mattered. I didn't expect it to carry over…certainly not now. I wasn't fully aware of how strong that part of my mortal life had become."

Fleur stepped closer, looking between Hera and me with concern. "Veela blood? You have it?"

Hera nodded, her face still pale. "Yes. And it seems that through me, Harry has inherited it as well."

Gabrielle looked shocked, her eyes wide. "That's why the Veela community is reaching out to him. They must have sensed it."

I sat back in my chair, trying to process it all. My mother, when she had been living as Lily Potter, had Veela blood. And now, apparently, it had passed on to me, and by extension, could have been shared with the women I was bound to. That explained why the French Ministry, the Veela community, and the government were all so interested in this bond.

Fleur looked down at the document in Hera's hands, reading it over her shoulder. "The Veela community wants to meet with us," she said softly. "They want to test if the Veela abilities have spread through the bond."

Hera shook her head slowly. "I had no idea. I thought it was something that had been left behind, forgotten with my mortal life as Lily." She looked at me, guilt flickering in her eyes. "Harry, I'm sorry. I should have told you sooner, but I didn't think it mattered."

I reached out, placing my hand over hers. "It's okay, Mum. None of us knew. We'll figure this out together."

Elizabeth, who had been silent until now, stepped forward, her voice calm and reassuring. "This isn't something to fear. It's simply another part of who you are, Harry. And with Fleur and Gabrielle by your side, you'll have all the help you need in navigating these abilities."

I nodded, feeling a bit more grounded. "You're right," I said, looking at Fleur and Gabrielle. "We'll handle this together."

Hera's gaze softened, and she smiled at me once again, though there was still a hint of worry in her eyes. "I'll help as much as I can, Harry. The Veela part of me is something I didn't think I'd need to face again, but I'll be with you through this."

I exhaled slowly, the weight of the new information still heavy but more manageable now that I wasn't facing it alone.

Fleur smiled, taking my hand. "We'll face this as we always do, Harry. Together."

I squeezed her hand, grateful for her strength. "Yeah, together."

As I glanced back at the letter, I couldn't help but wonder what else was waiting to be discovered.

Date: Sunday, May 1st, 1988 (3 years, 4 months, 0 days remaining until August 30th, 1991 / 60 days until the end of the '87-'88 school year)

Location: Training Room, Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England

The air was thick with anticipation. We stood in the middle of the training room, the familiar weight of expectation settling on my shoulders as I glanced around at everyone gathered. Hermione, Fleur, Gabrielle, Susan, and Zoe were beside me, each of them silent, yet I could feel the undercurrent of tension running through the bond we all shared.

We were waiting for the arrival of Isolde Delacroix, a representative from the French Veela community. She was coming to test whether the Veela blood I had unknowingly inherited from my mother had manifested within me. And if it had, she would also test Hermione, Susan, and Zoe, as they weren't naturally Veela like Fleur and Gabrielle.

I glanced at Hermione, her ears twitching slightly in her Neko form as she shifted uneasily on her feet. I could tell she was nervous...though she tried to hide it, her tail gave her away. Fleur and Gabrielle, on the other hand, looked calm, but I knew that was mostly because they were already connected to the Veela community. Susan and Zoe were the wild cards here, both standing quietly, their expressions focused but wary.

Across the room, a small group had gathered to witness the test. My daughters...Phoebe, Parthenos, Naomi, Celyn, and Amy...stood with their eyes fixed on us. They were dressed in their usual attire, but there was a seriousness in their demeanor that I didn't often see. My grandmother Elizabeth and my mother Hera were nearby, along with my godly sister Aphrodite, whose presence always seemed to light up any room. Then there were the royal guards, armed with Enfield L85A1 rifles, stationed at the room's edges for protection. Even though this was a test, there was always a sense of caution when dealing with the unknown.

I had handed my grandmother my Colt Python earlier. It wasn't something I wanted to have on me during the test. I trusted her completely, and she gave me a reassuring nod, the revolver resting securely in her hands.

I stared at my hands, flexing them slowly as I felt an odd sensation ripple through me. The Veela blood in me..it was more than just a theory now. I could feel it, like a hum beneath my skin, as if it was waiting for something, a power yet untapped. It was an unfamiliar sensation, but not an unwelcome one. I had faced so many challenges in the past years, and this was just one more piece of who I was...who I was becoming.

The room grew quiet, and I looked up just in time to see a bright shimmer appear near the door. A tall, elegant woman stepped through the shimmering light. Isolde Delacroix. Her long, silvery-blonde hair cascaded down her back, her eyes sharp and observant as she walked toward us with a confident grace. There was no mistaking her Veela heritage; she practically glowed with it.

"Harry Potter," she said, her voice smooth but commanding, "I am Isolde Delacroix, sent by the French Veela community to conduct this test."

I nodded, my heart beating steadily as I stepped forward. "Thank you for coming, Ms. Delacroix."

Her gaze flickered toward Fleur and Gabrielle before returning to me. "I understand you have inherited Veela blood from your mother, Lily. The Veela community has been… intrigued by this connection, as it is quite rare. Today, we will see if that blood has manifested within you...and if your bond with these women has transferred any of those traits to them."

I glanced at the others. Hermione, Susan, and Zoe exchanged quick looks, but there was a determination in their eyes. We were all in this together.

Isolde turned to Fleur. "Fleur Delacour, Gabrielle Delacour, as natural-born Veela, your involvement in this test is more about the bond you share with Harry than the presence of Veela traits. We shall see if the magic has been transferred to his other bound mates."

I stood still, feeling the weight of everyone's eyes on me, but it was the sensation in my hands that pulled my attention. The hum in my veins had grown stronger, more insistent. I could feel the Veela blood stirring, almost as if it was aware of what was happening.

Isolde reached into a small pouch at her side, pulling out a wand that seemed to shimmer with the same silvery light that surrounded her. "We will begin with you, Harry," she said. "Stand still."

She raised the wand, murmuring softly under her breath. A warm glow surrounded me, starting at my feet and slowly crawling upward. The moment it reached my chest, I felt it...an undeniable surge of energy, as if something inside me had awakened. My skin tingle, and I could feel the magic swirling around me, settling in my core. My heart raced, but I kept my breathing steady.

Isolde's eyes widened slightly. "It's there," she murmured. "The Veela blood is strong in you, Harry. Stronger than I anticipated."

I swallowed hard, nodding slowly. "And what about the others?"

She turned to Hermione, who stepped forward with a steady resolve despite the uncertainty in her eyes. Isolde waved her wand again, the glow now encompassing Hermione. The energy shifted, and I could feel it through the bond we shared.

Hermione's ears twitched, her tail swishing nervously behind her, but then… something changed. The glow around her intensified, and I could see a shimmer of silver beneath her skin. The Veela traits...there was no doubt now.

"It's there," Isolde confirmed, her voice soft. "It's faint, but the bond has transferred part of the Veela traits to you, Hermione."

I felt a surge of pride, but also concern. This was something none of us had expected. As Isolde moved on to Susan and Zoe, the same glow surrounded them, revealing the faint traces of Veela magic satching

Once the test was complete, Isolde stepped back, her expression thoughtful. "This is unprecedented," she said finally. "Harry, your bond has allowed the Veela traits to transfer to those not born of Veela blood. While the traits are not as strong as in natural-born Veela, they are there. With proper training, they may grow."

I nodded, absorbing the information. "So… what now?"

Isolde gave a small smile. "Now, we train. The French Veela community will offer guidance, and I will personally assist in teaching you and your bound mates to control these new abilities."

As she spoke, I glanced at Hermione, Susan, and Zoe. They were looking at me with a mixture of surprise and determination. This was a new chapter for all of us, but like everything else, we would face it together.

"Thank you, Ms. Delacroix," I said quietly.

She nodded gracefully, her eyes gleaming with approval. "We will begin soon, Harry Potter. You and your bound mates have much to learn."

The confirmation that I had Veela blood coursing through my veins was both a shock and a relief. The air still buzzed with the magic that had just been tested, and the knowledge that my bound-mates...Hermione, Susan, and Zoe...shared a faint trace of those traits added another layer to the bond we had. The intensity of the moment, however, shifted as I noticed Isolde Delacroix's eyes wander around the room, landing on the others who had been silently observing the test.

I could see the curiosity in her gaze, the way she hesitated for a moment as if unsure whether she should address their presence. They had been quietly watching from the sidelines, but now that the test was over, it felt like the right time to introduce them properly.

"These are my daughters," I began, gesturing toward the group of young women standing together. "Phoebe, Parthenos, Naomi, Celyn, and Amy."

Isolde's sharp gaze softened as she nodded politely to each of them. There was a certain pride I felt as I introduced my daughters; they were strong, capable, and had always been by my side.

"And over here," I continued, shifting slightly to where my grandmother stood, regal as ever, "is my grandmother, Queen Elizabeth."

Elizabeth gave a gracious nod, her presence commanding respect without needing words. Isolde acknowledged her with the same measured grace.

Then, I turned my attention to the two goddesses standing just behind her, their auras impossible to ignore. "My mother, Hera," I said, my voice holding a weight of significance as I pointed toward her. "And my sister, Aphrodite."

Isolde blinked in surprise, clearly taken aback. The look on her face was one I'd seen before when people realized the full extent of my heritage. I couldn't blame her...it wasn't every day that someone had to process the idea of gods and goddesses standing in the same room.

I took a breath, knowing the next part was going to be harder to explain. "There's more to the story than just their names, though." I glanced at Hera, who gave me a small, encouraging nod before I continued. "My mother… she's not just Hera. She also lived as Lily Potter, the woman who raised me until she and James..my father..died. It was during her time as Lily that she learned she had Veela blood."

Isolde's expression shifted from surprise to shock as she processed the revelation. Her eyes darted between Hera and me, trying to reconcile the duality of my mother's identities.

I pressed on, knowing this wasn't something I could leave half-explained. "Hera's memories were sealed when she lived as Lily Potter. She had no idea of her godhood, or her Veela heritage, until much later. But now, she remembers it all. She's here, both as the goddess Hera and as the mother I knew in my early life, Lily."

The room was silent as my words hung in the air, and I could feel everyone's eyes on me and Hera.

Isolde, her face still unreadable, glanced toward Hera, seeking some kind of confirmation. Without a word, my mother...Hera...stepped forward, her gaze soft yet powerful. As she reached my side, I could see the way Isolde looked at her, half in awe, half in disbelief.

And then it happened.

Hera's form shifted, the divine energy that surrounded her flickering like sunlight through clouds. Before Isolde's eyes, my mother's regal form dissolved and reformed into the woman I had known in my early years...Lily Potter. The transformation was seamless, yet profound, and I could hear the faint gasp from Isolde as the realization struck her.

Standing next to me was no longer Hera, Queen of the Gods, but the gentle, kind woman who had raised me, with her bright red hair and soft green eyes that I had always remembered. Lily smiled at me, her hand resting lightly on my shoulder.

"This," she said softly, her voice now familiar as Lily's, "was who I was when I brought Harry into the world. As Harry said, I didn't know about my godly side at the time. I only learned later about the Veela blood flowing through me, long after my memories as Hera returned."

Isolde stared at her, speechless for a moment, before nodding slowly, clearly trying to make sense of it all.

"I… understand," she finally said, though there was a hint of awe still in her voice. "It's rare to witness such a… profound combination of identities. Goddess, Veela, and… mortal mother."

Lily…Hera…gave her a small smile. "It's not always easy to reconcile the different parts of who I am, but Harry is my son, in both lives. And now, we'll move forward with whatever this new discovery brings."

I felt a wave of warmth wash over me as I looked at her. No matter what name she went by, no matter what form she took, she was my mother. And that bond was something that transcended the boundaries of magic, divinity, or Veela blood.

Isolde, still visibly processing everything, took a step back, bowing her head slightly out of respect. "I see now why this test was so significant," she said quietly. "Your lineage, Harry… it is beyond what we could have imagined. The Veela community will offer its full support in your training, but I can already tell that you and your family…are unlike any others."

I smiled, feeling the truth of her words settle within me. "Thank you, Isolde," I said, glancing around at everyone in the room, my bound mates, my daughters, my family. "We're ready to take this next step together."

And with that, I knew that no matter what came next, I wasn't facing it alone.

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