3rd Person's Point of View
Date: December 1st, 1985
Time: 12:30 pm
Location: Old College Parade Ground, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Camberley, Surrey
Harriet stood tall and proud, her commanding presence undeniable as she faced the assembled crowd on the Old College Parade Ground. Dressed in her formal female officer's military attire, adorned with the decorations she had earned, Harriet's stature and bearing left no doubt that she was the top graduate of her class. Beside her, Grandmother Elizabeth and Aunt Diana stood with regal grace, their expressions filled with pride and anticipation. In the stands, Harriet's bound mates sat among the families of other graduates, their eyes fixed on her.
The cold December airbrushed Harriet's cheeks, but her focus was on the task ahead. She was about to give the Distinguished Graduate's speech, a moment that would cement her status not just within the Academy but within the British Army as a whole. She stepped forward to the podium, taking a deep breath before beginning.
"Fellow graduates, honored guests, and esteemed officers," Harriet began, her voice calm yet powerful, "today marks the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. We've been challenged, tested, and pushed beyond our limits, but we stand here today as stronger individual…ready to serve and protect."
As she spoke, her eyes scanned the crowd, catching glimpses of her bound mates…Dora, Fleur, Hermione, Gabrielle, and Susan…each of them watching her with admiration and pride. They were her family in a way that transcended blood, and their bond had only strengthened over time.
"When I arrived here, I knew that the road would not be easy. I didn't want it to be easy," Harriet continued, her gaze briefly shifting to her grandmother, who gave her a small nod of encouragement. "The challenges we face, both here and in the world beyond, require us to be resilient, adaptable, and unshakable in our duty. I stand here today not because of any title or privilege, but because I earned my place among you."
The crowd listened intently, her words striking a chord with the graduates who had walked the same grueling path alongside her. Harriet's resolve shone through every word, and it was clear she spoke from the heart.
"I have been fortunate to have the support of my family, both present here and in spirit, but I want to be clear…I did not ask for nor receive any special treatment during my time at Sandhurst. I worked for this. Just as each of you did."
At this, Harriet's commanding officer, Lt. Col. Hywel W. Davies of the Blues and Royals, stepped forward, a curious expression crossing his face as he noticed the patch on Harriet's uniform. He leaned in slightly, speaking into the microphone. "Cadet, I see you're wearing the Blues and Royals patch. May I ask for your full name?"
Harriet's heart skipped a beat, but she maintained her composure. "Yes, sir. My full name is Harriet Jane Potter Mary Windsor."
A hush fell over the crowd, and Harriet blinked, realizing too late that her microphone was still on. The silence stretched for a moment as the weight of her words sank in, her revelation sending shockwaves through the assembled audience. She glanced around, seeing the surprise and shock written on the faces of the graduates, officers, and even her bound mates in the stands.
Queen Elizabeth II, ever the queen, stepped forward, her regal presence calming the crowd. She took the microphone, her voice steady and filled with authority. "Ladies and gentlemen, I understand that my granddaughter's full identity may come as a surprise to many of you. Harriet chose to withhold this information during her time at Sandhurst for one very important reason: she wanted to be treated like every other cadet. She did not want to be handed anything on a silver platter, nor did she want special treatment because of her family."
Elizabeth paused, her gaze sweeping the crowd, ensuring she had their full attention. "In fact, Harriet has faced more challenges than most during her time here. Not long before arriving at Sandhurst, she endured a near-death experience and an attempted kidnapping while in the hospital. She overcame those trials not because of her royal blood but because of her strength, determination, and the values instilled in her. I could not be prouder of the woman she has become."
Applause erupted across the parade ground, a thunderous echo that seemed to reverberate through the very air. Harriet stood tall, her chest swelling with a mixture of pride and humility as her grandmother spoke. She hadn't wanted to reveal her full name like this, but now that it was out, she was ready to face the truth head-on.
As the applause continued, Elizabeth turned to Harriet with a proud smile. "Now, my dear, lead your fellow graduates."
Harriet nodded, her heart full as she stepped forward to lead the procession. The other graduates fell in line behind her, marching with discipline and pride. When the ceremony concluded, Harriet finally allowed herself a moment to breathe. Her bound mates…Fleur, Hermione, Gabrielle, and Susan…were waiting for her, their smiles as bright as the December sun.
"Congratulations, Harriet," Fleur said, her voice laced with admiration.
Hermione nodded, her eyes sparkling. "You were incredible up there."
Gabrielle, always energetic, grinned. "I knew you'd be the best!"
Susan added, "We're so proud of you."
Dora, though absent physically, sent her congratulations through their bond, her presence felt even from the halls of Hogwarts. Harriet smiled at them, her heart swelling with warmth as she embraced each of them in turn.
"Thank you," Harriet said, her voice filled with emotion. "I couldn't have done it without all of you."
Date: December 22nd, 1985
Time: 11:30 am
Laction: Platform 9 3/4, King's Cross Station, London
Harriet stood tall on the nearly deserted platform, dressed impeccably in her No. 2 Dress (Service Dress), her military decorations gleaming in the faint winter sunlight. The few students returning home for the holidays moved past, casting curious glances at the regal officer with the commanding presence. Next to her stood Fleur, Hermione, Gabrielle, Susan, and Hannah, each bundled in thick jackets, their cheeks flushed from the chill in the air.
As she waited for the Hogwarts Express to pull in, Harriet glanced over at the barrier between Platform 9 3/4 and the Muggle world. There, four female Army Reserve soldiers, each armed with a Browning Hi-Power Mark III pistol, kept a watchful eye on the surroundings. These witches, appointed by her grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, were there for one purpose: to ensure Harriet and her bound mates' safety from potential attacks or kidnappings. Their expressions were calm but alert, their presence a quiet but constant reminder of the potential threats surrounding Harriet's life.
"It's colder than I remember," Susan commented, tugging her scarf a little tighter around her neck. She looked up at Harriet with a curious smile. "How are you not freezing, Harriet? You're just standing there like it's summer."
Harriet glanced down at Susan, giving her a slight, amused smile. "I don't feel the cold. Or the heat, for that matter. Temperature hasn't affected me since… well, since I discovered my true form."
Fleur, always perceptive, nodded knowingly. "It's part of being a Daughter of the Gods, 'arriet. You are no longer bound by the same physical limitations as us. Your lineage grants you immunity to extremes that would affect most mortals."
Gabrielle looked up at Harriet in awe, her young voice filled with admiration. "So you'll never need a jacket, even if it snows?"
Harriet chuckled. "Not unless I want one for style." She winked, causing her bound mates to smile. "But honestly, it's just part of who I am now. I guess there are some perks."
As the whistle of the approaching train echoed along the platform, Harriet's attention shifted, and her posture straightened as the Hogwarts Express slowed to a stop. The few students stepping off glanced around, their gazes occasionally landing on Harriet and her group. Finally, among them, Dora emerged, bundled in a winter coat and scarf, her cheeks flushed as she pulled her luggage along.
Dora spotted Harriet instantly, her face lighting up as she hurried over. "Harriet!" she exclaimed, pulling Harriet into a tight hug despite their height difference. Pulling back, she took a quick look at Harriet's uniform and grinned. "You really weren't kidding about wearing your Service Dress."
"Nope," Harriet replied with a smile. "I thought I'd make good on that promise."
Dora looked her up and down, shaking her head in amazement. "You're incredible. And…you're not cold at all, are you?"
As she asked this, Dora reached out, touching Harriet's arm…and quickly pulled her hand back, eyes wide with surprise. "You're like a living, breathing heater!"
The others laughed, their voices mingling with Dora's delighted astonishment. Hermione looked at Harriet thoughtfully, her own cheeks pink from the cold. "So, you're like our own personal furnace, then?"
Harriet shrugged with a smile. "Guess so. Perks of being half-divine."
Fleur laughed, her voice melodic and warm. "You're more than just a heater, 'arriet. You're our protector, and we're lucky to have you."
Harriet's gaze softened as she looked at her friends, her bound mates, each one a part of her life and her journey. "No, I'm the lucky one," she said quietly, her voice filled with warmth. "Let's head back. We've got the holidays to enjoy together."
With a final nod to the guards stationed nearby, Harriet led her bound mates off the platform, ready to share the warmth of family, friendship, and magic that only grew stronger with each passing day.
Time: 1:00 pm
Location: Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom
Harriet and her bound mates gathered in the grand room at Buckingham Palace, their laughter filling the space as they discussed plans for the two-week holiday. Dora's arrival had brought a fresh energy, and ideas flew as they weighed the options…visiting Fleur's and Gabrielle's family in France or perhaps a trip to the United States to meet Harriet's godly family.
The laughter paused as two figures appeared beside them, their presence warm and familiar. Hestia and Artemis, two of Harriet's mothers, stood there, both smiling at their daughter. Harriet's military attire gleamed in the soft room light, her British Army decorations proudly displayed on her chest, yet she turned to her mothers with a look of curiosity.
"Mother Hestia, Mother Artemis," Harriet began, her tone both respectful and affectionate, "what brings both you here not that I am happy to see you?"
Hestia's eyes sparkled as she looked at her daughter. "We're here to take you, Dora, and your friends somewhere important, Harriet. You need to meet the rest of your bound mates."
Artemis nodded, her gaze steady. "Albus is on the move, trying to stop these connections from forming. He's found a list of the bound mates…there are 22 in total. Including those in this room, there are still 15 out there, and we can't let him find them before you do."
Before Harriet or any of her bound mates could respond, a shimmering light filled the room. As it faded, they saw Aphrodite, Harriet's mother, standing amidst a gathering of young witches…each looking surprised but calm. Harriet's heart leapt as she recognized most of them. There were Penelope "Penny" Clearwater, Cho Chang, Padma Patil, Sue Li, Angelina Johnson, Alicia Spinnet, Katie Bell, Parvati Patil, Leanne, Astoria Greengrass, Daphne Isabelle Greengrass, Pansy Parkinson, and Tracey Davis. However, three stood out, their presences unfamiliar yet undeniably powerful.
One was a tall woman with a graceful, warrior-like stance…Samantha "Sam" Parrington, a Valkyrie whose real name was Brunnhilde. Another was a mythical figure with fox-like ears and tails, Yasaka, a Kyuubi no Kitsune. And lastly, a woman whose aura radiated raw strength, Samantha Fireborn, a Hungarian Horntail Dragon in human form who could transform at will.
For a brief moment, Harriet felt a pang of confusion, but as her gaze settled on Sam, memories came flooding back. She recalled a mission in Norway as Harry, a 25-year-old wizard searching for a dark witch terrorizing magical communities. Sam had been his ally, fierce and loyal. The memory was so vivid that it was as if no time had passed.
She looked next to Yasaka, and another memory surfaced...a time when she had been struggling at 37, unraveling the truth of Albus's curse that bound her to a male form. Yasaka had guided her, offering shelter and insight, and, for one week, she had been a friend and a source of strength as Harriet sought answers.
Finally, Harriet's gaze fell on Samantha Fireborn, her heart catching at the memory of the Hungarian Horntail she had faced in the Triwizard Tournament. She recalled visiting the dragon later in the sanctuary, forging a bond with the proud creature before her life had taken a turn. Now, the dragon she had known and admired was here, standing before her in human form.
Harriet crossed the room, her emotions plain as day as she embraced each of them in turn. When she reached Samantha Fireborn, she paused, her voice barely a whisper. "I'm sorry for everything that happened."
Samantha's response was gentle but firm. "You have nothing to apologize for Harriet it was albus who orchestrated what happened back then. But now we're together, and we can ensure that this time, things will be different."
Harriet felt a sense of resolution settle over her. After releasing Samantha, she turned to her mothers. "Perhaps we should begin in the United States, with my godly family for the first week. Then we can visit Fleur's and Gabrielle's family in France for the second time. It'll keep us out of Albus's reach and give us time together."
Hestia and Artemis exchanged approving glances. Hestia spoke first, her voice warm. "An excellent plan, Harriet."
Time: 1:10 pm
Location: Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom
The grand hall of Buckingham Palace echoed faintly with murmurs and laughter as Harriet stood before her family. She scanned the familiar, welcoming faces of her bound mates gathered around her, their eyes bright with excitement for the days ahead.
"All right," she began, a small, mischievous smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Here's the plan for the next two weeks. First, we'll be off to New York today, spending Christmas there with my godly family. We'll get a tour of some of the historical sites and experience a few unique family traditions until the 28th."
She paused, watching as Dora's eyes sparked with anticipation. "And then, for the second week, we're heading to France! From December 29th to January 5th, we'll celebrate the New Year there, and we'll make sure comeback here for Dora's returns in time for classes on January 6th."
The room buzzed with approval as Harriet's bound mates exchanged glances. They could all feel the magic of the coming adventure.
Hestia turned to Harriet with a curious expression. "And how exactly do you plan to get us from here to New York, then France, and finally back to Buckingham Palace?"
Harriet's eyes gleamed with a hint of mischief. "Well, that's where you come in, Mum." She grinned at Hestia, glancing between her and the two goddesses nearby, Artemis and Aphrodite. "You three can take us to Mount Olympus first, and from there, getting to New York, France, and back should be a breeze."
Daphne folded her arms, a smirk of amusement lighting her features. "None of us have even taken the apparition test, let alone have the licenses to transport ourselves across countries. Guess that means we're depending on the gods."
Hestia laughed, the warmth of it like a comforting embrace for them all. "Of course. We'll see to it you're taken wherever you need to go." She cast a loving glance at Artemis and Aphrodite, who nodded in agreement.
Susan looked up with a curious glint in her eye. "Does everyone up there…your other godly parents…know you're coming to visit?"
Hestia's grin spread even wider, a mischievous spark lighting her eyes. "No, they don't know about it yet. They're quite occupied getting things ready for the coming year and making sure Harriet's gifts are prepared for the 25th."
That little revelation brought laughter from the group. There was something thrilling about the idea of surprising the gods themselves, a twist to the journey that added an extra layer of excitement to the coming festivities.
Hermione, standing beside Harriet, took a breath, the anticipation in her voice palpable. "So, to Olympus first?"
Harriet nodded, wrapping an arm around Dora's shoulders and giving her a quick squeeze. "To Olympus first," she confirmed, glancing around the group with a smile. "Let's go make some memories."
And with that, the group prepared for their divine adventure, their hearts swelling with anticipation for the journey that lay ahead.
Time: 1:20 pm
Location: Buckingham Palace to Olympus
In one of Buckingham Palace's opulent chambers, Queen Elizabeth II observed her granddaughter with an air of pride and awe. Harriet stood in a crisp female officer's military attire with male-style trousers, adorned with her hard-earned decorations. In her hands, she held a dark blue beret marked with the cap badge of the Household Cavalry, specifically The Blues and Royals. She took a deep breath, and, with a graceful yet firm motion, placed the beret on her head. The effect was immediate, transforming her presence into one of quiet command and dignity.
Elizabeth smiled approvingly. "It looks perfect on you, Harriet," she said, a touch of emotion in her voice. "Like it was made just for you."
Before Harriet could respond, her bound mates began to chime in, filling the room with laughter and good-natured disagreements.
"Oh, please, Your Majesty," Fleur teased, her French accent lending a playful lilt to her words. "It looks this good because it's 'arriet wearing it."
"Absolutely," added Susan, a proud smile on her face. "She could wear a potato sack and still look as if she were ready to lead a regiment."
Dora winked at Harriet, shifting her appearance briefly to mimic the beret and badge. "You make it look better than anyone else could," she said with a grin. "You're the very image of command."
Elizabeth chuckled, watching the affectionate banter play out among Harriet's friends. Her gaze softened as she looked at her granddaughter, a silent understanding passing between them...a shared pride in Harriet's accomplishments and her future.
Harriet, feeling the warmth of her family's support, turned to face the entire room. She straightened her beret and gave a decisive nod. "Thank you, all of you," she said, the weight of her next words carrying a gentle authority. "But if we don't get going now, we'll lose time in New York, and we've got a full week planned ahead."
Hestia, standing beside Artemis and Aphrodite, nodded. "You're right, darling." She stepped forward, extending a hand to Harriet. "Ready, everyone?"
With shared excitement and eager anticipation, Harriet's bound mates gathered close, and Artemis and Aphrodite mirrored Hestia's gesture, placing their hands on Harriet and her friends. In a flash of radiant light, the entire group was transported from the grand hall of Buckingham Palace to the celestial grounds of Olympus.
The grounds of Olympus were breathtaking. Towering marble columns lined the pathways, surrounded by shimmering gardens that seemed to pulse with the energy of the ancient gods. Deities and minor gods alike turned in shock as the large group appeared. Whispers rippled through the crowd as they registered the presence of not one, but three major gods, alongside a gathering of mortals.
Among those assembled was Hecate, Goddess of Magic, Witchcraft, and Crossroads. Her eyes widened as they landed on Harriet. For a moment, the Goddess stood motionless, processing the impossible sight before her…the last memory of her daughter etched vividly in her mind was daughter Harriet's final moments in a sterile hospital room in 2017. Yet here she was, vibrant, confident, and dressed in military regalia.
"Harriet?" Hecate's voice was barely a whisper, but the depth of her shock resonated with everyone nearby. Her face softened, overcome with a motherly mix of disbelief and relief. "You… you're here."
Harriet stepped forward, a small smile gracing her lips. "Hello, Mum," she said, her voice carrying both warmth and reassurance. "I know it's been a long time."
The rest of the group fell silent, watching the reunion with reverent respect. Harriet's bound mates exchanged glances, each feeling the weight of the moment.
As Hecate took in her daughter's form, she blinked back a hint of tears, awe brightening her gaze. "Look at you. You're…everything I ever imagined," she murmured, stepping closer to Harriet. The two stood face to face, a mother seeing her child restored, both in life and in strength.
Hestia stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Hecate's shoulder. "She's here with us now, and she's got a full journey ahead," she said softly.
Harriet smiled at her mothers, her bound mates gathered around her like a second family. Turning back to Hecate, she held her gaze, her words carrying a calm determination. "And this is only the beginning, Mum. We've got New York and France still waiting, and I wouldn't miss it for the world."
With her family and friends at her side, Harriet was ready to step forward...into Olympus, into her godly family, and into the legacy she was born to carry.
Time: 1:25 pm
Location: Olympus
Harriet, her bound mates, and her four mothers, Hecate, Hestia, Artemis, and Aphrodite, strolled through the marble-paved halls of Olympus, taking in the surreal beauty of the godly realm. Voices drifted toward them, a lively mix of ages and energies, unmistakably those of young demigods gathered with their divine parents. Harriet's heart skipped a beat, a mix of excitement and nerves welling up as she realized she would soon be meeting her godly siblings.
As they neared the grand doors of the Hall of the Gods, a familiar figure stood watch with the disciplined grace of a warrior: Zoë Nightshade, Lieutenant of the Hunters of Artemis. Harriet stopped short, surprise crossing her face. Zoë was not only Artemis's right hand but her sister as well, bound by their ties to Artemis and the Hunters.
"Harriet," Zoë greeted, her expression serious but curious as her gaze swept over the large group. "You bring quite the entourage. What brings you to Olympus with so many by your side?"
Harriet straightened, glancing at Artemis before answering. "Zoë, it's wonderful to see you. We're here to spend the next two weeks out of London, partly because of Dumbledore and his prying, and partly to be with family. My bound mates are with me, of course, and our plan is to celebrate Christmas here before heading to New York, then on to France for New Year's."
Artemis nodded, adding, "They'll be visiting several realms, Zoë. I thought it would be a good experience for them to start here."
Zoë took in Harriet's attire, her military uniform and dark blue beret marked with the Household Cavalry's insignia, and her mouth twitched in the barest hint of a smile. "Olympus may not know what's coming," she replied, a glimmer of pride in her eyes as she led the way into the Hall.
Inside, the hall was abuzz with the excitement of demigods, young heroes from Camp Half-Blood wearing T-shirts proudly emblazoned with the camp's name. Deities mingled with their children, sharing stories and laughter, oblivious to the entrance of the large group.
For a moment, Harriet marveled at the sight, feeling a sense of belonging she hadn't expected. This was her family….both godly and mortal….and the mix of worlds filled her with an overwhelming sense of purpose.
It wasn't until Ares turned, his eyes catching sight of Hecate, Hestia, Artemis, Aphrodite, and Zoë standing alongside Harriet and her bound mates, that the room fell silent. His gaze locked onto Harriet, taking in her commanding military presence, and his eyes widened in disbelief. He took a few strides forward, bumping through the gathered gods and goddesses without care, his expression one of unfiltered shock.
"Harriet?" he said, his voice booming as he crossed the hall. "That's… that's my daughter?"
As Ares spoke, Hera and Zeus, who had been engaged in conversation, turned their attention toward him, following his gaze to Harriet. The sight of her, flanked by her friends and standing with calm authority in her military attire, left them speechless.
Harriet's bound mates shifted closer, each of them standing tall and proud by her side. Harriet looked up at her divine parents, nodding respectfully before addressing them.
"Mothers, Fathers," Harriet began, glancing around at the gathered gods. "I wanted to let you know our plans for the next two weeks. We're going to spend Christmas here and then travel to New York and France. Dumbledore's started his search again, and I need to keep myself and my bound mates out of his sight. But there's something else."
Athena's eyes narrowed with curiosity, her wisdom already trying to piece together the unspoken purpose behind Harriet's visit. "Something else, you say?"
Harriet nodded, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "I have a theory," she explained, "that as your daughter, I may have inherited all of your powers and abilities, in addition to my own magical gifts as a witch."
Athena stepped forward, her expression intense. "What exactly do you mean by 'powers and abilities,' Harriet?"
With a calm yet confident smile, Harriet took a breath and strode toward her mother Athena. As she did, her form began to shift, her body growing taller until she stood at an impressive seven feet. Her military attire transformed, morphing into heavy Athenian armor of plated, ornamented gold, gleaming in the divine light of Olympus. She held a spear in one hand, and her other hand bore an intricately decorated Greek Hoplite shield emblazoned with an Athenian owl, symbolizing wisdom and strength.
Athena's eyes widened, her usually composed demeanor giving way to astonishment. "You…" she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "You bear my armor, my symbols…my very essence while wearing the armor."
A ripple of surprise swept through the room as the other gods took in the transformation, each recognizing a piece of themselves reflected in Harriet's presence. Harriet felt the power coursing through her, the combined legacy of all her godly parents. Her bound mates watched in awe, their loyalty and pride written plainly on their faces.
"Harriet," Hecate whispered, stepping forward with a look of wonder, "you've truly embraced every part of yourself."
Harriet nodded, her voice steady. "I had to know, Mum. I've spent so much time caught between worlds, bound to mortal life, magic, and divinity. This," she gestured to her armor, her voice ringing with conviction, "this is who I am. And with all of you beside me, I know exactly what I'm capable of."
Ares stepped forward, a fierce pride shining in his eyes. "That's my daughter, all right," he said, voice filled with admiration. "You carry the strength of Olympus, the wisdom of the gods, and the courage of a warrior."
Zeus and Hera shared a look, the realization settling over them that Harriet was more than just their child….she was a bridge between worlds, a blend of mortal and divine, destined to unite her families in ways they had never anticipated.
Athena finally found her voice, her expression now one of resolute acceptance. "Then, Harriet," she said, "you are indeed ready to explore the full extent of your gifts. Your journey is only just beginning."
With a deep breath, Harriet returned to her usual form, shrinking back down to her familiar height, her military attire restoring itself in place of the Athenian armor. She looked around, meeting the eyes of each of her bound mates and her divine parents.
"Thank you," she said, her voice carrying gratitude and determination. "Together, I know we can face whatever lies ahead."
With her family and bound mates surrounding her, Harriet prepared herself for the adventures and challenges that awaited, her path ahead lit by the strength of her heritage and the unwavering loyalty of those she loved.
Time: 1:30 pm
Location: Olympus
The Hall of the Gods was buzzing with excitement and awe as Harriet stood surrounded by her bound mates and her godly parents, each of them adjusting to the magnitude of her powers and the unity of her dual heritage. The moment felt monumental, and Harriet was filled with an inner warmth at the acceptance of her divine family.
But as she stood there, a quiet settled over the room, drawing everyone's attention to the far side of the hall. There, with an air of quiet dignity, Rhea...the Titaness and Queen Mother of the gods...entered, her presence both serene and commanding. Beside her walked two figures from the underworld: Hades, his dark gaze softened with familial pride, and Persephone, radiant yet ethereal. Harriet's heart swelled at the sight of her godly grandmother and her Underworld family.
But as the group drew nearer, Harriet felt her breath catch in her throat, her heart pounding as her gaze fell upon two familiar figures walking slightly behind Hades and Persephone. Clad in pure white robes that glowed softly with an otherworldly light, adorned with delicate golden oak crowns, stood James and Lily Potter...her mortal parents.
The sight of them was both beautiful and surreal, and Harriet's bound mates gasped in shock, eyes wide as they took in the impossible yet undeniable reality before them.
"Mom? Dad?" Harriet's voice was barely a whisper, the words hanging in the air as if suspended in time. She felt as though she might collapse from the weight of her emotions...joy, sorrow, disbelief...all swirling within her.
James and Lily exchanged a glance, their smiles soft and loving, then turned their gaze back to Harriet. Lily's eyes shimmered with tears, though her smile remained steady. "Harriet," she said, her voice filled with warmth and pride. "Look at you… I can't believe how much you've grown."
James nodded, his own voice thick with emotion. "You've become a remarkable young woman, Harriet. Just as we always hoped you would."
Harriet took a step forward, reaching out instinctively, though she stopped short, unsure if they were as real and solid as they seemed. Hades placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, his expression softened with understanding.
"They're here, Harriet," he said gently. "James and Lily have been chosen to stay with us in the Underworld. They'll be here, close by, to watch you grow, to see you become the woman you're meant to be. They'll be with you as you face Albus Dumbledore, as you challenge Tom Riddle, and as you step fully into your destiny."
Tears pricked at Harriet's eyes, and she felt her heart swell with gratitude and relief, knowing that her parents wouldn't be confined to distant memories but would walk beside her…even in spirit…for the years to come.
Lily reached out, and this time, Harriet took her hand, feeling the cool, gentle solidity of her mother's touch. "We'll be here, my love," Lily whispered, her voice soothing, "for every step you take. We're so proud of you, and we always will be."
James placed a hand on Harriet's shoulder, his grip as reassuring as it had been in her earliest memories. "We're with you, kiddo. You'll have the guidance of the gods, but you'll also have us...and I know you're going to accomplish amazing things."
Harriet looked between her mother and father, her heart overflowing with love and determination. Her bound mates, moved by the sight, took a step forward, offering her silent support. Each of them knew how much this moment meant to her, and they, too, shared in the profound reunion.
Turning to her godly parents, Harriet took a steadying breath, her voice filled with resolve. "Thank you," she said, looking at each of them in turn, "for giving my parents a place here. For letting me be with them."
Rhea nodded, her gaze warm and wise. "You are a bridge between worlds, Harriet. Mortal and divine, you carry the best of both."
Hades, with a faint smile, added, "And now, with all of us here, you will never have to walk alone."
Harriet felt the enormity of her family's support...both mortal and divine...fortifying her from within. She took one last look at her parents, letting the sight of their loving smiles fill her with courage and strength.
With her bound mates gathered around her and her family surrounding her, Harriet stood tall, ready to face the journey ahead. She knew that whatever awaited her, she would walk forward with unwavering resolve, her family...both mortal and immortal...by her side.
December 22nd, 1985, 5:30 pm
Location: Olympus
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting warm hues across the grounds of Olympus, Harriet and her bound mates wandered the pathways, marveling at the grandeur around them. Their walk brought them to the edge of Olympus, where the shimmering clouds parted to reveal a spectacular view of the world below. It took them only a moment to recognize the city beneath them.
"New York," Hermione breathed, her eyes widening in awe.
Harriet leaned forward, her gaze sweeping over the familiar landmarks below. The realization settled in as they took in the scale and majesty of their surroundings.
Just then, Hera approached the group, her serene smile welcoming and warm. "Yes," she said, joining their side. "Olympus now resides on the 600th floor of the Empire State Building."
Harriet's mind began racing, her thoughts weaving rapidly through memories, connections, and historical knowledge of the gods' migrations throughout the ages. She turned to Hera, her eyes gleaming with curiosity and insight. "Then… Olympus has been in Spain, Germany, the Roman Empire, England, and even Mount Olympus itself?"
Hera smiled, nodding with approval. "Yes, exactly. Olympus moves with the heart of Western civilization. Where there is belief, where there is strength in the old stories, Olympus finds its place."
As the group absorbed this, two more figures joined them: Hecate and Athena. Hecate looked at her daughter with pride, her gaze brightening. "You've hit the mark, Harriet," she said. "Just as you guessed, there are groups of demigods scattered across the world...in the United States, yes, but also in Spain, Germany, Italy, and England."
Athena added, "And with those demigods come connections, legacies that keep our history and power alive." She looked at Harriet with quiet pride, recognizing the depth of her understanding.
Hecate nodded and continued, "Like the police officers who guarded you in the hospital, there are those in England with ties to Olympus. But none more so than you, Harriet. You carry the strength and legacy of the gods, and as our half-divine child, that connection will remain with you until you decide your path."
Athena's gaze softened as she turned to her daughter. "One day, when you're ready, you may choose to ascend. Should you decide to embrace divinity, your bound mates will stand beside you, joining you as minor goddesses and as your immortal companions and Wives."
The words hung in the air, filled with a sense of possibility that felt both surreal and deeply grounding. Harriet's bound mates glanced at one another, each of them processing the idea that their bond could one day transcend mortal life.
Dora, standing closest to Harriet, gave her a warm, affectionate smile. "To follow you anywhere, forever…" she whispered, her voice filled with quiet conviction. "It would be an honor, Harriet."
Fleur stepped forward, her gaze as fierce as it was loving. "Together, for all eternity," she murmured, her words capturing the sentiment shared by each of them.
Harriet's heart swelled as she looked around at her bound mates, her family, and her mothers. She was deeply moved, her heart filled with gratitude, love, and a profound sense of purpose. Knowing they could stand together not just in this life, but in whatever lay beyond, filled her with an unshakable resolve.
With a steady breath, she looked out over the lights of New York below, a sense of peace and clarity settling over her. She understood now more than ever that her path was not one she walked alone; her family, both mortal and divine, would be by her side every step of the way.
With her bound mates standing close, each sharing her smile, Harriet was ready for whatever lay ahead...knowing that her legacy was one she would carve out with courage, loyalty, and love that would transcend time itself.