3rd Person's Point of View
Date: December 25th, 1985
Time: 6:00 AM
Location: Harriet's Personal Room on Olympus
The room was bathed in the soft, ethereal glow of dawn on Olympus. Harriet sat on the wide windowsill, her tall frame illuminated by the morning light. Dressed in her casual everyday wear, her black boots lightly tapped against the wood as she gazed out at the cloud-strewn vistas of the divine mountain. The cool morning air drifted in through the open window, but Harriet didn't feel it...not that she ever would. Being half-divine made her impervious to such things, her body warm as a hearth in winter.
Nestled between Harriet's legs, Hermione lay sleeping. Her head rested against Harriet's well-endowed chest, the steady rhythm of Harriet's heartbeat a soothing melody that lulled her deeper into sleep. Hermione's features were serene, her lips slightly parted as her breaths came slow and even. Harriet absently traced gentle patterns on Hermione's back, a small, content smile tugging at her lips.
Her eyes shifted to the bed where the rest of her bound mates were peacefully slumbering. Yasaka, in her nine-tailed fox form, lay curled up at the foot of the bed, her luxurious tails draped over herself like a quilt. Beside her, Gabrielle was tucked under a thick blanket, one small hand resting on Yasaka's fur. Fleur and Nymphadora were entwined, holding onto each other tightly, their bodies radiating warmth and comfort. Around them, the others were similarly wrapped in blankets or snuggled close to one another, creating a mosaic of tranquility.
Harriet's smile deepened, warmth spreading in her chest. This was peace something she all ways wanted.
The soft creak of the door pulled her attention, and she turned to see Hestia and Athena stepping into the room. Hestia's presence brought with it a sense of calm and belonging, her fiery aura subdued but ever-present. Athena's calculating gray eyes softened as they landed on Harriet, her lips curving into a rare smile.
"There's my little flame," Hestia said warmly, her voice hushed as she moved closer.
Athena followed, her tone gentler than usual. "You're awake early, Harriet. Not unusual, I suppose."
Harriet chuckled softly, mindful not to wake Hermione. "Habit, I guess. Watching over them has become second nature."
Hestia stepped closer, brushing a strand of Harriet's dark hair behind her ear. "You've always had that protective streak. It's one of the things I admire most about you."
Harriet blushed slightly, her voice lowering. "It's not a burden. They're my family. I wouldn't trade this for anything."
As the three conversed in hushed tones, Hermione stirred. Her eyelids fluttered open, revealing warm brown eyes. For a moment, she seemed disoriented, her gaze darting around before settling on Harriet's face. A slow, sleepy smile graced her lips.
"Morning," Hermione murmured, her voice thick with sleep. She tilted her head up and pressed a soft kiss to Harriet's lips, her hands resting lightly on Harriet's sides.
"Morning, love," Harriet whispered back, the affection in her tone unmistakable.
Hermione shifted, glancing at Hestia and Athena. "Good morning, Lady Hestia, Lady Athena."
Hestia chuckled, reaching out to gently pat Hermione's head. "Good morning, little one. Did you sleep well?"
Hermione nodded, still nestled against Harriet's well-endowed chest. "Exceptionally well. Harriet is like a living fireplace. It's impossible not to."
Athena smirked, a knowing look in her eyes. "A useful trait, isn't it? Especially for someone as nurturing as Harriet."
Harriet rolled her eyes playfully. "Are you two here just to tease me, or is there something I should know?"
Hestia laughed softly, the sound warm and melodic. "Nothing dire, my little flame. We simply wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas."
Hermione perked up at that, a soft hum of agreement escaping her. "Merry Christmas, Harriet."
Harriet leaned down, brushing a tender kiss to Hermione's forehead. "Merry Christmas, Hermione."
The room was filled with a gentle serenity, the bonds of love and family grounding Harriet and her bound mates on this sacred mountain. This was her life, her purpose...and she wouldn't trade it for all the treasures of the gods.
6:15 AM
Location: Harriet's Personal Room on Olympus
The warmth of Harriet's room on Olympus felt like an extension of her being. Seated on the wide window sill, she kept Hermione nestled close, her hands idly brushing through her bound mate's hair as they shared a peaceful moment. The ethereal glow of dawn outside contrasted beautifully with the coziness inside.
Fifteen minutes had passed since Hermione had woken, and Harriet had barely moved except to shift Hermione slightly to keep her comfortable. Their conversation with Hestia and Athena was ongoing when the door opened again, admitting two more divine presences.
"Good morning, my little flame," Aphrodite cooed as she stepped inside, her voice as melodic as a song. In one hand, she held a steaming cup of coffee, the scent rich and invigorating with a hint of ambrosia.
Following closely behind was Hera, her regal presence filling the room as she carried another cup of coffee, this one noticeably larger than the rest. Her gray eyes softened as they landed on Harriet. "Good morning, Harriet. And Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas, Mom," Harriet replied with a smile, her voice low but warm.
Hera approached and handed Harriet the oversized cup. "Here. I've added extra ambrosia to yours...it'll help keep your strength up while you're here. I don't know when you'll visit next, and I won't have you running low on power."
"Thanks," Harriet said, taking the cup with a grateful nod. The warmth seeped into her hands, the scent comforting as she took a sip. The ambrosia-infused coffee had an otherworldly sweetness, leaving a faint tingling sensation on her tongue.
Aphrodite moved to Hermione, offering her a smaller cup. "Here you go, sweetheart. You'll need it to keep up with my little flame."
Hermione chuckled, her cheeks flushing faintly as she accepted the cup. "Thank you, Lady Aphrodite. This smells amazing."
"It's just Aphrodite, love we are family after all," the goddess said, her eyes twinkling.
Hestia and Athena had taken seats near the bed, sipping their own drinks as the peaceful atmosphere persisted. Harriet was mid-conversation with Hera and Aphrodite when her heightened senses picked up the faint sounds of movement. Her godly hearing easily detected the gentle rustling of blankets and soft murmurs from the bed.
She glanced over, her gaze landing on Yasaka, who was stretching lazily in her fox form, her nine tails shifting gracefully. Beside her, Gabrielle stirred, her silver-blond hair peeking out from under the blanket as she yawned.
"Gabrielle and Yasaka are waking up," Harriet murmured, her tone casual but affectionate.
Hermione looked up, her brows raising slightly. "Already? They're usually the last to wake."
Harriet shrugged lightly. "Guess the smell of coffee worked faster than expected."
Yasaka blinked open her golden eyes, yawning widely before shifting into her humanoid form. "Mmm, good morning, Harriet," she purred, her tails swishing behind her as she rubbed her eyes. Her gaze landed on the steaming coffee cups. "Is that what I think it is?"
Aphrodite chuckled, rising gracefully and handing Yasaka a cup. "Ambrosia coffee, my dear. Here, this will wake you up properly."
Gabrielle sat up next, her sleepy eyes brightening as she spotted Harriet. She climbed out of bed and padded over, wrapping her small arms around Harriet's waist. "Good morning, Harriet," she said, her voice soft.
Harriet set her coffee aside momentarily, leaning down to place a kiss on Gabrielle's head. "Good morning, Gabby. Did you sleep well?"
Gabrielle nodded against her. "Always do when I'm near you."
Time: 6:30 AM
Location: Main Hall of Olympus
The Main Hall of Olympus shimmered in soft light, its grandeur amplified by the holiday decorations that adorned every pillar and archway. Hecate's touch was evident...ornaments that pulsed faintly with magical energy hovered mid-air, wreaths of ivy and mistletoe seemed alive with gentle movements, and constellations of enchanted lights danced across the vaulted ceiling. A golden Christmas tree stood at the hall's center, its ornaments reflecting the combined artistry of gods and mortals.
Harriet stood at the entrance, her boots clicking softly against the polished marble floor as she took in the sight. Dressed in her everyday attire, she appeared at odds with the festive opulence, yet the ethereal glow of the room seemed to complement her presence. Her emerald eyes landed on a familiar group...Lily and James stood near the tree, engaged in conversation with Amelia Bones. Clad in robes of pure white that glowed softly with divine light, Lily and James looked every bit the celestial beings they had become. Golden oak crowns rested upon their heads, marking their status among the divine.
A smile tugged at Harriet's lips. With easy strides, she made her way toward them. As she approached, Lily's face lit up with joy.
"There's my soldier daughter!" Lily called out, her voice warm and proud.
Amelia turned, her expression shifting to one of curiosity and mild confusion. "Soldier daughter?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow as Harriet joined the group. "What does that mean?"
Harriet chuckled, her hand brushing over her pocket. "It's easier to show than explain," she said, her voice calm but laced with humor.
In a seamless motion, Harriet's casual attire shimmered and transformed, replaced by her military uniform. The deep green and brass accents of the Army Reserve stood out against the ethereal backdrop of Olympus. Her polished Second Lieutenant insignia gleamed on her shoulder, her boots now perfectly shined.
"She's in the Army Reserve," James explained with a grin. "A Second Lieutenant, no less."
Amelia's mouth fell open, her usually composed demeanor faltering. "How...how is that even possible?" she asked, looking between James, Lily, and Harriet. "She's five years old!"
Before Harriet could respond, a familiar voice chimed in. "That's because Harriet's true body isn't five years old."
Susan Bones appeared, her youthful face glowing with happiness as she approached the group. Her auburn hair framed her determined features as she stopped in front of Harriet, who smiled warmly.
"She's physically eighteen, and her mind is that of a thirty-seven-year-old," Susan continued matter-of-factly. "Right, sweetheart?"
Harriet chuckled, lowering herself onto one knee to properly hug Susan. The height difference between them was striking, but the affection between them was undeniable. "Good morning, Susan," Harriet said softly, her arms wrapping around her.
"Good morning, my sweetheart," Susan replied, leaning into the embrace before stepping back, her smile as radiant as the decorations around them.
Amelia blinked, her confusion deepening. "I knew about Harriet's mind," she admitted, addressing the group. "That's been clear since she was sent back. But what do you mean by 'true body'? That's new."
At that moment, Nymphadora "Dora" Tonks appeared, her bubblegum-pink hair vivid against the celestial backdrop. "Let me explain, Aunt Amelia," she said, her tone light but earnest. "It's quite the story."
Dora launched into an animated recounting of events...beginning with how Queen Elizabeth was discovered to be Harriet's grandmother, to Harriet's time at Sandhurst, her participation in boot camp, and her current rank in the Army Reserve. Amelia's expression shifted with each revelation, going from disbelief to shock and finally settling on a resigned acceptance.
"And now, here we are," Dora concluded with a wide grin, gesturing toward Harriet. "You're seeing the culmination of all that divine and mortal influence rolled into one."
Amelia sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "This family gets more complicated by the day," she muttered. But there was a glint of pride in her eyes as she looked at Harriet. "Still, I suppose it's fitting. You've always been exceptional, Harriet."
Harriet straightened, her military uniform lending her an air of authority that belied her warm smile. "Thank you, Amelia. It's good to see you here."
6:45 AM
The Main Hall of Olympus buzzed with quiet chatter as Harriet continued her conversation with Lily, James, Amelia, Susan, and Dora. The warmth of the festive atmosphere wrapped around them like a comforting blanket. However, the moment was gently interrupted by the deliberate, steady sound of approaching footsteps.
Hephaestus, clad in a rugged blacksmith's tunic with streaks of soot marking his hands and arms, walked toward them with an air of quiet pride. His mismatched eyes glinted with a mix of affection and determination as they landed on Harriet.
"Harriet," he said, his deep voice resonating with warmth, "come with me."
Harriet tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her Electric blue eyes. "What is it, Dad?" she asked, excusing herself from the group and following Hephaestus out of the hall.
The god of smithing led her down a corridor until they entered a large chamber filled with tables upon tables of weapons. The sight was staggering. Every type of firearm imaginable was displayed in perfect order…revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, shotguns, rifles, machine guns, and even a handheld GE M134 Minigun sat gleaming under the room's golden light.
Hephaestus stopped at a table near the center. In his hands, he held a polished box, the wood so finely worked it seemed to glow faintly. With reverence, he opened it to reveal a pair of Colt 1873 Single Action Army Revolver "Quick-Draw" revolvers. The nickel plating gleamed, and the engraved details on the 4.75-inch barrels spoke of craftsmanship far beyond mortal capability.
"These…," Hephaestus said, his voice filled with pride, "...are for you. Colt 1873 Single Action Army Revolver revolvers, made to your specifications. Chambered in .357 Magnum and balanced for speed and precision. But, like the rest of these weapons, they've been forged with Imperial Gold alloyed into their construction."
Harriet gently picked up one of the revolvers, the weight perfectly suited to her hand. "They're incredible," she murmured, awe lacing her tone. "Thank you."
Before she could say more, a sharp squeak and a gasp cut through the room. Both Harriet and Hephaestus turned to see the others entering. Susan, Amelia, Lily, James, and the rest of Harriet's bound mates and godly parents stood in the doorway, their eyes wide with surprise.
"What is all this?" Amelia asked, stepping forward with a mixture of awe and bewilderment. Her gaze roamed over the rows of weapons, finally landing on the revolvers in Harriet's hands.
"These are for Harriet," Hephaestus said, his voice even and matter-of-fact. "They may look like ordinary weapons, but each one has been enhanced with Imperial Gold. They're designed to be unbreakable, more precise, and more deadly when used against any foe...mortal or divine."
Hades stepped forward from the group, his dark presence commanding attention. "And with Harriet's military training," he added, "she can wield each of these like a master. She's been trained for this, and her bond with her companions ensures she can use them to their fullest."
Harriet smiled at Hades, her pride shining through. "Thank you," she said simply, her voice steady. But her smile widened as she turned to see the others...the bound mates she shared everything with...moving forward to examine the weapons.
To everyone's astonishment, each of Harriet's bound mates chose a different weapon from the tables. Dora grabbed a sleek carbine, Fleur selected a designated marksman rifle, and Hermione picked up a semi-automatic pistol. With remarkable ease and coordination, they began disassembling and reassembling the weapons as if they'd been doing it their entire lives.
Amelia's jaw dropped. "How...how are they even doing this?" she asked, her voice filled with disbelief.
Aphrodite, standing gracefully nearby, chuckled softly. "It's the bond they share," she explained. "When one of them learns a skill, the others gain the knowledge as well. It's an intrinsic part of the connection between them. What you're seeing now is the manifestation of that bond."
Amelia shook her head, struggling to process what she was seeing. "This is… incredible," she admitted, watching as Fleur expertly assembled her rifle and gave it an approving nod before setting it down.
Harriet couldn't help but smile wider. She felt a profound sense of pride...not just in herself, but in her bound mates and the family they had become. "This is who we are," she said, her voice soft but firm. "We're a team. A family."
As the bound mates continued to explore the room, the quiet awe of those around them spoke volumes. For Harriet, the moment was perfect...a testament to the strength of her bonds, her training, and the life she was building.
Time: 7:00 AM
Harriet stood in the center of the room, her dual Colt 1873 Single Action Army Revolver revolvers holstered on her hips, evoking the image of a gunslinger straight out of the Wild West. A mischievous grin played on her lips as she spun the revolver in her left hand with practiced ease, the polished nickel plating catching the room's golden light. With a deft motion, she holstered the weapon, the action as smooth as flowing water.
"Show off," Hermione and Susan said in unison, their voices teasing.
The two turned to look at each other and burst into laughter. Harriet's grin widened, a playful glint in her eye.
"Alright, if we're doing this," she muttered, snapping her fingers.
Her uniform shimmered and shifted into a full cowboy ensemble...a weathered brown duster, a wide-brimmed hat, leather chaps, and boots with spurs that jingled as she walked. Tipping her hat to Susan, she affected her best cowboy drawl. "Well, howdy there, Miss Bones. You reckon you can outshoot me in a duel?"
Susan's cheeks turned red as she giggled, Hermione covering her mouth to stifle her laughter. Harriet's other bound mates leaned forward, some chuckling outright while others watched with wide smiles.
Harriet strutted around the room, playing up the role, much to everyone's amusement. After a moment, she snapped her fingers again. The cowboy attire vanished, replaced by the full regalia of a World War II general...polished boots, a peaked cap, and rows of medals decorating her chest. Her demeanor shifted as she addressed Dora in a gruff, authoritative tone.
"Lieutenant Tonks! Report at once!" Harriet barked, pretending to twirl an invisible mustache.
Dora saluted dramatically, her hair shifting to mimic a perfect soldier's crew cut. "Yes, General Potter! Awaiting orders, sir!" she said, her voice filled with exaggerated seriousness.
The room erupted into laughter as Dora joined Harriet in the act, marching stiffly around her and barking mock orders at their audience. Dionysus, leaning against a nearby column with a goblet in hand, chuckled openly, his mood lightened by the antics. The rest of Harriet's godly family watched with bemused smiles, clearly enjoying the show.
The laughter faded when a new presence entered the room. Artemis strode in, her silver robes flowing with every step. In her arms was a large, intricately decorated box. The room fell silent; even Harriet's bound mates stilled in reverence.
Artemis approached Harriet, her eyes soft with affection, though her posture remained dignified. "Merry Christmas, my child," she said, her voice calm yet warm.
Harriet immediately changed back into her military uniform, standing tall as she met Artemis's gaze. "Thank you, Mother," she said softly, her voice filled with respect.
Artemis handed her the box, and Harriet set it down gently before kneeling to open it. Inside, nestled in a bed of velvet, was a breathtaking silver composite bow. The craftsmanship was unparalleled...the bow gleamed as though it were forged from moonlight itself, its length an impressive 157.48 cm (62 inches). Alongside it was a silver back quiver, measuring 30 inches, crafted with olive wood, leather, and a patch of fur from an old hunting wolf that had passed after its last hunt with Artemis and her hunters. The quiver's design was practical, slim enough to stay out of the way while providing ample space for arrows.
Harriet's eyes widened as she inspected the pieces. The bow bore runic etchings along its limbs, glowing faintly with enchantments. The quiver had a dual-compartment design, each holding 30 arrows, for a total of 60 main arrows.
"Where are the arrows?" Harriet asked, her voice quiet with awe as she looked up at Artemis.
Artemis smiled faintly. "The arrows will appear as needed, summoned by the quiver. The main arrows are silver, as befitting a huntress under my domain. The standard arrows include aluminum, bone, steel, iron, and obsidian. For special circumstances, you have fire, explosive, incendiary, poison, and stun arrows. And finally, the sacred arrows...adamantine, celestial bronze, imperial gold, and Stygian iron...are for your most formidable foes."
A collective gasp rippled through the room. Harriet's bound mates, Lily, James, and Amelia stared at the bow and quiver with a mixture of awe and disbelief.
"That's… incredible," Hermione whispered, her voice filled with admiration.
Amelia was the first to regain her voice. "The variety alone is astounding," she said, turning to Artemis. "You've given her a weapon for every possible scenario."
Harriet's lips curled into a smile, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Mother. I'll treasure this."
Artemis nodded, her expression softening. "You are my daughter, Harriet. A huntress and protector. It is only fitting that you have the tools to fulfill your destiny."
Harriet strapped the quiver to her back and held the bow in her hand, testing its weight and balance. It felt perfect, as though it were an extension of her own body. She looked at her bound mates, who were all smiling, their pride in her evident
Time: 7:30 AM
Location: Main Hall of Olympus
The Main Hall of Olympus sparkled with festive brilliance. Enchanted ornaments shimmered on the enormous golden tree, and the faint hum of divine power filled the air. Harriet sat at the head of the room, surrounded by her bound mates, all watching with eager anticipation as the gods and their mortal family presented their Christmas gifts. Lily, James, Amelia, and the Delacour family stood close by, their faces filled with pride.
Gifts for Harriet's Bound Mates
Artemis stepped forward first, carrying a small but intricately decorated chest. She opened it to reveal an array of gleaming hunting knives, each perfectly balanced and etched with the goddess's signature crescent moon. She handed them out to Harriet's bound mates, her expression calm but kind.
"These blades are enchanted," Artemis said, her voice soft yet commanding. "They will never dull, break, or fail you. Use them wisely, and they will serve you well."
The bound mates each took their knives with awe, thanking Artemis with reverence. Gabrielle clutched hers tightly, her silver-blonde hair shimmering in the room's golden light. Dora gave Artemis a playful grin. "A hunting knife, eh? You know me too well, Lady Artemis."
The other gods followed Artemis's lead, giving the bound mates smaller gifts: enchanted trinkets, protective charms, and tools imbued with divine power. The bound mates expressed their gratitude with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt thanks.
Personal Gifts for Harriet
Once her bound mates had received their gifts, the focus shifted to Harriet. The room seemed to quiet with anticipation as Athena stepped forward, holding a rolled-up piece of parchment encased in a protective tube. She handed it to Harriet with a rare smile.
"This," Athena began, "is a magical tactical map. It updates in real-time to display allies, enemies, and terrain. It will serve you well in both strategy and battle. And yes," she added with a smirk, "it's waterproof."
"Thank you, Mother," Harriet said warmly, her fingers brushing over the tube's intricate engravings.
Next was Hecate, who held out a sleek, leather wand holster. Its surface shimmered faintly with magical runes. "This holster," Hecate explained, "is enchanted to amplify your precision and provide instant access to your wands, no matter where they are."
Harriet took the holster reverently. "Thank you, Mother. This will be incredibly useful."
Zeus was next, stepping forward with a commanding presence. In his hands was a lightweight sword with a blade forged from Celestial Bronze, its surface crackling faintly with electricity. "This is the Tempest-forged Sword," Zeus said, his voice booming. "It channels the power of storms and cuts through magical wards, armor, and enemies alike. Use it wisely, Daughter."
Harriet bowed her head. "Thank you, Father. I'll wield it with honor."
Hera approached with a small, ornate box containing a gold ring set with a sapphire. "This is my blessing ring," she explained, slipping it onto Harriet's finger. "It will heal you when injured and shield you from poison and curses."
Harriet smiled. "Thank you, Mother. It's beautiful."
Apollo handed Harriet a set of arrows...Flameburst Arrows, Celestial Barrage Arrows, and Binding Lasso Arrows...each glowing faintly with divine enchantments. "Merry Christmas, Harriet," he said with a wink. "These will turn the tide of any battle."
"Thank you, Father," Harriet replied, her smile widening.
Hermes followed, holding out a small leather pouch. "This is a multi-use magical pouch," he explained. "It has infinite capacity, organizes items automatically, and only you can access it. Handy, isn't it?"
"Thank you, Father. It's perfect," Harriet said, chuckling at his typical flair.
Aphrodite gifted Harriet a small hand mirror. "This is the Mirror of True Sight," she said. "It reflects truths hidden from the naked eye. Keep it close, my love."
"Thank you, Mother," Harriet said, her voice warm with gratitude.
Iris handed Harriet a shimmering crystal pendant. "With this, you can communicate with any deity," Iris explained. "And I'll use it to deliver gifts to you, no matter where you are."
"Thank you, Aunt Iris," Harriet said with a fond smile.
Poseidon approached with an elegant platinum trident, adorned with aquamarine gems. "This is the Trident of the Atlantean Heir," he said, placing it in Harriet's hands. "It will protect and empower you in battle."
"Thank you, Father," Harriet said, bowing her head.
Dionysus handed her a small bunch of enchanted grapes. "Prank Grapes of Transformation," he said with a mischievous grin. "Use them wisely...or not."
Harriet laughed. "Thank you, Father. I'll try not to abuse their power."
Hades presented her with a black ring. "This is the Ring of Summoning," he explained. "With it, you can call upon allies from the Underworld...Spartan warriors or hellhounds."
"Thank you, Father," Harriet said, her tone solemn.
Persephone handed her a celestial bronze sword. "This is the Sword of Seasons," she said. "Its abilities change with the seasons, giving you fire, ice, and more."
"Thank you, Mother," Harriet said, admiring the blade's beauty.
Finally, Rhea stepped forward with a magical portrait. It glowed softly, depicting Harriet surrounded by her divine family and bound mates. "This is for you, my granddaughter," Rhea said. "A reminder of your connections."
Harriet's voice caught in her throat. "Thank you, Grandmother. It's perfect."
The Divine Staff of the Gods
As the last gift was unwrapped, the gods and goddesses collectively stepped forward, their expressions solemn yet proud. Together, they presented Harriet with a staff of pure light and power, its height adjusting to match hers.
"This," Zeus declared, "is the Divine Staff of the Gods. A united gift from all of us."
Harriet held the staff, feeling its divine energy hum through her. Her voice trembled with emotion as she said, "Thank you, all of you. I'll use it to protect those I love."
The room erupted into applause, the warmth of family and unity filling the space. Harriet's bound mates joined her, their expressions glowing with pride and love. This was more than a Christmas celebration...it was a testament to the bonds Harriet had forged, both mortal and divine.