Chapter 25
Hermione was groggy and her mouth was coated in grit…. and it was hot. So unbearably hot. She attempted to wave a cooling charm over herself… and nothing happened. Hermione could feel her magic there, but it was weak; and even raising her hand had taken an incredible amount of effort. She had really put herself in a state. Hermione started feebly as she felt a cold, wet cloth go across her forehead.
“You were starting to scare me,” Evelyn said soothingly. Hermione opened her mouth to speak, but simply ended up choking on her non-existent spit.
“Water,” Hermione finally croaked out. She felt blessed relief as Evelyn helped her sit up and drink water. Hermione drank it all.
“Hermione?” Hermione was unable to respond as she fell back into exhausted sleep.
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Ardeth came back to a pacing Evelyn the next morning.
“She woke up!” Evelyn rushed forward. “But…. she just asked for water and immediately fell back asleep.” Ardeth kneeled next to Hermione and checked her over. Sweating and chapped lips, but she was breathing just fine. “How much more sleep is she going to need?”
“Just give her time,” Ardeth soothed. “I’ll take over Evelyn. Go get some sleep.”
“Fine,” Evelyn blew out a gust of air in frustration, and exited the tent. Ardeth settled next to Hermione. She was less pale, but clearly not enjoying the heat. Ardeth wiped her down until all the sweat was gone. He felt for Evelyn. He desperately wanted her to wake up also.
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Evelyn made her way to the dirigible filled with anger and frustration. She had gotten some sleep next to Hermione. Evelyn wished that there was more that could be done, but Hermione was clearly going to take her sweet time making her way to the land of the living. Evelyn walked in on her son poking the bound Monster Book of Monsters with fascination as it struggled against the belt. Evelyn felt a devilish grin spread across her face. It was time for some mother-son bonding time.
“Alex,” Evelyn called. Alex jumped back and immediately threw his hands up.
“I wasn’t touching it!” Alex scowled at his Mother’s laughter.
“Alex,” Evelyn grinned. “Would you like to have some fun?”
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The newer recruits to the Medjai were currently sweating under the glare of Dr. Terrence Bay. They were the few that hadn’t gone to defeat the Army of Anubis, and it was always Terrence’s job to put the fear of Allah into them and, in short, to verbally berate them before they received their city training that had begun after the disappearance of Hermione. Terrance was so busy relaying his soliloquy about the importance of expecting the unexpected etc… etc… that he didn’t even notice the sneaking Evelyn and Alex approaching behind him.
Several of the men looked at them curiously, but immediately whipped their faces back to the Doctor when he snapped at them to pay attention. Therefore no one saw it coming when the book came snapping towards him. Terrence would never regain his reputation as a fearsome elder among this particular set of recruits due to the girlesque screech of alarm that emitted from his throat. Even more so when Rick came running up with guns drawn only to nonchalantly catch the book that the Medjai were advancing on with drawn swords and immediately calm it by running his finger along its spine. Terrence just stood in spluttering silence along with the rest of the Medjai until Evelyn and Alex’s explosive laughter could no longer be held back.
“Hermione is a terrible influence on the two of you,” Rick grinned and winked at the flabbergasted Terrence before casually flipping open the book and walking off reading from where he had left off the other night.
“Evelyn O’Connell!” Terrence yelled when he finally recovered.
“I’m going to check on Hermione,” Evelyn burst out dragging Alex behind her.
“That was absolutely brilliant Mum!” Terrence observed the spreading smirks on the recruits faces with trepidation and groaned. Hermione Evans would never stop being the death of him, would she?
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Hermione groaned as she heard loud yelling coming from the other section of the tent. She felt… better. Much better. She could feel her magic thrumming gently within her chest. Hermione sat up with many popping of joints and thankfully found her purse and her replenishing potions easily enough. It was at that point that Hermione actually processed the actual words that were being yelled.
“They are YOUR friends Ardeth Bay! Make them stop!” A voice that was clearly Terrence Bay blasted through the tent.
“It is harmless fun, Terence,” Adham admonished calmly.
“At my expense,” Terrence said somewhat hysterically. “At least take that blasted book away from them! HIS fiance’s book, I might add.” Hermione grinned to herself as she realized what must be going on. The Monster Book of Monsters was certainly living to terrorize another day. Hermione staggered to her feet. Her breath must smell like a cat died in it. HER CAT! Hermione had left Harry alone for Merlin knows how long. And sure, he had a magically filling water and food bowl; but the poor boy was probably going crazy. Hermione didn’t think about telling anyone where she was going; she magically pulled everything of hers into her purse out of habit and apparated to her home.
Ardeth felt his heart leave his chest as he heard the snap from his sleeping space sound through his tent. Immediately abandoning his uncle, he burst through the tent flap… to see no one. Everything that spoke of Hemione’s presence was gone. All her belongings… gone. Hermione… gone. Ardeth immediately sat down on the ground in shock. Was Hermione… running away from him again?
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Harry was suitably angry at Hermione. After his initial meow and snuggle of happiness, he scratched the shit out of her arm. Hermione was currently sitting on the floor next to her bed trying to coax him out from under it. It took her an hour to get him out from under it and into the pet carrier. After brushing her teeth and grabbing some clothes, Hermione was finally ready to go back to the desert. Hermione dropped back into the space unseen by the manickly pacing and frankly furious Ardeth. Hermione watched him with quiet confusion as she continued to go unnoticed.
After getting over his initial shock at her disappearance, Ardeth tried to give Hermione time to come back, but now it had been too long and he was furious. And Ardeth was calculating and plotting in his mind on how he was going to camp outside her front door until he got a suitable explanation from Hermione. Ardeth was damned if he was going to wait ANOTHER eleven years for Hermione to come back. Ardeth apparently couldn’t leave the sneaky witch for a SINGLE moment until they bound their souls together. Hermione quietly set down Harry’s carrier after several minutes of Ardeth’s frantic pacing and stepped forward to quietly block Ardeth’s path.
Ardeth stopped violently and abruptly as he finally spotted her feet and his eyes snapped to Hermione’s. Hermione pulled in a sharp breath as she saw just how uncharacteristically dark and angry Ardeth’s eyes were. Ardeth was upset. Why was he upset? Hermione opened her mouth to speak of her concern. Find out what happened while she slept. Was something wrong? But, Ardeth didn’t give Hermione the opportunity. Hermione let out a startled yell that was immediately silenced as Ardeth pounced on her and kissed her fiercely. Ardeth couldn’t even think past the fact that Hermione was there. He was frustrated that she could inadvertently (if her obvious confusion could be believed) cause Ardeth to so completely lose his mind, but even that thought didn’t come clearly to him until much later. All he could really think about clearly was that Ardeth didn’t care WHAT his Al’umu thought of it…. This woman was NOT leaving his sight until he bound her to him permanently.
Ardeth had been a gentleman, their entire acquaintance. Other than his momentary loss of temper at Hermione’s consistent avoidance of him, he had been perfectly well behaved. Even when the woman did everything in her power to decompose him by sitting on Ardeth’s lap and giving him sweet kisses with that wicked grin of hers. Ardeth kissed Hermione like he had always dreamed to do. With one hand gripping her beautiful, wild hair and the other pressing the small of her back so she was arched into him. Ardeth only stopped when Hermione was entirely dependent on him to stand and panting breathlessly.
“What…” Hermione cleared her throat out in an attempt to speak clearly, but immediately stopped when Ardeth’s mouth moved to her neck to bite and suck on one spot of her neck until Hermione could feel the heat of a bruise forming. “Uhhh…” Hermione started to try to pull away a half-hearted attempt to think clearly, but immediately gave up as Ardeth pulled her waist to him more tightly and used his hold on her hair to pull Hermione’s head around and began biting and sucking on the other side. Ardeth felt supreme satisfaction as Hermione’s breathing notably increased. “What…” Hermione finally pushed out. “Is… something wrong… Ardeth?” Ardeth pulled away and loosened his hold fractionally. Hermione was disheveled. Beautifully disheveled. Ardeth placed both his hands on either side of Hermione’s neck and brushed his thumbs across the love bites forming. He grinned as Hermione’s eyes closed and she pressed herself closer to him.
“I thought you ran away from me again,” Ardeth admitted quietly. Hermione frowned and opened her eyes.
“I had been away from home for several weeks. I had a few things to take care of.”
“And…” Ardeth raised brow in disbelief. “You couldn’t tell me you would be right back?”
“I got flustered,” Hermione said with a sheepish grin. “Harry gets upset if he is alone too long. I panicked.”
“And when do I get to meet Harry?” Ardeth sighed. “He is the reigning power that I must appease to have your hand in marriage.”
“Right now!” Hermione said with excitement before excitedly pulling away to grab the cat carrier. A disgruntled black cat laid regally in the carrier. Hermione set the carrier down and pulled out the irritated feline.
“Harry, ‘ana saeid bimuqabalatik.” Ardeth held his hand out so that Harry could sniff it. Harry reached his neck forward to sniff Ardeth’s wrist before surprising him and Hermione by jumping onto Ardeth’s arm to climb up to sit on his shoulder. Ardeth held deathly still until Harry began to rub and purr and against his face. “Harry likes me,” Ardeth said smugly.
“Jonathon is going to be so annoyed,” Hermione snickered before scratching Harry behind his good ear. “It’s settled then. Does today sound like a good day to get married?”
“It has to be,” Ardeth grinned. “I can’t let you out of my sight. You might make a run for it again.”
“I will not,” Hermione huffed. “And you will have to let me out of your sight if you want me to get a magical officiant for the soul binding.” Ardeth pursed his lips.
“Fine,” he sighed. “But if you don’t come back when you say you will… there shall be hell to pay.”
“I’ll leave you Harry as a sign of good faith,” Hermione joked with a roll of her eyes.
“Fine,” Ardeth returned seriously. He gave Hermione a kiss. “You go get your officiant. We will be married tonight.” Hermione started to kiss Ardeth back deeply until Harry nudged his face between the two of them with an engine like purr. “You ARE going to have to share her with me, you know?” Ardeth said to the cat seriously.
“Now, now, play nice boys,” Hermione chuckled. Hermione pecked Harry on the cheek and then Ardeth. “I have a goblin to see.”
“A goblin?” Ardeth said with surprise, but Hermione just waved with a grin before popping out.
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“To what do I owe this… pleasure?” Snaggletooth sneered at Hermione.
“Are you able to form a soul bond between a witch and a muggle?” Hermione said bluntly. Snaggletooth’s mouth dropped a little in surprise. It was not common in their current time for witches and wizards to marry non magicals.
“I suppose I could,” Snaggletooth said noncommittally. “But it would not be legal in the eyes of your Ministry in Britain,” Snaggletooth said with distaste.
“Not important,” Hermione waved off. “We are having a muggle ceremony. And all muggles present have been aware of magic for a long time.” Snaggletooth stared at Hermione with narrowed eyes until suddenly grinning sharply.
“Then we have only to set a price.”
“Of course,” Hermione said with a good humored roll of her eyes. “Here is your port key,” Hermione passed over the illegal port key. “We will see you there tonight. Here is the first half of your wages. I will give you the rest after the ceremony is completed.”
“I suppose I need to dress up for the occasion?” Snaggletooth said with distaste.
“Just don’t show up naked,” Hermione snorted. “I couldn’t care less if you show up in dress robes or not.” Hermione pulled her dragon skin coat on.
“He is a lucky man,” Snaggletooth said with a sarcastic sneer.
“Don’t be jealous, Snaggletooth,” Hermione winked.
“Just leave, Lady Witch,” Snaggletooth sneered.
“Be still mine heart,” Hermione held her heart dramatically and then left the bank. She returned mid day to the Medjai Camp to preparations for the marriage in full swing. “OW!” Hermione held her arm where Evelyn had smacked it angrily.
“You were asleep for a WHOLE WEEK!” Evelyn smacked her again. “And you aren’t even going to have a hen party with me! You are getting married in a matter of hours! You don’t even have a wedding dress.” Hermione wordlessly shoved a bundle into Evelyn’s arms from the bag she was holding. Eveyln didn’t move and just continued to glare at her.
“Just open it,” Hermione said with a roll of her eyes. Evelyn sighed before opening it to find a beautiful set of dark gray silk witch robes. Evelyn’s mouth dropped.
“I bought a white one,” Hermione said with a grin. “I also had to plan a surprise for Ardeth.” Evelyn’s mouth dropped even further when Hermione removed a bandage from her face to reveal Ardeth’s name in Arabic on the right said along her jaw. Hermione immediately covered it up again and pulled her hair back over to hide it. “I obviously want it to be a surprise… So will you help me avoid Ardeth? We can have a hen party in my tent and then get ready until the wedding begins.”
“YES!” Evelyn burst out with excitement. Hermione immediately set up her tent next to them and they disappeared inside.
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“Have you seen Hermione?” Rick looked up to a nervous Ardeth and a grinning Adham.
“I have, but I also am supposed to tell you that it is against European tradition to see the bride for the wedding. Evelyn is keeping her company and giving her a hen party. I am also to give you your stag party in your family tent until the wedding begins.” Rick grinned. Evelyn had told him the surprise Hermione had planned. Rick didn’t know why Hermione was still able to surprise him. That woman was clearly capable of anything at this point, but Rick had nearly died from shock when he heard Hermione was willing to tattoo a man’s name on her FACE, not to mention getting all that she had gotten done in the small span of time she had. “Also, if any strange creatures show up please not try to kill them. Apparently the officiant of the magic part of your ceremony is a goblin.” Alex was positively giddy when he heard.
“What’s a goblin?” Adham asked in bafflement.
“I can show you a picture in the book my son keeps pranking Dr. Bay with,” Rick said happily. “I’ll meet you in your tent.” Rick found his son about to let said book loose on an unfortunate group of camels.
“Hey!” Rick grabbed the book out of Alex’s hands.
“No more. Think of a new prank to entertain yourself with.”
“But there is nothing to do here!” Alex whined.
“Your Aunt Hermione is back and in her tent over there. Go ask her.” Alex immediately bolted in the direction Rick had pointed. That would keep him busy. Alex hadn’t seen the inside of Hermione’s tent yet. He was going to lose his mind.
“COOL!” Hermione and Evelyn looked up away from where Hermione was adjusting Evelyn’s robes. Hermione chuckled as Alex spent the rest of the time until the wedding sussing out the entire tent while the women got ready and then sat down for their ‘hen party’.
“How are you feeling?” Evelyn coughed as she sipped on the firewhiskey. Hermione ran her finger around the rim of the mug of much sweeter butterbeer.
“What if he regrets it?” Hermione said nervously. Hermione glared at Evelyn as she scoffed. “Very attractive,” Hermione said sarcastically.
“Ardeth Bay has not rested a single moment since you started running away from him,” Evelyn said derisively. “He did not spend the last eleven years chasing you for no reason.” Hermione sighed with annoyance as Evelyn flicked her in the head painfully. “Get it through your head. For someone so smart, you can be exceedingly stupid where Ardeth is concerned.”
“Alright,” Hermione flicked Evelyn in the forehead HARD right back.
“What was that for?” Evelyn rubbed her head.
“Alex told me you died and were brought back to life while you went to the loo,” Hermione glared at Evelyn who shrugged sheepishly. “That was for dying.”
“I deserved that,” Evelyn sighed. “And now,” Evelyn chugged the last of her firewhisky and immediately burped out a spurt of fire. “Oh heavens! As I was saying, time to get you dressed.” Hermione chugged the last of her butterbeer and went to her bedroom.
“And time to tame my atrocious lion’s mane,” Hermione said somberly.
“It won’t be that bad,” Evelyn attempted to sooth.
“So innocent,” Hermione said as she gave Evelyn a patronizing pat on the head.
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Ardeth was a mess. His Father watched with amusement as he bounced his knee nervously. Ardeth was already dressed in light brown robes with gold threading. Hastily made wood marriage bands courtesy of Adham’s whittling skills which he hadn’t remembered he needed until Rick asked what he was planning on getting married with. They were sitting ready on the table and Ardeth was supremely grateful for Rick O’Connell and his Father’s hobbies at that moment. Al’umu bustled around them doing her part for the marriage feast and giving her son the occasional happy kiss to the cheek.
“So…” Rick started as he sipped on a glass of firewhiskey courtesy of Hermione. “Need any tips?” Ardeth stopped bouncing nervously and looked at Rick in confusion.
“Tips for what?”
“Sex,” Adham, A’lumu Rick AND Jonathon all answered at once and Ardeth immediately turned beet red.
“You are about to lose your virginity old chap,” Jonathon clapped Ardeth on the back and Ardeth glared at him in embarrassment.
“There is no shame in getting advice,” Rick sang. “Do you know where to put your ding-a-ling?” Ardeth dropped his head in hands.
“Yes,” Ardeth’s defeated and muffled voice came out.
“You DO know what he means by ding-a-ling?” Adham said with a smirk.
“YES,” Ardeth ground out.
“You mean his penis right?” Basma questioned.
“YES, AL’UMU!” Ardeth couldn’t believe he was in this situation.
“You know Ardeth, there is this trick I do with my tongue…” Jonathon kept going and Ardeth wished Allah would take his life then and there.
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Snaggletooth stood bored in front of an entire group of muggles DESPERATELY trying not to stare at him… the idiots were not succeeding. Finally, the man he could only assume was the groom stood to stand in front of him with one man who looked at him curiously.
“Is there anything I will need to do for the soul binding?” Snaggletooth grinned with his sharp teeth and held up a ceremonial knife.
“I’ll let you know.” Snaggletooth was begrudgingly impressed when the muggle nodded solemnly without any sign of fear along with the burly man next to him.
“So… you’re a goblin?” Snaggletooth looked over with a bored sneer at a child of ten.
“And you are a nitwit,” Snaggletooth returned blandly.
“Alex,” Rick said warningly.
“Come on Dad!” Alex whined. “When am I going to meet someone as awesome as a goblin?” The boy turned back to him. “Do you get to see dragons? Hermione says the goblins have the most amazing bank ever with dragons and magic waterfalls. Did you get to train the dragons?!” Snaggletooth looked at the boy emotionlessly. Awesome? Wizards and witches generally had their pompous heads so far up their asses they couldn’t see how superior the goblins were. Snaggletooth was secretly preening under Alex’s admiration.
“I prefer setting curses on the vaults. I like to trap thieves in with the desired treasure until they STARVE,” Snaggletooth grinned with vicious sharp teeth and Alex watched with wide eyed awe.
“Maybe we should employ some of those measures ourselves,” Ardeth said thoughtfully.
“What was the salt acid trap?” Rick said blandly.
“Those were put up years ago. Most of them have been set off long ago,” Ardeth shrugged. Snaggletooth held his clawed hand out with his card. Ardeth took it carefully after he got over his surprise at it being offered to him.
“I’d be most happy to assist,” Snaggletooth said with calculating eyes. “For a price… as your Lady Witch is well aware of. Unfortunately…” Snaggletooth continued wistfully. “...She isn’t a fool. But business with her is delightfully challenging in a way I don’t often get to enjoy. Your business will be welcome.” The ceremonial music of the tribe began to play and Ardeth’s eyes immediately went down the aisle while absentmindedly pocketing the goblin’s card. Alex attempted to whisper another question, but his mouth was immediately covered and he received a stern glare from his Father. Hermione, Evelyn and Jonathon stood together just out of sight inside the entrance of a tent nearby.
“Are you sure that you don’t want to make a run for it and come back in eleven years?” Jonathon snarked.
“You’re just jealous Harry likes Ardeth,” Hermione said a bit queasy.
“I’ll believe it when I see it. All that fish! And the cat cad liked him just because he wears black,” Jonathon scoffed.
“Wears black?” Evelyn said with amusement as she fussed over Hermione’s face covering and making sure it covered her face tattoo. Hermione wore the traditional red scarf on top of her head and face covering, but had the white silk and lace witch’s robes underneath.
“Well, what other reason can YOU think of?” Jonathon said sullenly.
“Harry is my witch's familiar,” Hermione interjected. “He is connected to my magical core. Chances are,” Hermione didn’t notice the surprise at her serious answer. “Chances are Harry not only understood you saying you didn’t like cats, but also understood that him liking you would be a sign of his approval as you being my mate. I was already quite in love with Ardeth at the time. Harry probably sensed it.” Hermione looked up from where she was fussing with the dessert flowers she had picked up in the city to see Evelyn and Jonathon’s opened mouthed stares. Hermione reached forward and closed their mouths, and could hear the music starting outside. Ali entered the tent and immediately grinned shyly.
“I am here to escort you down the aisle,” Ali held his arm out. Hermione shoved at Evelyn and Jonathon and the two finally got their shit together and began to exit. “Thank you again for the honor, Miss Evans.”
“Well,” Hermione smiled. “I felt bad that you sprained your ankle after I pushed you in the river, and as far as I am concerned; you are a friend. I look forward to getting to know you. And the rest of the Medjai. Do you think that there is hope our game will start again?”
“Yes!” Ali said a little too loud and immediately blushed in embarrassment. Hermione laughed and looped her arm in his, and took one last fortifying breath before stepping out of the tent. Ardeth lost his breath. Hermione was beautiful. He grinned big and Hermione grinned right back. It was finally happening. When Hermione was finally in front of him, Ardeth gripped her hands.
“Present a hand each,” Snaggletooth said roughly. Hermione chuckled at his gruff manner. As soon as the couple kneeled and presented their hands, Snaggletooth swiped the blade across their palms and held the cuts to each other. “Animi tenetur. Magia nexa. Numquam frangere. Solus in morete finiet. Est.” (Souls bound. Magic entwined. Never to break. Only at death will it end. It is.) The entire group shivered as the results of the ceremony spread through them. Ardeth held his breath as he felt a foreign presence enter his body. He could feel Hermione’s pulse. That hair raising quality was in his breast. Everyone held their breath as the couple glowed for a moment and then breathed out when the feeling finally dissipated. “My fee, Lady Witch.” Hermione let out a sudden and booming laugh before taking her uncut hand and pulling out the bag of gold.
“Such a romantic, Snaggletooth,” Hermione smiled. “May your gold always shine bright.”
“And may you sell fool’s gold to many a fool.” Snaggletooth said with one last nasty grin before snapping away.
“Not such a bad philosophy,” Jonathon said admiringly before oofing as Evelyn’s elbow connected with his stomach. Ardeth let out a short laugh of his own before giving Hermione a hand up. Hermione waved her wand healing their hands.
“Uncle Terrance,” Ardeth called with a twinkle in his eyes. Terrence grumbled as he walked grumpily to head the ceremony.
“Was one ceremony not enough?” Terrance grumbled.
“You can’t deny your calling Mister Bay,” Hermione said seriously.
“Just hand me the rings boy so we can get this over with!” Alex handed Terrence the bag with the wood rings. Hermione admired the ring as Ardeth put it on her finger.
“I’ll get you a more traditional one later,” Ardeth whispered to her.
“Nope,” Hermione whispered back. “I like this one.” Ardeth didn’t think he could smile any bigger as she slipped his own ring on his finger.
“Do you take this woman to be your wife, Ardeth Bay?” Terrence continued in a bored tone.
“I do,” Ardeth said.
“Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband… and victim, Hermione GRANGER?” Terrence said with extreme sarcasm.
“I do,” Hermione said with amusement.
“I pronounce you husband and wife you may kiss the bride,” Terrence grumpily walked off again.
“That was much more civil than I thought he was going to be. Certainly more civil than last time,” Hermione pulled down her face covering and Ardeth immediately froze as he saw his name. Ardeth reached out carefully and traced the tattoo reverently.
“I can’t believe you actually did it,” Ardeth felt his eyes going misty.
“I told you I would think about it. I already have several tattoos you know,” Hermione grinned.
“Yes. I do know,” Ardeth’s eyes twinkled and Hermione blushed. Ardeth kissed the tattoo and then kissed his bride and the entire crowd erupted in applause. Hermione and Ardeth faced the tribe and Ardeth’s family. Basma immediately began to cry happily when she saw her son’s name on his wife’s face. Basma continued to cry and dab at her eyes happily as Hermione, Ardeth, Adham, Terrence, and Harry sat in their tent.
“Why is the cat here?” Terrence said grumpily. “And who exactly is serving as the male head of Miss Granger’s family to sign the paperwork for your wedding?” The tradition in Muslim marriage for a legal marriage. Hermione immediately grinned big and pointed at Harry.
“He is the male head of my family.” Adham and Ardeth immediately began laughing.
“WHAT!?” Terrence screamed out.
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“I’m so happy you continued the tradition,” Evelyn said as Hermione and Ardeth sat down with their family after coming back from the main tent.
“What tradition would that be?” Ardeth said with a smile.
“The one to have a curmudgeon officiating,” Evelyn said playfully.
“Not only one,” Rick said with a smile. “That goblin was very curmudgeonly. And a bit terrifying.”
“Goblins in general strive to be scary,” Hermione nodded.
“He gave me his business card to help put curses on the tombs we protect,” Ardeth said as he handed it to Hermione.
“I am not surprised,” Hermione snorted.
“Could you show me more magical creatures?!” Alex said with excitement.
“Now that I know you know about magic… I can show you as much as I can while still staying in Egypt,” Hermione promised. “You are always welcome at my house.”
“YES! Can I go soon, Mom?!”
“Let the newlyweds have some time, Alex,” Evelyn chastised. “And you need to do some schoolwork. We have been away from England too long. We will come back in a few months.”
“Blast!” Alex grumbled.
“Language, Alex,” Evelyn warned.
“F**k, buggering shit,” Hermione interjected.
“Don’t you start with me, Hermione!” Evelyn whipped out. Alex grinned. He loved Aunt Hermione.
“How does it feel with the ball and chain, old boy?” Jonathan asked a little drunkenly.
“Wonderful, my friend,” Ardeth said joyfully.
“It will be more wonderful tonight,” Jonathan said while wiggling his eyebrows. “Don’t forget to do what I told you.”
“Please don’t take love advice from Jonathon,” Hermione begged as she tuned into their conversation.
“I may not be good at love advice… but sex is another matter, Hermione.” Ardeth rubbed the bridge of his nose. It was hard enough to get through the first conversation.
“Jonathon, don’t scare Hermione into thinking Ardeth is taking your advice. He is obviously going to take my advice,” Rick interjected confidently.
“You jest! Why would he take advice from a brash American?” Jonathan said too loudly.
“Why would he take advice from an intellectual who has to pay women to have sex with with him?” Apparently, Jonathon wasn’t the only one who was drinking too much.
“Boys!” Evelyn was not impressed. “Congratulations, Hermione. Ardeth. I’m going to take these two to bed before they get into a brawl.” Evelyn stopped and spoke into Ardeth’s ear. “But Rick is right,” Evelyn whispered. “Come on Alex.”
“Fine,” Alex sighed. “I can come to your house in a few months?”
“Count on it,” Hermione chuckled at his puppy eyes and gave Alex a hug before he followed his Mother. Ardeth and Hermione were alone for the first time since they had been married. “So….” Hermione grinned. “What was Jonathon’s advice?”
“It actually wasn’t half bad,” Ardeth admitted.
“What was it?” Hermione said with even more curiosity.
“I’ll show you tonight,” Ardeth’s eyes twinkled. He gave Hermione a wonderful kiss before standing up. “I’ll be back.”
“Tease,” Hermione muttered. Every once in a while someone from the tribe would walk up and Hermione would converse happily with them. Children looked at her in awe while their parents asked her questions about the battle with the Army of Anubis. Hermione wished Evelyn had stayed. She was never very good with talking to mass amounts of strangers.
“You do enjoy making Terence lose his mind,” Basma said as her and Adham sat down at head on the cushion next to Hermione’s at the feast. Ardeth was off being congratulated and dancing a celebratory dance with his fellow warriors. Hermione was glad to see someone that she knew.
“He doesn’t make it all that difficult,” Hermione smirked. Terence had lost his mind when Hermione had actually dipped Harry’s paw in ink and placed his paw print on the paperwork.
“When you and Ardeth have had enough time together, I’ll teach you to make Ardeth’s favorite meal…. And Terrence’s LEAST favorite,” Basma grinned evilly and winked at Hermione who laughed loudly.
“I’ll remember that.”
“Adham hates it also. I usually only make it if I am punishing the both of them,” Basma said conversationally. Adham grimaced from his position next to his wife.
“No one can punish someone like Basma can,” Adham agreed. “Especially with food.”
“Hazeeb hates mint tea,” Farah said as she walked up. “He has grown to fear the smell alone.” Adham immediately got right back up. When the two of them joined forces, it was best to make a swift retreat.
“I'll leave you to bestow your wisdom on the younger generation, my beautiful, amazing, smart wife,” Adham kissed his wife on the cheek.
“Way to lay it on thick,” Farah laughed. Adham gave a parting glare to Farah and made a run for it.
“Mint tea with honey is my favorite,” Hermione said with a smile.
“I shall make sure to invite you over next time I am angry at him,” Farah said conspiratorially.
“My daughter,” Basma said warmly. “This is my best friend, Farah. Her husband, Hazeeb, is the one you tricked into the brothel.”
“Oh!” Hermione choked on her drink. “Oh dear.” Farah began to laugh.
“He was so nervous when he came home!” Farah said through her laughter. “He was absolutely petrified. Don’t worry.” Hermione nodded in relief and they all sipped their coffee while Hermione listened to the older women. After a couple of minutes, Farah smiled admiringly at Hermione. “This…” Farah traced her hand along Hermione’s jaw tattoo. “... It is very heartwarming. You will make a perfect Zawjat Alzaeim for our tribe.” Hermione blushed to be referred to as such.
“It hadn’t really occurred to me,” Hermione smiled nervously. “That I was the chieftain’s wife. There wasn’t much time to think about it, and I’m pretty sure Ardeth would have throttled anyone who dared to suggest waiting to discuss these things.” Ardeth walked up on them as they were laughing.
“How is my wife? Is Al’umu telling you embarrassing stories about me?” Ardeth sat close to Hermione.
“We were trying to think about what Hermione should do to punish you,” Farah said teasingly.
“Oh, I assure you,” Ardeth said seriously. “Hermione has more than enough ideas in her arsenal.”
“Witches and wizards are very creative,” Hermione said with a grin. “Maybe a bat bogey curse to start.”
“Bat bogey?” Basma said. “What does it do?
“Well….” Ardeth got paler and paler the more Hermione went into detail. Witches and wizards were absolutely insane. Several hours into the night, Adham was sitting with his new daughter, son, and wife.
“Will you be staying in our tent tonight? Or your tent Hermione?” Adham said with a yawn.
“I was actually planning on taking Ardeth up on his offer to experience the other forms of travel that witches and wizards partake in,” Hermione said with a mischievous grin.
“When did I offer that?” Ardeth said with confusion.
“When you were insulting my flying abilities,” Hermione said innocently.
“You aren’t still angry about that?” Ardeth said with alarm.
“Angry? Me?” Ardeth did not like this at all. Adham grinned to himself. The tides had turned. Ardeth’s turn had come. “Don’t worry,” Hermione said in the opposite of a soothing manner. “You’ll only throw up the first couple times.”
“Safe travels, my son,” Adham said a little too gleefully. Ardeth sighed. He wasn’t going to enjoy this, was he? After they had made all their goodbyes, it was time to go. He didn’t know what he was expecting, but Ardeth certainly wasn’t used to his organs being squeezed in such awful ways. Or feeling like he was free falling through the air. When they finally stopped moving, Ardeth managed to land on his feet, but stumbled woozily as Hermione, Harry, and him arrived outside Hermione’s house in a nearby alley.
“You alright?” Hermione said with amusement.
“What was that?” Ardeth really wanted to vomit.
“Apparition. You get used to it,” Hermione grinned. After Ardeth gained his ability to stand upright. Hermione led him to her home. As they walked in, Hermione set Harry free and turned to her husband. “How do you like OUR home?” Ardeth looked around.
“It’s incredible… but I don’t think I will be able to stay here full time. I am still the chief of my tribe,” Ardeth said regretfully. Hermione smiled mysteriously.
“You will be able to when I connect your tent to it. Then, you can be here and with your tribe whenever you want.” Ardeth kissed Hermione passionately and Hermione put her hand in his curly hair.
“You are mine,” Ardeth said reverently as he kissed the tattoo on Hermione’s face again.
“You keep saying that,” Hermione laughed.
“And I’m going to keep saying it everyday forever.” Ardeth looked around. “Where is your bedroom?” Hermione pointed to the second floor, and Ardeth looked at the stairs skeptically. “How am I supposed to get up if the stairs are going to turn into a slide?”
“Creativity?” Hermione smirked. Ardeth stared at her until Hermione finally started laughing.“There is a book ladder right there.” Hermione pointed to it before walking up the stairs and Ardeth shrugged before making his way towards the ladder… that immediately slid away from him. Ardeth frowned as he took another step and it slid away on its wheels again. He ran…. and it slid quickly back to where it started. Ardeth did this for several minutes before stopping slightly breathless.
“Hermione,” Ardeth growled, and Hermione grinned from her spot on the stairs.
“Ardeth,” Hermione returned playfully.
“Is there a secret to actually climbing the ladder?” Ardeth said tiredly.
“Say please.” Ardeth looked at Hermione in disbelief and back to the ladder and back to her. If Hermione was messing with him… he would make her pay as soon as he got to the top.
“May I please…Mister…” Ardeth began a bit helplessly.
“Henry,” Hermione supplied. Ardeth looked at her like she was crazy before sighing again.
“May I please climb to the top on your rungs, Mister Henry?” The ladder slowly slid to be right in front of him. Ardeth cautiously reached out and was finally able to grab on. He climbed quickly to the top and swung onto the landing. “Thank you… Henry.” Hermione kissed Ardeth.
“I told you. I get bored,” Hermione smiled.
“The Heavens know I will never be bored again,” Ardeth said with wonder.
“No,” Hermione gave Ardeth a passionate kiss again. “You won’t.