Intertwined || Percabeth Hogwarts AU

Chapter 37

"Twenty years..." Harry whispered to himself in shock.

He looked over at his friend and a wave of sadness washed over him. He was sitting perfectly still with his eyes shut tight. Harry couldn't imagine what he was feeling. Poseidon would be losing his wife, his son, his life... everything he's worked for, everything he's built from the ground up...

All gone.

Harry was one of the few who knew of Poseidon's story and resonated with the man. He was a halfblood and grew up as an orphan after his mother passed away. Poseidon was only nine when she died. With no other family members in the picture, he was left to fend for himself at an orphanage.

Harry empathized immensely, having never known his parents; that was one kind of pain, but growing close to them and then having them stripped away from you... he couldn't imagine how unbearable that must've been. But Poseidon made do with what he had, spent his time wisely at Hogwarts, and made himself into the man he was today.

The courtroom was silent for a long time. The Aurors who were supposed to escort Poseidon remained rooted to their spot. And the council all gazed at Poseidon apprehensively. There wasn't even a hint of a condescending smirk from all those who opposed the man.

He finally opened his eyes and revealed a calm set of sea green emeralds. His face remained neutral as he stood, unsettling many of the onlookers.

"Azkaban is not impenetrable," Poseidon finally spoke, shooting a knowing look at Harry. There was no arrogance or conceitedness in his tone. His statement was a fact, and they all knew it. "However, I will comply with your wishes..."

It was as if his statement was a command from the way the Aurors finally moved to surround him. They stood close but still kept a small distance as they ushered him out of the room. When they reached the exit, Poseidon glanced up to see Harry standing close by with a pained expression.

Poseidon stopped and beckoned him over. "I hope you're not about to cry, Harry," he smirked. "I already have one toddler to take care of."

Harry chuckled lightly and shook his head. Poseidon sighed tiredly and reached up to take off the trident necklace he was wearing. He took Harry's wrist and placed the necklace in his palm, closing his fist around it.

"Take over for me, will you?"

"I'll do my best, sir," Harry said, straightening up and looking at the man with conviction. "It was an honor to serve under you."

Poseidon scoffed and rolled his eyes, but there was a sad smile on his face.

"And tell Sally I'm sorry."