Heir to the Moon (V2)

III.I Closure

Harry stepped off the Hogwarts Express, his thoughts still swirling with the events of the past year. The memories of his encounters with Quirrell were vivid, and the presence of Jophiel had left an indelible mark on his mind. As he made his way through the bustling platform, his heart lightened at the sight of Daphne, Susan, and Hannah waving goodbye to him from a distance. He waved back, grateful for their unwavering friendship.

As he exited King's Cross Station, Harry's eyes widened in surprise. Standing there, amidst the crowd of Muggles and magical folk, was Hera, the Queen of the Gods. Her regal presence was unmistakable, her eyes shimmering with a power that seemed to draw the very light around her. Harry felt a mixture of awe and apprehension. What could the Queen of Olympus possibly want with him?

"Harry Potter," Hera's voice was both commanding and gentle, carrying an authority that left no room for doubt. "I have come to speak with you."

Harry approached her cautiously, bowing his head slightly in respect. "Lady Hera, to what do I owe the honor of your visit?"

Hera's eyes softened as she regarded him. "Rise, young hero. There is no need for formalities between us. I came to apologize."

Harry's eyes widened in surprise. "Apologize?" he echoed, confusion threading through his voice. "But why, Lady Hera?"

Hera sighed her expression a mix of regret and determination. "I have not been entirely supportive of you, Harry. I underestimated your importance and the burden you bear. My actions, or rather, inactions, have caused you undue hardship. For that, I am truly sorry."

Harry was taken aback. He had faced so much danger and adversity, but he had never expected an apology from a goddess, much less the Queen of Olympus. "Thank you," he said slowly, trying to process her words. "I appreciate your apology, but why now?"

Hera's gaze softened. "My mother has made me realize something. I treated you badly because I saw you as a bastard. Because your mother was a result of my husband's infidelity. But now I realized I was wrong."

Harry felt a rush of emotions at Hera's words. He had always been aware of the tensions and politics of the divine world, but hearing Hera admit her mistakes and offer an apology was unexpected. He took a deep breath, his mind racing to process the significance of this moment.

"Thank you, Lady Hera," Harry said, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of thoughts. "It means a lot to hear you say that. I know the relationships among the gods can be... complicated."

Hera nodded, her regal demeanour softening further. "Indeed, they can be. But I want you to know that from this moment forward, you have my support. You are not just a hero of this world, but of the divine realms as well. Your mother, Artemis, has always seen your potential, and now I see it too."

Harry felt a warmth spread through him at Hera's words. The support of the Queen of Olympus was no small thing. "Thank you, Lady Hera. I won't let you down."

Hera smiled, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "I know you won't, Harry. And please, call me Hera."

Harry nodded, feeling a sense of camaraderie with the goddess that he had never expected. "Thank you, Hera."

"Harry, where do you want to eat?" asked Hera.

Harry was taken aback by Hera's sudden question. The Queen of Olympus asked him where he wanted to eat. It was surreal.

"Uh, I'm not sure," Harry admitted, trying to think of a place that wouldn't seem too casual for a goddess. "There's a nice little café near here that has great food. Would that be alright?"

Hera smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "That sounds lovely, Harry. Lead the way."

As they walked through the busy streets of London, Harry couldn't help but steal glances at Hera. She blended in surprisingly well with the Muggles, her regal aura subdued but still undeniably present. People seemed to unconsciously give her space, sensing her power without realizing it.