Chapter Four: Shopping and Hogwarts

Emerald Blade Book One: The New Trainees

Disclaimer: Harry Potter and co. don't belong to me. Assassin's Creed and co. don't belong to me. I'm just taking some credit for the plot and original characters. Fire Lizards belong to the talented Anne McCaffrey. In no way, shape or form am I making money from this.

Betas: Inuyasha-loves-Hanyou-Kagome, CrazyJanaCat

Edited On: 12/9/17

Main Story Warnings: A.U.-severe-, characters are OOC, canon is only a minor guideline, crossover, swearing, violence, gore, character death, Light Grey!Harry, Assassin!Harry, modern technology, OC's abound, Ron!Molly!Ginny!Bashing, Dumbledore!Bashing

Pairings: James/Lily, Sirius/Kano, Remus/Emma, Harry/Luna, Neville/Hermione, Dean/Millicent

Author's Note: Hoo boy! This is where thing's get interesting! Now, this chapter features the Hogwarts letters arriving and Harry and Dean going shopping. I do have some surprises in store for you all and I hope that you like what I have planned. I will reassure all of you that Harry and Dean aren't all powerful or can't make mistakes, they do make mistakes and you'll see that happening in future chapters. Now, I've just realized that Dean's younger brother is Sam…yes I know those are the same names from Supernatural and I can honestly say that I didn't think of that when naming Dean's siblings! It's only just hit me which is kinda sad considering I love that show. Anywho! Keep in mind that Harry and Dean are still considered Assassins in training or even Novice Assassins. They won't be going on any huge, death defying missions until they're older. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this chapter and let me know what you think!

Challenge: DZ2's Way of the Warrior challenge. For more information look to the first chapter or DZ2's forums.

[Parseltongue]

[Telepathic Speech]

Emphasis on words/Spells

Text

Chapter Four: Shopping and Hogwarts

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July 31st, 1991

Harry jolted awake mere seconds before his digital alarm clock went off. Rolling over, he hurriedly slapped the button on the top of the offending item. Getting up, he rushed through his morning routine and was soon dressed in a pair of jeans and t-shirt. Running out of his room, Harry grinned as a few people called out a greeting to him, shaking their heads fondly as the now eleven year-old sprinted through the halls and hurried down the stairs. Harry nearly skidded into the dining room; a grin on his face when he saw his parents, sister, godfather, Remus, Dean and Dean's family. The House Elves had prepared a small feast for them and Harry was more than happy to see some of his favorite dishes.

"Morning!" He called, walking over to his mother to kiss her cheek.

"Good morning, son. Eager?" Lucas asked, grinning as Harry flushed and sat down between his sister and Dean.

"Lucas, don't tease him." Cassie said, smiling fondly at Harry as he grinned at the woman while piling food onto his plate.

"Has my letter come?" Harry asked.

"It's being checked for portkeys and such as we speak." Lucas said, making Harry nod in understanding.

"Do you really think that someone would try to take Harry using his Hogwarts letter?" Megan asked, concern in her voice as Lucas and Delilah looked at her.

"We can never be too careful. There have been attempts before so we've always screened all incoming mail." Delilah said, Megan nodding lightly even though she still looked worried.

Breakfast was a lively affair in which Lucas and Delilah admitted that they had a party planned for their son later that day in which Cassie had plans on taking Harry and Dean out to an amusement park for a few hours while the others get ready for the party. Conversation turned to Harry and Dean's training, in which both boys puffed up in pride as their parents praised their skills and how far they'd come in training so far. They had finally moved beyond using practice swords and were actually using swords with real blades though there was a protective barrier of magic so the blades didn't actually draw blood but left behind a red mark on the skin and clothing as if it had cut through.

After they finished breakfast, Mira flew into the dining room as everyone began standing. In her front talons was a letter and Harry's eyes widened when he saw it. She landed on his shoulder, her tail automatically curling around his neck to help gain her balance. Harry accepted the letter from his familiar and carefully broke the wax seal. The parchment felt heavy in his hands as he pulled out the acceptance letter and the list of items he'd need for his First Year. Eliza crowded in close, her eyes wide as she eagerly read the letter over Harry's arm.

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore (Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Mister Harry James Potter-Othello

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Harry set down his acceptance letter before taking out the supply list. The list was written on the same heavy parchment as the acceptance letter. Eliza was nearly vibrating in happiness as she knew that she'd only have two more years before she would be getting her own acceptance letter.

Below is a list of items the students shall need.

Uniform

First Year students will require:

Three sets of the male/female Spring uniform

Three sets of the male/female Winter uniform

Three sets of plain work robes: black

One winter cloak: black with silver fastenings

One pair of work gloves: dragon hide or similar

Two pairs of physical education uniforms: white shirt, black shorts

One pair of swim wear

Students may bring everyday clothing for all seasons for weekends. Please ensure all clothing has the student's names on the tags.

Equipment

Please ensure that students have the follow items for their classes:

Trunk: please have student's initials written on the trunk. Family crest is optional.

Book Bag: Please have student's initials written on the flap.

Wand

Cauldron: pewter, standard size two.

One set of glass or crystal phials

One set of brass scales

Parchment: for assignments, quills/fountain pens, ink bottles.

Students are allowed to bring personal items from home. Enclosed is a list of rules and items that are banned.

Course Books

Please ensure that students write their names on the inside cover.

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore

The Standard Books of Spells Grade 1 by Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch

A Beginner's Guide to Brewing Potions and Magical Drafts by Arsenius Jigger

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble

Health and Nutrition by Ronda Moran

Customs of various races by Janice Walberg

First Aid for beginners by Jason Storm

Please note that First Years are not allowed to bring their own brooms.

"At least you lot don't have to wear those stupid pointed hats." Sirius said, Remus snickering as he remembered the hats.

"We had to wear them at formal functions except for balls. Of course James and Sirius here kept making jokes and had charmed their hats to change different colors throughout the feasts." Remus said, Sirius laughing as Delilah shook her head fondly.

"What are the plans for today?" Harry asked, eagerness in his voice as he looked to his parents.

"Well, you and Dean are going to get your true wands today. Master Silverhook will be arriving soon and then you lot will be going with Cassie to the amusement park. Later tonight we'll be flooing over to the house so your Non-Magical friends can come over for the party." Lucas explained, smiling as his son and Dean looked at each other with wide eyes.

Both boys had been told of true wands. True wands weren't really Ministry approved as they used rare wand cores and woods that weren't normally used in 'main stream' wands. The wands were often multi-cored and, at times, were made of more than one wood. When that happened the wand had to contain the blood of the user in order for the cores to work together without fighting against each other for domination in the wand. The wands were more powerful and more finely tuned to their user and didn't have the trace that was on wands created by known wand makers like Ollivander. Yes, they would still get their 'Ministry' approved wands, but they need to get used to their true wands before then. They talked about what kind of wand they hoped for before they were interrupted by another Assassin who led the way for a rather tall and strong Goblin dressed in a dark tunic and armor.

"Master Silverhook, thank you for coming." Lucas said, rising and bowing to the large Goblin who returned the gesture.

"It is no trouble. Lord Othello." He said, looking Harry and Dean over with a critical eye.

"Now, this process isn't simply you two picking an already made wand. I'll be crafting a wand for you specifically. You'll place your hand in a bag containing the wood and cores needed to make your wands. They should appear in your hand." Silverhook explained, Harry and Dean nodding in understanding.

Dean went first as the eldest and had his measurements taken. His siblings watched with avid interest, though they knew that none of them would gain a specially made wand. These wands were made specifically for Assassins due to their power and how long it actually took to master them. Yes, they could get custom wands but it was hellishly expensive for people who weren't Assassins to get them. Dean held still until the measuring tape finished and watched as Silverhook pulled out a dark blue bag. Reaching into the bag, Dean focused his magic into his hand and only had to wait a few seconds before he felt something fly into his hand. Pulling out a block of light colored wood, he set it down and Silverhook nodded his head.

"Red oak; a find wand for a duelist. Now, for the core."

Again, Dean placed his hand in another bag, this one dark red. It took a little while longer before he, shockingly, felt two items fly into his hand. Both felt rather soft and fragile and Dean was careful as he drew out his hand and placed the items on the coffee table. One of the items was a dark strand of fur that all of them instantly knew belonged to a Werewolf while the second item was a rather large and beautiful dark grey feather.

"Werewolf hair and a Griffon feather. You are an interesting young man, Lord Woods." Silverhook said, grinning as Dean stared at his cores in wonder.

Harry stepped up next and bowed to Silverhook, which the Goblin returned. Drawing on his magic, Harry placed his hand into the first bag and jumped when his wand wood instantly smacked into his hand. Pulling out the block of wood, he grinned when he saw that it was a very pale color, nearly white.

"Most interesting, Lord Potter-Othello. Yew is very rarely used nowadays in wands given their reputations as having close connections with life and death." Silverhook said, the others listening intently.

Before Harry could reach into the bag containing the cores, Mira flew off of Harry's shoulder and landed on the coffee table. Instead of speaking, she turned her head and gently pulled off one of her scales. Harry and the others winced as they knew that the action hurt but Mira simply set the scale down on the table before breathing a deep blue and white flame over it. The scale began shimmering and seemed to crystallize before Harry held his hand over it. In reaction to his magic the crystallized scale jumped into his hand, making him grin as Silverhook chuckled deeply.

"Looks like you have your first core. Let us see if you have a second one." He said, holding out the bag to the preteen.

Harry reached into the bag and drew upon his magic. It took a minute before he felt something fine and delicate touch his palm inside the bag. Curling his fingers around it, he withdrew his hand and gently placed a fine, black hair on the table. Silverhook's eyes widened in surprise and he looked from Harry to the core with interest and wonder.

"Thestral hair. I have only worked with this core once before and the owner of that wand went on to do many great things, Lord Potter-Othello." He said, the others looking at Harry with great interest as Harry stared at his cores with wide eyes.

Silverhook drew a small vial of blood from the two boys in order to bind their cores so they'd work together. He promised to have the wands finished within a week before carefully collecting the materials and putting them away. After Silverhook was shown out of the manor the group begin talking. Harry thanked Mira for willingly donating one of her scales and fire, to which she simply brushed off his thanks and stated that she had known her scales and fire would be a part of his wand for a year now. Lucas and Delilah disappeared for a moment before returning with two packages for the boys. Dean and Harry eagerly tore into the packages and were stunned at the sight of wand high quality wand holsters.

"You'll need to keep your true wands hidden unless the need to use them arises. These holsters are specially made to be feather light, invisible and are enchanted so the wands cannot be summoned and will not show up on any scan done on you. We'll also begin training you to cast with your 'off' hand." Lucas explained, his wife nodding as Harry and Dean listened intently.

"That way, should you ever find yourself in a magical battle you will be able to cast using both hands instead of limited to one. It's also always a good idea for an Assassin to have a trick up their sleeve." Delilah said, grinning as Dean and Harry smirked.

"Alright you two head upstairs and put your things away. We have an amusement park to get to." Cassie said, making Harry and Dean whoop and jump to their feet.

"Who else is coming?" Harry asked, heading towards the door.

"Moony and I are tagging along of course. Can't let Cassie handle all you sprogs alone. Kano and Hector are coming along as well for security." Sirius said, making Dean and Harry nod.

Harry and Dean hurried away to get ready with Dean's siblings running after. All of them were looking forward to spending time at the amusement park, including little Sam who was nearly four. Lucas and Delilah smiled before handing Cassie a small pouch filled with money. The woman tried to refuse, but they explained that it was for Harry so she wouldn't be paying for anything that he wanted. Sirius and Remus protested as both men wanted a chance to spoil Harry, though Delilah and Lucas gave them a sharp look, knowing that both men had likely bought Harry an expensive birthday present. The sharp look made Sirius and Remus quiet down, though they offered sheepish smiles at the couple. Sirius, Remus and Cassie stood and headed to the main hallway where they only had to wait a few more minutes before the kids hurried towards them with Kano and Hector following behind.

"Let's go!" Little Jessica cried, making the others laugh at her eagerness.

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Harry, Dean, Megan, Sasha, Jessica and Sam had a blast at the amusement park. Cassie and the other adults had a hard time keeping the excitable group together and keeping them out of trouble. However, Harry and Dean were thankfully helping the adults out. They went from ride to ride and made sure to even go on rides that Sam could go on such as the merry-go-round and the smaller rollercoasters which were designed for young children. Sirius and Remus did manage to pay for an early lunch for the entire group, despite Cassie's complaints and glares. Of course all of them got souvenirs from the various shops and games which they had a lot of fun trying to win the different prizes. By the time two o'clock came around, all of them were getting tired and were ready to head back home.

Back at the manor, Cassie put Sam down for a nap in their house while Harry got ready for his party at the house his parents owned. He really did understand the need for a seemingly normal house, though at the same time it made him wish that his friends could come to the manor and see where he really lived. Merlin, even Susan and Hannah weren't allowed at the estate. The few times that they had hung out it was always at Bones Manor or at Potter Manor. Yes, he did understand that it was because of security and the safety of not only him and his family but for all of the Assassins that lived on the estate.

Flooing over to the house, Harry was surprised and rather happy when Hannah, Susan and Madame Bones arrived not long after they got there. Harry wisely opened their gifts first, which revealed some rather interesting books and a miniature broom along with Harry's favorite player from Ireland's team. All of them finished decorating the house and the large fenced in backyard which featured a pool and a trampoline. Guests started arriving by three and, thankfully, Susan and Hannah had no problem connecting with all of the friends Harry and Dean had made in primary school. All of their friends, bar Hannah and Susan of course, were saddened in learning that Harry and Dean are heading to a private school, but they were also glad that their friends were off to a good school. Snacks were continuous and all of the preteens headed outside after using the guest rooms and bathrooms to change into swimsuits and trunks.

Amelia had raised an eyebrow when she saw some of the bikinis, though she didn't say anything. The kids were having a blast hanging out in the water or sunning themselves on the loungers. The adults talked inside though Amelia and two others were outside watching over the kids to make sure no one got hurt. Amelia was rather surprised that she was able to connect so well with some of the parents. Many of the women were very supportive when they discovered that she was actually Susan's aunt and not her mother and there were many compliments on how kind and well-mannered Susan and Hannah were. A few of the men/fathers were surprised in learning that she was pretty high ranking in a special branch of the police force. They, like many other men, didn't think much of her because they fell for the 'dumb blonde' stereotype. A lot of the women/mothers grinned at the dumbfounded looks on the mens' faces.

The kids eventually got out of the pool and showered before changing back into their normal clothes. They were soon running around outside and even headed to the local movie theater to catch a new movie that had come out a few days ago. Harry, thankfully, had spent time in the neighborhood and town so he knew his way around pretty well and so did Dean. All of them had a great time just laughing, hanging out and exploring; getting to be just kids. Dean and Harry loved the chance to drop all the airs and titles they had to carry, though both of them were keenly aware of Hector and Kano following their group in the shadows and crowds. They also sensed the presence of Susan's bodyguard: Kingsley Shacklebolt, following nearby as well. Of course they weren't expecting trouble but you could never be too careful. Having two trainee Assassins and the niece of the head of the D.M.L.E. were very tempting targets.

They made it back home before dark fell and were pleased to see pizza and chips waiting for them. For Susan, this was a day of many firsts for her. She has never had pizza, chips or gone to a movie theater. Hannah, on the other hand, was a Halfblood and her mum had made sure that she'd be comfortable in the Muggle world so they often took trips to the Muggle world for family days or even a girl's day out. While they ate dinner, they happily watched a few Disney movies such as The Fox and the Hound, The Aristocats and the Sword in the Stone. Even Amelia was entertained by the movies, especially the Sword in the Stone which made Sirius and Remus grin and chuckle. After movies was cake and ice cream, which was a hit since Harry had gotten an ice cream cake from a local bakery. Harry grinned when he saw that it was in the shape of a football. He and Dean had played for a local youth team since they were six and were bloody good at the game if you were to ask them.

Once dessert was finished and cleaned up, all of the kids were demanding for Harry to open his presents. Sitting him down on the couch, each of his friends took turns handing their gifts over to Harry. He grinned at the many Manchester United paraphernalia, including a jersey with the named Potter-Othello on the back. Dean was an Arsenal fan so they often had plenty of arguments about the teams and players, though it was all in good fun of course. He also loved the new hoodies, shirts and movies that they also gave him. After that, things wound down and his friends were slowly heading back home. Of course Hannah, Susan and Amelia were the last to leave since they flooed over, though they were happy since that meant they got to watch a few more movies. Amelia helped to finish cleaning up and thanked Lucas and Delilah for inviting the girls.

"It meant a lot that they got an invitation." Amelia said, her voice soft as she watched Harry and Dean explain something in the movie they were watching.

"Harry and Dean don't have too many friends in the Magical world so those they do have mean a lot to them. Besides, they figured that Susan and Hannah would have a good time even if they're around Muggles." Remus said, Delilah nodding her head as she smiled at Amelia.

"It's going to be hard on the boys; leaving behind their Muggle friends. However, they're determined to spend time with them during the holidays." Delilah said, wrapping up the last of the leftover cake.

"I remember on how Emily, Hannah's mother, struggled in keeping up with her Muggle friends. They made it work though by sending letters during the schoolyear. However, with the way technology is advancing, Harry and Dean's friends might wonder why they're not using emails." Amelia said, the other adults nodding though they looked worried.

"Though the Department of Research and Development is doing rather well in bringing our society up to date with technology but it is hard breaking traditions." Lucas mused, Amelia sighing as she nodded.

"Did you hear about the new mailboxes? The post office is overjoyed with the new development but there's also a small fear that using owls will run out of fashion." Amelia said.

"Mailboxes?" Sirius asked, frowning lightly as the blonde nodded.

"They're small three by three boxes that are divided in half. One half is for receiving mail and the other half is for outgoing mail. Apparently, there are no restrictions for weight or size of packages as they shrink as soon as they touch the side of the mailbox. For a fee, you can rent a mailbox if you can't afford one. The post office is also offering the service of screening mail which will remove any harmful enchantments, portkeys, or substances that might be hidden in letters. They'll still stay in business, but their owls might not be used as much." Amelia explained, the others listening with rapt attention.

"I can see how that will be a very popular item. You won't have to worry about an owl getting harmed in severe weather or being sabotaged or intercepted. However, I doubt people will forget or stop using owls. Many Witches and Wizards have familiars in owls." Remus said, smiling gently at the thoughtful look on Amelia's face.

"Scribbulus has also started using embossed stationary. I stopped by his shop a few days ago and saw some displays for the Ministry, Gringotts and a few popular businesses." Delilah said, smiling as the other adults looked at her.

"Oh?!" Sirius asked, interest in his voice as he looked at his friend.

"Mhm. For a fee, of course, you can have your family crest embossed on a stack of stationary or even your business' symbol. I've already bought a decent sized stack for our family. We're going to be using them on official letters such as correspondence between allied houses and invitations to parties and balls." Delilah said, her husband smiling as he wrapped an arm around her waist.

"We should get some for the shop, Siri. We have a lot of mail order customers and it'll help make us seem more…official." Remus said, Sirius nodding in agreement with a grin on his face.

They talked for a little while longer before Amelia finally took Hannah and Susan home, though the girls protested the entire time. Harry and Dean promised to see them again soon before saying goodbye. Hector and Kano locked up the house and set the alarm before all of them flooed back to the estate where the kids made their way to their rooms as the excitement of the day caught up with them. The adults stayed up for a while longer, making plans on taking the kids to Diagon Alley after they got their true wands from Silverhook.

"Harry and Dean need to go to Gringotts before we start school shopping." Lucas said, sitting back in the loveseat next to his wife.

"Why? I thought those cards from Gringotts are linked to their vaults." Cassie said, frowning lightly as the others nodded.

"Don't worry, they are. However, now that Harry and Dean are eleven they'll need their Head of House Rings. You see, both Harry and Dean are and will become, Lords upon their maturity. The rings signify their status in our world and both are expected to wear the rings by those who know of their status. Harry will wear the Head of House ring for the Potter family and he'll also wear a ring that signifies he's the heir of House Othello. Dean will wear the Head of House ring for the Woods family. Upon their maturity the rings will be replaced by the rings that the Lords of their House would wear." Lucas explained, holding out his right hand and showing Cassie a gold ring with a ruby which had a crest in the center of the gem.

"These rings are charmed, of course. They protect the wearer from minor jinxes, curses and hexes. They also flash when detecting harmful and mind altering potions and charms. My ring has already saved me many times from poisoning attempts." Sirius said, showing Cassie his own ring which was white gold with a diamond which had the Black family crest in the center of the gem.

"Of course when they marry their spouse will be given a similar ring which signifies their status." Delilah added, showing off her own ring which was a copy of her husband's though in a more delicate and feminine style.

"It's also another way to pay. Store keepers can take temporary imprints of the crest on the ring and charge it directly to the vault. Of course the imprints have charms on them that won't allow them to be copied." Remus said, Cassie nodding lightly in understanding.

"I'm just…well worried that the other children might be jealous. I know that Sasha is envious that Dean is an Assassin…" She said, sighing softly as Delilah gently squeezed her shoulder.

"If Dean doesn't have any sons then the firstborn son of any of his sisters would become Lord Woods or his first male grandson. If he doesn't want to claim the title of Lord Woods then it would pass to Samuel." She explained, making Cassie frown.

"Why can't one of my girls become Lady Woods?" She asked, confusion in her voice as Sirius sighed and took a sip of his brandy.

"As you know, our society was and…well still is mostly male dominate. Men held the power in our society and only recently has that begun changing. Many old families are Patriarchal with the eldest son inheriting the family line and fortune. Families with only daughters normally enter betrothal contracts with their husband taking on the title as Lord of the family upon their marriage and when the daughter's father is ready to pass on the title. There are a few families that allowed both men and women to hold the title as Lord or Lady of the House and hold the power. The Founders of Hogwarts were like that along with the Peverell, Pendragon, Mayweather and Othello." Remus explained, grinning as Cassie looked at Lucas and Delilah in surprise.

"It's true. If Harry doesn't wish to inherit our family line then it will go to Eliza or his second eldest child. His eldest child will hold the Potter title." Lucas said, answering Cassie's unasked question.

"Is it possible to change the rules?" She asked, frowning as the others looked at each other.

"It is possible but it's frowned upon. A lot of our society clings to old traditions which are why we're struggling with accepting so many changes. Many of Minister Matthews's supporters are Muggleborns and Halfbloods who have a foot in both worlds. Of course there are Purebloods, like myself, Sirius and Amelia, who are accepting of change and welcome it. However, there are many who balk and claim that we're forgetting tradition in the process of catching up with the rest of the world. Our society was the least developed besides a few in Africa. The I.C.W. is helping us to advance by sending in experts in certain fields to train people in the Ministry." Remus answered.

"Now, what's this business about betrothal contracts?" She asked, making Delilah giggle softly.

"Betrothal contracts are still popular in our society. It's all about making connections between families, gaining more political power and wealth for many families. Some families, not many, refuse to send their daughters to school. Instead they keep them at home and teach them how to be a future Lady of a house and a good wife and mother. However, people have begun realizing that their children can make future powerful allies in school and are sending any and all children to Hogwarts to make connections and allies. Now, families like the Potters would only have their children enter betrothal contracts after letting their children date and come to them and their boyfriend/girlfriend's family about a possible engagement. I know that James and Lily entered a betrothal contract when they were engaged in their Seventh Year." Sirius explained, Cassie listening intently though she was still frowning.

"The contracts are ways of protecting the interests of both Houses. It's a way to ensure that both lines will continue without being taken in by the Head of the family that they are marrying into. Say Harry and Susan wish to marry. Amelia and I would encourage them to enter a betrothal contract. Susan is the last of her family, just as Harry is the last of his. The contract will stipulate that the eldest child that they have will be in line to become Lord Potter. The second eldest child, likely a male unless they were to change the family magicks to allow a female to inherit the line, will become Lord Bones. Should they only have one child, that child's first born will become Lord/Lady Bones and their second child will become Lord/Lady Potter." Lucas added, watching as Cassie nodded in understanding.

"So, Dean should enter a betrothal contract when he's found someone who he wants to marry." She said, the others nodding in agreement.

"I guess it makes sense…" She muttered, watching as Remus smiled gently at her.

"Don't worry, Cassie. It won't happen until Dean's much older." He said, the woman nodding as she relaxed.

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August 10th, 1991

Delilah and Cassie smiled as their sons eagerly looked around the Leaky Cauldron. Megan, Sasha, Jessica and Samuel had remained at the estate and were enjoying the horseback riding lessons they were getting. Of course Amanda was with them on protection detail, though Lucas had wanted another Assassin to go with his wife and son. However, Amanda and Delilah had reminded him that both of them were more than capable of handling any attacks and Harry and Dean weren't completely defenseless either. Harry and Dean were both armed with their new true wands, which they had been practicing with ever since Silverhook brought them over on the fifth. Both boys had been shocked with the power of their spells and how their magic had reacted when they first picked up their wands. Dean's eyes had begun glowing and doves had shot out of his wand as his magic celebrated. Harry's eyes glowed as well as a powerful wind whipped up around him and his wand shot red and silver sparks into the air.

Their spells were massively more powerful than when they had begun learning with training wands. Of course they knew that the training wands weren't too powerful but still, the boost had taken them by surprise. Now, they had enough control over their new wands that their parents thought it was time for them to get their main wands and the rest of their supplies. Both boys agreed to go shopping early so they wouldn't be captured by the last minute school shopping rush. Heading out the back door, they reached the small alley behind the Leaky Cauldron where Delilah pulled out her wand and opened the entrance. As Diagon Alley came into view, the boys hurried ahead a few feet, grinning as they looked around. Both were saddened that they couldn't bring their new Nimbus two-thousands with them to school, even if it was just to go flying in their time off. However, they knew that they could enjoy their brooms during the holidays.

"Alright, Gringotts first and then we'll start shopping." Amanda said.

They headed up the alley to the large, white marble bank, though Harry and Dean pointed out a few things on the way that they wanted to stop and look at when they fully began shopping. Stepping inside the bank, they waited in one of the lines for the tellers and asked to speak with their account managers. Harry and Delilah headed off to speak with Goldspear while Dean and Cassie headed off to speak with Wolfclaw, the Woods account manager. It took about fifteen minutes before the group met in the main lobby, both boys now wearing their Head of House rings. Heading out to the alley, they looked around at the different shops before looking at their lists.

"Alright, where to first?" Cassie asked, frowning lightly as she looked at the list.

"Masters' Trunks and Bags should be our first stop. The boys can get their trunks and shoulder bags which can be used to carry around our purchases." Delilah said, nodding towards a nearby shop in which there was an open trunk and various shoulder bags on display in the windows.

"We need to stop by Padfoot and Moony's shop before we leave." Dean said, looking up at his mum as she smiled.

"We will, don't worry." She said, reaching out and ruffling her son's hair which made Dean groan and pull away.

They soon entered Master's Trunks where the owner walked over to them. He took one look at the rings on the boy's fingers before bowing slightly to them and asking what they were looking for. Delilah took charge; ordering two trunks with three compartments lined in Mokeskin with Feather Light charms and wheels on one end. Mister Masters offered a magical signature lock, to which the boys agreed on. Neither of them wanted any of their school mates getting into their trunk and possibly stealing anything even though standard trunks had anti-theft charms on them. They also had their House crests placed on the lid of the trunks, mostly to make them stand out more while they were being sorted during the first night. Mister Masters explained that it'd take a few hours for the trunks to be ready, in which Cassie explained that it would be fine and asked if he could send them to the Leaky Cauldron for them to pick up after they finished shopping. Mister Masters nodded and pointed them in the direction of the bags before disappearing behind the counter.

Harry and Dean looked through the various bags before they found one that they both liked. Harry chose a black leather bag lined with Mokeskin and charmed Feather Light. He also spotted the runes for a permanent cushioning charm on the strap of the bag. Dean picked out a light tan leather bag with the same enchantments that Harry's bag had. Both boys ensured that their bags had an anti-theft charm on them and had their names sewn onto the main flap of the bags in gold and black thread. After paying for the trunks and bags, they headed back outside and fully began their shopping trip. As Ollivander's was across from Master's, they headed to the wand shop where they boys were instantly on edge because of the dimly lit shop and the silence. Mister Ollivander's sudden appearance made them jump while Cassie pressed a hand to her chest and Delilah and Amanda grinned.

Dean ended up going first and only had to try a few wands before a wand made of ebony with a core of a Dragon Heartstring chose him. Sparks shot out of the end of the wand as Ollivander smiled and praised the choice of wand. Dean flushed slightly and chose a wrist holster and a wand cleaning kit before paying for all three items. Harry went next and his 'fitting' dragged on for nearly fifteen minutes with the pile of rejected wand boxes grew on the counter. However, Ollivander seemed more and more excited with every rejected wand, which made Harry wonder about the aged man's sanity. Ollivander finally went quiet before disappearing from view among the rows of shelves which were filled with wand boxes. Harry glanced back at his mum, Cassie and Dean before looking forward when the wand maker walked back carrying a dust covered wand box.

Harry watched as Ollivander opened the box and hesitated slightly before handing it over to him. Picking the wand up, Harry blinked as his magic coursed through his body and birds shot from the tip of the wand. He was rather surprised but also pleased that another wand had chosen him. However, his good mood was instantly dampened when Ollivander remarked on how his new wand is the brother wand to Voldemort's. Of course Harry knew all about his parents murders and that there was a very high chance that Voldemort wasn't dead. Though, it was slightly disturbing that his wand was connected to Voldemort's. Thanking the man, Harry paid for his wand, wand cleaning kit and a holster like Dean had. Exiting the store, Harry and Dean popped their wands into their holsters and practiced withdrawing them a few times before they moved onto the next shop.

They picked up their cauldrons which also came with a kit for First Years which have their needed phials along with a stirring rod, scales, cleaning kit and the various tools that they'd need for that class. Heading to another shop, they picked up their telescopes before heading over to Scribbulus' shop. Harry and Dean both chose two fountain pens besides their normal stock of quills since fountain pens closely mimicked the writing of quills. They figured that they could use the pens for note taking and the quills for their assignments. They grabbed plenty of parchment and ink while their mothers bought stationary for home. After that was Madame Malkin's, in which Dean and Harry groaned and protested when their mums decided that they had have a completely new wardrobe.

"Harrison, you've gained three inches in height and you're filling out more in the shoulders. You need a new wardrobe." Delilah insisted, ushering her son onto a small platform so one of the shop assistants could measure him.

"But, Mum…" Harry groaned, huffing when his mother raised an eyebrow at him as if daring him to finish his complaint.

The assistant fought back a giggle as she took the boy's measurements; having seen the same scene play out many times before. Beside Harry, Dean was scowling at his own mother as Cassie spoke with the assistant who was measuring him about the new styles that had come in and what was new in the shop. All four of them glanced towards the door as the small bell above it chimed. Delilah watched as a striking blonde haired woman with a streak of black in her hair walked in the shop. The woman's grey/blue eyes were clear and sharp, holding a haughty look in them as she looked around. Following beside her was a young boy, around Harry and Dean's age, with slicked back bright blonde hair and silver/blue eyes. He blinked and sneered slightly at Dean and Harry, though that sneer vanished when he saw the rings on the boys' fingers.

"Lady Malfoy, here for young Draco's fitting?" Madame Malkin asked, approaching the woman and her son.

"Yes. Draconis is in need of his Hogwarts uniforms. However, you look rather busy." Narcissa Malfoy said, glancing at Cassie and Delilah and their sons.

"Nonsense. I have another platform for young Draco here." Madame Malkin said, smiling warmly as she walked over to a third platform.

Draco glanced back at his mother, in which she nodded and they followed Madame Malkin. Harry felt annoyance at being near Draco and could tell that Dean felt the same way. That annoyance only increased when Draco and Narcissa started talking about the quality of the robes, shirts, vests and pants Draco needed for his uniform. Harry and Dean glanced at each other before rolling their eyes. Once their measurements were taken, Harry and Dean were let off the platforms and headed towards the back of the shop where the clothing selections were. Thankfully Madame Malkin had stocked all the latest fashion in the Muggle world for both men and women of all ages. The boys groaned as their mothers spent the next hour having them try on various robes, shirts, pants and accessories. Unfortunately, in their opinion, Draco was there for the same thing though his mother kept him in the 'high end' fashion section.

"Remember, Draconis, we have that party at the Parkinson's tonight. You need a new dress robe." Narcissa said, watching as her son blinked and sighed.

"Must I go?" He asked, wincing at the sharp look she gave him.

"You know you must, Draconis. Pansy is your betrothed and it would be considered an insult for you not to attend." She said, not seeing Harry and Dean's looks of disgust.

Both boys knew the Parkinson family from the various Ministry balls they attended. Lady Emily Parkinson was a beauty in her own right, though she had a haughty attitude like many Pureblood and Halfblood ladies of older Houses. Her only child, Pansy, was a perfect copy of her mother; in attitude at least. From what they'd seen of Pansy, she had fair skin, short black hair, beady dark hazel eyes and an upturned almost pug-like nose. Her voice was rather high pitched and had a nasally quality to it. Both boys clearly remembered on how Pansy had been gushing about her betrothal to Draco the last time they had seen the girl. It was all she had talked about and she clung to Draco like a leech. Neither of them could really see how the blonde ponce could stand the girl but then again they could hardly stand Draco and they don't know much about him other than he looked like a miniature copy of his father.

"Alright you two, we're done." Cassie said, smiling as the boys sighed in relief and happily made their way to the front of the store.

Madame Malkin wrapped up their clothing and shrunk the boxes which went into the boys' bags. After paying for their clothes, they headed across the street to Flourish and Blotts. The clerk behind the counter pointed them out to the course books which were quickly picked up and brought to the counter. However, Harry also wandered off in search of books to read in his spare time. Dean found a few books, though he wasn't much of a reader unlike his friend. However, he did find a few books for his siblings that he knew they'd like. By the time Harry finished wandering the store the others were waiting while grinning at him. He flushed when he saw that he had chosen more extra reading books than course books. His mum, Cassie, Amanda and Dean laughed, though Delilah bent her head and kissed his forehead, making Harry flush and complain as he scrubbed at his forehead. The clerk grinned and rung up their purchases, to which Harry and Dean easily paid for them using their bank cards. The nice thing about the cards was that they also worked in the Muggle world so they didn't have to worry about getting gold from the vault converted into pounds every time they wanted to shop in the Muggle world.

With their books wrapped and stored in their bags, the boys eagerly led their mothers and guard to Sirius and Remus' shop. Shockingly, it wasn't too busy though Harry and Dean were surprised to see two twin redheaded boys helping Remus stock the shelves. Of course they knew that Sirius and Remus hired different people to help staff the store, most of them young teens or preteens so they could make some extra pocket money, help their parents, or even gain experience to better help them find a job later in life. Remus caught sight of the party first and grinned when he saw them.

"I was wondering when you'd show up." He said, laughing as Harry ran over and hugged him.

"Have you missed Dean and I working here?" Harry asked, grinning up at his honorary uncle.

"Of course though these two are pretty good workers." Remus said, nodding over to the twins which made the boys pause and look over.

"Fred, George, this is Harry Potter-Othello and Dean Thomas-Woods. Dean, Harry, this is Fred and George Weasley." Remus said, smiling as Harry and Dean happily held out their hands for the twins to shake.

"Nice to meet you. We've seen you two running through the alley earlier this summer." Fred said, grinning as Harry and Dean chuckled.

"Yeah, we're mostly errand boys but we had to stop working because a few things came up. How do you like working here? Is Uncle Sirius giving you enough breaks?" Harry asked, smirking as Sirius huffed.

"We love it!" George gushed, his twin nodding happily.

"Our mum's not exactly happy that we're working for a joke/toy shop but we're putting our wages away to save up for better brooms. We're beaters for the Gryffindor Quidditch team." Fred explained, Harry and Dean nodding in understanding.

"What year are you in?"Dean asked, watching as the twins grinned.

"Third. Our youngest brother is beginning Hogwarts this year and our little sister will attend next year. Our older brother Perfect Percy is in his Fifth Year and is the Gryffindor Prefect. He'll be rather easy to spot." Fred said, George snorting softly.

"Oh?" Dean asked, a grin on his face as the twins nodded.

"Yeah, he walks around like he's got a broom up his bum." George answered, making Harry and Dean laugh while Sirius shook his head.

"Come on now, boys. You two are due for a break and you two should check out the new version of Clue we've made." Sirius said, ushering the twins towards the back of the store.

"It was nice meeting you two." Harry said, the twins nodding happily.

"Same!"

"See you on the Express!"

Harry and Dean followed Remus over to the game aisle, both of them surprised and rather glad that the twins seemed like nice guys. They already knew to stay away from the youngest boy since Delilah and Lucas warned them that Ronald seemed like a very rude and self-serving boy who might try to pull them apart. From the few times they'd run into Ronald the redhead had glared at Dean something fierce because he remained close by Harry. Ronald had attempted to approach Harry many times during the few parties they were at and both times Harry had deflected the redhead's questions and hurried away to find Dean and his parents. Something about Ronald set the alarm bells in his head ringing and he had no desire to get close to the greedy boy. However, that didn't mean he couldn't befriend Ronald's brothers.

-We'll see what happens.-Harry thought.

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

As the last weeks of summer passed, Harry and Dean ramped up their training. They spent more and more time training with weapons, their wands, hand-to-hand combat along with their stealth, climbing and free-running. While they would miss the routine of their training while at Hogwarts, they were also looking forward to learning more about magic and various spells and creatures. They were also looking forward to meeting new people and perhaps making new friends. Their instructors taught them how to spot others who might have the potential to be Assassins and that they should report those children to either Severus or Minerva so they could find out for sure. Both of them also paid careful attention to the various warnings they received about various students and children of Death Eaters who might be gunning for either of them due to Lucas' support in the Minister's crack down on Death Eaters.

Harry was also warned about Albus and how the man might try to get close to him. Dean and Harry were told that they weren't allowed to be alone in the Headmaster's office without their Head of House present. They were also allowed to sit at other House tables during meals so long as it was not during a feast. This made them relax since they were worried about not being able to hang out too much if they wound up in different Houses. Both of them also spent plenty of time going through their new course books, reading ahead and hardly able to wait before they could practice some of the spells and charms that are in the books. Neither of them had to take the new Wizarding Customs or Muggle Studies courses due to their background in both worlds. They'd already tested out of both classes at the Ministry earlier during the summer and had passed easily.

During the last week of August, Dean finally decided to go to the Magical Menagerie to see if he had a familiar. None of the Fire Lizards, including the new hatchlings from Slytha's clutch had called out to him. It was a little disappointing, but he reasoned that there was a very slim chance of he and Harry having the same type of familiar. Wandering the large, dimly lit store, Dean was shocked when he felt a pull on his magic. Following the pull, Dean walked towards the back of the store where all the larger cages were located. His mum followed behind him, having caught sight of her son wandering off with a determined gait. Her eyes widened when she saw Dean stop in front of a cage and kneel down. A soft yipping sound came from within the cage and a young fox kit hurried over. Its fur was a light reddish orange with a black tipped tail, ears and paws. The kit barked softly and pressed its muzzle through the cage, closing its dark amber eyes in happiness as Dean lightly rubbed its chin.

"Mum, I can feel a connection with him." Dean said, smiling as he looked up at Cassie.

"You're sure?" Cassie asked, watching as her eldest lovingly scratched underneath the kit's chin.

"Positive."

Cassie headed to the front of the store and informed the owner that her son had found his familiar. The owner followed Cassie back to where Dean was sitting petting the kit. Only when Cassie told Dean to back away so the man could unlock the cage did her son stop and actually pull back. As soon as the cage was unlocked the fox kit bounded out of the cage and jumped into Dean's arms. He laughed and rubbed the kit's body, making the canine bark in happiness and nuzzle into his chest. The owner informed the preteen that the kit was a male and was only a few months old. Dean listened intently as the man told him how to take care of his newfound familiar though he was brought out of his musing when the kit bit his hand before licking it. Dean hissed faintly, though he was surprised when the wound healed instantly. Cassie was alarmed, though she looked to the owner when the man smiled.

"The kit just began the bond. Now, each bond is unique to everyone so there's not much I can tell you besides the kit will have a longer life span and will be much more intelligent than normal foxes." The owner said, Dean and Cassie nodding in understanding.

Standing up, Dean set down his familiar and walked around the store. He and Cassie picked up a collar, harness, toys, a bed, a leash and treats. As they shopped, Dean kept glancing down at his new familiar as he tried to think of a name for him. He finally came up with a name as they headed up to the counter to pay for everything.

"Ricki. That's what I'll name him." Dean said, grinning as the newly named Ricki barked and looked at him with adoring eyes.

"Seems like he likes his new name." Cassie said, smiling warmly as the owner began ringing everything up.

As soon as the collar was rung up, Dean crouched down and put it on Ricki. Ricki held still until the collar was on before instantly scratching at the new accessory. Settling down, he watched as Dean took the harness before looking down at his bonded human's hands as Dean crouched down and began lifting his paws up so the preteen could slip on the harness. Ricki shifted slightly as he attempted to get used to the slight weight of the harness though his eyes brightened when Dean grabbed the leash and attached it to the harness. The owner packed everything else up and shrunk down the package so Cassie could slip the package into her purse. Thanking the owner after they paid for the items and for Ricki they headed outside with Ricki bounding along beside Dean and frolicking about his legs. A few people looked at the kit with some interest and amusement though others were smiling warmly at the sight.

They ran a few more errands, mostly picking up items for some of the people on the estate. Of course Dean and Cassie were aware of their guard a few feet away, though they were used to it by now. Wandering around, they stopped at Florean's for a treat, in which they quickly discovered that Ricki enjoyed ice cream as well. After eating, they headed back to the Leaky Cauldron where they flooed back to the estate. Ricki didn't really enjoy the trip home, though he absolutely loved running around the estate exploring all the rooms and meeting the House Elves and other staff members. Harry was interrupted in his studying in the library when Ricki ran in and started sniffing around. Mira, who had been reading over Harry's shoulder, looked up and flew over the fox kit where Ricki had looked at her with wide eyes before promptly attempting to chase her. Harry grinned as he watched Mira fly around the room with the small kit chasing and leaping up at her. The sight of Dean hurrying into the room instantly gave away who the kit belonged to.

"So you found your familiar I see." He said, grinning as Dean chuckled.

"Yeah, sorry 'bout that. I didn't think he'd run off." Dean said, shaking his head as Ricki laid down panting.

"It's fine. Mira finds him interesting and rather adorable." Harry said, nodding towards their familiars.

Looking over, Dean blinked and smiled at the sight of Mira nuzzling Ricki before she curled her body around him and rested her head over his neck. Ricki let out a pleased little murr at the warmth radiating from the Fire Lizard; his eyes drooping as the excitement of the day caught up with him. Dean happily talked about how he found Ricki and the fact that they'd already begun the bond. Harry talked more about his own bond with Mira and all of the things they've discovered. Mira knew how to read now, though she read rather slowly right now. She could breathe flames hot enough to turn sand into glass and melt most metals though she could also breathe a different type of flame that actually froze things which was how she was able to crystallize her own scale for Harry's wand. He was also beginning to be able to see through her eyes though the vision was slightly fuzzy and unfocused.

"There he is!" Sasha squealed, making the boys jump and their familiars jumped.

Sasha ran into the library with Jessica and Megan hurrying in after her. Ricki shrunk back as the three girls crowded around him; causing Mira to stand and hiss at the girls, her wings flared in warning.

"Hey! Back away!" Dean called, scowling as he got to his feet.

The three girls backed away, shocked at Mira's sudden aggression and rather terrified at that. Dean stepped closer to the two familiars and Mira instantly calmed down as she knew that Dean wouldn't harm Ricki. Dean gently scooped Ricki into his arms; cuddling the kit to his chest and gently stroking the fox's head. Ricki stopped trembling and curled into Dean's arms, pressing his head into the boy's hand as Harry frowned at Dean's sisters.

"You should know better than to rush in and crowd around an animal; especially one that hasn't met you." He scolded, watching as Sasha huffed and pouted.

"How were we supposed to know that we'd scare him? We didn't mean to." She whined, Megan nodding in agreement with her younger sister.

"You should have more control over Mira. She was threatening us!" Megan said, frowning at the Fire Lizard as Mira hissed at her.

"Mira was defending Ricki. You three were the ones crowding around and scaring him. She reacted naturally and wouldn't have harmed you unless you tried to harm Ricki. She was trying to get you to back off." Harry said, mentally calling his familiar to him.

"Sasha, Megan, Dean and Harry are right." Jessica said, her voice soft as she slowly approached her big brother.

"I'm sorry for scaring you, Ricki." She said, her voice gentle as she reached out and let the kit sniff her fingers.

"But-?!"

"What is going on in here?" Cassie asked, raising an eyebrow as she walked into the library.

"Mum! Mira was threatening us!" Sasha whined, making the woman blink before she looked at her son and Harry.

"That's not true." Dean snapped, his sisters recoiling as he glared at them.

"Ricki and Mira had settled down together on the floor and were just about to fall asleep when Sasha, Megan and Jessica ran in squealing about Ricki. They crowded around him which startled him and he began trembling in fright. Mira rose to his defense and hissed at them. She wouldn't have harmed them so long as they didn't harm Ricki. She let Dean go over and pick Ricki up and then they started complaining about Mira. Only Jess has apologized so far." Harry explained, watching as Cassie frowned as she rounded on her two older daughters.

"You girls should know better! All three of you have had lessons on what to do around new animals; surely you haven't forgotten your lessons?" She said, watching as Megan and Sasha looked down at the ground.

"You never rush in at an animal and you never crowd around them. It's your fault that Mira rose to Ricki's defense. As for Mira's reaction I can't blame her. She was defending a new friend and fellow familiar from a perceived threat. However she didn't attack you. She kept you back from touching Ricki until Dean got to him and comforted him. I'm glad that at least Jessica realized what she did wrong. As for you two, you will be doing all the chores around the house for two weeks and you'll be helping out to clean the stables." Cassie said, watching as Sasha and Megan looked at her in surprise and disgust.

"B-But Mum!" They cried, wincing as she grabbed them and pulled them from the library.

"Not buts about it. Come, we're going to speak to the House Elf in charge of the stables." Cassie said, the door closing behind her and her two eldest daughters.

"How did you guys even find out about Ricki?" Harry asked, watching as Jessica looked up at him.

"Mum came into the house with all his things and told us that Dean found his familiar. We weren't sure what Ricki was but when we were hurrying through the house we heard the others talking about a fox kit and made the connection. I really am sorry, Dean." Jessica said, making her brother smile gently.

"It's okay, Jess. You knew you were in the wrong and you apologized. Ricki doesn't seem to mind you now. Just keep in mind that when you're approaching new animals to move slowly and let them get used to you." Dean said, Jessica nodding her head in understanding and agreement.

Jessica headed out while Harry went back to his studying. Dean, meanwhile, took Ricki on a tour around the estate with the kit safely in his arms. Ricki looked around with wide eyes as Dean took him around the rest of the manor and then stepped outside. Dean was slightly startled when he felt a faint presence in the back of his mind. The feeling of excitement, curiosity and also apprehension came from that presence. It took him a moment before he realized that the presence was actually Ricki, which meant that the bond was beginning to fully form between them. Ricki was greatly interested in all the Fire Lizards flying around or riding on the shoulders of various people. He was also interested in all the buildings and the two stables, one that held the horses and the other which held the Hippogriffs. However, when Dean went to set his kit down, Ricki clung onto Dean and whined as he pressed closer to the boy.

"Alright, alright, little one. I won't put you down yet. You can explore later." Dean said, smiling as he comforted Ricki until the kit settled down once more.

He headed to his and his family's house which was closest to the Hippogriff enclosure. He smiled at the sight of his mum sitting on the patio swing on the front porch. Cassie blinked and smiled at her son, watching as he walked over and sat down next to her.

"Megan and Sasha are vacuuming right now. You should wait until they're done before bringing Ricki inside." She said, letting the kit sniff her hands before lightly scratching his head.

"Are they still coming to see me off on September first?" Dean asked, watching as Cassie sighed and set down her book.

"It depends on their behavior. They didn't do too well last year in school which is why they had more chores to begin with. Apparently Megan had been teasing a few other girls and a few boys in her class as well." Cassie said, frowning as she thought of her eldest daughter.

"I was wondering why you took away her allowance."

"She needs to learn that there are consequences to her actions. Jessica hasn't been doing too well either. I'm hoping that they'll learn their lesson by having to muck the stables and do all the chores." Cassie said, leaning against her son as Dean wrapped an arm around her.

"I'm sure they will, Mum."

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

September 1st, 1991

Megan sluggishly walked out of her bedroom, groaning as she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. A gasp escaped her when Dean went rushing by, her eyes widening when Ricki went running after him. It took her a minute before it fully registered in her mind what the date was. As soon as she realized that it was the first of September an overwhelming combination of sadness and some jealousy spread through her. Dean, Harry, Tonks and many other kids that lived here on the estate were leaving for school. Elliot was heading off to Hogwarts with Dean, Harry and Tonks while Ashley, Will and Miranda were heading off to Beauxbatons and Melody, Henry, Alex and Justin were off to St. Brigid's in Ireland. Only she and her sisters would remain…along with Sammy and a few other children who were barely old enough to play with. She was sad that her brother and the few friends she's made were leaving and she wouldn't get to see them until the holidays.

Of course, she was also jealous that her brother was getting to go to Hogwarts before her. Okay…so she wasn't doing the best with her summer magical studies but it was so hard to sit still while the weather was absolutely perfect outside. Also, she wasn't allowed to actually use magic until she entered Hogwarts. It was bad enough when she learned that she wouldn't be getting a second wand like Dean, but seeing him actually use his magic had only made things worse. When her mum punished her and Sasha for upsetting Ricki and not apologizing to Harry and Dean well…that had made her even more upset than she had been since the beginning of the summer vacation. How was she supposed to know that Reggie Tomson had a speech impediment?! Her mum had been so angry when she found out that she and her friends had been teasing a few kids and yes she had seen that it hadn't been the nicest of things to do but so many other people had been doing it too and she had gotten so many new friends when she had begun teasing Reggie and the other two.

"Mum, have you seen my Potions books?" Dean called, hurrying by his sister with an armful of books.

"It's in the media room. Don't forget that your uniforms are in the laundry room."

Megan huffed and headed to the bathroom; closing the door a little harder than normal. Shucking off her clothes, she turned on the shower and listened to the sounds of her brother moving down the hallway once more before she stepped into the water. Her mum had told her that she had to stay home while she and the others headed to King's Cross to see Dean off. Apparently it was because she hadn't apologized to Dean and Harry for blaming them for what she did to upset Ricki and Mira. Okay, yes, she did know that she shouldn't have rushed Ricki, but Harry should've apologized for Mira scaring her too! Now she was banned from seeing the Hogwarts Express and from saying goodbye to Dean and the others on the platform.

"Meg, hurry up!" Jessica called, knocking on the door which brought her sister out of her thoughts.

"Hold on!" Megan called, huffing as she hurried through the rest of her shower before turning off the water and hurriedly drying off.

Wrenching the door open she stomped off to her room, aware that Jessica and Sasha were watching her. Dean poked his head out of his room when he heard Megan's door slam shut. Shaking his head, he went back to organizing the final compartment of his trunk. All of his clothes fit nicely and he had also added his toiletries, his drawing supplies and a couple posters and pictures. All of his books were in the first compartment and his other school supplies were in the second compartment. He had packed his shoulder bag with a few books and his drawing pad and pencils so he wouldn't have to go digging through his trunk on the train. Ricki's things were in the third compartment as well, though Dean made sure that his familiar had a few treats and his favorite toy in his carrier with him. Looking around his room, Dean sighed when he realized that he wouldn't be back until Christmas break. It was…odd in a way. He had never thought much about being away from his mum and siblings, but there was no doubt that he'd miss them; even Megan.

He'd miss Megan even more if she didn't start to clean up her act that year according to their mum. Apparently, if Megan didn't pick up her grades and change her attitude towards others then Megan wouldn't be going to Hogwarts. Instead she'd either go to Beauxbatons or St. Brigid's. All of them knew enough French to do well in Beauxbatons and it wouldn't take very long to adjust to the accent in Ireland. St. Brigid's wasn't a boarding school; rather it was like a normal everyday school and Megan would be flooing or taking a portkey to and from the school grounds. He knew that Megan was looking forward to going to Hogwarts, but she still hadn't fully learned it seemed.

"Do ya really have'ta leave, De?" Sam asked, making Dean turn and look at his little brother.

"I'm sorry, Sammy. You'll be going to Hogwarts within no time." Dean said, smiling as he pulled his little brother into his lap.

"But I wanna go with you now." Sam pouted, scowling as Dean chuckled softly and hugged him.

"You have to wait until you're eleven like me, Sammy. Before you know it, it'll be Christmas and I'll be back for a visit." He said, watching as Sam blinked before tilting his head to the side.

"Promise?"

"Pinky promise." Dean said, linking his pinky with his brother's.

Sam soon walked off, content now that he had his older brother's promise. Dean hurriedly finished his packing before closing his trunk and locking it. He already had a change of clothes in his shoulder bag so he won't have to worry about trying to open the trunk again. Pulling his trunk out into the hallway, he nearly collided with Megan as she walked out of her room. She huffed when she saw the trunk and whirled around, disappearing back into her room and slamming the door shut once more. Shaking his head with a sigh, Dean continued on downstairs and set his things down by the fireplace. He and his mum and siblings were going to be flooing to the platform around nine thirty so they could beat the main crowds. The train didn't leave until eleven, but they wanted to make sure they got there early and got the chance to mingle a little bit. Heading to the dining room, he smiled when he saw Jessica, Sam and Sasha already at the table which had a rather large selection of food to choose from.

"Think you made enough, Mum?" Dean asked, grinning as Cassie rolled her eyes.

"Oh hush and eat, Dean. Tonks told us that it's better to have a large breakfast since there's only a snack cart on the Express." Cassie said, watching as her son loaded his plate with food.

Conversation was lively, though there was a noticeable gap at the table as Megan refused to come down and eat with them. Cassie gave her children a slightly strained smile and made sure that they were all eating before she headed upstairs. Heading down the hallway, she came to Megan's room and knocked, listening as something shuffled behind the door.

"Megan, come down and have something to eat." She called, frowning when she heard the bedsprings squeak.

"I'll eat when you're all gone."

Sighing, Cassie opened the door and stood in the doorway, watching as her eldest daughter read a magazine on her bed. Megan refused to look over at her mum, knowing that she would want her go to down and say goodbye to Dean. Yes…she'd miss her brother but at the same time he's heading off to a wondrous school whereas she'd be stuck here attending a normal primary school for the year.

"Megan, come down and eat. Dean wants to see you before we leave." Cassie said, watching as Megan huffed and shifted though made no move to get up.

"He promised to write didn't he? Besides, he has that communication mirror." She said, making Cassie frown at her daughter.

Sirius and Remus had recently created smaller, more portable versions of the communication mirrors Sirius and James had found in their Seventh Years. The two men managed to break down the runes and enchantments that were needed to create the mirrors and had made a good number of them already. Instead of hand mirrors, Remus had taken apart makeup compact mirrors and he and Sirius added the runes and enchantments to them in order to make them into communication mirrors. The smaller mirrors were more discrete and could be linked to multiple mirrors instead of being limited to just as few. Harry and Dean both had their own mirrors and Cassie had been given one that was linked to her son's. Lucas and Delilah had seen the ingenious invention had had paid Remus and Sirius rather handsomely for the two men to create enough linked mirrors to give to all the Assassins in the brotherhood. It made missions safer and made relaying orders and locations a lot easier than having to rely on a messenger patronus.

"Dean would still like to say goodbye to you in person, Megan." Cassie said, watching as her daughter rolled her eyes.

"Megan, what is up with you? You're never like this." She said, frustration in her voice as Megan finally looked away from her magazine.

"Maybe I just want to be alone; you ever think about that? Maybe I'm tired about hearing how Dean is the perfect child! Dean this! Dean that! It's all about him!" Megan ranted, anger in her voice as Cassie looked at her with surprise and the beginnings of understanding.

"Megan-"

"Just leave me alone!" Megan snapped, turning around so her back was to her mother.

Cassie opened her mouth before closing it; knowing that she wouldn't be able to calm Megan down at that moment. Moving back to the door, she stopped and looked back at her daughter, wishing that they had the time to work this out now. However, she needed to get Dean to the station and then she needed to head to the clinic. Shaking her head with a soft sigh, she headed back downstairs and finished her own breakfast. When their plates were cleared, all of them helped to rinse off the dishes and stack them in the dish washer before they began the hassle of putting on their shoes and ensuring that Dean had everything that he needed for school. Ricki was coaxed into his carrier; it helped when they had stuck a few treats in there for him, before Dean draped a cloth over the openings in the carrier so Ricki wouldn't freak out when they went through the floo.

Dean looked towards the stairs to see if Megan would appear. However, when she didn't he simply sighed and grabbed the handle of his trunk before leading the way into the living room. Gathering around the fireplace, Cassie went first with Samuel in her arms and soon disappeared into the emerald green flames. Sasha and Jessica went together; as floo travel was a bit nerve wracking on their own. Glancing back behind him, Dean shook his head and grabbed a pinch of floo powder before tossing it into the fire.

"Goodbye, Megan. Keep watch over Mum and the others." He called, stepping into the flames and turning so he was looking out towards the living room.

As he called out the floo address; Platform nine and three quarters, he caught sight of Megan rushing down the stairs and hurrying towards him. He blinked when he saw tears brimming in her eyes and caught her last words to him before the world became a blur of motion.

"I love you, big brother!"

Dean watched as various fireplaces flashed past him, each one allowing him a faint glimpse into the house or business beyond. He was glad that Megan had come down to say that she loved him and he made a mental note to send her a letter or to call her on the mirror that night after the feast. He had a feeling that something was bothering her, but had figured that it would be best if he just minded his own business and let her work it out. As he started slowing down, Dean went to take a step forward and smoothly exited the fireplace and stepped onto platform nine and three quarters. His eyes, however, were instantly drawn to the gleaming scarlet and black steam engine on the tracks in front of him. The golden letters proclaiming the train to be the Hogwarts Expressed glimmered in the lights of the station. Shaking himself, he moved away from the fireplaces and towards his mum and sisters.

"Are you sure you have'ta leave?" Samuel asked, pouting as he looked up at his brother.

"I'm sure, Sammy. Remember our promise." Dean said, smiling as the boy nodded.

"Ah, there's Harry." Cassie said, smiling as she saw the family walk through the barrier.

There were only a few other families around considering on how early it was. However, they still looked to Harry and his family with awe and reverence. The Othellos ignored the stares and hurried towards Dean and his family, Harry grinning as he clapped his brother in all but blood on the shoulder.

"Ready for our new adventure?" He asked, eagerness in his voice as Dean grinned back.

"Of course!"

"Now hold on you two." Cassie said, smiling as the boys looked at her.

"Remember you have training on the weekends. Also, call us on the mirrors after supper. We want to know which House you two are sorted in." Delilah said, smoothing Harry's bangs down which made him shift.

"Mind your professors." Cassie said, her voice stern as Lucas grinned.

They were interrupted by the sudden arrival of Remus and Sirius, in which both men grinned sheepishly.

"Sorry we're late. We couldn't pass up seeing these two off." Sirius said, grinning down at his godson as Remus nodded in agreement.

"You're alright. There's still plenty of time." Lucas said, raising an eyebrow when Remus and Sirius pulled out two packages.

"Prongslet, I found a letter in a few things your parents had left me. They wanted me to give you this before you started your First Year. Now, normally I wouldn't dream of passing this along to an eleven year-old. However, you're not some simple eleven year-old. I trust that you'll use this wisely." Sirius said, passing over his package which was slightly squishy.

"Open it in private. It's a Potter family heirloom that's been passed down for generations." He advised, watching as Harry nodded and gently put the package into his shoulder bag.

"These are for you both. Us Marauders made one for each of us during our time as students. I know these will be invaluable to you; both as students and as Marauders in training. Use them responsibly." Remus said, handing Dean and Harry rather slim packages.

"It took us some time recreating them and improving them. If you ever find one of the originals in Hogwarts you'll see what we mean by improved." Sirius said, grinning as he ruffled Harry's hair.

"Thanks." Harry and Dean said, smiling as they put the gifts away.

"Why don't you find a compartment and put your things away. Come back out and we'll talk for a while longer." Delilah suggested, smiling as the boys nodded and hurried away with their trunks and pet carriers.

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Harry and Dean finally said their goodbyes to their families; the press of the crowd urging them to get into the train before it got even worse. The platform had filled up fast and the air was filled with the buzz of conversation and the various calls of different animals. Harry hugged his dad and kissed his mum on the cheek before hugging Eliza tightly and making her promise to prank a few of the adults to ensure they didn't forget about him. Dean hugged and kissed his mum and sisters before hugging Sam tightly. Both boys promised to send pictures as they each had small cameras. Heading to the train, they made their way back to their compartment which Harry had locked to ensure no one would mess with their things. Now that they were inside they opened the blinds and kept the door unlocked, figuring that they might be joined by someone who is still looking for a place to sit. Opening the window, Harry looked outside at the platform and watched as more and more students said their goodbyes.

Turning their attention back to themselves, Harry and Dean pulled out the gifts and unwrapped the smaller packages. Both boys were intrigued by what looked like a folded piece of parchment. Looking at the parchment, they noticed a small note attached to the back.

Harry/Dean

These are enchanted maps of Hogwarts and the area surrounding the school, mainly Hogsmeade. They show the location of every room and every person for that matter. James, Pettigrew and us made these maps in our Fourth Year and used them as tools for our pranks. These maps also have a location feature which will allow you to locate the whereabouts of a certain person. All you have to do is place the tip of your wand against the parchment and tell the map to locate the specific person you're looking for.

These maps also see through animagus forms, invisibility cloaks and various charms and potions that will alter a person's appearance or render them invisible. This is something that isn't on the original maps since we hadn't figured out the enchantments needed to add it. Now, to activate the map, simply recite: I solemnly swear I am up to no good. To deactivate the map recite: Mischief Managed. This is the same passcodes for the original map.

Now, try not to get up to too much trouble with these things. We figured that these would be an important tool in your training and for when you decide to begin pull pranks yourselves.

Sincerely,

Padfoot and Moony

"Sweet!" Dean exclaimed, his eyes alight with glee as he looked at the parchment.

"Siri told me about the maps. I just never thought that he'd make ones for us." Harry said, activating the map and unfolding it.

Both of them studied the maps for a few minutes; watching as the various footprints which were labeled as different people wandered around the castle. They easily figured out how to move to the different and many floors of the castle and tested out the locater function. Deactivating the maps, they stowed the priceless items away before Harry locked the compartment door and closed the blinds before pulling out the gift from Sirius and carefully unwrapping it. He and Dean fell silent at the sight of a silvery cloak made of fine, almost water like material. It felt like silk in Harry's hands and he instantly knew what it was; having seen them in a shop and having seen his father use one himself when preparing for a mission.

"Harry…is that…?" Dean breathed, watching as his friend stood and twirled the cloak around his shoulders.

Harry draped the cloak around his shoulders and closed it, his eyes widening when his body, bar his head, became invisible. Mira, who had been lounging on the seat beside her human, looked at him with interest. Harry reached back and flicked up the hood, disappearing completely from view. He remained like that for a moment longer before he removed the cloak and carefully, reverently, folded it before he stood on the bench seat and unlocked his trunk. Opening the third compartment which had the rest of his clothes, he laid it down on the top before closing it and ensuring that it was locked.

"My dad's cloak. Sirius had told me that a lot of things had been recovered from Dumbledore; one of which was a priceless heirloom. I think he was talking about that cloak." Harry said, his voice soft as he sat back down.

"Why would your dad give up something like that?" Dean asked, frowning as Harry shook his head.

"I don't know. But, what matters is that I have it and it was already searched for any charms or anything that hadn't been on it in the first place. Sirius and my Dad had my account manager sweep through everything that was returned and all charms, potions or enchantments that had been placed on the items were stripped down and they were restored to their original condition." Harry explained.

Unlocking the door once more, they settled down with Ricki sunning himself in a patch of sunlight while Mira rested on the back of the bench seat with her head resting on Harry's shoulder. It was a minute or so before the train was set to take off when a knock came at the door. Dean stood and slid it open, revealing a slightly chubby, dark blonde haired boy. Nervous and slightly scared brown eyes looked at Dean before the boy glanced down at the floor.

"U-Um…c-could I sit here? Everywhere else is…is full." He stammered, making Dean blink before he offered a kind smile to the scared boy.

"Sure. C'mon in." He said, stepping back and letting the boy into the compartment.

The boy dragged his trunk behind him and had a small cage in his other hand which contained a rather fat toad. Harry stood and he and Dean helped the boy lift his trunk onto the net above before sitting down again. The boy sat down as well and shifted, fidgeting nervously as Harry and Dean glanced at each other before shrugging.

"I'm Dean Thomas-Woods." Dean said, holding his out to the boy who jumped and looked at him with wide eyes.

"O-Oh! Um…Neville Longbottom." The boy said, reaching out and shaking Dean's hand.

"Harry Potter-Othello." Harry said, reaching over to shake Neville's hand as well.

"R-Really?!" Neville exclaimed, his eyes wide as he looked at Harry in shock and wonder.

"Mhm. Harry Potter-Othello, Heir of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter and Othello. You must be heir of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Longbottom?" Harry asked, watching as Neville blinked and nodded.

"Y-Yes. Sorry for my…outburst." Neville said, flushing as Harry smiled kindly at him.

"It's alright, Neville. This is my familiar: Mira." Harry said, smiling as said Fire Lizard moved down and perched on his lap.

"Wow! S-She's a…a Fire Lizard, right?" Neville asked, looking at Mira with awe.

"Yup! She's only a few years old still though she's come into many of her powers. Our connection is pretty strong." Harry said, gently rubbing Mira's head and neck much to her pleasure.

"That's really cool. I've never seen a Fire Lizard before but I've read about them in a few books." Neville said, smiling shyly at the other boy.

"This little trickster is Ricki. Don't let the sweet looks fool you." Dean said, grinning as said fox looked at him as if he was offended.

"He looks sweet." Neville said, watching as Ricki got up and walked over to sniff him.

"Is that your familiar?" Dean asked, nodding to the caged toad.

Harry and Dean watched as Neville seemed to deflate at the question. The shy boy shifted and glanced at his caged toad before lightly shaking his head.

"Trevor was a…gift…from my uncle. I think it was to spite me more than anything. Gran was surprised when I got my Hogwarts letter." Neville said, shame in his voice as Harry and Dean frowned.

"Why? The Longbottom's are one of the oldest and well respected families. Their power is well known and Dowager Madame Longbottom was once a rather skilled warrior in her younger years." Dean said, frowning as Neville shifted.

"I've never shown any great magical feats. Even my accidental magic was rather weak. The only reason why I'm on the train is because I was too afraid to get off." Neville said, his voice weak and soft.

Harry and Dean looked at each other, their minds reeling. Harry had been told by his parents that Lady Alice Longbottom was his godmother just as his birth mum had been Neville's godmother. However, the one reason why he hadn't gone to live with Alice was because she and her husband were in St. Mungo's after being tortured during the war by Bellatrix and a few other Death Eaters who had attacked Longbottom Manor. He had seen Neville a few times in Diagon Alley and his parents had even spoken with Madame Longbottom. He also knew that his family was allied with the Longbottoms and have been for many years now.

"Neville, everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Everyone also matures at different times. Your magic simply has not caught up with you yet or perhaps you just have yet to see or realize your true magical potential. Don't doubt yourself." Harry said, his voice firm as Neville looked at him with wide eyes.

"R-Really? "He asked, his voice holding such hope that it made Dean and Harry mentally wince at how little confidence Neville had in himself.

"Harry's right, Neville. Besides the Potters and Longbottoms have been allies since the early seventeen hundreds." Dean said, grinning as Neville looked shocked at that.

"Very true. I also know that my mum was your godmother and your mum is my godmother." Harry said, his voice kind as Neville swallowed thickly and rubbed at his suspiciously damp eyes.

"…I-I never knew that…" Neville said, watching as Harry smiled kindly at him.

"If it hadn't been for the intervention of my adopted parents, we might have been brothers sooner Neville. However now's our chance. Now we can get to know each other and become friends. What do you say?" Harry asked, holding his hand out to the shy boy.

Neville didn't even hesitate. Rather, he smiled brightly as he reached out and grasped Harry's hand. Dean grinned as he watched the interaction, glad that a bond had been formed so quickly. Harry's parents had told them that Madame Longbottom was a rather stern and old-fashioned woman. She had taken the hospitalization of her son and daughter-in-law harshly but hadn't hesitated when it came to taking in Neville and raising him. They hadn't been able to get Harry and Neville together for play dates because Madame Longbottom had been busy and hadn't been too trusting of the Othello family given their status as a Grey family. Many Light families were weary of Grey families because they could switch between alliances so quickly. Lucas and Delilah had hoped that Madame Longbottom would allow the boys to meet given Harry's status as a Potter and that his birth parents had been good friends with Alice and Frank but it seemed that the aged woman felt a little too raw about alliances and the deceased friends of her son and daughter-in-law.

"Great! What do you want to do to pass the time?" Dean asked, grinning as he looked at the two boys.

"I brought a few games we could play or we could just talk." Harry suggested, shrugging lightly as he looked at Neville.

"I wouldn't mind getting to know you two better." Neville said, smiling shyly at the other two.

"Talking it is then. I'll start if you want." Dean offered, grinning as he settled into his seat.

"Have at it." Harry said, stretching out with Mira on his lap.

Neville listened with great interest as Dean told him about his family. He was saddened when he learned that Dean's father had passed away when he was younger, but he admired Dean's mother for her strength and dedication to her children. He was greatly interested in learning how Harry and Dean had met and how Harry had had suspicions about Dean being a Wizard which led to his parents approaching Dean's mum. He was shocked when hearing about Grace Clinic, a clinic run by Wizards and Witches which offered 'treatments' to Muggles. These treatments are actually potions and salves that had been modified to work of a period of time instead of instantly. When needed, they used memory charms to erase the memories of Muggles who needed more…dire treatments in order to save their lives quickly and without fear of losing them. They offered the medication in pill and liquid form and advertised them as natural remedies; which was true when you think about it.

He was rather impressed with the way the Healers got around the law of not performing magic among Muggles. He also agreed that it was a good thing that they were doing and supported their cause. They were saving so many people from infants to the elderly using potions and salves. The Magical world had cures for illnesses that have plagued Muggles for centuries and none had been willing or cunning enough to find a way to offer those cures to Muggles without them finding out that magic was involved. Neville continued to listen as Dean told him about some of the pranks he and Harry had pulled in their Muggle school before the boy finished his tale and Harry began. It was interesting in learning about Harry's life, especially since there had been so much speculation as to how the boy was being raised. He was interested in the lessons Harry had, though discovered that they were similar to his own. Harry told Neville about Sirius and Remus and how the two men were like his uncles and had helped him learn how to prank people with a very small chance of getting caught. He smiled when he heard that Harry's little sister used to follow him around the manor and grounds.

"Alright, Nev, your turn." Harry said, making the boy blink before flushing.

"My life hasn't been all that exciting…" He said, shifting as Harry and Dean looked at him.

"Nonsense. Tell us more about yourself. You know I like drawing and Harry here likes exploring and swimming." Dean said, Neville nodding lightly before he sighed.

"Alright. Well, I've always been drawn towards Herbology-"

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