Chapter Six: The First Week

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.

Beta(s): 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: Hey everyone! Here's the sixth chapter finally! Now, I have plenty of surprises in store for our characters and I've certainly changed many things around. Now, the pairings for the main characters such as Hermione, Neville and the other students have officially been set in stone. However, who I pair Remus with is in the air still. I know I originally planned on having him with Tonks but I decided that I wanted something different. Now it's just a matter of how I want things to happen and setting those things in motion. Anyway, thank you all for the support and reviews! I'm so very happy that so many people love this story!

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 Six: The First Week

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

The second day of their schoolyear at Hogwarts began with another run in the early morning. Tonks explained that she normally found it too cold to run in the mornings when late October to mid-November hit. That was when the frost really hit and it was much too cold to be outside so early. However, that was also when she began using the special training room for her runs. The boys were curious about the mysterious room though Tonks just smiled and explained that they would learn about the room on Saturday morning. Dean and Harry were greatly intrigued, though Tonks refused to say anything more about it. After their routine of their run and getting ready for the day; they headed down to the Great Hall with Hermione, Neville, Jillian and Eliana. All of them were eager for their second 'set' of classes to begin after the meal. However, that was slightly dampened when an owl flew down carrying the Daily Prophet. Hermione relieved the owl of its burden and paid it before unrolling the paper.

Break-In at Gringotts Bank!

"Woah!" Hermione gasped, making the others look at her.

"Bloody hell! That's never happened!" Dean gasped, his eyes wide as he caught sight of the headline.

"I thought Gringotts was supposed to be completely secure…" Neville muttered, frowning lightly as he added some eggs to a piece of toast.

"What does it say, Hermione?" Jillian asked, looking at their friend.

"Apparently there was a break-in at Gringotts on the thirty-first of July. The Goblins and Auror's kept it under wraps while an investigation was carried out." Hermione explained, her eyes eagerly devouring the paper.

"According to the Aurors and the Goblins, the vault had been cleared out earlier that day and it had contained just a single parcel. Of course they cannot say what had been inside the vault. From what the scans have discovered, whoever had broken into the vault had used Dark Magic and had managed to trick one of the tellers. They discovered a teller and a cart attendant had their memories altered which is a shock in itself. Whoever had done this was strong enough to overcome the charms and protections placed on the building and the teller booths." She added, the others shifting uneasily.

"What's being done about it?" Harry asked, concern in his voice as the brunette sighed.

"They've increased the strength of the wards around the bank and have added more protections to the tellers, account managers and cart attendants. There are also more guards in the main lobby and by the vaults." Hermione answered, the others nodding.

"Hopefully nothing like this happens again. It's good that none of the major families were targeted in the robbery." Neville said, the others nodding in agreement.

"Gringotts would've had a lot of people pull their fortunes out of the bank and sought out another bank. I know Italy, France and Ireland have their own banks alongside Gringotts." Harry said, Dean and Neville nodding.

"It makes me wonder what was stolen that was so important. There are so many protections in Gringotts; not including the guards and Dragons." Jillian muttered, watching as Hermione looked at her with wide eyes.

"Dragons?!"

"Mhm. Gringotts have specially trained Dragons that protect the vaults of some of the wealthiest families in our society. They are trained to attack any intruder not with a cart attendant. It's said that the Goblins are experts at handling Dragons and know the habits of every Dragon known." Jillian explained, Hermione looking at her with shock and some awe.

"My family's vault is guarded by a Dragon. I have to admit that it was pretty daunting seeing it up close." Harry admitted, the others listening with interest.

They continued talking about the news, though Hermione flicked through the different pages and read out a few small tidbits that might be of interest to the others. Once they finished breakfast, they visited the bathrooms before heading outside towards the greenhouses. Neville was positively giddy about Herbology, which made Hermione, Harry and Dean grin as the blonde haired boy told Eliana and Jillian that Herbology was one thing that he excelled at. He happily told them about the different greenhouses at his home, though none of them were currently in use. He explained that he was hoping to get them up and running soon. One greenhouse would be used to grow fresh fruits and vegetables for their own use while the other greenhouses would be used to grow potion ingredients that could be sold to various stores and private companies.

"Do many people have greenhouses?" Hermione asked, watching as the others shrugged.

"It depends really. Some people only have a small greenhouse to grow their own potion ingredients or even some fruits and vegetables. Some, however, have more greenhouses to grow food for their family and to sell locally. Same with potions ingredients." Harry explained, Hermione nodding lightly in understanding.

Stepping into the greenhouse, all of them looked around at the various plants lining the walls. Neville happily pointed out a few of the plants, to which his friends listened with interest and asked a few questions. It was easy to see Neville's enthusiasm for Herbology and it made them smile. The rest of the Gryffindor First Years filed in only a few minutes after the group arrived. They were shortly joined by the Hufflepuff First Years, in which Susan and Hannah happily moved to the work tables and stood across from Harry and his friends. When the bell rang, an older woman with greying black hair and dark brown, nearly black, eyes walked into the greenhouse; closing the door behind her. She introduced herself as Professor Gallagher and after taking roll-call she explained that they'd be learning how tend to various plants and what their properties are.

"You'll be learning how these plants are used both in Healing and in Potions. Assignments in this class will be about the properties of certain plants and their ideal growing conditions." She explained, looking at her students with a critical eye.

Professor Gallagher showed them how to repot small plants which were being grown for Potions. She told them about the herb they're repotting and what it was used for along with the ideal growing conditions it needed. Everyone listened as she talked about how many potions Aloe was used in and its medicinal properties. A few students answered some of her questions, in which Neville earned Gryffindor fifteen points due to his knowledge and his skill in repotting his plants. Hermione wasn't too happy with Herbology, in which the others learned that she didn't really like mud, dirt or bugs. It was rather amusing watching her cringe as some dirt got into her gloves and she was wincing every time she moved her hands. The class was interesting and rather relaxing compared to the classes they'd had thus far. By the time the hour was over, all of them were happily chatting about what they learned while they cleaned up and headed back to the castle. Neville explained that, as the years passed, they'd be handling more and more dangerous plants.

Heading down to the dungeons, they stepped into the Potions classroom with interest. There were workstations spaced evenly apart and the Slytherin First Years were already occupying the right side of the classroom. Against the left wall was a long counter with deep sinks and cupboards where they could rinse out their cauldrons and other supplies. Hanging on the walls were various diagrams which displayed proper stirring and cutting procedures. At the back of the room was the professor's desk along with a workstation and a blackboard which had the day's date and the agenda for the lesson. Harry and Hermione took the front station with the others sitting behind them. As the bell rang, Professor Harper walked into the room, the door closing behind her.

"Welcome to Potions, class. In this room you shall learn how to brew everything from the simplest healing salve to one of the most complex potions known to our society. All of the potions have the potential to cause a rather…chaotic mess. As such, I have absolutely no tolerance for people wishing to tamper with other's potions. If I catch you attempting to tamper with a classmates potion you will be removed from this class, receive a zero from the day and will receive a three day detention at minimum. I shall also inform your head of House about what you did." She said, whirling around and narrowing her eyes at the class.

"Now…time to assign teams." She said, making the students look at her with wide eyes.

"I don't care if Gryffindor and Slytherin have a 'feud'. In this class those feuds shall be ignored. Some of the potions you will be learning how to brew will be a team effort due to their complexity. Now, everyone stand." She ordered, watching as they shifted before slowly standing up with their bags.

Professor Harper studied them silently for a minute before nodding and beginning to write down the different 'teams'. Harry was paired with a rather broad shouldered Slytherin girl named Millicent Bulstrode. Dean was paired with Daphne Greengrass, Hermione with Blaise Zabini, Neville with Tracy Davis, Jillian with Gregory Goyle, Eliana with Vincent Crabbe, Ronald with Pansy Parkinson, Parvati with Theodore Nott, Lavender with Draco Malfoy and Seamus with Sabrina Dragon-Heart. All of them were soon seated with their new partners and Professor Harper informed them that they'd be with that partner until after their Third Year. Needless to say, there were many unhappy mutterings which were quickly silenced by a rather fierce glare from their professor.

"If you're unhappy with your partner then please, feel free to leave. Just know that once you walk out of this classroom you won't be able to come back." She said, watching as the entire class fell silent and none got up to leave.

Nodding to herself, she flipped the board over and revealed the instructions for the day.

"In this lesson you'll be learning the proper way to cut and dice ingredients. Potions require a precise and steady hand and a careful eye. If an ingredient is prepared wrong then it could spell disaster for the entire potion. Do not expect to get to the actual brewing phase until December. This is so all of you understand the dangers that come with Potions and what is expected of you." She said, walking over to the cupboards where she pulled out a silver container.

"Now, one person from each station is to go and get a container of Dandelion flowers. They are clearly marked so there should be no reason for any…mishaps. We'll begin by learning what it means to cut open the stems and remove the fibers and essence from the stems and properly prepare them for a potion. All ingredients that are prepared in this class will be used by myself, Professor Snape or a higher year class." Professor Harper explained, watching as the students stood and went to the cupboards.

Returning to their tables with the containers in hand, everyone listened and watched as Professor Harper carefully showed them the process herself. She used a projection spell so everyone, including those in the back of the class, could clearly see how she went about each step. She emphasized on cleaning their tools before and after each step to prevent contamination and she actually stopped Ronald and Draco from making the mistake of not cleaning their knives before they could begin the process. Harry could see that Draco was tempted to whine and complain, but the blonde wisely kept his mouth shut though he scowled the entire time. Harry also discovered that Millicent, while brutish looking, was actually rather shy and intelligent. As they worked after Professor Harper finished showing them what to do, Harry struck up a quiet conversation with the black haired girl. Millicent was rather surprised when Harry began talking to her though she did answer his questions and asked her own.

She struggled to keep the blush from rising to her cheeks as the handsome boy talked to her and she could practically feel Daphne and Tracy glancing at her. There was no doubt that Harry was a very attractive boy with only Dean and possibly Blaise even coming close to comparison. Of course she had noticed that Harry, Dean and their group of friends don't seem to 'conform' to the standard 'Gryffindors hate Slytherins' mentality that they were warned about. In fact, everyone in Harry's group of friends seemed rather open to making friends with others from different Houses. She asked a few questions, especially about his familiar Mira who was perched happily on his shoulder and watching them work. Harry smiled and answered Millicent's questions and he was greatly pleased when Mira let the girl pat her head. Glancing at the different stations where his friends were sitting, Harry was pleased to see Daphne and Dean talking and getting along while Tracy appeared to be gently coaching Neville and demonstrating what she was doing. Hermione appeared to be a rather deep and intense conversation with Blaise which made Harry chuckle and shake his head fondly.

However, Ronald wasn't doing too well with Pansy as his partner. The girl was hissing at him and, from the redness of his face and ears, appeared to be goading him as he cut too deep into the stem of the flower and actually cut it in half. Not only that, but she was glaring at Lavender and Harry could practically sense her anger towards there being another girl sitting beside 'her' Draco. Draco didn't seem too pleased either and was pointedly ignoring Lavender and sneering as she struggled with her preparations. Parvati and Theo didn't seem to be struggling, but then again they didn't seem to be talking to each other. Jillian and Eliana, on the other hand, were talking softly with Vincent and Gregory. It made Harry wonder if there was something more to the two brutish looking boys than meets the eye. He wouldn't doubt it and easily figured that their parents could've ordered them to be Malfoy's friends. Seamus seemed to be getting the silent treatment from Sabrina, though when Harry asked about the red haired girl he discovered that Sabrina was actually good friends with Pansy; hence the silent treatment.

There were some incidents during the class, mostly when Draco began sneering and whispering insults to Lavender. The blonde got so flustered and upset that she eventually burst into tears only a few minutes to the end of class. Parvati rounded on Draco and started screaming insults at him while holding Lavender in her arms. Professor Harper was quick to put an end to it took points from both Houses, though Slytherin got more points taken away when Professor Harper discovered that Draco had started the entire thing. Needless to say, Draco was pissed that he earned himself a detention scrubbing cauldrons during the weekend. Lavender and Parvati were excused from the rest of the lesson and when the bell rang Draco was held back after they were all given their assignments.

"I always knew Malfoy was an idiot but still…to make Lavender cry like that…" Hermione said, shaking her head as the others nodded.

"I may not like Parvati and Lavender but no one deserves that." Eliana muttered, walking up the stairs to the main floor.

"Lord Brown will surely be hearing about what happened. I wonder how Malfoy will get out of this one." Harry mused.

"Oh?" Jillian asked, frowning as Neville suddenly realized what Harry was talking about.

"Like Susan Bones, Lavender is the only child of her family. The Browns are an Elder family and Lord Brown dots on his daughter. No doubt Lavender will write a letter to her father about what happened, if she won't then Parvati will. Lady Malfoy will soon have an irate Lord on her hands." Neville explained, Harry nodding in agreement.

"I've seen Lord Brown a few times and he is very protective of his daughter." Harry confirmed.

"I know my dad wouldn't be happy if he heard that someone had made me cry in class." Hermione said, thinking fondly of her parents with a small smile on her face.

"Well, Parvati is helping Lavender so she'll be okay. Let's get started on our assignments." Eliana said, grinning as Hermione perked up at the idea.

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

Defense Against the Dark Arts was…interesting to say the least. Professor Quirrell proved to be a very timid man who jumped at every loud sound. His stutter made it increasingly hard to understand what he was saying and the entire class had a hard time taking the man seriously. However, he thankfully wrote down what he attempted to explain and the first 'lesson' was an explanation that one of the main fundamentals of defense was evasion and using their surroundings to their advantage. He also discussed the advantages and disadvantages of various terrains and how to use them to gain the upper hand in hiding and fighting. While everyone was busy taking notes, Harry and Dean watched their professor with mild curiosity and some concern. There was something…off about their Defense professor. How could a man who seemed frightened of his own shadow have a Defense Mastery? Had something happen to Professor Quirrell that made him so timid and scared? Not only that, but there was a distinct lingering smell of garlic and rotten eggs around the man that seemed to emanate from underneath his turban.

In Self-Study once they finished their assignments Harry and Dean found other defense text books among the shelves. Hermione and the others watched them with interest as the two boys flicked through the books before they began reading.

"What are you looking for?" Jillian asked, frowning as Harry and Dean flicked through a few more pages.

"Everyone knows that magic is like a muscle, right?" Dean asked, their friends nodding though they looked confused.

"Every muscle needs to be exercised. Therefore, wouldn't it make more sense to teach us some protection spells even if they might not be very strong?" Harry asked.

"Well…one of the main protection spells is the shield spell: Protego. However, that's a Third Year spell." Susan said, frowning as Harry and Dean looked at her calmly.

"But why is it a Third Year spell? The wand movement needed for the spell is a simply point and a tight circular motion. Even if a spell could easily penetrate it wouldn't it be better to teach it to us now so we'd have a slight chance of protecting ourselves? I say we find an empty classroom and teach ourselves. We can study from other defense books, ones that had been used in the past. We could ask some of our older Housemates what they had learned in their First Year. I'm sure Percy, Oliver and a few Seventh Years would be willing to direct us to a good book or even more than one book." Harry suggested, looking at the others as they stared at him thoughtfully.

"…You do have a point…" Hannah said, her voice soft as Susan nodded.

"Auntie told me that we don't learn any protective spells until our Third Year…however that doesn't make sense because we begin learning about dueling in our Second Year. You'd think they would teach us how to protect ourselves beforehand." Susan said, huffing lightly as the others smiled.

"How will we get the books to study from? I think someone might find it pretty suspicious if we're all checking out defense books." Eliana said, frowning lightly as Harry and Dean smiled.

"We could get the list from our older Housemates and then I'll see if my godfather could buy them for us. That way we won't have to constantly check out certain books and potentially attract unwanted attention." Harry suggested.

"Are you sure your godfather will be alright with that?" Hermione asked, nibbling on her lower lip in worry as Harry nodded.

"Of course. Sirius used to be an Auror and knows how important it is to learn how to protect yourself. I'll write him tonight." Harry said, smiling as the others thanked him.

They did some research into various other forms of protection. Protego was the main form of protection, though they read about another 'shield' charm which was a stronger form of Protego. There was also a 'gate' shield which could protect from high level hexes and curses though that spell was mostly used by Aurors due to how difficult it was to cast the spell. During their reading, they also learned that many people would conjure stone and marble 'walls' to deflect spells and this form of protection was also known to help shield against the Unforgivables. Once Self-Study was over, Harry and Dean led their friends to an empty classroom on the third floor which made the others nervous but they were relieved when Harry and Dean took them to the opposite end of the corridor. Entering an empty classroom, Dean cast a cleaning spell to get rid of all the dust before all of them moved the desks and chairs away from the center of the room. Harry was encouraged to go first, so he moved to the center of the room and held his wand in front of him.

"Alright, point, tight circle motion going clockwise and incant." He said, demonstrating the wand motion a few times for himself and the others.

"Protego!" He called, pushing with his magic.

A faint, wispy shield spread out in front of Harry, flickering as the preteen pushed more and more magic though his wand. Harry furrowed his brow as the shield disappeared. However, the others clapped and smiled at him which made him relax and smile back. He tried once more and managed to make the shield spread out even further until it covered his upper body completely and it was nearly translucent. Susan went next and barely managed to produce even a faint shield. However, she still produced something. On her next attempt she managed to produce a better result which earned her clapping and cheering from the others. Hannah had the same results as Susan while Dean's results were more like Harry's. Hermione struggled slightly, though on her third try she produced results like Susan and Hannah. Neville was hesitant to try, but stepped forward and attempted the spell. When nothing happened after the third try, the blonde looked almost as if he would begin crying.

"Mister Longbottom, is your wand one you had chosen?"

All of them jumped at the sound of Professor McGonagall's voice. Spinning around, they spotted the stern Witch in the doorway to the room watching them intently. Professor McGonagall walked into the room and stopped in front of the nervous boy.

"N-No, professor. My wand used to be my father's." Neville admitted, blinking when the others frowned and Professor McGonagall looked thoughtful.

"Mister Potter-Othello, could Mister Longbottom use your wand for a moment?" She asked, watching as realization dawned on Harry's face.

"Sure." Harry said, turning his wand over and presenting the hilt to his friend.

"W-What?! But-"

"No buts, Mister Longbottom." Professor McGonagall said, watching as the boy faltered before slowly accepting Harry's wand.

He instantly gasped as a rush of power flooded him; his eyes widening as his magic practically sung inside of him. Harry, meanwhile, took Neville's wand and frowned deeply when he barely got any reaction from it. Casting the shield charm, he and the others were shocked when a misty shield that looked like Harry and Dean's instantly formed from the tip of the wand. The others cheered for their friend, though Neville just stared at Harry's wand in shock and wonder.

"Mister Longbottom, your professors expressed some worry with your struggles during class. I can now see why. This wand simply doesn't match you and won't work for you." McGonagall said, watching as Neville blinked before seemingly deflating.

"My Grandma wanted me to use my dad's wand to…to honor him. I don't think she would-"

"Mister Longbottom, she never should've tried to pressure you into fitting into your father's place. Your parents were brave people and what happened to them was horrible. However, you are your own person, Mister Longbottom and your grandmother needs to understand that. I shall set up a meeting with her within the next few days. You need your own wand in order to fully progress in your studies." McGonagall explained, watching as Neville shifted but nodded.

The stern professor returned the wand back to Neville and he stored it away in his pocket. Professor McGonagall asked them what they were doing in the empty classroom which prompted Hermione to explain Harry's reasoning behind them needing to learn how to defend themselves from an early age. Harry further explained that, even though their shields might be weak, they'd at least hold up to one low powered spell and the spell would only get stronger the more they practice and aged. Minerva was surprised in hearing the explanations but after thinking about their reasoning behind it, she agreed with it. She also listened as Harry explained that Professor Quirrell was so jumpy that it was hard to understand what he was teaching them. Though they did agree that evasion and dodging was very important to learn, they wished Professor Quirrell was more confident and it was easier to understand him. Professor McGonagall was the one who explained that Hogwarts had always had a hard time finding and keeping a Defense professor for the past few years.

"I'll pass on your concerns to Headmaster Dumbledore about Professor Quirrell. All I ask is that you be careful with the spells you're attempting to learn." She warned, looking at them sternly until they all nodded in agreement and understanding.

After Professor McGonagall left, the group practiced the spell a few more times, in which Harry loaned Neville his wand for practicing. However, they soon stopped practicing and headed to the Great Hall as it neared dinner time. Hermione promised to loan Neville her wand for Transfiguration which made the boy smile shyly and thank her. He worried about what his grandmother would do when Professor McGonagall told her that he needed his own wand. Hermione asked Neville about his parents; her voice soft as she understood that it was a very sensitive subject. Neville faltered for a moment before he softly told Hermione, Eliana and Jillian about his parents. The girls were horrified in learning that his parents had been tortured into insanity and they held Neville tightly as his voice started breaking during the story. He told them about his visits to the hospital and how he still had some hope that one day his parents would come back to him and get better. Harry shifted when he heard this and glanced at Dean. Dean nodded minutely, agreeing that they would have to get in touch with Sirius and others about possibly looking into Neville's parents and their condition.

The supposed cause for the Longbottom's insanity was the Cruciatus curse. However, there were other spells that could drive people insane. Sirius and Healer June would be the best bet to contact because Sirius could look up Black family magic and spells that only his family would know that might cause insanity while Healer June could confirm if it was, indeed, the Cruciatus curse that caused Alice and Frank's insanity. If Sirius and Healer June discovered something about Frank and Alice that the healers at St. Mungo's had missed then there was hope. However, they'd have to approach Madame Longbottom carefully about this considering how sensitive the subject of her son and daughter-in-law was. Tuning back into the conversation, they discovered that Hermione had tactfully changed the subject and was discussing birthdays and other holidays. They discovered that Hermione's birthday was on the nineteenth of that month. Instantly they began asking the brunette what she'd like for her birthday, to which she blushed and shifted.

"I don't need anything…" She muttered, making the others raise an eyebrow at her.

"Of course you do, Hermione. Make up a list for us." Jillian said, smiling kindly at her friend as Hermione blinked before nodding.

Harry and Dean instantly put their heads together in an attempt to come up with something for Hermione on her birthday. They were positive that if they got Professor McGonagall's permission they could use one of the abandoned classrooms to hold a small party in. They could also speak with the castle House Elves about getting food and drinks in whatever room they planned on using. A letter to Sirius and their parents meant they could easily get Hermione any presents they wanted. Looking at Susan, Hannah, Jillian, Eliana and Neville, they nodded lightly which made them blink before smiling in understanding; knowing that they'd be able to ask for any gifts they wish to give Hermione though the pair. After dinner, Harry and Dean went exploring for a little while Hermione, Neville, Jillian and Eliana decided to take a small nap before Astronomy.

"I think we should pool our money together and get 'Mione a charm bracelet." Harry said, Dean looking at him with interest.

"Oh?"

"Yeah, an enchanted one of course. You've seen the looks Malfoy, Parkinson and Nott have been giving her. Not to mention Ronald. It should be charmed to shield her against most school level charms, hexes and jinxes. Each year for her birthday we can give her a new charm or something." He explained, watching as Dean hummed thoughtfully as he gave the idea consideration.

"We could do the same for Eliana, Jillian, Susan and Hannah for their birthdays as well. Make it a kind of theme. Susan might be the most protected out of all of us besides you, Neville and I. She has a head of house ring as well which should have the same protections as our rings." Dean mused.

"True, but we can't be sure. Not all head of house rings were enchanted. It depends on how paranoid the family had been. Though I doubt Madame Bones would let her only niece be unprotected in such an environment." Harry said, turning down a hallway and leading the way up a flight of stairs.

"True. Still it's good to take a chance and get her charm bracelet as well. It's a simple enough piece that no one will really question the price and they'll be able to wear them with any outfit." Dean added, Harry nodding happily.

"However…if we want them to continue to be safe then we should tell them about the charms on bracelets. If we don't then they'll think the bracelets are just normal, everyday bracelets and won't wear them every day." He said, watching as Harry blinked before sighing.

"You have a point. I just don't want the girls to think that we don't think they're capable of protecting themselves." Harry muttered, blinking when Dean placed a hand on his arm.

"Harry, I think they'd understand that we just want to protect them as our friends. Just like Eliza wears that necklace that acts as a portkey back to the estate and our head of house rings; they keep us safe." Dean explained, smiling as Harry nodded.

They continued wandering around and explored some of the hidden passages. Of course in their latest letter from Sirius and Remus they learned that the one-eyed humpback witch statue actually led out of the castle and to Hogsmeade so they avoided that passage. They were rather interested in the passageway that took them from near the astronomy tower down to the hallway where the entrance to the Hufflepuff common room was located. Looking around the hallway, they spotted the pile of barrels that hid the entrance to the common room. Hannah and Susan had told them that, in order to gain access to the common room, you had to find a specific barrel and press your wand into a notch while giving the password. If you did that to any of the other barrels then you'd be sprayed with water or honey. The pair found the kitchens and, after looking at the map, finally gained entrance by tickling the pear which turned into a door handle. Stepping through the portrait, they looked around the vast kitchens with interest before a House Elf popped in front of them.

"Can I be helping yous?" It asked, looking up at the boys with interest.

"Sorry, we were just wandering around. We didn't mean to disturb you." Dean said, smiling gently at the creature.

The House Elf smiled at them and popped away while the boys looked around. They easily figured out that the House Elves laid out the dishes and drinks on the four tables which were in the same position as the actual House tables in the Great Hall. Harry and Dean exited the kitchens after looking around for a few minutes and headed back up to Gryffindor tower to wait out the last hour before Astronomy. All of them were planning on having a bit of a lie-in since they'd be up late. Heading back through the passages, they happily talked about what they found and mentally wrote letters that they planned on sending to their parents.

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

Astronomy was interesting and the professor: Professor McCarthy, was very passionate about his subject. It was slightly boring just looking at the night sky through their telescopes, but it was interesting in learning about the movements of the planets and the stars and how they affected different forms of magic such as rituals and potions. The next morning during a late breakfast, Neville received a message from Professor McGonagall informing that his grandmother would be arriving at the school after classes ended. Neville was understandably nervous, even more so since he didn't know how his grandmother would take to being told that she had made a mistake. She wasn't one who took criticism very well, especially when it came to her own actions. It was one of his grandmother's more…dominate faults. Hopefully she would handle it better hearing it from Professor McGonagall than from him or one of his friends.

Neville also told Harry and Dean that he planned on getting Hermione a mailbox for herself and for her parents so it would be easier for them to communicate. Harry and Dean greatly approved of the idea and told him that if he needed help purchasing either of the mailboxes they'd be more than happy to help. Susan and Hannah were planning on getting Hermione a special shampoo and conditioner that'll help her tame her hair since the girl was very self-conscious about it. Jillian and Eliana were in on their idea and were going to be getting the hairs that the potions brewers would need in order to make the shampoo and conditioner. Eliana planned on getting Hermione the latest Nancy Drew books since the series was one of Hermione's favorites. Jillian planned on getting Hermione some fantasy and romance books from the Magical world along with some children stories that were common in their world.

All of them wrote to their parents/guardians about the gifts and all were approved of. Cassie, Marcus and Delilah loved the idea of the charm bracelets and promised to have Hermione's completed in time for her birthday. They approved of the boys' desire to keep their friends safe, especially since so many desired to get close to Harry because of his fame and fortune. Harry managed to approach Professor McGonagall before classes started at the end of breakfast. The stern Witch was surprised at the idea of a small birthday party but approved. She gladly offered to chaperone the party and would write hall passes if need be.

Their first day of double period classes was interesting to say the least. As promised, Harry and Hermione allowed Neville to use their wands during Transfiguration and Charms. Thankfully their professors understood why they were doing so and supported their desire to help their friend. Of course Ronald couldn't help but complain about what they were doing when he saw Harry hand Neville his wand but Professor Ross was quick to explain that there was no rule against students sharing a wand to help each other out. He also explained that Professor McGonagall had alerted all of the staff to the reasoning behind Harry and Hermione allowing Neville to use their wands. Those who had made fun of Neville for his lack of apparent power and ability in Transfiguration and Charms quickly learned that the boy wasn't as powerless as they claimed he was. They were shocked when Neville flawlessly performed a transfiguration and managed to complete the charm they were taught. His friends were pleased and rather smug when they saw the shock and awe on the other's faces.

When Self-Study came around after a double period of History, all of them were grateful for the two hours to complete their assignments. Their professors were already trying to cram as much information in their minds and seemed to think that a double period meant they could give them twice the amount of work. Thankfully the two hours of Self-Study allowed them to get half of their work done before the class ended. Neville was noticeably quiet as they packed up their bags and he only offered them a weak smile when they assured him that he'd be fine and his grandmother would listen to reason with Professor McGonagall explaining things. All of them walked with Neville to Professor McGonagall's office which was close to Gryffindor tower. He thanked them for walking with him before knocking on the door as his friends slowly walked away.

"Come in."

Neville drew in a deep breath before opening the door and stepping inside. Professor McGonagall sat behind her desk and the familiar sight of his grandmother sat in one of the two chairs in front of the professor's desk. Augusta Longbottom nee Oda was a formidable Witch. During her younger days she had been an expert duelist and had served well in the war. Her once brown hair was heavily streaked with silver though her blue eyes were still sharp and focused. Dressed in deep green robes with her trademark hat which has a stuffed vulture on top, she instantly rendered her grandson to a nervous wreck.

"Hello, Grandmother." Neville said, walking over and kissing her cheek lightly.

"It's good to see you, Neville. How are your studies?" Augusta asked, looking her grandson up and down critically.

"They're going well." Neville answered.

"Thank you for joining us, Mister Longbottom. Now, Madame Longbottom, I and Mister Longbottom's other professors have been concerned by the seemingly lack of magical power Mister Longbottom possessed. However, Mister Longbottom's friends discovered that it isn't that Mister Longbottom doesn't possess the magical power, it's that his wand is ill suited for him." Minerva said, watching as Augusta frowned and looked from her to her grandson.

"That's absurd. His wand-"

"Belonged to his father, yes. But it is an ill-suited match for Mister Longbottom. I know you wish for your grandson to excel like his parents did but in order to do that he has to step away from their shadows and find his own way and make his own path. Madame Longbottom, you of all people know that a wand must choose their partner." Minerva said, making Augusta frown at the interruption.

"Madame Longbottom, you're doing more harm to your grandson than good. By using his father's wand, it's holding him back. Honor your son and daughter-in-law by helping their son reach his true potential. Mister Longbottom is doing extremely well thus far in his lessons and has already made friends with four others from his House and another two from Hufflepuff. Mister Potter-Othello and Miss Granger, two of his new friends, have been loaning him their wands during Charms and Transfiguration. The difference between the three wands is startling and is what showed us that Mister Longbottom needs his own wand in order to perform like he should." Minerva added, watching as Augusta looked at her before she looked at her grandson.

"Neville, is this true?" She asked, making her grandson shift in his seat before nodding.

"Yes, Grandmother, it's true. I was able to cast spells better than with Dad's wand." Neville said, his voice soft as Augusta nodded sharply before looking at Minerva.

"You can use the floo here in my office to floo over to the Leaky Cauldron if you wish to get his wand now." She offered, watching as the aged woman nodded.

"I believe that would be for the best. I shall have him back within an hour or so." Augusta said, rising to her feet as Neville looked up at her in surprise.

"You can leave your bag here, Mister Longbottom. No one will take it." Minerva said, watching as Neville set his bag down before getting up to follow his grandmother.

It took a minute before they were able to floo to the Leaky Cauldron. After stepping out of the fireplace and banishing the soot and ash from their clothes, they headed into the alley proper and began the walk to Ollivanders. Neville talked about his lessons and his favorite ones so far, in which Herbology was at the top of said list. He also talked about his friends, in which Augusta was slightly concerned that he was friends with a Siren and a half-Vampire. However, she relaxed the more the boy spoke and saw his obvious happiness. Before Ollivanders, Neville convinced his grandmother to stop at the Post Office. Augusta asked her grandson questions about Hermione and why he wanted to buy her a mailbox for both Hermione and her parents. Neville quickly explained his relationship with Hermione and how he wanted her to be safer with her mail and for it to be easier for her to get into contact with her parents. Augusta certainly understood about the protection of his friend, especially since she was a Muggleborn and she was pleased that her son wished to do something so kind for a friend.

Heading into the Post Office, Neville ended up purchasing two beautiful mailboxes made of king wood. The owner of the Post Office gladly accepted the address to Hermione's house from Neville; which he had gotten from Eliana, and confirmed that the protections against portkeys and harmful mail would be in place. It was Augusta who suggested that the mailbox for Hermione's parents to have the Granger crest on the lid while Hermione's mailbox would have a rather beautiful floral pattern with her name on the lid. Neville wasn't too sure since it would cost more money, but Augusta fronted the extra cost. Like Harry's birth parents, Frank and Alice had set up a trust vault for their son should anything happen to them. Since they were incapacitated the trust vault had been activated for Neville. Neville thanked his grandmother and the owner quickly had the mailboxes designed and wrapped. The owner also explained that the mailboxes wouldn't be activated until Hermione tapped her wand on both boxes before sending the second mailbox to her parents. It would also add the Grangers to the mailing list at the Post Office and begin redirecting the mail through the office for safety.

Once that was done, they headed off to Ollivanders where the elderly Wizard was pleased to see them. He lightly admonished Augusta for not having brought Neville there before he started school; especially when he examined Frank's wand and proclaimed that the wand was actually working against Neville every time he used it. After taking Neville's measurements, he brought forward one wand which he took away only a second after Neville held it. It took Neville a tries before his magic surged through a rather handsome cherry wood wand containing a core of a Unicorn Hair. Doves shot out of the tip of the wand, causing Augusta to stare in awe while Ollivander smiled and clapped. Augusta instantly knew that Minerva and Ollivander had been right. She had been holding her grandson back by trying to have him live in his father's shadow. Ollivander handed her Frank's wand after cleaning it and polishing it for her. She thanked him and carefully stowed it away in a wand box to keep it safe until she could display it back at the manor. To help make up for her wrongdoings to her grandson, she bought Neville a nice wrist wand holster and a wand cleaning kit.

With his wand safely stored on his wrist in its new holster, they paid for their purchases and headed back to the Leaky Cauldron. On the way, they stopped at a nice restaurant where they had dinner since their outing had taken a little longer than they had thought. Augusta talked about the greenhouse at the manor and his relatives during the meal. She also told him about his parents and that there still hadn't been any improvements much to his dismay. However with the new medical advancements that were taking place in their society there was still some hope that the Healers would discover a new way to possibly treat his parents. She also confirmed that she would be putting Frank's wand on the fireplace mantle next to Alice's which made Neville smile and nod. She encouraged him to do well in his classes and explained that she was pleased that he had already made so many new friends. After their meal, Neville hugged his grandmother before saying goodbye and stepping through the floo at the Leaky Cauldron. Entering Professor McGonagall's office, he was greeted by the stern woman and she offered him a rare smile when he showed her his new wand.

"It is a rather handsome wand, Mister Longbottom. Now, head off to Gryffindor tower. I expect your friends are eagerly waiting for you." She said, watching as the lad nodded and thanked her.

Neville grabbed his bag and hurried up to the seventh floor where he quickly gave the Fat Lady the password. She raised an eyebrow at him but admitted him entrance. Climbing through the hole, Neville grinned when he saw Harry, Hermione, Dean, Jillian and Eliana sitting in front of the fireplace. Eliana spotted him first and eagerly called him over, making the others look up and smile. Neville, after making sure Hermione's gifts were stored away in his bag, hurried over and sat down in one of the chairs.

"Well? Did you get a new wand?" Eliana asked, excitement in her voice as Neville grinned.

"Yeah, Gran took me to Diagon Alley and we got my new wand. Ten and a half inches made of cherry with Unicorn hair." Neville said, beaming as he removed his wand.

The girls cooed over the wand and its beauty while Dean and Harry congratulated Neville on finally having his own wand that will actually work for him. He told them about Professor McGonagall's conversation with his grandmother and how Ollivander even scolded his grandmother for making him use his father's wand. All of them were glad that Neville had gained a boost of confidence now that he finally had his own wand that chose him. While he was still shy and quiet, they sensed an inner strength growing inside their friend. A few other older members of their House stopped by when they saw Neville's new wand. Fred and George congratulated the blonde on gaining his new wand while Percy remarked that it truly was a handsome wand. Many of the older females smiled and gushed over the color of Neville's wand like Hermione, Jillian and Eliana did. Neville flushed at the praise though there was no doubting the pride in his posture.

Hermione managed to get them focused and they went over their completed assignments that they had to hand in tomorrow. Once they were positive that their assignments were correct, they turned their attention to the assignments that they hadn't yet completed. When practicing the new spell they learned in Transfiguration, Neville was pleased when he got the hang of the spell after a few tries. It would've taken him much longer to complete the transfiguration with his father's wand. Everyone had managed to complete the 'turning a matchstick into a needle' halfway through double period. Professor Ross had then taught them how to a silver spoon into a stone spoon. It was difficult to say the least because metal was naturally resistant to magic. To alter metal with magic took a lot of willpower and focus. Professor Ross had explained that he didn't expect them to grasp the spell right away, but they would revisit the spell and process over the course of the year in hopes that they would gain the power and focus to finally complete the transfiguration.

It was near the end of completing their assignments when Ronald walked into the common room with Seamus. Harry, Dean and Neville were slightly saddened that Seamus, who had been so kind at the beginning was slowly becoming closed off to them the more he hung around Ronald. Harry glanced up when the two boys walked through the common room laughing and talking about something they had heard. Of course, Ronald could never pass up the opportunity to make fun of Neville and, apparently, try to get Harry's attention.

"Hey, Longbottom, they haven't sent you home yet? I'm surprised they haven't deemed you a Squib and taken away your wand." Ron taunted, smirking as he sauntered over to the group.

"Well, considering I've been progressing further in our classes than you; that should tell you that I'm not a Squib, Weasley." Neville said.

Ronald's ears steadily turned red as his temper rose. However, he instantly focused on Eliana as she shifted on the couch where she was sitting between Hermione and Dean. As she asked Hermione a question about History, Ronald's mind fogged over slightly at the melodious tone of her voice. Even Seamus was slightly affected by Eliana though she hadn't using her power in charm-speak, as she deemed her abilities. She had explained to her friends that she rarely used her charm-speak or her allure. Yes, it was a struggle to keep her abilities under control, but those who were easily susceptible to influences with their minds were easily drawn to her even without her using her powers. Dean and Harry weren't affected because of their occlumency shields and Neville had admitted on their second day that his grandmother had begun teaching him occlumency as well before he had come to Hogwarts.

"Hey, Eliana, why hang around losers like Longbottom and Thomas? Seamus and I are much better than them." Ronald said, puffing out his chest as Eliana looked at him.

"In your dreams, Weasley. For your information Harry, Neville, Dean, Hermione and Jillian are my friends. Neville and Dean are worlds better than you are." She said, flicking a lock of hair away from her face as Ronald and Seamus turned red in anger and embarrassment.

The idea that Longbottom was better than him was laughable in Ron's mind. However, even he had seen the improvement the wimpy boy had been making in class. Since he found out that Harry was friends with Dean, he had been trying to come up with some way to pull them apart. However, now Potter was friends with the know-it-all of their entire year, the Siren, the creepy half-breed and Longbottom. His mum had told him to try and get close to Potter, but so far he hadn't been able to get close to the boy. Potter was never far away from his friends which was annoying as hell. He had been trying to keep an eye out any kind of opportunity to get Potter away from the others but nothing had come up thus far. However, he was determined to get in with Harry. After all, if anyone deserved the fame of being the friend of the Boy-Who-Lived, it was him.