Chapter Eight: Time Flies By, A Rumor, Very different Halloweens

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: 3/20/18

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/OFC, Remus/Tonks, Harry/Luna, Neville/Hermione, Dean/Millicent, others to be decided

Author's Note: Whoo! We're finally on chapter eight! So far things have been moving along nicely and I still have plenty of ideas to make this series flourish. Now, I had to do some puzzling in order to come up with a good way on how to get the group to hear of what is behind the door on the third floor. I finally settled on the way you'll read about because it seemed the most logical. Now, the last three sections of this chapter focus on three different characters as you'll see and I'm introducing someone from the actual Assassin's Creed games! Not gonna tell you so you'll just have to read! Keep in mind that this person won't be showing up until later 'books' this is just a mention since you haven't seen much interaction between the two 'sides' of the Brotherhood. Anyway, thank you all for the love and support! I hope you enjoy!

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 Eight: Time Flies By, A Rumor, Very different Halloweens

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As the tenth of October neared, Harry, Hermione, Neville, Jillian, Susan, Hannah and the twins began talking about what to get for Dean's birthday. Of course all of them knew that Dean was a huge football fan and lately they've begun playing small games during their free time in between training and studying. Then there's the fact that Dean also loved and had an amazing talent for drawing. Harry and Hermione were planning on going in together to get Dean a professional artists' kit and drawing pads since their friend tended to go through them quickly. The twins, Susan and Hannah decided to pool their money together to get Dean a magical artists' kit, including canvas' and 'drawing' parchment. Jillian decided to get Dean a few books on a couple famous Quidditch teams since the boy had also gotten into Quidditch while Eliana did the same only for famous Football teams along with Dean's favorite team. All of them were attempting to decide on the 'setting' for Dean's party.

"I think Dean would love to have his birthday in Emirates Stadium. He's a huge Arsenal fan and has been to several games." Harry said, the others listening with interest.

Sure enough, on the tenth the group led Dean up to the Room where the Room had changed into a perfect replica of Emirates Stadium. Professor McGonagall was rather interested in the stadium, in which Harry, Hermione, Dean and Eliana happily told their Head of House about Football and the stadium. Dean loved the fact that his party took place in the field of the stadium and they spent a good amount of time playing Football and just running around and goofing off. The twins, Susan, Hannah and Jillian were still getting used to the concept of the game, though Susan was getting quite good at dodging and had a wicked kick. The food was good, in which McGonagall got to try her first hotdog after Hermione, Harry and Dean all assured her that the name didn't mean that the actual food was made from dogs. After eating dinner, they ran around or, after the Room provided them with brooms, flew around the stadium.

It took some coaxing, but Neville and Hermione soon joined the others in the air and were flying gently around under the watchful gaze of Professor McGonagall. Minerva watched the group closely and was simply shocked at what she saw. Harry and Dean were pushing the brooms to their limits in speed and in stunts. Both boys were pulling stunts that professional Quidditch players used during games and it made her mind reel. Both boys would be great assets to the Gryffindor Quidditch team; however there wasn't open spot for the year now that tryouts had been completed. However, she made a mental note to pass word to Oliver Wood about Harry and Dean's abilities on the brooms and in the air. The friends flew around for a while before landing and claiming that it was time for Dean to open his presents. Dean didn't mind that he wasn't given too many gifts; rather he loved what they had given him and didn't blame them for going together for some of them since the kits were rather expensive.

Dean was enthralled with the magical drawing and painting kits; admitting that he had thought of trying to enchant some of his drawings and paintings but hadn't gotten around to doing so. He loved the books on Quidditch and Football, especially the book on Arsenal. After opening all of the gifts and thanking his friends, Dean cut into the cake, which looked like a football, and divided up the pieces between everyone. They all happily chose from a wide selection of ice cream and spent the rest of the evening just talking and spending more time together. The twins happily told the others what it was like living with a family of nine with three older brothers.

Of course they talked about how their mum ran the house with an iron fist and that she often talked to them about possible jobs in the Ministry much to their dismay. They talked about how much fun they had playing Quidditch in their orchard in which they used apples as balls. Of course they also talked about their siblings and how Charlie was now in Romania working with Dragons while Bill was in Egypt working for Gringotts finding old tombs and ruins of ancient Wizarding civilizations. Jillian talked about her family, in which her mother was actually a descendant of Dracula which shocked the others. She talked about what it was like living with a rather large Vampire coven which also had humans and magicals mixed as a way of donors and mates. Eliana also talked about her home life, in which she and her parents lived near the ocean. She talked about some of the other Sirens who live near her and her family, including Pansy's friend: Sabrina. They continued talking for a while longer before Professor McGonagall told them that it was time to head back before curfew arrived.

With the twins joining Harry, Dean, Elliot and the others for Assassin training, things got pretty interesting. The twins certainly made training fun, especially when they cracked jokes to cover up their exhaustion. Harry and Dean worked alongside the twins since the pair were new to the training and the 'life style'. Tonks happily offered the twins some advice and helped them get through some of the roughest times they had after training. Of course with the twins now joining them for their group studies, the twins were more than willing to help all of them with their assignments. The twins were a great help in Charms, Potions and Transfiguration though they also greatly helped in Herbology as well. The twins also knew more about what they'd be learning in future years so they were better able to help the group with their extra studies and help them figure out what they might want to take in their Third Year and up.

It was during the second week of October when Hermione came down with a rather nasty cold. It had started out as a simple case of the sniffles and she had dismissed it instantly as the last of her allergies hanging around. However, the next morning she had a rather nasty cough and a sore throat. Jillian took one look at her and demanded that she go to the hospital wing. Hermione had protested but Eliana, Jillian and even Lavender and Parvati convinced the brunette that she was really sick. Jillian and Eliana managed to help Hermione take a shower and get dressed in lose clothing, though Hermione was practically unable to stand with on how weak she was. Jillian finally carried Hermione down from their dorm room on her back, to which Harry, Dean and Neville instantly surrounded their friend in concern. Dean took Hermione from Jillian and carried the brunette in his arms bridal-style, much to Hermione's embarrassment while Eliana ran back up to their dorm room and got a few books for Hermione to read while she rested and healed.

Hermione hid her face against Dean's shoulder as students looked at them in the hallways. They made it to the ground floor just as Healer Briggs was entering the Great Hall for breakfast. He stopped in his tracks when he saw the group and hurried over, his wand appearing in his hand.

"What's happened?" He asked, concern in his voice as Dean looked up at the man.

"She's come down with a cold or something, Sir. She had the sniffles all yesterday and today it's gotten worse. She can hardly stand." Dean explained, Healer Briggs frowning as he looked down at the girl.

"Come with me. Poppy is watching over two others." He said, turning and leading the group down the halls and towards the hospital wing.

Entering the large room, Poppy looked up from her desk and hurried over as Healer Briggs had Dean set Hermione down on one of the beds near the back of the room. Dean and the others backed away as the two healers checked Hermione over. The girl told them what hurt and told them about any allergies she had before Madame Pomfrey called a House Elf and asked for a series of potions from her stock.

"Well, Miss Granger, you've come down with a nasty cold. We'll keep you here overnight and see how you're doing tomorrow. I take it you haven't had anything to eat?" Madame Pomfrey asked, Hermione shaking her head.

"No, ma'am." She rasped, grimacing as her throat protested the action.

"Well, I'll assist you in changing into something more suitable and get you some broth with a Nutrition Potion mixed in. Then you're to take all of the potions I want you to." Madame Pomfrey said, her voice stern as the brunette nodded meekly.

"Here, 'Mione. Some books so you don't get bored." Eliana said, handing Hermione her bag which made the girl smile.

"Thanks."

"Alright you lot, out. Miss Granger needs to get changed and rest. You can visit her after your morning classes." Madame Pomfrey said, turning towards the group and ushering them towards the doors.

"See you later, Mia." Harry said, smiling encouragingly at their friend.

Madame Pomfrey pulled the curtains around Hermione's bed and helped the girl get dressed into a pair of thin pants and a lose shirt before having her sit up in bed. Under the woman's watchful eye Hermione drank down a bowl of broth laced with Nutrition Potion before she was given four different potions which would help her rest easier and get rid of most of her discomfort. Poppy then sent Aaron to the Great Hall where he informed Minerva that Hermione wouldn't be attending her classes for the day. Minerva was concerned in learning that Hermione was sick, though she agreed to pass on the message to the rest of Hermione's Professors. Looking down at the House tables, she spotted Hermione's friends at the Gryffindor table where all of them were looking worried about their friend. Admittedly it was strange seeing the group without Miss Granger. However, from where she was seated, Minerva watched as Ronald Weasley approached the group and proceeded to make a fool of himself once more.

"Finally decided to ditch the bossy bookworm, eh, Harry? It's about time you came around." Ron said, smirking as Harry mentally groaned.

"Go away, Weasley." Harry drawled, not even turning to look at the redheaded prat.

"For your information, Weasley, Hermione is in the hospital wing with a cold. So no, we didn't 'ditch' her." Dean said, fighting down a smirk as Ron's face slowly turned red.

"No one asked you, Thomas." He snapped, making Dean roll his eyes as the others scoffed at Ron.

"Look, Weasley, just go away; before you drive our appetites away." Harry drawled, the others nodding as Ron glared at him.

"I challenge you to a Wizards Duel! Of course seconds are allowed. Tonight at midnight in the trophy room on the third floor." Ron snapped, spinning around and stalking off down the table to where Seamus was watching.

"Does he really expect me to fall for that?" Harry asked, surprise in his voice as he looked down the table towards the redhead menace.

"Obviously he does." Jillian said, shaking her head as she took a bite of her eggs.

"Are you going to go?" Eliana asked, worry in her voice as Harry scoffed.

"Merlin no. We haven't even learned any curses or jinxes. How the bloody hell does he expect us to duel? It'd likely turn into a scuffle and I don't want to get blood on my clothes." Harry said, smirking as Dean snickered.

"Good. Besides, the trophy room is close to the forbidden corridor. There's no need for you to get into trouble." Neville said, the others nodding in agreement.

The rest of the day passed with little incident. Hermione slept at random points during the day and Madame Pomfrey and Healer Briggs often checked on her and helped her to get to the bathroom to take care of her needs. Of course her friends visited her after their morning classes and brought her the notes to copy from. She smiled and giggled at what she was missing and couldn't believe that Ronald wanted to attempt to have a Wizards Duel against Harry. She was very relieved when Harry explained that he wasn't going to go and take Weasley up on his offer. Hermione was rather touched when the twins visited her, and they had her in stitches as they told her jokes and the various pranks they've played over their three years of being students at the school. Hermione was also rather touched when Hagrid surprised her with a visit. The gentle man happily sat down on a reinforced stool and told her about the various creatures he's tended to and what his job as Grounds Keeper entailed. She asked him plenty of questions and found the man rather intelligent though not all that good with words.

Hagrid left her after an hour of pleasant conversation and Madame Pomfrey brought her lunch which consisted of oatmeal and fresh fruit. Her friends visited once more after the end of their afternoon classes, armed with notes and what their assignments were. They worked together for a few hours on their assignments since Hermione didn't want to fall behind in class just because of a little cold. Madame Pomfrey finally shooed the others away for dinner and checked Hermione over again. She was pleased with Hermione's recovery and explained that the twelve year-old should be able to leave tomorrow morning if she continued to improve over the night. Sadly visiting hours ended after dinner was finished so Hermione wasn't able to have any of her friends visit her for the rest of the evening. She managed to finish her assignments and read for a little while before she took the last of her potions and fell asleep rather quickly afterwards.

It was around two in the morning when Hermione was woken by whispers coming from the other side of the curtains that surrounded her bed. She could make out to tall figures and two smaller figures on the other side.

"Honestly Mister Weasley, of all the foolish, stupid things…What were you thinking?!" Professor McGonagall hissed, making Hermione frown.

"Potter and I were supposed to meet up." Ronald whined, Hermione blinking in surprise before she quickly realized what had happened.

Something had happened to where Ronald had gotten caught out of the tower after curfew. She had no doubt that Ronald had gone to the trophy room expecting Harry to be there and the prat had panicked when someone had come into the trophy room. It was likely Filch or one of the Prefects who had caused the redhead to flee. Listening to the soft conversation, she learned that Ron and Seamus had been brought in because they had been wounded by whatever it was that was kept hidden in the forbidden corridor. Professor McGonagall made the boys take an oath to never discuss what they had seen to others. The boys quickly made the oath, which surprised Hermione. She remained silent as Madame Pomfrey and Healer Briggs healed the two boys while Professor McGonagall took twenty points from each of them along with issuing them detentions. Only when the adults left did Hermione learn what happened.

"I can't believe Potter chickened out." Ronald muttered, shifting in his bed.

"I don't think he planned on going anyway, Ron."

"He must've tipped Filch off about where we were. He's nothing by a pansy." Ronald snapped, making Hermione scowl something fierce.

"I'm more concerned about that bloody cerberus! Why the bloody hell would the professors keep a thing like that in a school?!" Seamus hissed, Hermione's eyes widening in shock at the information.

"Fred and George had said that there was something big behind that locked door. I didn't believe them though." Ronald mused, making Hermione swallow silently in shock and growing worry.

"Do you think it was guarding something?"

"What makes you say that, mate?"

"Well, I saw a trapdoor underneath it before it swiped at us. Do you think it's guarding something important?" Seamus asked, Hermione tilting her head to the side as she listened.

"Probably. Anyway, we'd better be quiet. Granger's still here."

"Right. The know-it-all might hear us."

Hermione huffed softly and shook her head, though she did settle back down in her bed. The news that there was a Cerberus in the school was…horrifying to say the least. However, there wasn't much she could do though she had every intention of warning her friends about the danger that was lurking behind the door in the forbidden third floor corridor.

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Hermione was released before breakfast the next morning completely healed and feeling better than ever. Jillian and Eliana had brought Hermione a change of clothes, her toiletries and her makeup kit since Madame Pomfrey let her use the Hospital Wing bathroom to shower and get ready. After a quick shower, which made Hermione feel even better since she had sweated a lot during the night, she was dressed and ready to fully start her day. Hermione dropped off her clothes and effects off in her dorm room before grabbing her school bag and meeting her friends in the Great Hall. Ron and Seamus were already at the table and she hurriedly ducked her head when they looked at her with some suspicion. Sitting with her friends at the Hufflepuff table, she smiled and listened as they told her about some of the excitement that she had missed in class. She asked plenty of questions before explaining that she had to talk to all of them in private as soon as they had a break. Harry went over to the Gryffindor table and muttered the same message to the twins. While he did so, he noticed the dirty looks Ronald and Seamus shot him. Instead of saying something to the prats, he just smirked at them which made them even angrier.

Classes went on as normal, well, as normal as a school which taught magic could. All of them only managed to meet up in the Room after Self-Study, which was a relief since the twins had just finished a double period of Arithmancy. As soon as the door closed and disappeared behind the twins, they all looked at Hermione as she shifted in her armchair.

"I overheard Ronald and Seamus talking last night in the infirmary. They had gotten injured last night and had been brought down by Filch and Professor McGonagall." Hermione said, watching as the others looked at her in shock.

"What happened?" Fred asked, concern in his voice for his youngest brother.

"Apparently Ronald and Seamus went to the trophy room for the Wizards Duel Ronald challenged Harry to. However, Filch showed up and they had to run. They headed further down the corridor and managed to unlock the door leading to a room which was guarded by a Cerberus. Before they had gotten hurt, Seamus noticed a trapdoor beneath the Cerberus and they've been speculating that it is guarding something. They had to take an oath not to talk about it with anyone else." Hermione explained, the others listening with shock and concern.

"A Cerberus?! Do you know how dangerous those are?" Susan cried, fear in her voice as the others looked at her.

"Calm down, Sue. It only attacked when someone entered the room. I think the professors are using it as a guardian; like they're trained for." Harry soothed, wrapping an arm around the redhead.

"Still…" Susan muttered, frowning fiercely at the thought of such a dangerous creature in the school.

The twins, however, appeared slightly worried but didn't seem very surprised in learning that there was a large, dangerous creature in the school. Their silence instantly made the others look at them; figuring that the twins knew something.

"We explored the corridor soon after the year started." Fred began, George nodding as the others looked at them in surprise.

"Music sooths the savage beast-"

"And through the trapdoor is a nest of Devil's Snare. Light will cause it to retreat."

"Though we haven't yet figured out what is beyond the room of flying keys."

The First Years stared at the twins in shock; their minds reeling at the information provided to them. Susan and Hannah instantly rounded on the twins; scolding them for doing something so dangerous. Hermione wrote down what the twins had just told them while Harry and Dean looked at each other in surprise and curiosity. Jillian, Eliana and Neville just looked nervous though Neville quietly explained more about Devil's Snare and how to combat it. The twins promised to keep from going back since they had no idea what other dangerous traps lay in wait. Fred and George explained that the room was rather easy to get into since all it required was the First Year unlocking charm. This confused the others, especially since Headmaster Dumbledore had claimed that the corridor wasn't safe and the fact that there are obviously traps beyond the door.

"Why don't they just take whatever is being guarded and put it into Gringotts?" Eliana asked, distress in her voice as the others shifted.

"Because of the break-in!" Hermione gasped, making her friends look at her.

"Huh?" Jillian asked, frowning lightly as Hermione looked at them.

"Remember? There was a break-in at Gringotts near the beginning of the school year. What if the object had been removed from the bank to here for safe keeping? After all, who would expect a priceless object to be kept in a school?" Hermione asked, the others staring at her in shock.

"Still, the professors and Headmaster are taking a risk with having such dangerous creatures in the school; especially since it's only behind a simple locked door." Jillian said, frowning as her friends nodded.

"We'll tell the others Hermione's theory, spread it around and make sure no one tries to go any further." George said, smiling gently as Hermione looked at him gratefully.

Thankfully they moved on from the rumors and focused on their assignments and classwork. The twins helped the group progress in their assignments and explained a few things that the First Years were struggling with. Hermione happily browsed through a few of the twins' course books, The twins happily helped tutor the First Years in Defense and what they had been taught by the last Defense Professor who had been a former, retired Auror. Sadly the man had only wanted some pocket change besides what he got for retirement which was why he only stayed a year. They had just finished mastering the knock-back jinx under the tutelage of the twins when they noticed the time and hurried down to the Great Hall in time for dinner. There, Fred and George headed to the Gryffindor table while Harry and the others headed to the Slytherin table where they sat next to Millicent and across from Daphne, Tracy and Blaise. The foursome was surprised but pleased and happily engaged the Hufflepuffs and Gryffindors in conversation.

Daphne and Tracy asked plenty of questions, especially about Harry's adopted parents since the Othello's were still considered an enigma to others. Many other Slytherins looked at the group with mixed reactions. Some were pleased so see others from different Houses interacting with their younger House members, some were indifferent about it while many weren't too pleased. Draco was openly sneering at Harry and his friends while Theo, Draco's friend, was glaring at the group. However, when Pansy and Sabrina walked in, the pair stopped when they saw the others and Pansy sniffed delicately before tossing her head back and stalking past the group with Sabrina following and sneering down at the group of friends.

Pansy sat down next to her betrothed and pressed a light kiss to his cheek; making Draco struggle to keep from rolling his eyes.

"Isn't there anything you can do, Dray? I mean, it's hard to properly partake in the evening meal when such filth is sitting nearby." Pansy simpered, glaring down at the group.

"Miss Parkinson you'll mind your tongue. The school charter allows students from any House to sit at any other House table during any meal so long as it is not a feast." An upper classman said, making Pansy frown at the older female.

"But-"

"It doesn't matter what family the person comes from. Now be silent. If you antagonize others then you'll lose us points." The girl said, narrowing her eyes as Pansy snapped her mouth shut and glared down at her plate.

Harry caught the eye of the older girl and nodded slightly, silently thanking her for her interference. The girl nodded curtly back before turning back to her friends and meal. Thankfully the rest of the meal continued without a hitch besides getting a few dirty looks from Draco and his ilk. After dinner the Gryffindor's had an hour to do what they wanted before heading off to Astronomy. Harry, Hermione, Dean, Eliana and Jillian hung out in the Gryffindor common room. They happily chatted and talked with some of their Housemates. Of course they spotted Oliver sitting at one of the tables with a miniature of the Quidditch pitch while mumbling to himself and moving figures around. This had become a pretty normal sight since Quidditch tryouts had finished and practices were set up. Apparently, Oliver was a fanatic Quidditch fan/player and had been trying to win the Quidditch cup for their House, which hadn't happened since Charlie Weasley graduated.

The sudden sound of shrieks coming from the opposite side of the common room had everyone alert and watching in surprise and concern. Angelina, Katie, Alicia and a number of older girls are now supporting multicolored hair and skin. A plate of seemingly innocent looking pieces of fudge rested on the table they had been sitting around. The rest of the House instantly knew that the twins had struck once more; especially when the girls took off after said redheaded boys as Fred and George dashed towards the portrait hole while cackling in glee and high-fiving each other. It took only a minute before the others started chuckling, though Hermione, Jillian and Eliana rolled their eyes and lightly scolded the others for laughing.

"That worked better than I thought it would." Dean said, smirking as Harry nodded.

"Ah, but that's the beauty of it!" Harry exclaimed, making the others look at them with wide eyes.

"Wait, did you two help Fred and George?" Neville asked, his eyes wide as Harry and Dean looked at each other before grinning.

"Well, I'm not the godson of a known prankster for nothing. Dean and I have been known to play pranks on others. Who do you think turned Draco's hair pink last week?" Harry asked, Dean laughing as the others looked at him in shock.

"You did?!" Eliana asked, her eyes wide as Harry and Dean nodded.

"How?!" Hermione asked, eagerness in her voice at the idea of learning a new spell.

"Well, it's a pretty advanced spell. My godfather taught it to us after we had gotten our wands. We can teach it to you. It'll let you change other people's hair for a few hours." Harry explained, the others listening intently.

"Why are you able to do magic outside of school but Muggleborn's like me, aren't?" Hermione asked, frowning lightly as she thought of all Harry and the others had told her.

"Well, we're not supposed to do magic outside of school. However, some summer assignments ask that you learn charm or something similar-"

"The Ministry of Magic has a net tag over the countries that it monitors. The net tag detects magic both underage and performed by adults. In households that have more than one Witch or Wizard that net tag only registers that someone used magic. That's how children who belong to a magical household are able to use magic when those who live in a non-magical household cannot." Percy explained, having overheard the conversation.

"How is that fair?! So long as we know not to show our relatives and those who aren't in know we should be allowed to use magic to keep up with our studies." Hermione said, frowning as the others listened.

"You do have a point." Percy mused, blinking when the others in the common room nodded.

"It has been bloody hard keeping up with my summer assignments without being able to practice the spells we're supposed to learn. Not only that but we could make potions on the stove if we were allowed to. Think on how many times we could help our close family who know about magic with a simple Fever Reducer." Prudence Whittaker said, her friend nodding in agreement.

"I'll send a letter to my Dad about it. He might not be in the Department of Education but he's a department head." Percy said, Neville nodding in agreement.

"And I'll send a letter to my gran. She's a very influential member of the Advisory Board for the school." He added, the others smiling at him.

"We should tell Hannah and Susan. Hannah's dad is in the Department of Education and Susan's aunt is in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement." Eliana explained, excitement in her voice as her friends looked at her.

As the First Year Gryffindor's headed out to go to their Astronomy class, Percy pulled out a sheet of parchment and a self-inking fountain pen as he sat down at one of the desks. He knew that his dad would take his words to heart and get the ball rolling into seeing if something could be changed so Muggleborns and those raised in the Muggle world would be able to safely practice magic without exposing Muggles and those not in the know to magic.

Dad,

A few Muggleborns in my House were talking about how those raised in a magical house are able to perform magic without getting caught by the Ministry. I explained the net tag though even I have to admit that it's unfair to those who are assigned classwork for the holidays and yet they aren't able to fully complete the assignments because of the restrictions. Do you know if you could speak with the head of the Department of Education about a way for those raised in a Muggle household could perform magic around those 'in the know'?

You have to admit, Dad, it is rather unfair. Even you and mum allow me and the others to perform school spells during the summer and even some household charms. Miss Granger and her friends plan on speaking with Miss Hannah Abbott and Miss Susan Bones about speaking to their guardians/family about this matter to see if something can be done. Not only that, but Mister Neville Longbottom plans on writing his grandmother about the matter to see if she has any ideas.

The twins are still causing trouble, as always, and I've been spending an hour with Ron every day after classes to ensure his assignments are getting done. His friends have been cracking down a little more since you've visited and talked with Ron. It appears that he's taking your threat of pulling him out of Hogwarts to be home schooled by Aunt Muriel rather seriously for the time being. I can only hope he continues in this pattern when I have to dedicate more time to my own studies; this is my O.W.L. year, after all. I'll speak with the twins to see if they can take over for when I have to begin studying for my tests. None of us want to see a Weasley fail and have to repeat a year.

Your son,

Percy.

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October 28th

"Hey, Dean, do you know what's wrong with Harry?" Hermione asked, her voice soft as she looked at her friend.

Dean blinked and looked up from his assignment to look at his brunette friend. All of them were in the library working on their assignments. Ever since Monday rolled around there had been a noticeable drop in Harry's mood. He'd been rather quiet and reserved and had often been caught just wandering around by himself or looking out the window with a reserved look on his face. Of course Dean knew what was wrong with his best friend and he had a good idea that Neville knew as well since the other boy had often glanced at Harry with sympathy and understanding.

"Hermione, Halloween is coming up." Dean said, making the girl frown in confusion.

"Yeah..?"

"What does Halloween mean for the Wizarding World?" He asked, making Hermione tilt her head to the side as the others looked over.

"We celebrate the night that You-Know-Who was…" Susan trailed off, her eyes widening in horror as she realized what was wrong with Harry.

"Oh Merlin!" Jillian gasped, horror in her voice as she covered her mouth with her hand.

"I-It's the anniversary of Harry's parents' deaths." Dean said, her voice soft as the others flinched and looked down in shame.

"Oh my!" Hermione gasped, tears filling her eyes as Dean nodded gently.

"Harry is going to be leaving tomorrow after classes end. He'll be spending the weekend with his family, godfather and uncle. I think he'll be coming back on Tuesday afternoon. Just…don't bring it up with him, okay? It's a really sensitive subject for him." Dean urged, the others nodding in understanding and agreement.

When Harry returned to their table after having found the book he'd been looking for, he was rather surprised when the girls suddenly hugged him. However, upon looking to Dean and Neville, he understood that the girls must've realized why he's been 'out of sorts' lately. He simply hugged them back; grateful that they weren't saying anything but were still offering their silent support. When he had gone to Professor McGonagall about being away from the castle for three days she had instantly understood and had assured him that she wouldn't be informing the other staff until half an hour before he'd be leaving. That way, she explained, Albus wouldn't be able to stick his nose in and try to stop Harry from properly grieving his parents' deaths. She knew that Albus would attempt to claim that was too dangerous for Harry to leave the school, ignoring the fact that the lad would be with his parents, godfather and uncle. She also made Harry aware that Neville would be leaving as well. Even though his parents hadn't been attacked until three days after Halloween, he and his grandmother still visited every Halloween because of the significance of the holiday.

The rest of the day passed by with little incident besides Harry and Neville turning in earlier than normal. It was Hermione who told the others about Neville and they understandably gave both boys their space. Friday arrived and both Harry and Neville were even more withdrawn. Their professors noticed but didn't say anything, though they did go to Minerva with their concerns. She only had to remind them of the dates for them to understand what was wrong. After classes were done, Harry and Neville headed up to their dorm room and packed their bags for the weekend. Heading out of the tower, they walked down to the main floor and stood near the main doors. Their friends arrived a minute later to wish them a good holiday and reminded them to write while they're away. Professor McGonagall walked up a minute later and waited with the group for the adults to arrive.

Augusta was the first to arrive and she thanked Minerva before turning to ask Neville if he had everything. Neville introduced his friends to his grandmother before saying his goodbyes, in which Augusta smiled softly at the others and thanked Minerva for letting her grandson out of school for the weekend and Monday. The pair headed out of the castle and across the laws of the school towards the gate. On their way, they passed Sirius and Remus, both of whom smiled softly at the pair as they headed towards the school to collect Harry. Once Augusta and Neville were clear of the Hogwarts wards, Neville gripped onto his grandmother's arm and held on tight as she apparated them away. Meanwhile, Harry talked softly with his friends about their classes before he noticed his godfather and honorary uncle heading towards them. He was surprised to see them instead of his parents but figured that they and Eliza were likely busy and hadn't been able to make it.

"Sirius, Remus, good to see you again." Minerva said, smiling lightly as the two men nodded.

"Same to you, Minerva." Remus said, looking at the group of children rallied around his cub in support.

Harry, like Neville, introduced his friends to Remus and Sirius before they had to leave. Hermione, Jillian, Eliana, Susan and Hannah hugged Harry tightly; making him promise to stay out of trouble before they released him. Dean smiled sadly at his friend and clapped Harry on the back, silently telling Harry to tell his mum and siblings that he said hi. Harry nodded and followed Remus and Sirius out of the school and across the grounds. Minerva watched the trio leave before pulling out her wand and closing the doors. Turning, she ushered the group into the Great Hall for the evening meal which was just about to begin. As she walked up to the first head table, she mentally rolled her eyes when she noticed the look of disapproval on Albus' face. The man had been most…upset when she informed him that both Neville and Harry would be leaving for the weekend and Monday. He had tried to overrule her approval for the two boys to be gone for so long but she firmly reminded him that he allowed other students and even staff to leave the school in similar situations.

Meanwhile, Harry walked across the grounds between Sirius and Remus silently. He was glad that Professor McGonagall had allowed him to go home for Halloween and allowed him to stay for a day after. Hagrid smiled sadly as they passed his hut and even Fang whined softly as if he understood why Harry was leaving for the weekend. When they reached the gates they headed through them before stopping. Sirius pulled out a small hoop and held it out. Remus and Harry grabbed the hoop and Sirius gave the activation phrase. All of them felt the customary 'hook around the navel' feeling that came from using a portkey. The world dissolved into a swirl of colors as the trio were taken away from Hogwarts and to Othello Estate. As they neared their destination, Harry bent his legs slightly and, upon landing, managed to remain standing.

"Harry!"

Harry looked up and smiled as Eliza barreled down the stairs and towards him. Bracing himself, he laughed as his sister slammed into him and swept her into his arms. Eliza clung tightly to him, drawing in the feeling of love and safety that she always felt around her big brother. Mira rumbled in happiness, rubbing her head along Eliza's cheek happily; she had missed her human's sibling. Eliza pulled back slightly and gently rubbed Mira's head, giggling as the Fire Lizard lightly licked her hand. Looking around, Harry frowned lightly when his parents didn't come into the entrance hall.

"They're on a mission at the moment, Prongslet. Don't worry, though, they'll be back tomorrow morning." Sirius said, smiling gently as Harry nodded.

"It's good to see you, Harry." Kano said, smiling as she walked out of the double doors leading to the library.

"It's nice to be back, Sensei." Harry said, setting his sister down and bowing to the woman.

"No need to stand on formality, Harry. I've received word from Minerva and Severus that you and Dean have found two new Assassins; Fredrick and George Weasley, correct?" Kano asked, causing Sirius, Remus and Eliza to look at the teen in surprise.

"Yes. It was a surprise to us but Professor McGonagall explained that apparently Lord Weasley's ancestors had, at one point, been Assassins. He wasn't too surprised that one of his children would carry on the line though it was a shock that both twins are. He's keeping it a secret from his wife of course." Harry said, Remus and Sirius nodding in understanding and agreement.

"Molly is a shrew; pardon my bluntness. She also rules her home with an iron fist and tries to control her children's lives. From what I heard the two eldest actually fled the country to get away from her. If she learned that Fred and George are Assassins then she'll likely forbid them from training or would demand her youngest two receive the same training." Sirius said, Kano shaking her head.

"I will never understand some people. Anyway, go up and settle in. Dinner is being prepared by the Elves as we speak. I know the others will want to see you after dinner. Dean's siblings and Cassie are eager to hear about Hogwarts so they will be joining us." Remus said, smiling as Harry nodded and headed upstairs with Eliza hurrying after him while Mira flew alongside.

"According to Minerva's reports, Harry and his group of friends are already at the top of their year. Not only that, but Miss Granger seems to be set on setting the highest marks ever in the school." Kano said, leading to the two men to the parlor.

"I remember Lily was at the top of her year throughout her entire time at Hogwarts. Moony was right behind her with James and I joining in around our Fifth Year." Sirius said, grinning as his friend rolled his eyes.

"Thanks to Lily and I, of course. We finally got you two to crack down on your grades. It's a good thing to or else you never would've made it into the Auror academy." Remus said, Sirius smiling sheepishly as he rubbed the back of his head.

Upstairs, Harry smiled as Eliza plopped down on his bed and watched as he unpacked some of the clothes he brought with him along with his school books and assignments.

"So?! How's school going? What's Hogwarts like?!" She asked, nearly bouncing on her brother's bed as Harry chuckled.

"Calm down, Lizzy. You'll hear most of what I have to say at dinner. Dean's sisters will likely ask the same thing." Harry said, making his sister roll her eyes.

"So? Megan is doing a little better. She's brought up her grades somewhat though she still hanging around the 'popular' girls and causing trouble. I don't think Auntie Cassie will let her go to Hogwarts next year." Eliza said, watching as Harry shook his head.

"I'll never understand why girls do that. Elliot has been causing trouble along with Draco Malfoy and his goons." Harry said, his sister listening with rapt attention.

Before he could say anything else, Sasha and Jessica sprinted into the room with Sam following close behind. All three of them pounced on Harry, knocking the young preteen down to the ground as they eagerly greeted him. Eliza laughed as Mira flew around the pile of bodies, rumbling in laughter. The trio rapid fired questions at Harry as they hugged him, though Harry finally managed to untangle himself and stand up after a few minutes. He smiled warmly at the sight of Sam, shocked on how much the seven year-old had changed. Sam, like Dean, was certainly taller than many other boys his age and was already as tall as Sasha, which was rather surprising to be honest. Unlike his older brother, however, Sam's hair was cropped close while Dean's hair was longer and slightly shaggy. Sasha and Jessica had changed as well; both of them were turning into rather beautiful young girls. Harry already knew that Dean would have his hands full in keeping any future boyfriends of his sisters' in line.

"Enough questions! I'll answer it all during dinner." Harry cried, causing the group to fall silent as they looked at him.

"Well then…let's go!" Jessica exclaimed, grabbing Harry's hand and dragging him out of his bedroom with the others laughing as they followed.

Heading through the hallway, they all made their way downstairs where they met Cassie and Megan. Cassie smiled and hugged Harry warmly; telling him that it was good to see him again before she remarked that he'd already filled out more. Megan stiffly hugged Harry; knowing that her siblings likely told him about her…attitude. However, she relaxed slightly when Harry hugged her back. Cassie led them into the informal dining room which was actually inside the kitchen. Harry was nearly salivating at the scents of the meal the House Elves created for them. Yes, the Hogwarts Elves were very talented and he certainly didn't starve at school; but nothing compared to the Othello and Potter House Elves and their skills in cooking. Sitting down, Harry found himself bracketed between Eliza and Remus. Helping themselves to the various dishes, Harry asked plenty of questions about what had been happening with the Brotherhood and everyone else. Dean's siblings happily talked about their classes and friends; though Harry certainly wasn't too happy in hearing that Megan was still making fun of other schoolmates.

Harry talked about his training under Severus and Minerva and how he and Dean discovered that Fred and George were Assassins. He happily talked about his classes and about the rather hilarious time when Professor Frost took all the First Years out to the Forbidden Forest where they spent a weekend with the Centaurs. Madame Hooch and Hagrid had gone with them in order to help keep watch over the forty First Years. Needless to say, it had been rather hilarious when the 'prissy' students found out they were to sleep in tents. Each House had their own wizarding tent to sleep in, though they were encouraged to sleep in sleeping bags with the herd. It had been fascinating learning and living among the Centaurs. The women helped gather supplies and raise the young though they also learned how to hunt and fight. The men mostly did the hunting and building; acting as protectors and guides. It had been a very interesting experience living with the Centaurs. Harry and his friends had actually slept outside the tents and were eventually invited inside one of the huts that the Centaurs lived in. Hermione had found a kindred spirit in a female Centaur named Primrose. They had bonded through their love of knowledge and learning and Hermione was often found walking alongside the female; even after the trip had ended.

"Of course Draco nearly mucked everything up." Harry said, shaking his head as he remembered the blonde insulting the leader of the herd.

"What happened?" Sirius asked, frowning as Harry sighed.

"Draco insulted the leader: Rowan. Professor Frost took eighty points from Slytherin and he was given a zero for the time. Hagrid had to escort Draco out of the camp and back to the castle. He was given a weeks' worth of detention." Harry explained, the others scoffing.

"Elliot nearly insulted a few of the females, though he thankfully had enough sense to shut his gob." He added, the others staring at him in disbelief.

"I swear that boy has no sense." Kano muttered, everyone voicing their agreements.

"Alright, tell us about your other classes!" Jessica said, happily cutting into her steak as she looked at Harry.

"Well Potions…"

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

Harry looked around the street with vague interest. His parents had woken him up early that morning and he had been very happy to see them doing so well. He had been all too eager to answer their inquiries about school and his friends, in which Delilah and Lucas were glad that their son had made friends with so many people. After breakfast, they had explained that they were to meet with the leader of the Non-Magical Assassin's Brotherhood leader: Andrew Hastings. He hadn't been told what the meeting was about, though he figured that it was about the Templars and their current movements. Eliza had stayed home, not wanting to go to a boring meeting and claiming that she still had work she needed to do. Their parents, of course, had already told Harry about Andrew Hastings and his family. Apparently none of Andrew's family knew that he was the leader of the Brotherhood here in England and he planned on keeping that part of his life away from them. Harry had been given the job of keeping Andrew's son: Shaun, occupied while their parents were in their 'business' meeting.

"Come on, Harrison." Delilah called, making her son turn and hurry towards them.

Walking to the large business building, they headed to the receptionist who asked for their names and what business they had there. The woman's eyes widened when Lucas asked to speak with Andrew though after a quick call to the man she instructed them to head up to the fifth floor. Stepping into the lifts, they waited until the doors closed and they began moving.

"Keep Shaun away from the office until we're finished with the meeting. If you two decide to explore the building keep on guard. This building is mostly employed with other Assassins but there are a few…unknown." Lucas instructed, Harry listening intently.

"Just do not leave the building. You and Shaun are very tempting targets for-"

"For the Templars, I know. I'll make sure we don't go outside. I'm sure we'll have enough fun just wandering around." Harry said, his parents nodding.

Their conversation ended when the lift stopped on the third floor and a few people walked in. Greetings were curt and stilted as they began moving once more. Reaching the fifth floor, Harry walked out of the lifts with his parents and they were quickly directed to the correct office by a few employees. Mister Hastings' sectary, a pretty redhead by the name of Amy, knocked on her boss' door and stepped inside after they approached her. She walked out a few moments later and smiled at them, gesturing them to head inside. Stepping into the spacious office, Harry blinked as he looked around. The office was rather large with a desk, a bookcase behind that, several metal filing cabinets and a small seating arrangement nearby. Windows nearly covered one of the walls and looked out over the bustling city. A middle-aged man with dark brown hair and brown eyes, dressed in a smart grey business suit sat behind the desk while a young boy, around six years-old sat reading on one of the couches.

"Ah! Mister and Missus Othello! Please come in." The man said, looking up from his computer with a kind smile.

"Hello, Mister Hastings. Thank you for seeing us." Lucas said, shaking the man's hand as they walked over to the desk.

"Please, call me Andrew. This is my son: Shaun. Shaun, this is Mister and Missus Othello and their eldest child: Harrison." Andrew said, his son looking up at the trio with slight hesitation.

"Hello." Shaun muttered, shifting lightly as his eyes strayed to Harry.

"Shaun, why don't you and Harrison go play? I'll page for you when we're done with our meeting." Andrew said, his son looking at him with a small frown.

"…Okay, Dad." Shaun said, marking his place in his book before setting it down and sliding off of his chair.

Looking up at Harry, the two boys shared a smile before Harry followed Shaun to the door and they headed out of the office. As the door closed behind them, Lucas flicked his hand a few times, adding wards to the room to ensure their privacy. Andrew watched with avid interest, though knew not to ask what wards had been put up. He trusted the two Magicals; which was saying something.

"Shaun sure is getting big." Delilah said, smiling as Andrew led them over to the small seating arrangement.

"Yes, he's certainly shooting up. He's actually two years ahead in his school. I believe he has an eidetic memory. Some of the things he's able to remember are…well startling." Andrew said, pouring all of them some tea.

"Does Shaun have any of our gifts?" Lucas asked, watching as the other man hummed faintly.

"I believe so. I've begun introducing him to the training routines and he's begun jogging and working out. I haven't fully told him the reasoning, though. I would…appreciate it if you would perform the spell to confirm if he is or is not an Assassin." Andrew answered, Lucas and Delilah looking on with understanding.

"Of course." She said, smiling gently in understanding.

"Harrison is growing up to be a rather handsome young lad." Andrew said, smiling as Delilah and Lucas beamed.

"He's excelling in his training and in his studies. He and his friends are at the top of their year in school and he has already found two other trainees." Delilah explained, Andrew listening with interest.

They moved on from talking about their children and soon got down to business. Andrew talked about the Templar movements and his concern that the Magical Templar branch was beginning to assist their Non-Magical counterparts. While they talked, Harry and Shaun wandered around the office building. Shaun proudly showed Harry around, talking about some of the things he'd already learned thanks to spending time with his dad there. Harry was amused by what the younger boy was telling him, though he was greatly interested in learning about how smart Shaun was. Shaun happily told his new friend about school and his workouts, which Harry quickly realized that Shaun was just beginning his training. It made him wonder how Shaun's dad knew that his son was an Assassin. He knew that it was much harder for Non-Magicals to identify other Assassins, which made it even harder for recruitment.

Walking around the office building, they headed down to the second floor and Shaun happily prattled about what the business did and what that floor was used for. The employees looked rather amused as they watched Shaun lead the older boy around, though some looked rather surprised to see Harry. Harry only had to glance at those few people to identify them as some of the members of the Magical Brotherhood. He grinned faintly at them and nodded, to which the others flushed slightly though relaxed. They continued wandering around and exploring the different floors of the building.

On the first floor, Harry felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise. While listening to Shaun prattle on about something, he glanced around quickly. He swallowed heavily when he saw a middle-aged man with dark hair and eyes watching them. It was the sheer concentration in the man's gaze that set the alarm bells in Harry's mind off. He shifted closer to Shaun while mentally praying that the man wouldn't decide to follow them. Wandering around the floor, Harry kept a sharp eye on their surroundings and took notice of a few people who kept reappearing in various hallways and in different common areas. Harry was surprised that Shaun didn't seem to notice, though, after a few minutes, the young boy finally seemed to catch on that something wasn't exactly normal. They had just entered the main public cafeteria when a young woman dressed in a smart business suit walked over and smiled warmly at them.

"Shaun, you should head up to your father's office." She said, making the young boy frown.

"But my dad said he'd page for me." He said, making Harry shift as the woman looked at him sharply.

"Come on, Shaun." Harry said, taking the boy's hand and leading him towards the lifts.

"Take the stairs." The woman said, her voice sharp as Harry nodded before turning in the direction of the stairs.

Shaun was deeply confused, but could sense the urgency in a few people around them. He and Harry hurried through the first floor and finally pushed open the door to the stairwell. As the large, heavy metal door closed behind them, Shaun's eyes widened when he saw a few employees moving to confront an older man who was still staring at them. The coldness in the man's eyes sent a shiver of dread down Shaun's spine. Propelled by his fear, Shaun hurried up the stairs with Harry beside him. When Shaun began slowing down, Harry pressed a hand against the younger boy's back and propelled him up the last two flights of stairs before they hurried out of the stairwell and in the main hallway of the fifth floor. Many of the employees, which were the managers and executives of the business and their sectaries, looked at them with concern and worry. Amy walked over and crouched down, concern on her face.

"What's wrong?" She asked, her voice soft as she looked at the two boys.

"S-Someone was acting strange on the first floor." Shaun said, worry and fear in his voice as Amy's gaze sharpened.

"We headed back up here as soon as we could." Harry said, his voice steady as Amy looked at him.

"Why don't you two head to the break room down the hallway. Here's some money for the vending machines." Amy said, pulling out a few pounds for the boys.

"Thank you, Amy." Harry said, accepting the bills before leading Shaun down the hall towards the break room.

"What the heck was that about?!" Shaun demanded, glaring up at Harry when the older boy hesitated.

"I'm not sure, Shaun. But whatever it was it'll be handled by security and your dad." Harry said, glancing down at Shaun and noticing that the boy didn't seem to really believe him.

Inside the breakroom, they both quickly got a can of soda from one of the machines before buying some snacks. They moved onto the subject of school and their classes; in which Harry told Shaun about his private school and his friends, in which Shaun happily talked about his own classes and a few friends that he has managed to find and keep. Harry felt sad for the younger boy; Shaun was much like Hermione in that his intelligence often isolated him from his fellow classmates and made him a prime target for bullies. He also discovered that Shaun had a real talent for technology and history, which could prove useful later in life. They happily talked for a while longer as various employees came in and out of the room to get drinks and a snack to eat at their desks.

"Harrison."

Harry and Shaun looked up and watched as Delilah walked into the room. She may have been smiling, but Harry could see that something was bothering his mum. The boys finished up the last of their snacks and drinks before they threw the empty bags and cans into the rubbish bin. Following Delilah out of the break room, they headed back to Andrew's office and were rather surprised to see a few other employees there as well. They were soon told that the employee who had been watching and attempting to follow them had been fired and escorted out of the building. Shaun was shocked in learning this, though his father explained that the employee had already been on watch because of…issues in the workplace. Harry, however, had a good notion that the man had been a Templar and had realized who and 'what' he and Shaun were. No doubt the man was now locked away or on route to a secure location where he'd be interrogated.

They all talked for a little while longer before Delilah and Lucas said their goodbyes to Andrew while Harry promised to send Shaun letters. Heading out of the building, Harry allowed his parents to move him between them in order to offer him more protection. Yes, it was a rather risky move that the man had pulled in attempting to follow Harry and Shaun in a building filled with Assassins, but they didn't want to take any chances of an ambush. Inside the car, his parents grilled him for more information; information that Harry was all too willing to give them. Harry talked about how he had been on guard as soon as they had gotten onto the first floor and had noticed the man first. Shaun hadn't noticed and had been oblivious until they were told to head back up to the fifth floor by way of the stairs. Only then did Shaun realize that something was wrong and hurried to do as instructed.

"You both did the right thing. That man was a Templar and he's going to be questioned. It's not public knowledge who leads the Non-Magical and Magical brotherhoods. If our positions have been compromised then we'll need to do a sweep of our ranks." Lucas said, his voice stern and filled with stress and some anger at the idea of a spy among their ranks.

"Like Mister Delacour found the spy in his ranks?" Harry asked, his voice soft as his mum turned her head to look at him.

"Exactly."

It seemed so long ago since that night at the Delacour manor where the ball had been held. Harry had heard from Fleur a week after the ball and the letter she had sent him told of a spy that had been found in the French Brotherhood. The spy was a Master Assassin who had been recruited by the Templars. Of course she hadn't been told as to why the man had become a spy, but it had been a rather frightening thought that someone they all trusted could be telling their enemies their plans and every move. Things like that were, sadly, common in the Brotherhood. Part of his history lesson had covered famous Assassins who had turned out to be spies for Templars or vice-versa. He knew that his parents required all new trainees to take an oath of loyalty which would prevent them from defecting to the Templars and betraying them. Since then there hadn't been any news of betrayals from Assassins…though sadly that wasn't the case with their member's families and friends.

Delilah moved on from what had happened and turned the conversation to what they were going to be doing tomorrow. Harry was rather eager to visit his parent's graves the next day and tell them about what's happened since the last time he visited. Yes, it might be considered silly or foolish to others should they happen upon a group of people talking to two headstones, but it was one of the ways he was able to feel close to his birth parents. He honestly thought that they were listening and had no doubt that they appreciated his attempts to keep them informed about his life. Sirius and Remus would be joining them tomorrow morning for breakfast and they'd stay for the entire day; joining them on their visit to Godric's Hallow. Harry smiled softly as he looked out the window and watched as London flashed by.