Chapter Ten: Modernizing, Neville's and Hermione's Power, Yule Plans and Discussions, Going Home and Revelations

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.

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/Surprise, Harry/Luna, Neville/Hermione, Dean/Millicent, others to be decided

Author's Note: Thank you all! I love seeing so many people reading and enjoying this story! Again, and sorry for constantly mentioning it, I never really expected this to be as popular as it currently is. Seeing so many people review, favorite and follow this story never fails to make me smile. Surprisingly, today is actually my birthday! I hadn't planned on finishing the chapter and uploading it today but it just happened! So, yay! For all of you who share a birthday with me: Happy Birthday to us! Anywho! This chapter reveals some pretty new surprises to the story and adds a few more elements. Let me know what you all think!

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

[Parseltongue]

[Telepathic Speech]

Emphasis on words/Spells

Text

Chapter Ten: Modernizing, Neville's and Hermione's Power, Yule Plans and Discussions, Going Home and Revelations

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The rest of November continued along at a steady pace. The classes for Customs of Different Races headed down to the Great Lake before the water got too cold and the Merfolk headed to their village at the bottom for the winter. Professor Frost happily told them about the aquatic race; and the chief of the Merfolk residing in the lake actually surfaced and spoke to them; with the help of an official from the Ministry to translate of course. Many were fascinated that the looks of Merfolk varied on where they lived in the world. Using one of the 'commercially' sold communications mirror, the class was able to see the Merfolk village at the bottom of the lake. Professor Frost had simply given a communications mirror to one of the Mermen warriors and, after explaining how it worked, opened and increased the size of his own communications mirror so all of them could see the village. As with the time they had spent with the Centaurs, many Purebloods and Halfbloods were shocked in the intelligence and diversity shown by former 'inferior' races. The Merfolk village was constructed of stone and coral. It was obvious that they're highly intelligent given the construction of the village and the sight of several statues of their former chiefs. They were also in awe over the sight of the children and even the 'pets' that the Merfolk kept.

Professor Frost was greatly pleased when the First Years left the lake that day. Since the beginning of this class four years ago, he's seen a multitude of students from all walks of life. Many Purebloods, Halfbloods and even some Muggleborns have come to his class in the beginning thinking that they're the best of the best. They thought that their intelligence, race or ancestry made them superior to others. However, his class taught them about the various races and showed them that the other races aren't inferior; just different. He knew that Charity and Lucy had the same thing happening in their classes as well. Those raised in the Wizarding world were learning that Muggles aren't as helpless as they had thought. They were learning that Muggles were doing just fine without magic and had even advanced beyond Magicals currently. However, Minister Matthews was doing a great job in helping their world advance and catch up.

A prime example of this occurred one evening when Harry and his friends were using the Room to work on their assignments or just relax and hang out. Harry was sitting in one of the overly stuffed, comfortable armchairs the Room had provided with a sleek magazine in hand. Hermione looked up from her book to grab her cup of tea when she saw how absorbed her friend is in whatever he's reading. She has noticed lately that he's been getting a few magazines in the mail. He often had them on hand during meals or whenever they relax here or in the common room.

"What are you reading, Ry?" She asked, marking her place in her book as Harry blinked and lifted his head.

"Huh? Oh! Technomancer's Weekly. It's a relatively new publication that's come out. It talks about the new technology that's been released in our world." Harry answered, handing Hermione the magazine.

The front of the magazine showcased a picture of a rather sleek and, dare she say, even sexy looking television. It was a flat screen, which was surprising and the small teaser on the front boasted about amazing picture quality and other features. There was also some information about new appliances, features that you could get with certain appliances and what was going to be coming next year or the year after. Flipping through the pages, Hermione's eyes widened when she fully realized that Wizards and Witches are quickly catching up and even surpassing Muggles with some technology. It was one article that completely blew Hermione's mind:

World Wide Wizards Coming to England soon!

By Heather Anderson

As many of you may well know by now the magical societies in Japan, America, Italy, Spain, Australia and a few other countries have banded together and created the World Wide Wizards Network. Well, the network is now coming to England everyone! Since companies such as Technology's Playground and Tech-Magic Inc. have introduced Non-Magical technology to our society we've been rapidly becoming more 'modern'. It is steadily becoming common for Magical households to have kitchen appliances such as electric stoves, refrigerators, washers and dryers and now televisions. However, our television programs have been pretty limited to Non-Magical shows and movies. However, not anymore! With the introduction of the W.W.W. Witches and Wizards will soon be able to watch shows created by Magicals, for Magicals! Not only that but Quidditch games will soon be broadcasted along with News stories from across the world that will impact our societies as a whole.

For those of you who may not know, the W.W.W. is a specialized network that is only available for Magicals. It began in Australia and quickly spread to other countries. The I.C.W. has already been using the network to announce special changes in our world as a whole and has allowed the public the special opportunity to know what exactly is going on and what major laws will affect us all. Magical Britain has been in the dark to this for a long time thanks to those in power before Minister Matthews. Now, new companies are going to be popping up such as a news station and television show companies. Businesses are already thinking about commercials and advertisements which can be shown on televisions to attract more and new customers.

The Daily Prophet has already confirmed that they will be creating another branch of their company to report live news from inside a studio and out in the country. Mister Andrew Thompson; owner of the Daily Prophet, had this to say about the new studio:

"With the coming of the World Wide Wizards to our country this offers us a whole new opportunity to educate and inform the public. We'll be hiring new employees to run and staff the new studio that will be built come the New Year. Once the W.W.W. has been implemented here, we shall be covering news in our society and in the Non-Magical society that will impact us as well. Not only that, but we'll be able to provide the public with access to live Wizengamot meetings and news stories from the Ministry and other businesses. This is a great opportunity for all of us."

Another opportunity the W.W.W. is bringing is their internet network. While computers are only beginning to take hold here in our society, people are already beginning to see the advantages of having such devices in work places and at home. The W.W.W. is also an internet network which will bring more news from around the world and also provide a quicker and easier way for people in different countries to communicate with each other without worrying about a post owl being injured or taking days to reach the recipient. It is expected for the Ministry to be one of the first places to fully use computers to make storing information more efficient and easier.

"Wow…" Hermione breathed, her eyes wide as she looked at the moving pictures of the inventors of W.W.W.

"Our world has come a long way since when our parents were young. Mum and Dad are seriously shocked in how much has changed." Fred said, George nodding in agreement.

"Even Percy is surprised. He was here for a year before all the new classes and professors came. He's happy with them though." George added, stirring the potion he and Fred were brewing on one of the work tables.

"On page fifteen there are some pictures of the cameras reporters will be using for the future news shows." Harry added, watching as Hermione eagerly flipped through to the correct page.

"In his letter about renovating the Burrow, Dad mentioned that it'll be modernized as well. We'll have electricity, a few televisions and hopefully a computer or two." Fred said, eagerness in his voice as Neville hummed.

"I want to ask my gran about perhaps modernizing Longbottom Manor. Having a television and computer sounds like a good idea." Neville mused, Susan, Hannah and Jillian nodding in agreement.

"Computers will bring a lot of good things." Eliana said, excitement in her voice as the others looked at her.

"What do you mean?" Susan asked, tilting her head as Eliana smiled at her.

"There are programs to organize and sort data and various information. There are also programs to help with finance, writing and other things." Eliana explained, the others listening with rapt attention.

"My parents have already modernized our estate. Dad is good friends with a few Technomancers so it was easy to outfit all of the family properties. He always uses a few programs to keep track of our finances and businesses. With the information he gets from the account manager he's been able to wisely make adjustments to our stocks and has increased our fortune considerably." Harry said, Hermione nodding.

"My parents use computers to keep track of their finances for home and their business. They also use it to ensure their employees get paid correctly and organize the schedules for their employees, schedule appointments and also plan vacations." Hermione added, handing Harry back his magazine.

"What other magazines are there here in the Wizarding world?" Eliana asked, watching as Susan shifted in her seat to get more comfortable.

"Well there's Witch Weekly which is about beauty, fashion, our celebrities and other gossip. Then there's Teen Witch Weekly which is similar though intended towards teens. Wizard's Weekly is the same thing, though for men and then there's also Warlocks Quarterly and Quidditch Monthly." Susan began, Hermione and Eliana listening with rapt attention.

"We now have Technomancer's Weekly, the Healer's News, the Witch's Witch, the Wizard's Wizard and other specific magazine's which cater to various professors such as Potion's Masters, Transfiguration Masters and such." Hannah finished, lightly tapping her fingers on the cover of her book.

"Now, there's also the Wizarding Wireless Network on our radios. We have various programs and a good number of bands and singers. The network has begun branching out to Muggle music as well which is rather nice. They also report on various events like trials, elections and other important events." Neville added, glancing up from the Herbology book he's reading.

"My parents will be happy that this world isn't so…outdated. Dad was really…unhappy when we visited Diagon Alley the first time and saw that a lot of people had old hairstyles and were wearing robes." Hermione said, frowning as she thought of her parents.

In all actuality her dad had tried to convince her to reject going to Hogwarts after they had gotten back from the visit. He stated that the society was so outdated that they'll likely teach her how to be a housewife and live like people would've in the Victorian era. Her mum had gotten him to back off and then both of them had spent a few weeks going through her books. Her mum tried getting her dad to read them as well since they showed that the Wizarding world wasn't as outdated as it appeared to be. Sadly, her dad had refused and had often glared at the books whenever they had been left out in any of the rooms besides her bedroom. She had taken to locking her door so her dad couldn't get in and perhaps toss her books.

"My gran used to wear a stuffed vulture on her hats. It symbolizes her grieving of the death of her husband. It used to be common for women to wear stuffed or fake birds on their hats to show different statuses. However, during my visit at Halloween, she's begun switching to wearing a vulture feather instead of the entire bird. I told her it looks much better and doesn't retract from her looks. Anyway, the point is, is that even the older generations are beginning to change. We'll still have much of our culture on display and we don't want to forget said culture. However, we're also willing to change and adapt." Neville said, smiling lightly as the others nodded in agreement or understanding.

"Many of the Muggleborns, Halfbloods and newer generation Witches and Wizards like what's happening. Sadly, many of the older generation don't like it and are actively acting out against it. Some shop owners refuse to sell to Muggleborns and those of other races like Vampires, Elves and Werewolves." George said, frowning darkly as Hermione and Eliana looked at each other in concern.

"I…I noticed some dirty looks when I was in the alley for the first time. Some people looked down at me and my parents and even sneered or muttered darkly to each other." Hermione admitted, unease in her voice as she shifted.

"Not everyone feels that way obviously. Many at least realize that Muggleborns bring in new business so they're more than happy to sell to them." Fred explained, though his words did little to reassure Hermione.

"More and more businesses are also being owned and run by Squibs. You would've never seen that before the Minister's new laws and reforms. The Ministry is also more willing to help citizens who want to look for employment outside of the Magical world." Hannah said, her voice soft as Hermione looked at her.

"How so?"

"Well, students can take Muggle courses during the summer. Some, Muggleborns especially, are continuing their Non-Magical education alongside their Magical education. Myself and Dean are doing so during the holidays." Harry answered, smiling at Hermione's wide eyes.

"Universities which have been popping up more and more are also offering students the chance to take courses and major in law, business and such which covers both the Magical and Non-Magical version." Dean added, Harry and Susan nodding in agreement.

"Percy is hoping to get a scholarship to Phoenix University in London. I believe he wants to go in for business management or something that will help him gain a position in the Ministry. From the sounds of it he wants to take over for our dad one day. Mum was over the moon about it since she wants all of us to get careers in the Ministry and Bill and Charlie left the country as soon as they graduated and got their jobs." Fred said, snorting softly as he remembered one of his mum's famous speeches about jobs.

"It's not like your brother's are doing horribly, right?" Jillian asked, frowning as the twins shook their heads.

"No, they're doing rather well for themselves. Bill works for Gringotts as a Curse Breaker and is currently stationed in Egypt working on ancient Wizarding tombs."

"And Charlie works in Romania at their Dragon Reserve as a Dragon Handler. While it doesn't pay as well as Bill's job, it's still a good job and Charlie loves working with the Dragons. Mum doesn't really see those jobs as very…'respectable'. I know she certainly didn't like it when we were working at Padfoot and Moony's. Dad, thankfully, stood up for us and convinced her to let us work there to make our own money. Dad's been our main support for a long time now."

Harry and those who have seen, heard or even met Molly and Arthur could see how and why Arthur supported his twin sons so much. Arthur is such a patient man that it was hard to believe he is still married to a banshee like Molly. Not only that, but it made them all wonder if Arthur really knows what his youngest son is like and when he'll finally snap and put the fear of God in Ron. It was hard to imagine calm and collected Arthur Weasley angry, though they had a feeling that everyone shut up and listened when the man finally blew his top. Dean stated as such and they were all surprised when the twins shuddered at the same time.

"Dad hardly ever gets angry. Mum's normally the one who yells and punishes us while our dad simply laughs and encourages us to develop newer and better pranks. However…there was this one time when we accidently locked Ron in the shed. We had no idea he wouldn't be able to get out on his own and we had gone inside to complete our chores."

"You see, Ronnie has a huge and rather crippling fear of spiders. The shed had spiders in it which were harmless though that didn't really matter to him."

"When Dad came home he heard whimpering coming from the shed and unlocked it. Ron was curled up in the back corner white as a sheet and rocking back and forth in fear. It took Dad ten minutes to coax a response out of Ron and get him out of the shed."

"Dad came inside with Ron and Mum took Ron upstairs. Dad rounded on us and…"

"…It wasn't pretty. We've never heard him yell before and we instantly knew that we had gone way past what was acceptable for a prank. We instantly apologized to Ron and told him that the door should've unlocked after a minute but the spell had failed. We were grounded for a month and had to do Ron's share of the chores. Since then we've never pulled a prank that we haven't already tested and ensured that it won't fail." They explained, the others listening with surprise and interest.

"Well, it's good that you learned from that." Hermione said, the others agreeing as Fred and George smiled sheepishly and nodded.

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November 30th

Neville groaned as he rubbed his arm. Beside him Hermione wasn't fairing much better as she was limping slightly. They had just finished working out with Harry and the others. It was already paying off greatly; especially in Neville's case. All of his lingering baby fat had disappeared and has begun forming into muscles. He was also letting his hair grow out slightly and is making plans to get it styled during the holidays. He had already sent home a letter to his grandmother telling her that his shoulders are broader and the resizing charms on his clothes are slowly being strained due to his increase in muscle mass and decrease in weight. He'll definitely need a new wardrobe by summer at the rate he's going. Hermione admitted to herself that she'll also need to get a new wardrobe as well since she's becoming trimmer and has been gaining some muscle mass as well. She knew that her parents would be shocked at the changes she has undergone and her newfound like of working out. She just hoped that her parents would like her friends.

Walking down the first set of moving stairs, they both frowned as the staircase decided to move on them. Holding onto the rails, they waited for the staircase to stop moving before continuing their descent.

"I swear, those baths hardly do anything anymore." Hermione sighed, wincing as she stepped off the last stair.

"I'm still waiting for when our bodies supposedly get used to the pain." Neville muttered, Hermione nodding in agreement.

Nearby, Draco, Pansy, Sabrina and Theo stopped when they heard the two Lions heading in their direction. Draco's eyes flashed as his mind instantly thought of getting revenge on Potter. He couldn't believe that his godfather hadn't defended him from McGonagall or got him out of those detentions. Being forced to clean the several trophy rooms by hand had been a humiliating task, especially since he hadn't been allowed to use magic of any kind besides the polish that he had been given. By the end of the first night he had been sorely tempted to give Missus Norris a good kick, preferably over the nearest railing. At the end of his detentions McGonagall or his godfather would come and collect him and escort him back to the Slytherin common room. He had hoped that by now he would have the title of Slytherin Prince but apparently Zabini was earning that title. He couldn't fathom why considering Zabini is a half-breed! It went against everything he had been told and the title of the Prince of Slytherin is rightfully his! His father had held that title with his mother claiming the title as the Princess of Slytherin. To make matters worse the title of Princess had apparently been claimed by Greengrass. At least she's a full Pureblood though she's beginning to prove herself to be a blood traitor by hanging around Potter and his group.

"Dray?" Pansy hissed, jerking her head towards the corner where they could hear Longbottom and the Mudblood know-it-all.

"Tripping jinxes. Hit the Mudblood with Densaugo and petrify Longbottom." Draco hissed, the others nodding as they got into range so they could hit their intended victims.

Hermione and Neville talked softly about their training, though they paused when they saw Tonks heading towards them with a few books in her arms. She grinned when she saw the two First Years and called out to them. Meanwhile, Draco and the others seriously thought about pulling back from their plans when they heard the voice of the Head Girl. However, Draco shook his head and scowled at the others when he saw their looks of panic. Instead, he muttered the tripping jinx and watched as a thin, magical line appeared at the bend in the hallway and extended to the opposite wall. If they managed to hit Longbottom and Granger before running for it then Tonks won't know it was them who jinxed and hexed the stupid Lions. The magical tripwire disappeared within a few seconds and the group silently moved backwards and further into the shadow of an alcove nearby which provided them a good vantage point to fire their chosen jinxes and hexes. Sabrina was already planning on giving Granger boils that would spread across her entire body instead of just her face while Pansy was going to be the one to make the Mudblood's teeth grow. Draco and Theo were planning on hitting Longbottom with Draco petrifying him and Theo hitting him with the antler growing jinx.

The trio continued on their way down the hallway, though Hermione paused when she saw something glint on the floor. Tonks and Neville stopped when they saw Hermione wasn't following them. Hermione narrowed her eyes when she looked at the floor and Tonks' eyes widened when she saw Hermione's eyes flash with the telltale golden flash that belonged to assassins. Hermione pulled out her wand and, recalling a revealing spell that normally wasn't taught until Fourth or Fifth Year, quickly casted it on the floor. Her eyes widened when the floor flashed softly; confirming that something was on the floor that shouldn't be there.

"Someone's put a trap on the floor." She said, Tonks and Neville looking at the corner and the floor.

Tonks glanced at Hermione, shock spreading through her body when she realized that Hermione had been able to detect the trap before they had sprung it. Looking at Neville, she nearly fell over when she saw the same flash in the blonde's eyes. Neville promptly grabbed Hermione's and Tonks' hands and led them down the opposite way without a word. He stopped once they were a few feet away from the corner and reached up, twisting a lamp on the wall and causing a small section of the wall to slide away; revealing a hidden passage.

"Harry and Dean showed me where this is. It leads down to the main floor though in a hallway that isn't normally used too often." He explained, waiting for Tonks to cast Lumos before they headed down the short flight of stairs.

"Hermione, how did you know there was a trap on the floor?" Tonks asked, her voice soft as Hermione seemed to falter in her step before she continued walking.

"It's just something I've always been able to sense." She said, her voice soft as she shrugged lightly.

"I could tell there were others waiting around the corner. I always chalked it up to being my magic helping me out. It helped me to hide from my Uncle when I was younger." Neville chimed in, not wanting Hermione to feel like the odd one out.

"Well, there's nothing wrong with having some added senses. I just wouldn't go around telling others about them." Tonks said, her voice firm as the two First Years looked at her and nodded.

"Do you know who was waiting around the corner?" She asked, looking at Neville who shifted uneasily before nodding.

"Yeah. I could read their auras. It was Malfoy, Nott, Parkinson and Dragon-Heart. I wouldn't be surprised if they were waiting to attack Hermione and I. Malfoy would see it as a way to get to Harry." He said, Hermione scowling as she thought of the group.

"Everyone knows that Harry is fiercely protective of his friends. He'd likely do something foolish and rash if we were attacked." She said, shaking her head as Tonks snorted lightly.

"That's an understatement. Though, don't you have your charm bracelet, Hermione?" She asked, watching as Hermione flushed and shifted.

"I…I took it off while we were training and I forgot to put it back on. No one besides my friends and you know that the bracelet is enchanted. Malfoy and his lot would've found out if I had been wearing it and the jinxes bounced off." Hermione said, Tonks and Neville nodding in agreement.

"You should put it back on. Malfoy and the others will be angry that their little ambush didn't work. I just hope they remember to take down whatever trap they had set up." Tonks said, frowning as she thought of the injuries that could happen to innocent students.

"I think it was a Tripping jinx. Malfoy would've wanted to take us out when we're down. I'm surprised they didn't back away when they heard you join us." Hermione said, watching as Neville reached up and opened another hidden door.

"Remember, Mione, this is Malfoy we're talking about. He's proving to be slightly more intelligent than Ronald. If they had been caught by Tonks they would've been in serious trouble unless they attempted to knock her out as well." Neville said, the two girls scoffing and shaking their heads as they headed out into the hallway.

Heading through the halls, they made it to the Great Hall without any incident. Malfoy and his goons were already sitting at the Slytherin table and they glared at the trio fiercely when they entered the enormous room. Hermione and Neville rolled their eyes and joined their friends at the Gryffindor table, to which they hurriedly piled food on their plates before telling their friends about Malfoy's latest attempted ambush. Tonks, meanwhile, wrote down a small message and duplicated it before cupping it in her hand. A faint light flashed between her hands and she glanced up at the head table. Professor Snape had been watching her and thus had noticed what she had done. He nodded sharply to her before going back to his meal. Professor McGonagall blinked and lightly patted one of the pockets of her robe. Looking at the House Tables, she caught Tonks' eye and nodded slightly; silently telling the young woman that she had gotten the note.

Tonks only got the chance to meet with the two Master Assassins when classes were done for the day. Professor McGonagall sent her a messenger patronus when she was in her dorm room asking her to come to the Room of Requirement. Tonks hurried to comply, telling her friends in the common rom that she needed some air. Heading up to the seventh floor, she used some of the new hidden passages that Harry and Dean had shown her to make it there in five minutes. She was slightly surprised to see Harry, Dean and the twins there as well. All of them looked at each other in confusion before heading through the door when it appeared before them. Stepping into the room, they found themselves in a common room type area with plenty of chairs and a few couches for them to sit on. Professors Snape and McGonagall were already seated in chairs near each other.

"Please, sit. There's something we must talk about." Severus said, nodding to the couches and chairs.

The group headed over and sat down; waiting for a tea service to appear on the coffee table in front of them before the two masters began speaking.

"During lunch Trainee Tonks brought to our attention that Miss Hermione Jean Granger and Mister Neville Francis Longbottom may be Assassins." Minerva began, watching as her Lions looked at Tonks in shock.

Tonks, at the prompting of Professor Snape, explained what had happened in the hallway and during her chat with Hermione and Neville. Severus wasn't happy in learning that four of 'his' Snakes had been prepared to ambush Hermione and Neville, though his displeasure increased when Tonks explained that, according to Neville, they hadn't backed down when she joined them either. For the four First Years to be prepared to attack not only two other First Years but the Head Girl as well spoke volumes about Draco's arrogance and his belief that he can't do wrong. All of them were greatly interested in learning that Hermione can sense and see magical and non-magical traps while Neville can see auras. Both were rare but coveted abilities in the Brotherhood.

"Now, we will obviously cast the spell to determine if Miss Granger and Mister Longbottom are, indeed, Assassins but what happens after is something we want to discuss with you." Minerva explained, the others nodding slowly.

"Miss Granger is a Muggleborn; thus her parents will also be in danger when we inform them about their daughter's abilities. Mister Thomas-Woods, we'd like you and your mother to be there when we inform them." Severus added, Dean blinking before nodding in understanding.

"Makes sense. Mum was in the exact same position that they'll be in."

"Mister Longbottom, on the other hand, has been raised by his grandmother. As a Pureblood, she and Neville should be more accepting of the idea. However, Harrison, we'd like you to be there since you are Mister Longbottom's godbrother. I believe Mister Longbottom would be more comfortable knowing that you're a trainee and also there for moral support." Minerva said, watching as Harry thoughtfully looked at the ground.

"I have another idea." Harry said, making the others look at him.

"Why not have the Grangers and Madame Longbottom visit my family's house and tell them all then? It would be easier to explain everything and they'll be able to meet my parents, Dean, his mum and Tonks and her parents. Not only that, but I was thinking of inviting Fred and George to join Dean and I at Othello Estate for the holidays. That way they can continue their training and spend time with friends rather than be stuck here with Ronnikins and Percy." Harry said, looking at the twins and grinning at their wide-eyed look.

"We'd love to!" Fred gushed, a grin on his face as his twin nodded rapidly.

"We just need to get permission from Dad but I'm sure he'll have no problem with us staying with you. He'll likely just tell Mum we're spending the holiday with Lee or another of our friends." George added, eagerness in his voice as the others smiled.

"Hermione and Neville will feel more comfortable if we're around when they learn about what their talents mean." Dean said, smiling at his professors/trainers.

"Though…there might be a problem with Hermione's dad…"George muttered, making Harry, Dean and Fred wince while the others looked at him in confusion.

"What do you mean?" Severus asked, frowning lightly as the group looked at each other.

"Hermione's dad has a real problem with her being a Witch. Apparently he keeps hinting that she'll want to come back home and go back to her normal schooling. He doesn't like the idea of her having magic and being 'different'. It's causing a lot of problems at home." Harry said, his voice soft as Minerva sighed.

"Admittedly I had feared this. Mister Granger reacted negatively when I first visited them when Hermione turned eleven. Missus Granger, however, made sure that they all heard me out and asked if I give them time to think about everything. I honestly feared that Miss Granger wouldn't be joining us here at Hogwarts. However, I believe that Miss Granger and her mother convinced Mister Granger to allow her to come here." Minerva said, making the others sigh.

"Sadly, magic has created many problems in families. We have quite a few children who are orphans or are living with relatives because their parents or guardians couldn't handle the idea of them being able to wield magic." Severus said, scowling as he thought of his own father and how Tobias abused him and his mother when he was young.

"Well, we can only hope that Hermione and her mum can make her dad see sense." Tonks said, the others nodding in agreement.

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As they entered December the Heads of Houses began taking down names of those who were heading home and those who were staying at the school over the holidays. Fred and George eagerly wrote to their dad asking for permission to stay with Harry and Dean during the holidays. Arthur responded back the next morning giving them permission. He also explained that construction has already begun on the house and all of their things are now in storage. Molly and Ginny are already in Romania spending time with Charlie and Bill who is visiting Charlie as well. Fred and George were more than happy with this and eagerly signed up with Professor McGonagall with the information that they're staying at a friend's house. Percy was rather accepting of this and was also heading to a friend's house though Ron was rather upset that his brothers have already found someone to stay with. He certainly didn't want to be the only one of his family here at the school so he accepted Seamus' offer of heading to the Irish boy's house.

Their professors were beginning to crack down on their assignments, tests and quizzes. Hermione loved the extra work and was often asking her professors if there was anything she could do for extra credit. Her friends tried to get her to calm down, though they were used to Hermione's…exuberance when it came to her grades and assignments. They talked about what they were hoping to do over the holiday. Hermione complained about how her dad always tried to get her and her mum to go on a ski trip in France even though she and her mum never really enjoyed going skiing before. However, she did hope for her aunt and uncle to visit sometime during the holidays. Neville explained that his holiday was likely to be rather boring since his grandmother normally went to the Ministry's Yule Ball and he was either left at the manor or had to go with her. Susan had the same problem, though she often spent time at Hannah's house. Hannah explained that she'll have to deal with her brother's girlfriend visiting this holiday which she wasn't really looking forward to.

"It's not that I don't mind Miranda, it's just that I could do without seeing them draped all over each other." Hannah sighed, finishing up her stretches.

"Your brother's in…Ravenclaw, right?" Hermione asked, heading over to the balance beam as Hannah shook her head.

"Hufflepuff. He's a Sixth Year and a prefect." Hannah corrected, watching as Hermione stepped onto the balance beam and began walking across.

"Tracy's brother is in Ravenclaw: Roger. He's been made Quidditch captain this year and has been driving Tracy insane." Susan added, Jillian frowning as she looked at her friend.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, Roger was hoping that Tracy wouldn't be in Slytherin. He's been overprotective of her since the start of the year. He's also on the lookout for any…boys who take an interest in his little sister." Susan explained, the others shaking their heads and giggling lightly.

"You've noticed how protective Harry and Dean are, right?" Eliana asked, her voice hushed as they looked over to the other side of the room where the boys were working out.

"Really?!" Hermione asked, her eyes wide as the other girls looked at her with incredulous looks.

"Hermione, hardly anyone dares to approach us or attempt to harm us because of Harry, Dean and now Neville. Malfoy and his lot along with Ron and his group are the only exceptions to that. Not only that, but I've seen many older girls giving us rather…nasty looks." Eliana said, shuddering lightly as Hannah and Susan nodded.

"It's because those three are considered three of the richest students in our school. Harry stands to inherit two massive fortunes and possibly a third if his godfather doesn't marry and have an heir of his own. The Longbottom fortune isn't anything to sneeze at either; nor is the Woods fortune. All four families belong to the Most Ancient and Noble class and anyone who will marry into those families will be instantly respected. Even if they're from a 'lower' class they'll be catapulted into the highest class of society." Jillian explained, the others nodding in agreement and growing understanding.

"Those other girls see us as potential threats and will try to think of ways to either get the boys away from us or become a part of our group." Susan added, heading over the built-in trampoline in the floor.

Hermione shook her head as she thought of everything that she's learned from her friends. The politics going on in the school were hard to follow and now she has to worry about others trying to worm their way into their group of friends in order to get close to the boys in hopes of dating and eventually marrying them. But…it did make sense about some of the things she's been seeing lately. Cho Chang, a rather pretty older Ravenclaw, has been sneering and scowling whenever they're in the Great Hall. Not only that, but some of the other girls in their year and above have been eyeing them with rather…envious looks now that she's thought about it. Shaking her head, she turned her attention back to her workout.

Things continued at a normal pace with the group working on their casting speed and accuracy once they finished their physical workout. The twins were a great help in this and the Room provided them prizes for whoever managed to get the fastest time or more accurate shots whenever they had a competition. While they practiced, Harry told the twins what they could expect at his house and what his little sister is like. The twins were more than excited to see Harry's home and were rather interested in meeting all of the other Assassins and their trainers. Millicent told them that she's looking forward to heading back to the orphanage to see her brother again. Susan extended the invitation for the New Years party at Bones Manor to include Millicent's little brother and encouraged Harry to bring his sister as well. She didn't want to exclude anyone from the party and couldn't see any harm in inviting close siblings.

None of them were looking forward to doing their Christmas shopping; especially since they left on the twenty-second which gave them the twenty-third to shop and then Christmas Eve. It also meant that Diagon Alley will be extremely busy with students and family doing all their shopping that they hadn't been able to do while they were in school. Of course, Third Years and up were lucky since they got a Hogsmeade visit on the twenty-first. They could get most of their shopping done then, though the younger years had to wait until the break began. Of course all of them made lists of what they'd like for gifts and the twins were glad that they had worked hard that summer so they have enough money to purchase gifts for all their friends and family. Throughout the rest of their workout and practice, they laughed and joked around; talking about their families and bemoaning the fact that their professors will be giving them assignments to complete over the holidays.

"I overheard Ronnikins talking a few days ago." Fred said, the group stopping to look at him.

"Oh?" Millicent asked, accepting a towel from Hermione and wiping the sweat from her forehead.

"He and Seamus haven't given up on whatever the Cerberus is guarding on the third floor. They overhead Hagrid muttering about it so Seamus asked him if he knew what was on the third floor." George explained, the others frowning as they thought of what Hagrid might accidently reveal.

"What did Hagrid say?" Harry asked, concern for the gentle man.

"Well, he said that Ron and Seamus shouldn't go digging around in matters that don't concern them. Apparently whatever is beneath the trapdoor is between Professor Dumbledore and Nicolas Flamel."

"Since then Ronnie and his friends have been trying to find anything on Nicolas Flamel. Though they haven't had any luck."

Harry and the others frowned as they thought about what the twins had just told them. For Harry, the name Nicolas Flamel rang a bell in his mind though he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Hermione, of course, wanted to instantly head to the library and look up possible books that might hold information on Flamel, though Fred and George explained that Ron and his group has already looked through many books which might've held any information about the Wizard.

"I can ask my parents, Mione. Who knows, perhaps a book in our family library has information on him. I can also check the Potter library at my manor." Harry offered, blinking when Hermione whipped around and looked at him with wide eyes.

"You have a library?!" She asked, awe in her voice as Harry blinked again and nodded slowly.

"Yeah, of course. All pureblood and some halfblood families have libraries in their main ancestral homes. The Othello library is in our estate, the Potter library is in our estate and my godfather has his library at Black Manor though he has a smaller library in Grimmauld Place. I also have a smaller library in Potter Manor." Harry explained, the others nodding.

"We have a library at home too." Susan chimed in, smiling as Hermione looked at them all with wide eyes.

"The Goblins and our former House Elves managed to save the Woods library and put all the books into a library trunk. It's in the family main vault." Dean said, chuckling as Hermione nearly vibrated in excitement.

"You can always visit our homes sometime during the school holidays, Mia. Remember, there's Christmas break, Spring Break and then the summer. Spring break is only for a week but that's still a week where you could visit for a few days." Neville said, smiling kindly at his friend.

"My mum and I had made a kind of library in the basement of our home. We both love reading and wanted a place to store all our books. Dad wasn't too happy since he had hoped to turn the basement into his 'man cave' but mum had a small outer building made for his space." Hermione said, blinking with some of the others looked at her in confusion.

"Man cave?" Susan asked, frowning as Neville shrugged.

"It's kind of like the ladies parlor, Nev, just for men." Harry clarified, Hermione and Eliana nodding.

"Oh." Neville said, tilting his head to the side as he thought about it.

They soon finished their training and began heading out to get ready for their evening classes. However, Harry called Neville and Hermione back and asked them to remain behind. The pair were confused, but they stayed back and waited for the last of their friends to leave.

"What's up?" Hermione asked, blinking when Harry pulled out two envelops.

"My parents would like to meet your parents, Mione and your grandmother, Nev. They would like to speak with them the day we head back so they were thinking of picking up all of us from King's Cross and we'll head back to our house in Tandridge. It's about a…private matter." Harry said, watching as Neville and Hermione looked at him with concern.

"Is everything okay?" Hermione asked, concern in her voice as she accepted the letter from Harry.

"Yeah, everything's fine." Harry said, smiling gently at Hermione as Neville looked at him closely.

"It's about House matters, isn't it?" He asked, blinking when Harry rubbed the back of his neck and shifted.

"Kinda. It's rather…sensitive information that I shouldn't talk about without your parents here. Fred, George, Dean and Tonks know; only because they went through the same thing with their parents." Harry explained, Hermione and Neville looking at each other in confusion before nodding.

"We'll send these home right away. How would my parents get to and from your house? It's quite the drive for them to make." Hermione said, frowning as she thought of the route her parents would have to take.

"There's a small silver hoop in the envelope which is a passphrase activated portkey. When they grab onto the portkey, all they have to do is say the activation phrase and they'll be portkeyed to the enclosed backyard of my house. The letter to your grandmother, Nev, includes the floo address and password so she can floo to my house. You'll be able to portkey back home, Hermione." Harry said, the pair nodding in understanding.

Hermione and Neville headed out of the room and hurried to Gryffindor tower. Both of them split up and headed to their dorm rooms where they sent the letters home. Hermione was, admittedly, nervous about her parents' meeting Harry and his parents along with her other friends. While she wasn't worried about her mum, she was worried about her dad. Her dad might see this as more confirmation that she has no intention of leaving the Magical world and he might try to keep her from hanging out with her friends during the holidays. Of course her mum wouldn't let that happen, but it'll only add more friction to their relationship. The letters from her mum haven't said anything about the true friction going on between her parents. She's always been close with her mum though things between her and her dad had always been…strained at best.

Her dad had always wished to her be more athletic. When she joined the youth football league he had been so proud of her; especially when she became the star striker. However, whenever she devoted more time to her books and studies he would always just watch her or would try and pull her away from her books to get outside or make friends with others. Whenever he and her mum were called to the school because of bullies, her dad would defend her but in private he would encourage her to stick up for herself and not give her fellow classmates a reason to bully her. He just didn't really understand her struggles or her love of books and learning. It had always been her mum who had encouraged her to read and learn though she also encouraged her to try and make friends at the same time.

"Maybe Dad will change his mind about everything once he meets Harry and the others." She muttered, closing her mailbox and setting it down on the shelf on her headboard.

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

Hermione and Neville received word from their respective guardians that they'll be at Harry's house on the twenty-second. Time seemed to fly by as the students gathered their holiday assignments and took their end of term tests for their classes. Fred and George were excited to be heading to Othello Estate and couldn't wait to meet other Assassins like them. Of course they did promise to visit their friend Lee sometime during the holidays, since they would've spent the holiday at Lee's house if Harry hadn't offered. They were very happy to be out from under their mother's thumb for the holiday though they expected to get a letter telling them that she's disappointed that they weren't spending the holiday watching over ickle Ronnikins. They also noticed that Percy seems to be spending a lot of time with the female Ravenclaw Prefect: Penelope Clearwater. The urge to tease their older brother about his obvious crush was highly tempting but their female friends scolded them and warned them to leave Percy alone less they find themselves pranked heavily.

Five feet of snow blanketed Hogwarts and its grounds. The students could be found outside having snowball wars, ice-skating on the frozen Great Lake and building various snow forts and sculptures. Fred, George and Lee got into trouble for charming snowballs to follow Professor Quirrell around and bounce off the back of his turban. They ended up spending the night before they left for King's Cross in detention with Professor Snape cleaning cauldrons. The morning that the Hogwarts Express left, everyone was up early and ensuring their trunks were packed and ready. Rickie and Mira were noticeably excited as the pair were constantly playing and running/flying around. Breakfast was a hurried affair before everyone was ushered outside and to the carriages. Harry and his friends said goodbye to Hagrid on the way out and the man smiled and wished them a happy holiday; to which Norbert rumbled at them and nuzzled against Mira before the group hurried outside.

"So auntie said that the idea of a New Years party sounds great. She plans on letting me do all the planning for the party since it was my idea." Susan said, excitement in her voice as the others smiled.

"I know my parents won't have a problem in letting me, Eliza and the twins go." Harry said, rubbing Mira's head as she nuzzled against his neck.

"My mum won't have a problem with it. She's always talking about me needing to get out of the house." Dean said, shrugging lightly as the others laughed at him.

"I'll need to talk to the matron about me and Will coming but it shouldn't be a problem. Older teens at the orphanage are always flooing or portkeying to their friend's houses or parties." Millicent said, a soft smile on her face.

"I'll have to talk with Gran but there shouldn't be too much of a problem. She's always having to leave me at home because she has to attend a party herself." Neville admitted, shifting in his seat as the others looked at him.

"It'll be up to my parents as well. Dad might want me home during the holiday." Hermione said, her voice soft as Eliana and Jillian cuddled in close to her.

"My parents will be all too happy to let me go. It'll be a heck of a lot more fun than any of the parties that my parents hold." Jillian said, rolling her eyes as she thought of some of the previous parties her parents had held.

"I should be allowed to go. I know my parents are glad that I have so many friends so it shouldn't be a problem." Eliana said, the others nodding happily.

They soon arrived in Hogsmeade and joined the long line to find their trunks and other luggage before slowly making their way onto the Express. Eliana found them a compartment near the back of the train; two cars away from Draco and his goons thankfully. Putting their trunks up on the storage rack, they settled down and began pulling out things to do on the ride back home. Hermione began reading ahead in Potions while Eliana, Jillian, Hannah and Susan talked and giggled together while looking over the latest edition of Teen Witch Weekly. Harry and Mira read a Defense book the Room had provided him while Dean and Neville played a game of Exploding Snap. It wasn't long before the train started moving and Fred and George popped into the compartment to check on things and to ask Harry where he wanted them to meet him and his parents at the station.

"If you want to wait up and follow me and the others off of the train then we'll find them easily and we won't have to track you down." Harry suggested, grinning as the twins blinked before grinning at him.

"Sure thing-"

"-Harry-kins!"

Harry rolled his eyes and tossed a ball of wadded up parchment at the twins as they retreated out of the compartment. It wasn't much longer before Hermione finished her book and joined the other girls in talking about the latest fashions and celebrity gossip. Harry, Dean and Neville soon began a game of hangman, which also drew the attention of the girls and it became a rather interesting game; especially when Hermione thought of the word or phrase they had to guess. Hermione was cackling evilly the more frustrated the group became before she finally relented and began giving them clues by pointing to certain things or miming things. It certainly made things interesting and rather fun since they were then guessing what Hermione was trying to tell them. After a few games of hangman, they then decided to try their hand at charades, which generated a lot of laughter and some rather hilarious scenarios. Sadly, not everything could continue to go smoothly for the group of friends.

It was as Neville was pantomiming flying a broom when the door to their compartment was rudely opened. Ronald, Seamus, Lavender and Parvati stood there, causing Neville to nearly trip and fall.

"What the bloody hell was that, Squib? Trying to show the others how a Pureblood shouldn't act?" Ronald asked, smirking as his friends laughed while Neville's face turned red in embarrassment.

"What Neville was doing is none of your business, Weasley." Jillian snapped, scowling as the redhead looked at her and sneered.

"No one asked you, freak." Ron hissed, though he paled slightly when Jillian hissed at him; revealing a pair of elongated fangs.

"Don't bother, Jillie. He's not worth getting expelled over. It doesn't matter if you and your family have diplomatic immunity here; his blood would likely poison you with on how much fatty foods he eats." Susan said primly, mentally smirking as three of the group in front of them paled.

"Besides, you don't want to get your blouse messy. I've heard that blood is very hard to get out of clothing." Millicent said, patting Jillian's hand as the half-Vampire slowly calmed.

"You're right, Millie. I think my great-great-great-grandfather would be most disappointed that my first real kill was wasted on such a…insignificant speck of a human being." Jillian said, smirking as Ron paled drastically and took a step back.

Thankfully Lavender and Parvati had enough sense to grab the boys and drag them away before they could open their mouths and say something that'll get them hexed or worse. Neville shook his head and closed the compartment door once more before they returned to their game. Fed and George stopped by after a few minutes; asking what had happened between them and Ron since their little brother had come running to them complaining that his life was being threatened. Of course they didn't believe a word out of his big mouth and Jillian and the others explained what had happened. Fred and George groaned at the stupidity of their youngest brother and apologized to Neville and Jillian on behalf of their family. They also told the group that the snack cart was on its way.

The group waited for the snack cart and bought enough snacks and drinks to last for the rest of the trip home. After settling down with their snacks and drinks with the door closed, they talked softly amongst each other. However, Harry paused when his communications mirror began vibrating in his pocket. Setting down his things, he dug out the small item and flipped it open, grinning when he saw the image of his godfather in the mirror.

"Hey, Padfoot." He said, grinning as Sirius smiled at him.

"Hey, Pup. How's the ride home?"

"Long as usual. What's up? Where are you?" Harry asked, frowning as he peered into the background and saw various people moving around behind his godfather.

"I'm currently at the International Portkey terminal. Kano and I are heading to Japan for the holidays. I'm sorry I won't be there to see you, Pup. But…I want to ask Kano's father for his blessings. I want to propose to her." Sirius said, rubbing the back of his neck as Harry's eyes widened before he beamed at the man.

"That's great! Just don't let Lord Saito intimidate you. He's allies with our family and knows you're my godfather." Harry said, Sirius nodding lightly.

"I'll try to keep my cool. It's bound to be interesting." Sirius said, a hint of nervousness in his voice as Harry smiled.

"It'll be fine, Siri. Remember, translation charms can only go so far." Harry advised, his godfather snorting lightly before he looked 'off camera'.

"Well, I gotta go, Pup. Kano's back from using the facilities and our turn for our portkey is almost ready. I'll talk to you again soon. Have fun and behave!" Sirius said, making Harry laugh.

"You too. Give Kano a hug for me." He said, his godfather nodding before ending the connection.

Harry shook his head fondly before putting away the communications mirror. He rejoined the conversation in which he told his friends a little about Kano and how she and his godfather had met. Hermione and the other girls thought it was sweet that Kano and Sirius had met because Kano had been Harry and Dean's private defense tutor when they were younger. Harry and Dean were all too happy to talk about Kano and their other tutors. Their friends were surprised in learning that Dean's family lives on the grounds of Othello Estate, but it also made sense in a way. Thankfully the rest of the ride wasn't interrupted by any annoying prats in the form of Malfoy and his group. Tonks did stop by and check on them. She ended up staying for a few minutes and just chatting about what she has planned for the holidays. It turns out that she and her parents are going to be heading to America to visit her dad's brother and his family.

Harry was slightly upset that his cousin wouldn't be joining him and his family for the holiday, but she promised to be back in time for New Years, which Susan happily extended the invitation for the party to her. Surprisingly, her aunt was allowing all of them to spend the night and there will be fireworks at midnight to celebrate the coming year. All of them were excited about this, especially since Susan was planning on getting the fireworks from Sirius and Remus' store which meant that the fireworks would last longer and would form shapes and patterns in the air. For Hermione and Eliana, this was rather surprising and every exciting for them and they couldn't wait to get permission from their parents. Harry expressed his happiness at having a reason to avoid the Ministry's Yule ball. His parents didn't want to make him, Dean and the twins attend the ball and they felt rather confident that the other Assassins on the estate could keep the group out of trouble. Remus was planning on spending the holiday there as well which was reason for even more excitement.

Tonks soon left to continue her patrol of the train. The twins rejoined them and were soon talking about what they wanted to get their parents and siblings for presents.

"Mum sent us a letter yesterday." George said, digging through the pockets of his jeans.

"Oh?" Millicent asked, tilting her head to the side as the two redheads sighed and nodded.

"Ronnikins complained that we were 'abandoning' him by wanting to spend the holiday with Harry." Fred said, the others scoffing and rolling their eyes.

"Of course she told us to change our plans so we can take care of precious little Ronnie. Never mind the fact that Dad already gave us permission to go." George said, finally pulling out a folded piece of parchment.

"She demanded that George, Percy and I spend the holiday with Ronnie and devote our time to him. Merlin forbid we actually want to do something other than spend time with ickle Ronnikins." Fred drawled, shaking his head as George passed around the letter to the others.

"What the-?!" Hermione muttered, her eyes wide as she read the letter in disbelief.

"T-This is basically having you watch him every day!" She exclaimed, frowning as she re-read the letter again.

Fred, George,

Ron wrote to me telling me that you both are planning on heading to a friend's house for the holiday and leave him behind at school. Is that anyway to treat family?! Honestly, your father and I raised you both better than that. It's bad enough that your father, Ginny and I are unable to have you all join us in Romania. Add in the fact that Percy has already made plans to leave the school and spend the holiday with his new girlfriend and her family. You should be spending the holiday with your younger brother; not going off and leaving him alone.

I don't care if your father has already agreed that you can go to your friend's house. You should go and tell Professor McGonagall that you've changed your mind and are staying behind to spend time with Ron. Next Christmas should see all of you coming home for the holidays. The new house should be done sometime late February to early March. For the last month or so of construction your father, Ginny and I will be staying on the grounds of our property in a tent. Once the house is finished we may pull all of you out of school for a few weekends so you can personalize your new rooms and bathroom.

We've already decided that you both will get your own room with a shared bathroom between them. Because of your new…occupation, your father has also given the two of you a work room near your rooms. I expect you both to keep that room clean along with your bathroom. Ron and Percy will share a bathroom with Bill and Charlie's room having a bathroom between them as well. Their rooms will mostly be used as guest rooms and their effects will be stored in the new basement storage room.

I expect to receive a from either one of you or Ron telling me that you two are going to spend the holidays with Ron at the castle.

Love,

Mum

"Wow…she really expects you to listen to her, doesn't she?" Hannah asked, surprise in her voice as the twins nodded.

"Yup."

"Mum always gets her way less we want to get a howler from her. Those are the worst." George said, his brother shuddering at the thought.

"Katie was telling us about them. Apparently you can hear them four floors up." Jillian said, frowning at the thought.

"Thankfully we were spared because Ronnie decided to spend the holiday with Seamus and we think that Dad intervened." Fred said, accepting the letter back and stuffing it back into his pocket after folding it.

"Well, let's do something to pass time. Enough talking about Ronald." Hermione said, the others laughing even though they agreed with her whole heartedly.

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

The train pulling into the station saw the twins helping the First Years by shrinking their trunks for them. The group thanked the twins profusely before joining the crowd of students filling the main car to get off the train. It was slow moving and Dean was very glad he had managed to coax Ricki back into his carrier so he wouldn't get lost or accidently get squished by the press of bodies. When they finally stepped off the train, they began looking around in an attempt to spot their parents and guardians. Tonks easily found them and joined their group. She was the one who spotted her parents, Harry's parents, Remus and the Abbotts standing off to the side of the main platform and away from the crowd. With Tonks and the twins leading the way, the group hurried over to the adults.

"Harry!"

Harry laughed and swept Eliza into the air; spinning her around as she squealed and giggled in delight. Delilah stepped forward and hugged her son tightly as soon as he let Eliza down before hugging Dean. Lucas beamed at his son before shaking hands with the twins. Introductions were made and Jillian and Eliana hurried into the crowd as soon as they spotted their parents. They only had to wait a few moments before Eliana led a rather stunningly beautiful couple over. It was easy to see where she had gotten her looks and her parents were rather happy to meet all of their daughter's new friends. Jillian returned with her parents; in which her mother caused a lot of people nearby to slowly back away at the aura of power that radiated from her. All of them greeted Evangeline Michaels with respect which made the Vampiress smile warmly at them.

They spoke for a little while until Millicent saw one of the workers from the orphanage beckoning to her. She promised to keep in touch with them all and that she will see them all at Susan's for the party. It wasn't long after that, that Jillian left with her parents since her little sister had been left at home with the nanny. Hannah and Susan left with Hannah's parents a few minutes later once Hannah's brother joined them.

"The Grangers and Augusta are waiting for us at our house. We'll be portkeying there." Lucas said, leading the group further away from the shrinking crowds and to the portkey area.

"Have you used a portkey before, Hermione?" Neville asked, looking at the brunette as Lucas pulled out a golden chain.

"Yes. One of the first things that was covered in my Customs class was various ways that Magicals travel. We used a portkey to go to Diagon Alley and to Phoenix Town." Hermione said, shifting and grabbing onto the chain tightly.

After ensuring everyone was gripping onto the chain tightly, in which Mira was gripping onto Harry's chest, Luca muttered the activation phrase. Hermione winced as she felt the jerk behind her navel and the world disappeared around her in a swirl of color. Looking around, she saw the others looked rather comfortable with this way of travel though she doubted that she'll ever truly get used to it for awhile now. It didn't seem to take long before they began slowing down slightly and Hermione braced herself for impact. Touching down on the ground, she grunted slightly from the impact and stumbled, though Remus reached out quickly and steadied the brunette.

"Okay?" Remus asked, smiling gently as she flushed and nodded.

"Yeah, thanks." She said, looking around the large enclosed backyard with interest.

"The key it to turn into the spin and almost prepare yourself for running." Andromeda said, Hermione nodding her head in understanding.

The backyard is very spacious and is covered in two feet of snow. Looking around, Hermione spotted a rather large storage shed in a corner of the yard. She also spotted the pool cover on the ground and it was surrounded by a small fence so someone would stumble on it. She followed the others up to the porch and through the double French doors. They were instantly let into a large living room with many different chairs alongside the huge sectional. Dean was instantly pulled into his mother's arms while his siblings surrounded him and clamored to hug him and ask him questions. Hermione squealed happily when she saw a beautiful brunette older woman with the same warm cinnamon brown eyes as hers. She rushed forward and hugged her mum, making the woman smile and chuckle. Beside her on the couch is a rather handsome dark brown haired man with stern hazel eyes. While he smiled at his daughter, his smile was strained and he didn't look too pleased to be there. Neville hurried forward and hugged his grandmother, to which she chuckled softly and hugged him back warmly.

"What did you think of traveling by portkey?" Hermione asked, detaching from her mum and hugged her dad.

"It was exciting! Remus and Ted were kind enough to make sure we didn't fall." Emma said, smiling at her daughter as Hermione giggled.

"It certainly saved us on petrol." Richard said, wincing slightly at the stern look his wife gave him.

All of them settled down and Emma and Richard were rather surprised when a House Elf suddenly appeared and set down a tea and coffee service along with a few snacks. Augusta smiled at the look and quickly explained what a House Elf is to the Grangers, to which they were slightly alarmed in learning that they're servants. However, Augusta, Andromeda and Delilah hurriedly explained that they treated their House Elves with respect and like they're a part of the family; unlike some people who treated their House Elves horribly. Once they were all settled with something to drink and something to nibble on, Richard spoke up.

"So, why are we here?" He asked, frowning lightly as he looked at the Othellos.

"Augusta, I ask that you and the children take an oath not to repeat what we're about to discuss with anyone else who doesn't already know. This is due to the sensitive nature of what we're about to discuss. Now, Richard, Emma, we will be placing a spell over you that will protect your minds from anyone who might try to enter it and read your thoughts." Delilah said, watching alarm spread through the two Granger adults.

"Would someone try to do that?!" Emma asked, concern in her voice as Lucas sighed and nodded.

"Sadly yes. Hermione can and should learn Occlumency; the art of shielding her mind. It's a useful skill and will also help her memory even more." He explained, smiling softly at the eager look on Hermione's face at the idea of learning something new.

Augusta looked to Andromeda and Ted, in which they nodded minutely. Delilah and Lucas walked Neville and Hermione through taking the oath and the trio soon gave their oath promising not to speak about what was going to be discussed with anyone other than those who already know. Emma quickly gave her permission to have the spell placed over her, though her husband seemed reluctant to accept it. However, when it became clear that his wife and daughter were going to learn with or without him, he nodded his acceptance and the spell was placed over him. All of them settled slightly, though there was a noticeable tension in the air as Delilah and Lucas mentally prepared themselves to tell the group about Assassins and Templars. They knew that Augusta would more than likely accept this given she's already heard about them, but the Grangers were a whole different matter; especially since Harry had warned them of Richard's…reluctance to even accept that his daughter is a Witch.

Starting at the beginning, Lucas and Delilah told the age-old story of Templars and Assassins. Hermione's eyes were wide as she listened to the story; leaning forward on the edge of her seat as she absorbed all the information being given to her. Beside her, her mum gasped and listened with wide eyes, a hand covering her mouth as Delilah and Lucas talked about the constant struggles between the two groups. Augusta was shocked as well, though she was more shocked at the fact that her grandson is most likely an Assassin. After all, why else would they be telling her and the Grangers this story? Harry, Dean, the twins and Tonks chimed in at different points during the story; adding in what they've learned and how things have gotten better for them over the years. Emma was shocked and concerned that Harry and Dean were learning how to become Assassins, though she refrained from saying anything as Lucas and Delilah began telling all of them about what training the children received and what expectations they had for when they graduate.

Tonks explained that her training will pick up even more once she graduates this year and she'll be learning how to become a 'full fledge' Assassin and will begin going on missions with older, more seasoned Assassins. Dean's siblings talked about how they live on the estate with Harry and his family along with the other Assassins and their families.

"How do you know Hermione is…an Assassin?" Emma asked, looking down at her daughter in concern.

"Dora here is the one who noticed Hermione and Neville using Eagle Sight which is a power that's specially used by Assassins. She spoke to two Master Assassins who are at Hogwarts and they performed a simple spell on Hermione and Neville. It confirmed that they are Assassins. Harry and Dean were the ones who asked that we gather you here together and explain everything at once rather than asking you all to go to Hogwarts and speak with the Master Assassins privately." Lucas said, Emma nodding lightly.

"What happens now?" Neville asked, glancing up at his grandmother who looked to be in deep thought.

"Well, you and Hermione will speak with your families about the possibility of accepting the fact that you are Assassins and if you will begin your training. All we ask for is an answer by the end of this year. We don't expect an answer right away and we would actually refuse an answer so soon. Of course you and Hermione can talk with Harry, Dean, Fred, George and Tonks about their training and what would change." Delilah said, smiling kindly at the blonde boy.

"I understand what you're going through, Richard, Emma. I'm a single mother with all these ones to look after. I was also a nurse at the local hospital where we used to live. It came as a huge shock for me and I learned when Dean was around five." Cassy said, smiling gently as Emma and Richard looked at her.

Hermione and Neville looked at each other thoughtfully. Learning this explained a lot about their friends that they had been confused about. Their extra 'workouts', the whispered conversations, Harry and Dean often disappearing with the twins to talk about something outside of the common room or up in the older boys' dorm room…it all made sense now. Hermione looked to her parents and saw that her mum was struggling with wrapping her mind around all of this but she looked as if she was thinking it all over. However…her dad worried her. She could see his neck slowly becoming red which meant that he's becoming angry and she could also see the anger and disbelief in his eyes. Worry and a small sense of fear rose within her at those signs; something bad was going to happen.

"You honestly expect us to believe this bull-shite?" Richard growled, making the others look at him with wide eyes.

"Richard!" Emma gasped, though she flinched slightly when he turned angry eyes at her.

"No, Emma, this has gone on far enough! Ever since that…that McGonagall woman came to our house and told some cock and bull story about Hermione being a Witch things have gone downhill. Now they're peddling some shite story that Hermione has these special abilities that make her some kind of killer!" Richard snapped, the others staring at him in shock and alarm.

"But, Dad-"

"Enough, Hermione!" Richard growled, making his daughter flinch and huddle in close to her mother.

"We're leaving, now. I'll be pulling you from that…that school before this holiday is out. Say goodbye to everyone." Richard ordered, standing up and striding towards the main hallway.

"It's about damn time you go to a good school that will ready you for university so you can get an honest and good job. No more of this…hogwash."

"I'm afraid you can't do that, Richard." Lucas said, his voice low but carrying strength as Richard froze and turned slowly to look at the other man.

"Like the bloody hell I can! Hermione is my daughter." He growled, narrowing his eyes as Lucas looked at him calmly.

"That she is. However, when my wife and I visited you after Halloween and talked to both of you about Hermione's magical guardianship, you already made your choice. You made me Hermione's magical guardian. That means, in matters pertaining to the Magical world, I have a say. I will not allow you to pull Hermione out of Hogwarts unless both Emma and Hermione agree with you." Lucas said, watching as Richard sneered at him.

"How dare-"

"Richard Daniel Granger! You will be silent!" Emma exclaimed, her husband looking at her in shock as Emma held onto a weeping Hermione tightly.

"Go into the kitchen, right now." Emma hissed, glaring at her gaping husband before Richard scowled and stormed into the kitchen.

Emma looked down at her daughter and gently ran a hand through Hermione's hair to sooth her. Seeing her daughter and thinking back to all the pictures and letters Hermione had sent home really made Emma think. Hermione had always been a lonely child. Her intelligence and eidetic memory had singled her out and made her an easy target for bullies. It also didn't help that her teachers had complained to them about how far ahead Hermione was in school before they had managed to get Hermione placed into a special advanced class. When Professor McGonagall had come to their house and explained the strange events surrounding Hermione, Emma had been relieved and also in shock that magic is real. However, Richard had been so upset and had nearly demanded that McGonagall leave. He had wanted Hermione to continue her normal education and ignore her being a Witch but she had managed to get Richard to agree to let Hermione go to Hogwarts. Sadly, every few days he was constantly reminding her that Hermione would be all too willing to come back and stop this 'utter nonsense' as he called it.

He refused to see how happy their daughter is. However, she does. Hermione has so many friends and actually fits in at school. She had been shocked when Lucas and Delilah came and told them about the Troll that had gotten into Hogwarts and had nearly agreed with Richard in pulling Hermione out of there. However, Lucas and Delilah had explained everything and also taught them about magical guardians. It had been hard, learning that their opinions and wishes didn't matter too much in the Magical world. They had taken a few minutes to decide to allow Lucas to become their daughter's guardian after they had spoken to him and learned more about him and Delilah along with their children. Now, she's grateful that Lucas is Hermione's guardian. Richard can't do anything unless she and Hermione agree with him and she certainly doesn't agree with how her husband is acting right now.

"Hermione, stay here with your friends. Go ahead and go with them to wherever they're staying for now. I'll keep in touch and I'm sure they'll let us spend some time together." Emma said, giving her daughter a gentle smile as Hermione looked at her with worry and fear filled eyes.

"W-What about you?" She asked, blinking as her mum kissed her forehead.

"Your father and I have things to talk about." Emma said, hugging Hermione tightly as the others looked at her in concern.

"Are you sure you'll be alright?" Remus asked, worry in his voice as Emma smiled tiredly at him.

"I'm sure. Richard knows when he can get away with things but this has gone on too long. Is there a way I can get in touch with Hermione besides letters?" Emma asked, blinking when Delilah hurriedly pulled out a business card.

"This has the main phone. Just ask for Hermione and someone will get her. We can also arrange to have you brought to the estate since you're officially 'in' on our secret." Delilah explained, Emma nodding as she took the card.

"Thank you. Does the portkey bring us back to our house?" Emma asked, receiving a nod from Lucas.

"I'll be back, hopefully with my husband, to ask more questions and to speak with you, Cassie, if you wouldn't mind." Emma said, smiling as the other woman smiled kindly.

"Of course, Emma."

Emma stood and walked into the kitchen, frowning when she saw Richard pacing as he muttered under his breath about something. Sighing, she pulled out the portkey, a small rope, and walked over to him. Richard blinked and frowned when he saw that Hermione wasn't with her, though he wisely kept his mouth shut. Taking hold of the portkey, Emma activated it and they disappeared from the kitchen. In the living room, Hermione sobbed quietly as Harry pulled her into his side and held onto her. The others were looking worriedly at Hermione, watching as Harry gently rocked her in his arms and tried his best to sooth her. Dean and Neville both looked worried but they also looked furious at the way Richard had acted and how he had tried to take Hermione from them. However, they knew that they couldn't think about that right now, they have to be there for Hermione in her time of need right now. They've known for some time now that things at home for Hermione weren't going well but this just slammed that fact home for them. Hopefully Emma will truly be alright and Richard won't do something stupid.

"Augusta, would you like to see the Estate and meet some of the people who would be training Neville if you both decide to allow the training?" Lucas asked, watching as the formidable woman looked at him.

"I would like that. I also think it would be a good idea if the group isn't parted for a while." Augusta said, watching with pride in her eyes as her grandson comforted Hermione by gently rubbing her back.

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