Chapter Eleven: The final straw, A hard but good choice, Support, Christmas and the Alchemist, A new mission

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 Warning: Alright a big warning for this chapter. Please, pay attention. This chapter features domestic abuse of the verbal and physical nature. If any of you have gone through or know someone who has been abused by a loved one I am so terribly sorry and my heart goes out to you. This chapter also talks about divorce; something that has happened to many of my dear friends. I deeply and sincerely apologize if the first section of this chapter brings back any bad memories or causes a negative reaction. It is not my intention to harm any of my readers. However, this needs to happen in order for my story to advance in the way I wish it to. If you'd like to talk to someone about anything, anything at all there are help lines you can call and I'm sure your friends would be more than willing to hear you out. If you'd like to speak with me then I'm more than willing to respond to private messages.

Author's Note: So, this chapter is mostly focusing on Hermione and Emma. However, there are some crucial plot points that are going to be introduced in this chapter as well. I'll tell you this, coming up with a chapter title was hard for this one! Yes, I did make Richard out to be a bad guy, but it's mostly because I've rarely read any stories where Hermione has a dysfunctional family. There have been some where her parents didn't accept her for whatever reason but those are few and far between. Also, there will be another part to this series which will be dedicated to 'short stories'. Those will mostly be one-shots featuring other characters and things that happen in the background that aren't really shown in the main series. The first one is up if you want to read it! Thank you all for your wonderful support and for letting me know what you think! Please 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 Eleven: The final straw, A hard but good choice, Support, Christmas and the Alchemist, A new mission

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

Crowley

Emma stepped away from the living room where the portkey had deposited her and her husband. She knew that, right now, neither she nor Richard would be able to talk without screaming at each other. Right now, they need time to allow their tempers to cool and for them to think about what has happened. What Delilah, Lucas and the others had told them was…mind blowing! However, it was also very worrying. Their daughter is even more special than they had previously thought and has the necessary skills to become an Assassin. Whenever she thought of that word, she thought of ruthless killers who sought out targets. However, what Lucas and Delilah had told them was completely different than anything she had previous thought. The Assassins have a vast and rich history; have lives and fight for the freedom of others. Knowing her daughter as well as she does, Emma could honestly see how her daughter would easily fit into the role of an Assassin; though the thought of her daughter eventually learning how to kill unsettled her.

Taking a deep breath, Emma moved into the kitchen and began making herself a strong cup of coffee. She rolled her eyes when she heard the door to Richard's study slam close. Their relationship had been a rather quick one. Both of them had met in History in college and Richard had approached her after they had worked on a few projects together. Admittedly, she had been overjoyed that such a handsome and popular young man had noticed her. She was like Hermione in that aspect; being overly shy and highly intelligent and she hadn't thought highly of herself when she was younger. They had dated for half a year before Richard had surprised her by proposing. Her family had been shocked when she brought Richard home during the summer holidays and explained that they were now engaged. Her mother and father had warned her about such a fast moving relationship but she had been in love with Richard.

Thankfully, they had held off from marrying until they both graduated college. After that, they built and worked on opening and running their own dental practice. Neither of them wanted to bring a child into this world without having a steady and comfortable source of income and way of life. However, Emma had also begun to notice some…less than flattering things about her new husband that she hadn't noticed before. He was rather petty and tended to mock others or even made fun of some people. Not only that, but when she suggested that they perhaps adopt he had flat out refused, stating that he will never look after someone else's child that they couldn't bother to care for. She had been appalled when he had said that and it had led to a rather heated argument between them at the time. She had told him before they had married about an accident she had been in when she was sixteen. The accident had been rather severe and the doctors had told her that her chance of getting pregnant and having a safe pregnancy had been lowered because of the surgeries she had to undergo during her recovery.

Richard had been shocked in learning that, but he had comforted her and reminded her that they could always go through fertility tests and go through the various ways to increase their chances of having a child. It had been in the second year of their marriage when they had begun trying to have a child. It had taken another year of tests and following her fertility cycles before, after a checkup at the doctors, they found out that she was pregnant. Things had been going well during the first few weeks of her pregnancy but after the second month, things began taking a downturn. Her body became weak and the doctors had her on two different medications to help her keep her strength and ensure that she and her unborn daughter were getting the proper nutrients.

Sadly, she had developed prenatal depression and, even though she had gone through counseling during her pregnancy, little had helped. Richard had a hard time coping with her mood swings and her depression and it had resulted in many arguments and fights and they had actually begun sleeping apart after the fourth month of her pregnancy. By her seventh month she was on bedrest with restrictions on what she could and couldn't do. When her water finally broke and she was rushed to the hospital, the doctors had to perform an emergency C-section when both her life and her baby's life became endangered. Thankfully, both she and Hermione had come out of the operation healthy and safe. Her depression got better after a few months and she and Richard slowly repaired their fractured marriage. No, it wasn't perfect, but they were talking and sharing the same bed once more. They bonded over their love for Hermione and things were stable again. However…it didn't last when Hermione began displaying bouts of accidently magic.

A normal seven month old baby shouldn't be able to levitate her blocks or cause lights to flicker or even explode when they started crying or became frightened. Both of them were seriously worried about Hermione and the things happening around her. It only got worse as she got older too. When Hermione began displaying a higher intelligence and a startlingly excellent memory, things became strained between her and Richard once more. Richard wanted to take their daughter to the hospital to have tests performed on her to figure out what was happening but she refused to allow doctors and scientists perform tests on their little girl like some sort of lab rat. She fought against this tooth and nail with her husband and Richard finally gave up, knowing that he'd never win and she would likely kill him if he took Hermione to the doctors to get tests done behind her back.

When Hermione got older and started paying more attention to books and her studies than sports, fashion and children her own age, Richard began becoming withdrawn. He always tried to get Hermione to be more outgoing and had been overjoyed when she had joined the youth league football team. However, he had always tried to get her to 'toughen up' when dealing with the girls and boys who had bullied her about her intelligence and appearance. The relationship between her husband and their daughter was at best that of respect and love. However, there were many times when Hermione and Richard would argue. Hermione had certainly gotten her stubbornness from both of them and it caused her and Richard to clash often. Her daughter is very strong willed and has a strong sense of morals. She rarely backed down from an argument and that included arguments with her dad. It certainly didn't help that Richard had often tried to use his 'role' as Hermione's father to get her to do things that she didn't want to do.

Days after Hermione's eleventh birthday when Professor McGonagall had arrived at their house and turned their world upside down; Richard had nearly blown his top. She had been shocked herself, but Professor McGonagall had spent a good two hours explaining the Magical world and showing them simple but effective household charms and spells. She had also brought along a seemingly normal looking camping tent but inside supported four full bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a small kitchen and a small dining room. She and Hermione had been in awe over the tent though Richard had been…only slightly impressed but hadn't been willing to fully accept that Hermione should go to Hogwarts. However, she had seen the longing in Hermione's eyes. Hermione had always thought of herself as a freak because of the strange things that happened around her. Learning that those 'things' were just her magic reacting to her emotions and desires. Emma had just been relieved that nothing was wrong with her little girl.

Richard had been so angry when she had pushed for Hermione to go to Hogwarts. However, she flat out told him that they had been considering sending Hermione to a private school and it wasn't like they couldn't afford it. Sadly, just about every single day since Professor McGonagall had arrived Richard would say an odd comment or two about one of the private schools they had been considering to send Hermione to in hopes of changing their daughter's mind. Hermione actually got so sick and tired of hearing it that she refused to speak with her father for weeks or would ignore him every time he tried talking to her. When Hermione had gone to Hogwarts she had been worried about having Hermione away for so long. However, after those first letters telling her and Richard that Hermione has finally made friends who accept and encourage her was a relief. Her little girl was finally blossoming and has friends who accept her for all that she is. The small mailbox from Hermione's friends had been a godsend, especially since it allowed them to communicate freely.

However, Richard simply wouldn't let it go. He kept telling her that Hermione will come to her senses and will want to come home. No matter what the letters Hermione sent them said, he refused to believe that Hermione will want to continue her magical education. He ranted that she was giving up the potential for a good life by not continuing her 'normal' education and would end up poor and homeless because she wouldn't be able to get a 'good and honest' job when she graduates Hogwarts. He just didn't understand that Hermione would have even more job opportunities and that the magical world even has universities so she'll be able to get a good job just about anywhere. Hermione had also told them about how Harry and Dean are still continuing their Non-Magical education and she was thinking of doing the same thing during the holidays. It made her happy that her daughter wanted the best of both worlds and that the magical world was constantly advancing and was even starting to surpass their own world.

"And now this…" Emma sighed, cupping her mug of coffee in her hands.

Yes, the thought of Hermione being an Assassin is greatly worrying. However, Richard had handled the news in a wrong way. Instead of asking tons of questions and listening to everything that Delilah, Lucas and the Tonks' were saying, he blew up at them and practically dragged their daughter away from her friends. Never before had she been so happy that she and Richard had met Lucas and Delilah after Halloween and spoke with them. At that meeting, she had been horrified in learning about a dangerous 'being' breaking into the school and posing a huge threat to her daughter. She had nearly agreed with Richard in pulling Hermione out of school and re-enrolling her into a normal school.

However, Lucas and Delilah had explained that Non-Magicals or 'Muggles' like her and Richard have very little say in the Magical world still. It shocked her knowing that so many lost their children due to their inability to have much say over what they were doing in the Magical world. The thought of losing Hermione brought her to tears and she had been relieved when Lucas offered to become Hermione's magical guardian and he would consult them with anything major that needed the permission of her magical guardian so they could still have an input in their daughter's life. Richard hadn't been too happy, big surprise there, but he had been willing to meet with Lucas and Delilah for lunch or other meals to get to know the couple better. Lucas and Delilah were wonderful people and Emma found herself getting along well with both of them while Richard merely seemed to tolerate their presence. He seemed to humor them and she had often caught him frowning at them as they left or muttering under his breath after they had left.

"Have you finally come to your senses?"

Emma blinked and looked up, watching as Richard stood in the archway with a fierce scowl on his face.

"What do you mean?" She asked, her voice guarded as she set down her mug.

"You know damn well what I mean, Emma! Hermione should be in an actual school that'll give her a quality education where she'll be able to get a good job after going to a good university." Richard snapped, making Emma frown as she stepped away from the counter.

"Richard, Hermione is in a good school. Hogwarts is one of the top magical schools in the world; only rivaled by Japan's and the United States' magical schools. There are three magical universities here in Britain alone that she could attend after Hogwarts and she could even go overseas to further her education if she wanted. Hermione is already thinking of continuing her Non-Magical education during the holidays through a special program offered by the Ministry of Magic. Of course, you'd know this if you actually paid attention to our daughter and made an effort to learn about her." Emma snapped, anger flashing in her eyes as Richard scoffed and shook his head.

"Emma you're allowing these…people to blind you! Now they're telling us some bullshit about Hermione being an…an Assassin?! Do you know how ridiculous that sounds? It's even more ridiculous than when that McGonagall woman came and told us about magic."

"Richard Granger would you shut up?! Ever since Hermione has gone to Hogwarts you've been ranting and raving about how much Hermione's going to hate it there; how she'll be begging to come home and go back to 'normal' school. Well our daughter has finally found somewhere where she belongs. She has good friends; friends who most likely rallied around her when you blew up at her! It never mattered what our Hermione did, Richard. You just couldn't ever be happy with her. You made fun of her because of her love for books and learning. You were constantly nit-picking her about her hobbies and lack of friends. You never saw her tears because she refused to let you see her break down." Emma exclaimed, her voice rising in pitch.

"Don't you dare pin the blame on me, Emma!" Ricard shouted, his hands balling into fists as Emma scoffed.

"Oh sure! Little Richie can't do a thing wrong! It's all my fault that I can't have any more children. It's my fault our daughter love books and learning rather than running around with little rich brats causing trouble and acting just like your sister's daughter!"

Emma's chest heaved as she looked at her husband. After Hermione was born every doctor they had gone to told her that getting pregnant would most likely kill not only her, but any child she might be carrying. Yes, she had been devastated in learning this but she had also been happy that she had been given a daughter. Richard had taken the news hard and had been quiet about the matter for months. He hadn't touched her until Hermione was about one year-old. She knew that Richard had always wanted to have a big family but that wasn't possible and it hit him hard. Things had been strained between them ever since; especially as Hermione got older.

"Don't you dare bring my sister and niece into this!"

"Oh yes, because precious little Sarah is the perfect girl around! You never once stood up for our daughter when Sarah teased and bullied her. Whenever Sarah pushed Hermione or stole something from her you always said 'children will be children'. I thought you were different, Richard. I thought you would care about our daughter and myself. But no. Whenever Lucille made some…snide comment about my inability to have any more children or my own looks you never said a word against her. Instead it was your parents who defended me. My parents had warned me but I thought you were different. I thought you loved me." Emma cried, tears gathering in her eyes as Richard stared at her.

"Everything was going fine before this whole mess with magic began-"

"Everything wasn't fine, Richard! You keep wanting to change our daughter into someone she's not! You want her to be your idea of the perfect daughter. Well she's not! No one is perfect! Hermione deserves the chance to be herself and that will only happen if we encourage her and allow her to do what she wants so long as it doesn't harm anyone else! You were only happy when she was playing football and instantly went back to scoffing at her and belittling her when she stopped playing and focused more on her studies!"

"Oh sure! Make me the bad guy! You'd rather have Hermione be some shut in, know-it-all, book worm who'd rather stay inside than meet others!"

"I want Hermione to be comfortable with herself! Why do you think I'm willing to learn about the world she's now a part of?! You keep rejecting her and refusing to learn anything about the Magical world. News flash, Richard! We're now a part of that world too!"

"I will not have our daughter become even more of a…a freak! The sooner you come to your senses the better! I should've slammed the door in that McGonagall woman's face when she rang the doorbell." Richard snapped, his eyes widening when Emma stepped up close.

"Don't you dare call our daughter a freak! You're nothing but a closed-minded bastard Richard Granger! I should've listened to my parents and brothers when I introduced them to you. They were right about-"

A sharp cracking sound filled the air as Emma fell to the ground. It seemed to happen in slow motion as Richard looked at his fallen wife in shock. Emma shakily reached up; her fingertips lightly touching the throbbing spot on her left cheek. The skin was already turning a deep, vivid red and she instantly knew that it would bruise within the next few minutes. Swallowing thickly, she shakily rose to her feet, grabbing onto the dining table to pull herself up. Richard hurriedly backed away, his eyes still wide and filled with shock at his own reaction to his wife's outburst. He watched as Emma swayed lightly before turning cinnamon brown eyes on him; eyes that were no longer filled any kind of emotion.

"I'm packing mine and Hermione's clothes. I'll be having Miranda cover my appointments for the next few weeks. I'll be staying with my parents for the time being." She said, her voice soft but strong as she turned and began walking out of the kitchen.

"Emma!" Richard exclaimed, reaching out and grabbing his wife's arm.

Emma spun around, slapping Richard's hand off of her arm. The anger, betrayal and pure hurt in her eyes made him flinch and back away.

"Don't you dare touch me. You've finally crossed the line, Richard. I won't let you hit me or give you the chance to hit my baby girl. You've finally shown your true colors and honestly, you're the freak. You'll be hearing from a lawyer as soon as I can get one. I have a feeling things might be even more difficult given the nature of our daughter." Emma said, turning and striding from the room.

Emma hurried up the stairs; feeling her emotions bubbling just below the surface. Making it to the master bedrooms, she slammed the door closed and locked it. As soon as the lock clicked, she slowly slid down the door and onto the floor; pulling her knees to her chest as sobs finally broke free.

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

Hermione sighed as she settled into the room she'll be using during her stay here at the estate. They had all left for the estate a few minutes after her mum and dad had left and Harry and Dean had taken them on a tour while Augusta had gone off to speak with Harry's parents about what they were going to do. The estate really is beautiful and she had been in awe over the sheer number of people who call the grounds their home. Admittedly it was overwhelming seeing so many people walking around wearing uniforms which were apparently the traditional uniforms of Assassins. Remus had joined them for their tour and added in a few things he's learned about the Brotherhood during his time staying with the Othellos. It was truly amazing seeing the amount of respect seasoned Assassins showed Harry simply because his parents are the leaders of the Brotherhood. Tonks and her parents had shown her their house and then Cassie and Dean's siblings showed her their house as well. She and Neville had even gotten to speak with some of the tutors who taught Harry, Dean and Tonks some of the various skills they need to learn.

However, in the back of her mind she couldn't help but worry about her mum. She knows that her dad has a temper; especially since she's been on the receiving end of it so many times before. Something inside her was filling her with dread and she couldn't shake the feeling that something was going to go wrong. Her mum had told her a little before she had started Hogwarts that things weren't perfect between her parents. Her dad had always wanted a big family and her mum is unable to have any more children because of the risk she could die giving birth or even getting pregnant. She knows her dad wants her to be a certain way but she has no intention of changing in order to gain his approval. He'll just have to get used to her and the idea of magic if he wants her to have any kind of respect for him.

"Hermione?"

Looking up, Hermione blinked when she saw Lucas standing in the doorway of her room. However, the dark look on his face instantly set her heart racing in her chest. Standing up, she walked to Lucas and frowned lightly when he placed a hand on her shoulder. She allowed the man to lead her out of her room and down to the main living room. Her eyes instantly locked onto her mother's form, though her eyes widened in shock and horror when she saw the massive bruise on her mum's cheek in the shape of a large handprint. The others would swear Hermione had somehow apparated with on how fast she crossed the room and had her arms wrapped around her mum. Mother and daughter clung to each other, crying as the others stood back and gave them their space. However, everyone couldn't help but feel rage growing inside them at the sight of the bruise on Emma's cheek.

"W-What happened?" Hermione hiccupped, pulling back and looking at her mum's cheek.

"Your father and I had a…a huge fight about how he's been treating you. I lost my temper and screamed at him and he…he snapped and struck me. I told him that enough was enough. I wasn't going to let him walk all over me or you anymore. I packed up most of our clothes and some needed belongings and left. I went to my parents and they're currently in a rage about what Richard had done. My parents want me to press charges but I just want this to be done with." Emma said, her tears slowing as Hermione looked at the bruise with growing anger.

"What's going to happen?" She asked, her voice soft as Emma carded a hand through her daughter's hair.

"I'm sorry, sweetie. I really am. I don't want to give your father a chance to steal you away from me. I'm going to file for divorce and see if I can get custody of you…unless you want to-"

"No! I never want to see him again." Hermione snapped, anger flashing in her eyes as Emma blinked before nodding.

"There is a potential problem should you try to get a normal divorce lawyer." Andromeda said, stepping forward as Hermione and Emma looked up at her.

"What do you mean?" Emma asked, frowning lightly as the older woman sat down across from her.

"Hermione is a Witch and there's a high potential that…Mister Granger could feel…vindictive to say the least. Because you want sole custody of Hermione, Mister Granger should have the memories of his daughter's magical abilities erased. Instead, he will know that his daughter is highly intelligent and is attending a special school in Scotland for the gifted. If you'd like, I can offer my services to you as a lawyer. I am known in both the Magical and Non-Magical world and I have handled divorce cases before. I also know of a couple Magical lawyers who could represent Mister Granger along with a judge who will look over the process quickly." Andromeda offered, Emma nodding slowly as she thought the woman's offer over.

"Mum…i-is this because of me?" Hermione whispered, making everyone's heart ache at the pure sadness and fear in Hermione's voice.

"What?! No! No, sweetie, no! Your father and I have had problems for a long time; long before you were ever born. I had hoped that things would've gotten better between us but they've only gotten worse. None of this is your fault and don't you dare think otherwise." Emma said, her voice firm and strong as she held onto her daughter.

"Emma, what's happening with your other belongings? Do you have plans to retrieve them soon?" Cassie asked, watching as the younger woman sighed.

"My father and brothers have offered to go with me to pack up mine and Hermione's things. I've gone to a storage rental place and am now renting a small storage unit to hold our things. I don't care if Richard keeps the house and I plan on offering him to buy my half of our business. I don't want to continue working with him and I've been keeping meticulous records of all my work such as how much I've earned at work and the inheritance I got from my grandparents when they passed. I'm guessing that Richard will likely want to move out of the house. If not he can have it." Emma said, the others nodding.

"We can easily help you pack up. Magic would speed along the process quickly and we could do it while Mister Granger is at work." Remus offered, smiling gently as Emma blinked before nodding.

"I think I would like that. My brothers are itching to confront Richard about what he did; even my father is on the warpath." Emma sighed, though she saw the dark look pass over the other's faces.

"Do you want to stay with your family? You could always stay here if you'd like." Delilah said, watching as Emma shifted.

"I think that it would be a good idea if Hermione and I stayed with my parents until after Christmas. I'd still like to speak with you all about Hermione's training and what'll happen should she wish to be an Assassin." Emma said, watching as her daughter smiled and hugged her.

They talked for a little while longer and Andromeda took a picture of Emma's cheek incase Richard tries anything against them. Emma agreed to take Andromeda up on her offer to have the woman as her lawyer. She and Andromeda headed to Delilah's private study to go over the contract and talk about what needed to happen in order to file for divorce. Hermione went along with them; wanting to know what was going on and be there to support her mum. Lucas and Delilah called on a few of their House Elves and asked for all of the spare trunks they had so Hermione and Emma could pack their things in those instead of in boxes and totes. It didn't take long before a dozen trunks were neatly stacked by the front door. All of them were slightly battered and there were obvious signs of them having been used.

"Where did all those come from?" Dean asked, raising an eyebrow as he looked at the various trunks.

"Relatives." Harry and Eliza said, looking at each other before laughing.

"I can't believe Richard would do something like that." Remus growled, his eyes turning gold as Moony rose to the surface.

"Calm down, Remus. Right now Emma and Hermione need us to be here for them. Tomorrow we'll head over to the Granger's residence to pack everything up. After Christmas they'll be coming here and staying with us. During that time Andromeda will likely have Emma file for a Summons. She'll also likely have a financial advisor because of the money involved. From our research Emma and Richard are very successful business owners and it would be a shame if Richard managed to scam her out of any of her hard-earned money." Delilah explained, watching as Remus drew in a deep breath and slowly calmed himself down.

"Neville, do you wish to go through training?" Augusta asked, looking at her grandson.

Neville looked up at his grandmother in surprise; shocked that she was even considering allowing him to go through Assassin training. However, looking around at Harry, the twins, Dean and Tonks gave him hope. Harry and Dean had talked for hours at length about the various things they learned and what they will continue to learn. Honestly, the idea of learning how to become an Assassin was appealing to him. He'd belong to a group, a Brotherhood which practiced what he had always valued. His grandmother and other relatives have always told him about the great things his parents had done in their lives. How they had been a near unstoppable team in the Auror force and had been a force to be reckoned with. His grandmother had told him that they likely would've been able to win the fight at their safe house if they hadn't been ambushed.

This would give him the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with his parents and he would also get to spend more time with his friends. Harry had told him that his morning workouts during the weekends were actually training sessions with the two Master Assassins at Hogwarts. It made sense to him and he wasn't too surprised when Dean informed him that they used the Room of Requirement to do their training. Looking at his grandmother, he could see the trust and pride in her eyes. She is trusting him to choose what he felt was best for him and she would support him whatever choice he made.

"I want to begin my training." Neville said, his voice firm and confident.

"Harry and Dean have told us about your workouts and training. We're proud that they've been helping you and your other friends. This will help you adjust to what your new training entails. Augusta, with your permission we would like Neville to visit here every day for at least six to eight hours after Christmas of course. The weekends he can spend at home with you along with the evenings. We have a lot to do for his lessons. History, parkour, stealth, language, horseback riding, and more needs to be taught. Of course you're more than welcome to come here and observe his lessons and of course we could chat." Lucas said, smiling warmly at the formidable woman.

"I'd like that." Augusta said, smiling gently as Delilah clapped her hands in delight.

"Wonderful! Would you like to stay for supper?" Delilah asked, watching as Augusta pulled a pocket watch from within her cloak.

"Unfortunately Algernon and a few others will be visiting the manor soon. Will you be going shopping in Diagon Alley tomorrow?" Augusta asked, noticing how her grandson sighed and looked less than pleased in having to leave.

"Yes. We'll be heading to the Alley around ten in the morning. We're hoping to beat most of the rush. We'll also be heading to Harrods in Muggle London. You're welcome to join us. We plan on giving the same offer to Hermione and Emma." Lucas explained, watching as Augusta looked at Neville who gave her a pleading look.

"Alright. Just don't complain about having to wake up so early." Augusta chided, in which Neville had the decency to look slightly abashed.

"Yes, Gran."

They were shortly joined by Hermione and Emma, to which the pair gratefully accepted the offer of going Christmas shopping with everyone. Emma was touched at the offer and was all too happy with the welcome distraction. She explained that Richard was scheduled to work later in the afternoon and well into the evening tomorrow. Lucas and Delilah explained that they could apparate to the backyard of their home after shopping and pack everything up easily. She explained that there were a few things she wanted to take that her parents and grandparents had given her that had been in her family for years. Yes, Richard would likely be pissed when he saw all of her and Hermione's things missing, but she had warned him before she had left the house. He had tried to stop her from leaving, but she threatened to go to the police if he didn't. Richard had been quick to let her leave, especially with the bruise on her cheek.

"I'll go and get in contact with the lawyer who should represent Richard along with the finical advisor I had told you about. The day after Christmas the Summons will be issued to the court. I'll be sure to tell his potential lawyer the…ramifications should he refuse to deal with a 'magical' based lawyer." Andromeda explained, walking out with a file in hand.

"Thank you, Andromeda. I appreciate this." Emma said, shaking the woman's hand.

"It's no problem at all, Emma. You and Hermione deserve better. From what you've told me this has been coming for a long time. You just needed that little…push to finally make a move." Andromeda said, Emma and Hermione nodding lightly.

"Would you like to stay for supper?" Harry asked, looking at his female friend.

"Unfortunately, my parents and brothers are expecting Hermione and I for dinner. We'll meet you at Diagon Alley in the morning, alright?" Emma asked, blinking when Delilah hugged her while Hermione hugged her friends.

"Of course. Feel free to call if you need anything." Cassy said, handing Emma a piece of paper with her house phone on it.

Emma and Hermione were touched by the sheer amount of support they were getting from everyone. There was no doubt in Emma's mind that Richard would be telling his family what had happened on how she's the one who's over reacting about everything. However, she has the support of her family and Hermione's friends' parents and guardians. These people, who she had met about five hours ago, were offering her so much help simply because Hermione calls their children friends. It stunned and amazed her and it confirmed that she is doing the right thing in supporting her daughter and her decision to continue to allow Hermione to go to Hogwarts. Richard may think these people were weak minded and foolish but it was him who was the weak minded fool.

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

Next Day

Emma smiled gently as she parked in a small parking lot a few blocks away from the Leaky Cauldron. Yesterday evening had been rather taxing for both of them. Her parents had coddled Hermione, trying to sensor what they were saying in front of her to the point where her daughter had flat out told them that she knows everything and completely supports her mum's decision to leave her dad. Her parents had been shocked that Hermione had spoken so bluntly though Emma had simply explained that she didn't hide anything from her daughter; it wouldn't be right. Sadly, the night only got worse when it became apparent that Richard had dug up her old phone address book and found her parent's house number. He had called four times demanding to speak with her or Hermione and her parents and brothers refused to pass the phone. Her dad had ranted and raved at Richard; explaining that he was lucky that he and her brothers live so far away. She was grateful that her family was running interference and they thankfully understood when she explained that she and Hermione were going out today for Christmas shopping.

"Look! There's Dora!" Hermione said, eagerly unbuckling and hopping out of the car.

Chuckling at her daughter's eagerness, Emma unbuckled and followed Hermione down the sidewalk to Ted and Tonks. Hermione happily hugged Tonks and began chatting away happily about what she was hoping to get for Harry, Dean and Neville.

"The others are already in the Cauldron." Ted said, smiling warmly as he hugged Emma.

"You didn't have to wait." She protested, blinking when the man shook his head.

"Nonsense. I know the kids will want to run off alone to get things for us and then we'll likely break off into groups and switch around, same in Harrods. The twins have, apparently, been saving up in order to get gifts for everyone so they're rather eager to begin shopping. Remus is manning the shop right now but he'll join us for Harrods. Andie is currently in her office getting some work done." Ted explained, watching as Emma flushed.

Emma tried to apologize but the pair wouldn't hear anything of it. Reaching the Leaky Cauldron, they headed inside and Hermione was instantly set upon her friends. Susan, Hannah, Jillian, Eliana and, surprisingly, Millicent were there as well. Millicent also had a younger boy with the same black hair as her nearby. Millicent smiled and introduced them to her little brother William, to which Eliza instantly took the younger boy and was soon holding his hand as they all headed out into the main Alley. Hermione learned that Harry and Dean had gotten in touch with the others using the floo to see if they could join them and their friends had, obviously, gotten permission to come. Eliana's parents and, surprisingly, Amelia joined their group and managed to corral them towards Gringotts so Emma could convert some money in order for her and Hermione to buy some things.

"Emma, you might want to think about opening a vault in Gringotts." Amelia said, watching as the other woman blinked.

"I thought only Magicals can do that." She said, frowning lightly as Susan hurried up alongside her.

"Normally yes, but the parents of Muggleborns have been able to have a vault. The vault would 'officially' be in Hermione's name but it would be a family vault. You would be the one who would handle the money and stocks. I've heard that you get better rates than that in the Muggle world." Susan said, smiling up at Emma when she saw the thoughtful look on the woman's face.

Diagon Alley in the winter was a beautiful place. Snow covered the tops of awnings and roofs while carolers sang in small groups throughout the streets. Decorated windows sparkled in the sunlight and many of the shops were decorated for the season. Emma noticed a few stores that sold what was needed for Pagan Yule celebrations. Hermione had told her in a letter that many Magicals still celebrate the old holidays and traditions. Reaching bank, all of them were grateful for the escape from the cold outside. The others waited near the doors while Emma got in line for one of the tellers. Thankfully it didn't take too long since many people were still sleeping or were just getting up and getting their day started. After she exchanged a decent amount of money, she rejoined the others and they began forming a plan to do their shopping. The kids already decided to get two gifts for their parents/guardians and two gifts for each other. One gift will be from the Magical world while the second gift will be from the Muggle world.

The teens decided to split from the adults in order to shop for them first. Amelia, Lucas and Delilah weren't too keen on this at first, but Tonks and the twins promised to keep a watch on everyone. Lucas and Delilah knew they could trust Tonks and Hector was always nearby along with Amanda. Not only that, but one of Amelia's bodyguards were also nearby in the crowd. The adults finally relented and the group of kids hurried away from their parents and guardians. The adults, meanwhile, happily took the opportunity presented to them to go shopping for their charges. Heading down the opposite street, they were soon pulling out lists that their charges had given them and sifting through all the gift ideas.

"I know Missus Weasley sends her children homemade gift baskets along with a handmade sweater. Fred and George will be getting plenty of sweets this year." Lucas said, looking at the very small list the twins had given him and his wife.

"It was a struggle just getting them to make a list." Delilah said, smiling fondly at the thought of the twins.

"While Ronald might not be as considerate as his brothers, at least the older boys were raised right. I've noticed that, even though they're excitable and nearly always the center of attention, they rallied around the group as soon as they started heading off." Augusta said, the others nodding.

"They understand that our children are in their care. Dora will be leading them around but the twins will make sure no one gets lost or left behind." Ted said, pride in his voice as he spoke of his daughter.

Sure enough, Fred and George made sure to keep a keen eye on all of the little Firsties they're in charge of. They had no intention of letting anyone trail behind or get lost; especially considering who is part of their group. Harry, Susan and Jillian are all high profile students because of who their parents/guardians are. However, Neville, Dean and Hannah also belong to the elite classes of their society which made them rather high profile people as well. They could also feel the few morning shoppers looking at them in wonder and awe; especially when they saw Harry among the group of children. The group of laughing, excitable teens made their way into various shops along the street; pointing out things that the adults might like or things that a sibling might like. The twins were constantly looking out for something for their siblings. Thankfully their dad had bought a mailbox so the presents wouldn't arrive late to him, their mum and sister. They were very tempted to ignore Ronnie; especially considering how much of a prat he's been lately. However, they'd never hear the end of it from their mum when Ronnikins went to her to complain about them ignoring him.

They went from shop to shop quickly, wanting to look at the various options before actually buying things. They did pass by the adults at a few points, in which the adults were already carrying a few bags. Of course they also began seeing some of their schoolmates as the hours passed. Seamus and Ron were the first two they saw, in which the redhead twit scowled and glared fiercely at his older brothers; betrayal clear in his eyes as Seamus' parents hurried them through the streets and to Gringotts.

"Well, Mum will soon learn who we're staying with." Fred said, rolling his eyes as his twin nodded.

Moving on, they finally finished browsing through all the shops they planned on buying from. Working their way backwards, the group slowly and steadily bought gifts for their families. Millicent and William bought a few gifts for their friends in the orphanage along with the matron who took care of all of them. All of them had a great time just hanging out, laughing, chatting and talking about anything and everything. Tonks kept them all in line with help from the twins and they soon made their way down another street to continue their shopping. Of course, Hermione eventually told the others about what had happened between her parents. Susan, Jillian, Eliana, Hannah and Millicent were shocked and horrified about what they heard and rallied around Hermione and offered their support. She was touched by their support and smiled at them as she thanked them.

Eventually they made their way to P&M where they met up with the adults. Harry hurried behind the front counter where Remus was finishing up ringing up purchases for a guest. Remus laughed softly and, after helping the guest, turned and hugged Harry; ruffling his hair which made his cub bat his hands away and scowl at him.

"How goes the store?" Delilah asked, smiling as the children scattered and began looking at the different products.

"Pretty good, busy as usual. Thankfully we have plenty of staff coming in." Remus said, stepping out from behind the counter as an employee walked over to take his place.

"Weird without Sirius here, huh?" Lucas asked, grinning as the man shrugged lightly.

"A little. Though I'm getting used to it. I'll be running the store in Hogsmeade while Sirius runs this one so it's good experience." Remus said, smiling as he looked down at his cub.

"You'll be free on Christmas, though, right?" Eliza asked, lightly tugging on Remus' hand.

"Of course I will be. You know we're closed on Christmas and the day after." Remus said, lightly ruffling her hair as well.

Remus showed them around and pointed out a few new items they had recently gotten in. Harry, Eliza and the others, bar Millicent and William, all decided to get small games and puzzles for William and Jillian's little sister: Kelly. All of them spent a fair amount of time in the store and many of them found the first gift for each other. It was rather interesting as they tried to hide the gifts they were planning on getting from each other; especially when they kept trying to sneak a peek at whatever their friends were placing into the small shopping baskets they had picked up. Thankfully they eventually managed to get all of their things paid for and stored into bags where no one could see them. They also bought a few things for themselves before heading to Roxane's Grill for lunch. Remus ended up joining them after the general manager assured him that she could handle watching the shop for a little while.