Chapter Thirteen: Discussions and Information, Waking Up, News, A Potential Threat, A Helpful Gift, Busybody, A Holiday.

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: Wow…I'm still constantly amazed on how well this story has been received. Thank you all so very much for the constant support and love you're giving me though the reviews, favorites and follows. I'm so happy that you all love this story so far. Now, sadly I can only see two, maybe three more chapters to this before this 'book' comes to a close. This chapter features a lot of time jumps though I've packed a lot of events into it that'll certainly catch your interest. Now, one of these events, in which many of you will likely figure it out easily, happened in order for events of the next 'book' to fall into place and happen. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy and let me know what you think!

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

[Parseltongue]

[Telepathic Speech]

Emphasis on words/Spells

Text

Chapter Thirteen: Discussions and Information, Waking Up, News, A Potential Threat, A Helpful Gift, Busybody, A Holiday.

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It wasn't long after the new term started when Harry and Dean managed to tell the twins, Hermione and Neville about the mission Lucas and Delilah had given them. Hermione was instantly concerned; especially since Professors Snape and McGonagall told them about the traps that lay in wait for anyone who tries to get the stone. Not only that, but she was especially frightened about the idea of Voldemort being in the school or even trying to get inside the school. Neville and the twins were worried about this as well, though they accepted the fact that they had been given the mission and it was critical that it was accomplished.

"Think about it, 'Mione. If V-Riddle gets the stone then it'll mean his resurrection. Our society might be on much better footing but we're not ready for the horrors of another war with Riddle." Fred said, his brother nodding his head in agreement.

"Bill still has memories of the first war. He was eleven when Harry's mum and dad were in their last year here. He and Charlie and even Percy remember on how frightened our Mum used to be whenever Dad was out of the house and beyond the wards. Mum's brothers: Gideon and Fabien, were killed in the war. So many old families were killed off because they didn't support Riddle and his…ideals. The term blood traitor was actually created by Riddle." George explained, Hermione's eyes widening in shock.

"People who had once been respected and thought highly of were now being dubbed blood traitors because they didn't support Riddle. Riddle and his death munchers made it so other families were terrified of being seen associating with any blood traitors less they suddenly be called one. To become a blood traitor would see all your allies abandoning you and any support you had would suddenly disappear. Thankfully some families didn't buy into that crap and they banded together to help support each other." Fred added, watching as Hermione closed her eyes and shook her head.

"Things were really hard for us back then. The Ministry was in turmoil because you didn't know who to trust. Dad had to constantly watch his back and there was always a fear of attack. It was really thanks to the Potters that we survived and had food on the table. Because we had been labeled as blood traitors, Dad's boss had been hard pressed to give him any hours and he was only working around four hours a day." George said, making Hermione and Neville blink and look to Harry.

"The Weasley's are one of the many families that owe my House a debt. My father and godfather have been keeping track of my accounts for me since I'm a minor but they've made sure I'm well aware of who owes my family and how to take care of my vaults and fortune. I'll eventually call in some of the debts that are owed to my House and some I may 'forgive' so to say." Harry explained, Hermione frowning lightly as Neville nodded.

"I know my House owes yours a pretty good amount. Gran has been teaching me the same thing and our account keeper has been helping me learn as well." Neville said, Harry smiling gently as he nodded.

"By calling in some of the debts that are owed to my House, I could actually bankrupt some families. My father and godfather haven't allowed me to call in any of those debts; rather I should wait until calling in those debts would come in handy." Harry explained, making the brunette Witch frown.

"What do you mean?"

"Think of it this way, Hermione: if Riddle does come back and rise to power, many old Pureblood families who were allied with Riddle owe me a debt. If I call in those debts I could potentially bankrupt those families and make it impossible for them to help finically support Riddle. They'll be of almost no use to him and it'll make things harder for Riddle. He won't be able to hire mercenaries or Hit Wizards like he had in the last war. Riddle was practically unstoppable in the last war and had everyone living in terror. Then again it certainly didn't help that everyone seemed to forget the fact that each of them holds a potentially lethal weapon that they carry around on their person at all times." Harry said, rolling his eyes while the twins nodded.

"I know there are some dangerous spells but-"

"Think, Hermione. A simple levitation spell could be used to levitate a person over the edge of a cliff or over something dangerous. A banishing charm could be used to banish rocks or other projectiles in the direction of incoming attackers. A well placed cutting charm could be used to cut off a limb. Many low 'level' spells could become dangerous if you know the right way to use them." Dean interrupted, making Hermione swallow thickly as it finally hit home.

It was certainly easy to think of practical uses for the various spells they've learned in class. However, it's a completely different thing to think of the lethal possibilities for the spells. Dean made those possibilities come to the forefront of her mind and made her wonder about the other spells that they had learned and how they could be used to cause harm. She didn't know if this was a good thing or a bad thing to know. It was a relief when the conversation drifted to their training, which she was more than happy to talk about. Their training is exhausting and both she and Neville are still leaving the training room tired and sore, but they're slowly getting better. The twins were proud that their trainers were pleased with their ability to think 'outside the box' so to speak. When it came to stealth and hiding this ability came in handy. Hermione, on the other hand, found herself struggling with finding creative ways to hide and get away from pursuers. She knows that it'll take her awhile and her trainers have already reassured her that it doesn't matter if it'll take some extra time. Sadly, even though she knows this it doesn't make it any less frustrating for the brunette.

Fred and George offered Harry and Dean their assistance with their mission, which Neville and Hermione offered their help as well. Harry and Dean certainly appreciated the help, though they didn't want to have to depend on too much help. Fred and George agreed to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity among the students, which Neville and Hermione quickly offered their assistance with this task as well. There's no telling if Riddle is already in the school, especially since Lucas and Delilah had informed the two boys that it's entirely possible though unlikely. Next came the questions about their other friends. Jillian and Eliana were slowly becoming suspicious as to why Hermione has joined Harry and Dean in their extremely early morning workouts and Hermione hasn't been able to come up with too solid of an excuse.

"I know it's important to keep things a secret to protect the Brotherhood, but sometimes I just wish we could tell our close friends." Hermione sighed, the others nodding in agreement and understanding.

"I know how hard it is, Mia. Dean and I have been friends with Susan and Hannah since before Hogwarts. However, we need permission from my parents in order to tell anyone who isn't a part of the Brotherhood. It would take about a month before they even considered allowing us to tell anyone because they'll need to have background checks and will have to be judged if they can be trustworthy enough to keep the secret of the Brotherhood." Harry explained, Hermione nodding lightly even though she didn't look too happy.

"Do you think your parents will ever tell anyone else?" She asked, watching as Harry tilted his head thoughtfully.

"Honestly? I think he might. He's been talking about telling Madame Bones about the Brotherhood. If things become harder as the year goes on I'll tell my parents about our friends becoming suspicious." Harry explained, Hermione nodding her head gratefully.

"Thankfully Eliana and Jillian don't want to be early risers. Hannah and Susan are easier to deal with since they aren't in our House, same with Millie." Hermione said, shifting in her seat and getting more comfortable.

Conversation shifted again and Neville happily informed them about the progress on his parents' health. Apparently their health is rapidly progressing and their cores are getting stronger every day. He couldn't wait to see and speak to his parents for the first time in ten years. Of course he paused and looked at Harry with sorrow in his eyes. Harry, though, just smiled gently at his godbrother.

"It's alright, Nev. I'm happy that you're getting your parents back. I will always miss my birth parents but Sirius, Remus, Severus and a few others help me remember them. I'm more than happy with the parents I have. I have a little sister who I adore and I couldn't ask for more." Harry said, his voice soft as Neville nodded gently.

Fred and George took over with the information about the new Burrow. Apparently the house is almost completed, which greatly surprised Hermione. However, when the guys explained all the spells that are used when constructing a new house and the fact that many construction companies use the help of House Elves, it helped her realize how quickly everything got done. They were glad that their dad is giving them their own work room between their bedrooms even though they figure that their mum will attempt to sneak into the room every so often in an attempt to figure out what they're developing.

"She's still hung up on us getting 'respectable' jobs. It doesn't matter that we're already getting money for helping Padfoot and Moony." Fred said, sighing as George nodded.

"We plan on using some of the secrecy spells Bill taught us last year when he visited for the summer. They're Curse Breaker level which means Mum won't be able to break through them. It'll also protect our notes and such from Ronnie and Ginny." George added, the others frowning lightly.

"Why would you need to hide your notes?" Dean asked, taking a sip of his Butterbeer.

"One time we found Ronnikins snooping around in our room for something. He thought we had snitched his comic books and wouldn't believe us when we told him we didn't. An hour later Mum stormed into our room waving around some of our prank ideas ranting and raving about us causing trouble and how she wouldn't have it in her house. Turns out Ronnie had found some of our plans and showed Mum when we refused to return what we stole from him. Mum found his comics in the garden underneath one of the bushes but we were still grounded. Ginny did something similar when she was missing her dolls." Fred growled, scowling as he thought of his younger siblings.

"You know, I thought that Percy would be someone who would snitch; not Ron or Ginny." Neville said, frowning lightly as the twins shrugged.

"Percy scolds us himself. As the eldest one in the house besides Mum and Dad we supposedly have to listen to him. Ginny likes our pranks but she's not afraid to use her cunning against us." George explained, the others nodding lightly.

"So, in a way she'd make a pretty good Slytherin." Hermione said, smiling as Fred and George looked at each other and nodded.

"In a way. She's not very sneaky though and she's nearly as bad as Ron when it comes to her temper. Thankfully she doesn't explode at a drop of a hat, though." Fred said, shrugging lightly.

"Though we were supposedly destined for Slytherin too." George added, grinning as Neville looked at them wide eyed.

"W-What?!"

"Of course!" Hermione cried, her eyes bright as the twins grinned at her.

"And what has our little lioness figured out?" George asked, making Fred chuckle while Hermione rolled her eyes.

"You're both very smart and highly cunning. You've been 'dumbing' down your grades for the past two years in order to avoid getting a Ministry job and you've been coming up with ways to avoid professors and Mister Filch. It takes a lot of cunning and guile in order to do that. Not only that, but you're both highly ambitious which is shown by your determination to continue creating new and improved prank items." Hermione said, smirking as the twins chuckled while Neville looked at them with surprise and realization.

"Very true, Mione."

"The sorting hat did want to put us in Slytherin."

"But Mum would have a fit if we were in that House."

"So we begged the hat to sort us into Gryffindor."

"We also threatened to turn it pink for a month and make it speak in a high pitched girly voice."

The others laughed at this; knowing full well that the twins would've found a way to carry out their threats against the sorting hat. It was sad, though, that the twins had to hide from their true House just because their mum would be angry at them. Yes, a lot of the 'hatred' against Slytherin has been getting better, especially since they've become friends with Millicent, Daphne, Tracy and Blaise. However, there are still many people who think that Slytherin's can't be trusted and are just 'Dark' Wizards and Witches in training. Sadly some of the older Slytherin's didn't help things along with their attitudes and beliefs. They also talked about Malfoy's new attitude; something that everyone in the school has noticed. The blonde hasn't made a move towards Harry and his friends since the first week they returned. He's become more…subdued though Hermione and Jillian have caught him sneering at them in class and in the hallways.

They ended their little meeting and headed back out to meet up with their friends. Fred and George headed off to find Lee and talk about the upcoming Quidditch game while Harry, Dean, Hermione and Neville headed off to find Millicent and the others. Harry actually ducked into a hidden passage to bring out the map and find them instead of having them wander around the entire castle. Harry grinned when he spotted the others down by the lake enjoying the warming weather. Stepping out of the hidden passage, he led the others through the castle and outside to where the others were sitting on a few benches. Joining their friends, they happily joined in on the conversations and found out that the others were talking about Draco and his latest attitude change.

"It's because the King of Slytherin has taken Malfoy under his wing so to speak." Millicent said, making the others pause and look at her in confusion.

"King of Slytherin?" Susan asked, frowning as the black haired girl nodded.

"There's a kind of…hierarchy in Slytherin. You have the Prince of Slytherin who is normally between eleven and thirteen and then the King of Slytherin who is normally between fifteen and seventeen. The King and Prince are considered the top students who display the exact traits that Salazar Slytherin himself prided in. Malfoy used to think himself as the Prince of Slytherin but he didn't have the smarts or the popularity to claim the title. A Fourth Year by the name of Spencer Dowell is the Slytherin King. Believe me, he earned the title." Millicent muttered, shuddering as she thought of the duel which made the others looked at each other in confusion.

"Anyway, Spencer has taken Malfoy under his wing and is teaching him how to be a 'proper' Slytherin. We think he has plans for Malfoy to become the Prince of Slytherin and take over his slot as King of Slytherin upon his graduation. It's become common to see Draco and his friends studying in the common room or in the library more. He's also stopped bragging so much and has been seen walking around with Spencer. There's a rumor going around the House that Draco's mother is ill and Spencer's family is going to help provide her private medical care." She continued, the others looking surprised at the information.

"Poor, Draco." Hermione muttered, sighing softly as the others nodded.

"So he's learned that if his mother passes away he'll become an 'orphan' because his dad's in prison. That must've been a bitter potion to swallow." Dean said, shaking his head as Hermione scowled at him.

"Dean!"

"What?! It's not like I wish Lady Malfoy death. She's a very talented artist and musician from what I've seen. I just wish she would've raised Malfoy to be less of a prat." Dean said, Harry nodding while Hermione sighed and rolled her eyes.

"Honestly." Hermione muttered, shaking her head as Jillian patted her arm.

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The month of January passed by smoothly for the staff and students of Hogwarts. Sure enough, near the end of the month Neville received a letter from his grandmother telling him that his parents were ready to wake up. He was practically floating through the last classes of the week since his grandmother was taking him out of school for the weekend so he'll have time to spend with his parents. Professor McGonagall had been all too happy to allow him permission in order to leave the school for the weekend. Of course she has no intention of telling Albus why, only that it's a family matter. It had already annoyed her that the aged Wizard had learned of the Longbottoms being removed from St. Mungo's a day after they had been moved to Othello Estate. However, it had been rather interesting seeing the shock and worry on his face. Apparently he had attempted to floo call Augusta to find out why she had felt it was necessary to remove the couple from the hospital when they were getting perfectly good care there. She later heard that the House Elf who denied Albus from accessing entrance to the manor was given her own stock of fabric to create her own clothes which would last her a month; something that pleased the little being to no end.

After classes ended, Neville hurriedly packed up for his time at the estate before hurrying out of his dorm and into the common room. Harry and Dean clapped him on the back and told him to take care and remember to call them. The twins encouraged him to pull a few pranks for them while he's gone. Hermione, Eliana and Jillian hugged him, making the blonde blush; especially when they fawned on him for a little bit. He finally managed to pull away from his friends after saying goodbye and hurried out of the tower. He nearly sprinted down to Professor McGonagall's office where the woman called him inside as soon as he knocked. Stepping into the office, Neville beamed when he saw his grandmother. Augusta smiled and chuckled softly when she saw her grandson nearly vibrating in excitement.

"We'll see you back Monday morning." Minerva said, fighting back the urge to smile at seeing one of her lion cub's so excited.

"He'll be here in time for breakfast." Augusta promised, Neville nodding as he inched his way towards the fireplace.

Heading through the floo, Neville eagerly looked around as he stepped out of the fireplace and into the parlor of Othello Estate. He had the rather interesting experience of Eliza shooting out of one of the chairs and slamming into him, making the blonde stumble as he wrapped an arm around the younger girl's waist. He managed to move Eliza out of the way as his grandmother came through the floo with Shade next to her. Shade bounded over and nearly tackled Eliza to the ground, barking and licking at her face.

"Down, Shade!" Neville called, making his pup whine though she listened none the less.

"How did Albus respond to you bringing Shade into the school?" Eliza asked, patting the pup's head with a smile.

"He and Ronald tried to get me to send Shade home but I simply showed them the letter from the owner of the pet shop where I got her which helped to prove that Shade is my familiar. Familiars are the exception to the rule of only having cats, toads and owls." Neville answered, Eliza nodding in understanding.

A House Elf arrived and took Neville's bag. Augusta explained that they were going to be staying here at the Estate for the weekend and it'll likely be the first of February when Frank and Alice are finally moved back to Longbottom Manor. Eliza followed them until they reached the Infirmary where she hugged Neville before taking Shade outside to run around and use the bathroom. Stepping into the infirmary, Healer June and Sirius greeted them. Healer June explained that it would be best for Neville to remain outside of the private room when Frank and Alice wake up. Because the last thing they remember is the attack, they might freak out and still think that they're under attack. It'll give Augusta time to calm them down and explain how much time has passed since they were cursed and what all has changed over the years. Only when Augusta calls for him will Neville be allowed inside the room. Neville wasn't too happy, but he understood that his parents will be freaked out by on how much time has passed.

Moving over to the private room, Neville sat down on a chair Healer June conjured for him and watched as his grandmother disappeared into his parent's room. Augusta swallowed heavily as she looked at the sleeping forms of her son and daughter-in-law. Looking to Healer June, Healer Curtis from the Golden Heart Clinic and Sirius, she nodded and mentally readied herself for what was about to happen. The two healers pulled out their wands and, after removing the I.V. drips and detaching the monitors from the couple, cast the spell to allow them to wake from their coma. Both of the Longbottom's breathed deeply before they slowly started shifting. Frank was the first to open his eyes, and Augusta nearly wept when she saw the life and intelligence which had been vacant from his eyes had finally returned. Frank suddenly gasped and sat up, his eyes wide with fear, alarm and shock. He looked around, his eyes locking on his mother and Sirius with shock and confusion. However, before he could speak, his head whipped around when he heard his wife's voice.

"F-Frank?"

The overwhelmed Wizard reached over and gently cupped his wife's cheek as her eyes opened and she looked up at him. There was worry in her eyes alongside fear. However, those emotions quickly gave way to relief when she saw him safe and seemingly unharmed. Alice slowly sat up and closed her eyes, leaning into her husband as Frank wrapped his arms around her and held her close.

"Frank, Alice, how are you feeling?" Sirius asked, making the couple open their eyes and look at him.

"Sirius?! Is that really you?" Frank asked, shock in his voice as he looked at the other man.

Instead of answering, Sirius turned into Padfoot and back again, making the pair stare at him in shock before they looked to Augusta.

"W-What happened?" Alice asked, her voice soft as tears slowly fell from her mother-in-law's eyes.

"You and Frankie were tortured by that mad bitch Bellatrix and her family. She placed you both under a Black family curse which caused you to become trapped in your minds and withered away your bodies and magic. W-We didn't know about the curse until Christmas break and had thought that they used the Cruciatus curse and tortured you into insanity. I had you both placed in St. Mungo's in hopes that they would be able to heal you. Sirius is the one who learned about the curse and made the connections. You've been in a magical coma while your bodies and magic healed." Augusta explained, the couple looking at her in alarm and shock.

"H-How long?" Frank asked, making Augusta and Sirius look at Healer June.

"Mum, how long were we 'out'?" Frank demanded, watching as the aged woman sighed and closed her eyes.

"Ten and a half years."

Alice and Frank stared in shock at Augusta, their minds reeling at the influx of information. Nearly eleven years…eleven years of their lives had been wasted and of being trapped in their minds. What is the Magical world like? Who is Minister? What ever happened to the Potters? The last they had heard was that there had been an attack on Godric's Hallow but that was it. Where is Harry? Wait…where is Neville?!

"Neville! Where is he?" Frank asked, looking around the room frantically as if his son was hiding.

"Frank, Alice-"

"Where's my baby?!" Alice asked, desperation and a hint of fear in her voice.

Before anyone could say anything, the door to the room opened and Neville stepped in. Frank and Alice froze in shock at the sight of their son. The last they had ever seen of Neville was when he was just a little over a year old. Seeing him standing there as an eleven-year old was startling though they both felt such relief in seeing their precious son alive and healthy. With tears in her eyes, Alice spread her arms open towards her son. Neville let out a sob and rushed over to the beds, wrapping his arms around his mother and holding onto her tightly. Alice wrapped his arms around her son, rocking him as she gently stroked his hair and soothed him as he sobbed into her shoulder. Frank had tears in his eyes as he reached over and, with surprising strength, pulled Neville onto the bed and pulled his son and wife into his arms. Augusta was soon beckoned over to the family embrace and she nearly collapsed at feeling her son's arms around her once more. Sirius, June and Curtis stepped out of the room, letting the family have their time to comfort each other.

Augusta and Neville gradually brought Frank and Alice up to speed on what had happened while they had been hospitalized. Frank and Alice were shocked in learning about the various reforms that their world has gone through, though at the same time they were glad that things have improved so much. The news about Albus being untrustworthy was hard to accept, but Alice had been like Lily in that she had never fully trusted the aged Wizard. They were surprised to learn about Harry and his family, though they were grateful on how quickly they had taken Harry in and wished that they could see the other boy. They continued talking for a little while longer before the door opened and Sirius, June, Delilah and Lucas walked into the room. Frank and Alice thanked the group for their kindness and support, to which the group just smiled and said that it was no problem. June ran a few scans on the couple just to ensure that they're doing well and nothing had happened while they had talked.

"Alice, Frank, there's much that we still need to discuss." Lucas said, conjuring a chair with a flick of his hand and sitting down.

"What about?" Frank asked, shifting on his bed and accepting a glass of water from June.

Lucas and Delilah looked at each other before nodding and that made Neville realize that they were going to tell his parents about Assassins and Templars. Sure enough, Lucas and Delilah began explaining what they are and what their son is. Frank and Alice listened with rapt attention; Frank's eyes widening as he learned more about the two hidden societies. Needless to say, the couple was shocked in learning that Neville has the abilities to become an Assassin and has already begun his training. Neville proudly confirmed what Lucas and Delilah were saying and happily chatted away about his training and what he has learned so far. Frank and Alice were greatly interested in learning more about Neville's schooling and his friends; in which they fought back a smile when Neville flushed slightly when he mentioned Hermione and the other girls he's made friends with. It was easy to see that their son is still slightly shy, though apparently not as shy as he was before school from what Augusta had said. Neither of them were too happy when they learned that Algernon had bullied their son, but thankfully the man has changed his opinion. As Lucas and Delilah continued to explain things, they were rather surprised to see that Alice was rather calm about the fact that she's surrounded by Assassins and is currently staying in their main compound.

"Alice…did you already know about Assassins?" Lucas asked, making the woman sigh and nod; shocking her husband and son.

"What?!" Frank asked, making his wife smile sheepishly at him.

"My mother was part of the French Assassin Brotherhood. You know I'm from France and I came to Hogwarts instead of going to Beauxbatons Academy. I didn't have the abilities to become an Assassin myself but I figured that was a high chance that any child I might have might hold the potential to become one." She explained, making Augusta and Frank stare at her.

"Why did you never tell me?" Frank asked, frowning lightly as Alice sighed and rolled her eyes.

"And how exactly would I have explained something like that without sounding completely insane?" She asked, raising an eyebrow as Frank opened his mouth before closing it.

Frank shook his head and calmed himself. Looking to Neville, he looked his son up and down with a critical eye. Neville certainly does look good; his body is filling out and any baby fat he has is easily fading the more Neville works out. He also listened as Neville told him and Alice about his training and workouts with his friends. It was surprising hearing how many Assassins are actually attending Hogwarts, though they figured that it was a good thing. Though the fact that there are likely as many Templar trainees attending the school was alarming to say the least. Frank and Alice saw the pride in Neville's voice and eyes whenever he talked about his training. He also showed them his 'true' wand; something that surprised them considering neither of them had ever thought that Assassins would have a specially made wand just for them that doesn't have the trace on it.

Even though they worried about their son and knew that, should he decide to continue and eventually finish his Assassin training, he'll be going on missions, they couldn't deny that it's helped their son become more confident and sure of himself. They both agreed to allow Neville to continue his training, which made their son beam at them. Neville stepped out of the room and called for Shade, in which his pup came skidding into the infirmary and happily followed her human into the private room. Alice cooed over Shade, gushing about her son's familiar while Frank chuckled and shook his head. Shade love the attention though when Neville held his hand in a fist above her head she sat down beside the bed and remained there while Neville spent more time with his parents.

"You've been working on her training, I see." Augusta said, smiling as she looked down at the pup.

"Yeah. It helps that I can send her images through our mental link showing what I want her to do. It still takes her a little but she's getting the hang of it." Neville explained, reaching down and lightly scratching Shade's head.

"Alright, everyone, it's time for these two to rest. Too much excitement isn't good for them." June said, making Neville groan even though his parents smiled at him.

"If they get enough rest and feel strong enough they should be able to join everyone tomorrow afternoon for lunch in the dining room." June said, smirking when she saw the excitement in Neville's eyes.

Neville hugged his parents, flushing slightly when Alice kissed his forehead. Augusta hugged her son and daughter-in-law next before Sirius shook their hands and promised to speak with them later. All of them headed out of the private room and headed out of the infirmary. Neville hugged his grandmother tightly before heading up to his room to get some of his assignments done. Augusta, however, walked with Lucas, Delilah and Sirius to Lucas' private study. There, they talked about possibilities and what they should do now that Frank and Alice are awake and have been restored to their proper appearances and magical levels. Augusta wasn't too sure on making the news of their restoration public so quickly, but Sirius made her see the advantages of doing so. Frank and Alice will soon be strong enough to go outside and the public would be shocked at seeing them without knowing what had happened. She agreed with that and Lucas also explained what the news article should contain. Sirius agreed that he will help other people who might have been cursed using the same hex by his mad cousin which made things easier for what they wanted to do.

All of them agreed that the article should contain praise for St. Mungo's and their long-term treatment and care of Frank and Alice. Augusta explained that she had been pleased with on how the healers at St. Mungo's had been hard pressed to give up on hoping to treat Frank and Alice; only having given up when they exhausted all means. They also planned on praising the healers of Golden Heart Clinic, in which June is registered as one of the head healers of the clinic and she often helps out there whenever she doesn't have anything to do here at the estate.

"Alright, I'll call the Daily Prophet and ask to speak with one of their more…respectable reporters. We'll let the reporter speak with Frank and Alice themselves and ask for it to be released the first of February." Lucas said, the others nodding in agreement.

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Neville was rather reluctant to return to Hogwarts early on Monday morning. He had spent nearly the entire weekend with his parents talking and just spending time with them nearby. Frank was quickly brought up to speed on the matters of House Longbottom and thanked his mother for taking care of their assets. He happily agreed to form an alliance with Sirius, especially after what the other lord had done for their family. He also made plans to reinstate himself in the Wizengamot after the article was released to the public since he wanted to finally take his rightful place on the Wizengamot, something that he hadn't been able to do before the attack due to the large target over him and his family. One thing that he and Alice decided was that they wouldn't return to the Auror corps. After everything that has happened the last thing they wanted to do was partake in a career that will put them in danger once more. They both figured that they had sacrificed enough for their world and it's time for them to relax and spend time with their son and friends.

When Neville returned to Hogwarts, his friends all saw the pure happiness radiating from him. He barely contained his excitement throughout their classes and eagerly led the way to the Room when they had a free period. Inside the Room he eagerly told them about his parents and everything that happened. Everyone was happy for him, though Susan, Hannah, Millicent, Eliana and Jillian were given the slightly altered version that his parents had been staying at Golden Heart Clinic instead of at Othello Estate. Neville also passed Harry a letter from his parents:

Dear Harry,

We cannot thank you enough for reaching out and making friends with our son. From what Neville himself and Augusta told us Neville had been a very shy and insecure boy before he became friends with you and the others. Augusta often told us that Neville is nearly completely unrecognizable from the boy she had sent off to Hogwarts last year. We know that his change and newfound confidence is because of you and your close friend Mister Dean Thomas-Woods.

Thank you so much for helping our son find himself. We can't wait to meet you and the others on Easter break where we will be staying at Othello Estate so Neville won't have to constantly floo or portkey over to continue his training. From what Lucas and Delilah have told us and from the pictures we've seen, you are, without a doubt, your parents' son. They would be so proud of you, Harry and I know that they're happy with all that you've accomplished so far in your life.

We would certainly like to continue the alliance between our Houses and would love to have you spend some time at Longbottom Manor during the summer. Of course Dean will be invited too; Delilah and Lucas told us how close you two boys are. In fact, we would also love to meet all of your friends. Neville told us all about them and while it is surprising that most of his friends are girls, we're still pleased that there are so many who are willing to stand by our son.

Love,

Aunt Alice and Uncle Frank

Harry beamed at Neville, making his friend grin before he shared some of what had been written with the others. Everyone was beyond happy for Neville and explained that they would love to meet his parents sometime during the summer. Fred and George also talked about a letter they had gotten from their parents explaining that the new house is finished and they're steadily filling up the new rooms with their restored furniture and also new furniture since not all pieces could be refinished and repaired. Of course their dad and sent pictures and the twins happily enlarged the pictures so everyone could see the new house. The transformation was even more startling since Fred also produced some pictures of the old Burrow. Instead of the house reaching several stories and each floor jutting out like a giant child who had played with building blocks, was a rather beautiful house with four stories. The outside is painted a beautiful off white color with a warm red trim. There is a wrap-around porch around the entire house and a picture of the backyard showed that the back of the porch had enough room to entertain guests and had an attached deck which wrapped around the aboveground pool.

There's a two door garage, in which the twins explained that their dad owns a car and was thinking of getting a new one since their current one is rather old and the expansion charms on the inside were beginning to wear off. There are two impressive looking greenhouses in the back yard as well, towards the back and behind those are rows of different fruit trees. The entire property was surrounded by a low stone wall and there were plenty of large trees dotted around the grounds to provide plenty of shade during the warmer months. In a more heavily concealed area was the Quidditch pitch and a small broom shed.

"It-It's such a huge difference." Hermione breathed, looking between the 'before' and 'after' pictures with shock.

"Wait until you see the inside." George said, grinning as he pulled out more pictures.

The first floor was stunning. The front door opened to the mudroom which then opened to a large, open floor plan. A large living room was to the left of the main floor and to the right, separated by a large, sturdy staircase, was a large dining room which led to a huge kitchen. Fred and George explained that there was a half-bath between the living room and kitchen for guests. There's also a rather stunning sun room in the back of the first floor with two glass walls which looked over the garden and back yard. Up the stairs is a wide, long hallway with various doors. Fred and George explained that their parents' room is on this floor along with their private bathroom. Ginny's room and bathroom is on the floor along with Ron's room and bathroom. Their father's private study is at the back of the hallway and they explained that their dad has already warded the room so no one but him can access it.

On the third floor are their rooms, shared bathroom and their workroom. There are also two guest bedrooms, with a shared bathroom between them, a bedroom for Bill and a bedroom for Charlie with a bathroom between them. Percy's room is also on this floor and it has its own bathroom as well. At the end of the hallway is a hatch which led up to the new attic which is mostly a huge play space for Ron and Ginny. The attic also has a smaller room inside that is used for storage. Back on the first floor the twins showed them entrance to the basement and showed them the pictures of the large basement. There's a potions lab, which their mother is barred from for the time being, along with more storage areas and a workroom for Arthur to work on his experiments.

"It's amazing." Susan said, smiling as the twins grinned and nodded.

"We're glad that things are looking up for our family. For all her faults, Mum has done her best to clothe and feed us and Dad has always worked his arse off in order to attempt to provide for us. We've secretly transferred some of our earnings to the family vault to help pay for the renovations and to buy new furniture." Fred explained, the others smiling and nodding in understanding and agreement.

The twins happily talked about future prank items they wanted to develop, in which the others happily gave their advice and offered their help in testing some of the products for the twins after they created the items. Hermione also talked about the recent letter she had gotten from her mum. Apparently Emma and Richard are now officially divorced. The others were surprised on how quickly the divorce had been settled, but they were also happy for Hermione and Emma too. Hermione explained that her mum is thinking of opening her own business sometime during the summer though she doesn't know what kind of business she wants to open just yet. The girls rallied around Hermione to show their support as Hermione softly talked about how her father's memories have already been altered so he doesn't remember anything about the Magical world.

"My father is thinking about moving from what Mum said. The house just has…too many memories from what he told her. He did apologize and…I have a letter from him that he wrote before his memories were altered. I…I haven't opened it yet." Hermione admitted, her voice soft as she leaned into Susan's side.

"Open it when you're ready, Mione. There's no pressure." Neville said, Hermione nodding her head as she sniffled softly.

The rest of the day was spent talking and just hanging out besides working on their assignments and going to the last of their classes. Dinner was a rather entertaining affair as the twins had apparently decided to prank Ron after his latest attempt to sabotage Hermione after their last class. Hermione had complained to the twins about Ron knocking into her arm as he walked by which caused her to overturn her inkwell which covered her class book. His excuse of having not looked where he was going made the Professor relent and not deduct points, but Hermione had looked furious which they couldn't blame her for. Thankfully Percy had taught her a spell to clean the ink from her book and restored it to normal. The twins, having learned about what their little brother had done, put a potion in his drink at dinner which soon had him squealing like a pig as his nose turned into a pig's snout and he sprouted a curly pink tail just above his pant line. The entire hall had erupted into laughter, especially when Ron squealed loudly and darted out of the Great Hall…not before snagging a chicken leg of course. Healer Briggs quickly followed Ron, though he frowned sharply at the twins as he hurried by.

The twins were never convicted of the prank against their brother, though everyone knew they had done it. Ron didn't return until the morning since he had to wait the effects of the potion off. However, whenever he walked by someone they would make pig noises which caused the redhead to flush and hurry away in embarrassment. That morning when the mail arrived, the Great Hall suddenly fell silent as soon as the Daily Prophet arrived and was being read.

War Hero's Awake!

By Cassandra Woods

In a remarkable event Lord Franklin Longbottom and Lady Alice Longbottom are fully awake and have made a remarkable recovery from their tragic time of being trapped inside their own minds as prisoners. Now, many of our older readers will remember that Lord and Lady Longbottom had been attacked on the first of November ten and a half years ago. Lord and Lady Longbottom were attacked by Bellatrix Lestrange, her husband, brother-in-law and two other Death Eaters. Sadly, by the time helped arrived, the lord and lady were reduced to comatose states. They were rushed to St. Mungo's where Head Healer Anthony Wilkins began treating them for their wounds and broken bones. The other Aurors who were rushed in for treatment told the Healers about the battle and what spells were used. All of them thought that Lord and Lady Longbottom had been held under the Cruciatus curse until they simply became comatose.

Lord and Lady Longbottom became long term residents in St. Mungo's when the Healers realized that their normal treatments for exposure to this curse weren't working. Mind Healers who had extensive experience in handling patients with this kind of affliction, tried to cure the couple but nothing seemed to work. Their bodies rapidly lost much needed nutrients and they were placed on extensive potion regimens in order to keep them alive and in some kind of healthy state. A few months after they were admitted into the hospital, they were well enough to walk around but they resembled former prisoners who had been 'Kissed' by Dementors.

However, in late-December Lord Sirius Black began looking into the symptoms that Lord and Lady Longbottom were displaying. He knew that the Healers had given up on treating the couple and didn't want to take no for an answer. Looking though his family's library, he soon came upon an ancient book on Black Magic and found a curse inside which caused the same symptoms that Lord and Lady Longbottom were displaying. To ensure that he had gotten his information correct, Lord Black went to Azkaban and confronted his 'former' cousin Bellatrix Lestrange where, after speaking with her, she confirmed that she had used the spell on the Longbottom's. Lord Black then headed to Golden Heart Clinic with his findings where he confirmed that he can heal Lord and Lady Longbottom.

Madame Augusta Longbottom was soon contacted and she readily agreed to the treatment. She soon took her son and daughter-in-law out of St. Mungo's and had them transferred them to a private room in the Golden Heart Clinic. Head Healer June Weathers along with three others placed Lord and Lady Longbottom into a magical coma before allowing Lord Black and his cousin Andromeda Tonks nee Black cast the counter to the horrible curse and changes instantly began taking place to Lord and Lady Longbottom. They have regained their youthful appearance and look just as they had been before the curse ravaged their bodies and magical cores. Head Healer Weathers had this to say about the curse:

"This curse ravaged Lord and Lady Longbottom's body and magical core. It sent such high pain signals to every nerve ending that it forced them to retreat into their minds where they were locked in. The spell then began destroying the nutrients inside of their bodies, thus aging them prematurely. Because their bodies were alive but their minds locked away they displayed the same behavior as victims of Dementors. We had them placed into a magical coma to allow their bodies to heal completely and their magical cores to heal and mend. There were some bouts of accidental magic coming from them while they were in the comas but it wasn't anything we could handle."

Healer Weathers also had this to say about the state of the Longbottom's and their treatment at St. Mungo's:

"Lord and Lady Longbottom were in great health considering everything when they arrived at our clinic. I have already reached out to head Healer Wilkins of St. Mungo's in an attempt to one day, establish a program where our healers can help each other and learn from each other. Golden Heart Clinic uses more Non-Magical techniques while St. Mungo's uses magical techniques."

Madame Longbottom had this to say about the treatment her son and daughter-in-law received at St. Mungo's and at Golden Heart Clinic:

"I am beyond pleased with Frank's and Alice's treatment that they received at St. Mungo's. The healers there refused to give up until they exhausted all possible cures. Only then did they inform me that they couldn't find anything to help cure my son and daughter. Instead, they did their best to ensure Frank and Alice were comfortable and had all of their needs tended to and even then, a Mind Healer constantly performed checkups in order to see if anything was improving with them. As for Golden Heart Clinic I am very pleased with the treatment Frank and Alice received from them and their ideas on how to further help my son and daughter. Putting them in a magical coma was something that I never would have thought of but it had been the best option as, when they woke, Frank and Alice were instantly alarmed since the last thing they remembered was being attacked. The magical coma allowed them to fully heal without allowing them to harm themselves by worrying about what has happened."

Lord and Lady Longbottom are currently resting and regaining their strength at Longbottom Manor. They are currently having sessions with a Mind Healer from St. Mungo's to ensure that they haven't suffered any mental harm during their time under the curse's effects. They were unavailable for an interview but Madame Longbottom has stated that neither of them will be returning to the Auror department. Madame Amelia Bones, head of the D.M.L.E. has plans to present awards to Lord and Lady Longbottom for their actions during the war. A date for the awards ceremony has not been set and will depend on the wellbeing of Lord and Lady Longbottom and when they feel ready enough to make a public appearance.

Below the article are two pictures: one of Frank and Alice before they had been cured and another one that shows them after being cured. The difference between the two pictures was startling and really drove home on how much damage the curse had done to the pair. Another smaller article a few pages in talked about how four other long-term residents of St. Mungo's had been healed thanks to Sirius and Andromeda. There was talk of giving the pair an award for finding a cure to a curse that had affected so many and giving life back to so many people. However, Sirius and Andromeda refused and simply asked that, if they had to be rewarded, for a donation to be made to both St. Mungo's and Golden Heart Clinic to further help fund their research and enable them to continue to help people.

Neville flushed when he heard the other students talking and whispering about the article and many were looking at him in surprise. Harry had a look of pride on his face and he was very happy that his godfather had gotten the notice he deserved for helping so many people. Yes, it was a bit of a risk mentioning June but she is actually one of the head healers at Golden Heart and the clinic didn't often get much publicity in the Magical world. It's mostly thought of as a joke since it's located in the Muggle world and mostly caters to Muggleborns and the relatives of Muggleborns and Halfbloods. This will give the clinic some much deserved recognition. Harry glanced up at the head table and saw that many of the professors looked shocked though happy at the article. However, looking at Professor Dumbledore, Harry frowned when he saw a troubled look in the aged Wizard's eyes. Surely Dumbledore would be happy that two former members of his Order are back to normal and are perfectly healthy…right?

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February soon arrived and everyone was soon beginning to long for Easter break. The Fifth and Seventh Years were steadily beginning to panic as their exams came closer and it was rather common to see groups of them studying together and asking what might be on the O.W.L.s or N.E.W.T.s respectively. Of course the Sixth Years helped to point the Fifth Years towards the right books that they should begin studying from though reminded them that there's still time before the exams will actually take place. The Seventh Years also began sending out applications to colleges and were often called to their Head of Houses' office for career advice and where their grades stand and what they need to do in order to bring them up to be noticed by colleges. Hannah, Susan, Jillian, Eliana and Millicent worked hard to keep Hermione from stressing about her future and would often distract her whenever an older students nearby began worrying about their exams and futures. Harry, Dean and Neville tried to help out, though Neville was slowly getting nervous himself.

Thankfully Fred and George managed to calm everyone down and lift the mood in the entire school by playing pranks. Harry and Dean got in on the spirit of pranking others and actually snuck outside using a hidden passageway during the night and rigged the shower rooms for all four Houses. It was hilarious watching the Quidditch teams come into the Great Hall after practice with their hair and skin dyed various colors. Of course everyone suspected Fred and George behind the pranks no matter how much they denied any involvement. Even they were victims of the prank and entered the hall one more supporting neon blue hair and dark green skin. It was a colorful week for the students; especially when various walls in the hallways began flashing different colors throughout a week.

Hermione scolded Harry and Dean after they revealed themselves as the pranksters to their friends. However, after she finished scolding them she practically demanded to know how they had caused the walls in the hallways to flash different colors. Needless to say she was stuck speechless when Harry and Dean revealed that they had done it by casting a long last charm that they had created. They then further explained that Harry's parents and their various tutors had begun teaching them advanced charms, spells and jinxes before they had come to Hogwarts. Fred and George explained that spell creation didn't get taught to anyone outside of Ancient Runes and Arithmancy and normally that was taught near the end of Sixth Year and throughout Seventh Year. Harry and Dean appeased Hermione's thirst for knowledge by promising that their tutors will likely teach both her and Neville during the summer.

On the ninth Millicent, Daphne, Tracy and Blaise all noticed that Draco was missing. They found this strange though they instantly became worried that something had happened to his mother. However, Vincent and Gregory quickly explained that Draco had been called out of the school for something concerning his father. The four Snakes quickly passed on the message to Harry and his group, which greatly worried Harry and Dean. Yes, there had been articles concerning Azkaban and some prisoner riots and disturbances throughout the years but nothing that caused any major concern. During lunch everyone noticed that Professor Dumbledore wasn't there and Professor McGonagall had to step up when she saw the student body becoming worried about the absence of their headmaster.

"Headmaster Dumbledore is away due to duties pertaining to his position on the Wizengamot. He will be back late this evening or early tomorrow morning. In his absence I shall be taking his place." She explained, watching as everyone listened closely before chatting quietly about the news.

Later that night Harry got a call from his dad. He had just finished reading a chapter in his Transfiguration book when he felt his communications mirror go off. He hurriedly threw a pillow through the curtains towards Dean's bed before snagging his mirror and activating it. Dean hurried over and sealed the curtains around Harry's bed before sitting down beside the other boy.

"Dad?" Harry asked, frowning as he enlarged the mirror so he and Dean could see better.

"Lucius Malfoy is out of Azkaban."

"What?!" Harry and Dean cried, their eyes wide as Lucas sighed and nodded.

"A lawyer by the name of Oliver Dowell managed to get Lucius released on good behavior. Malfoy has kept his nose clean since his sentence and had been a 'model' prisoner. He also presented the fact that Narcissa Malfoy is in declining health and Draco will essentially become an orphan should his mother pass and his father still be in prison. Of course after the trial Lucius released the information that his wife will be admitted into a private clinic for treatment for her illness." Lucas explained, the boys looking at each other in horror.

"W-What about the Malfoy seat?" Dean asked, swallowing thickly as Lucas ran a hand through his hair.

"Because of the new law that was passed a few months ago, former prisoners cannot sit upon the Wizengamot. The Malfoy seat will still be there for Draco to inherit should he keep his head down and his nose clean. One of the conditions of Malfoy's release is that he has to report to the D.M.L.E. every two weeks, cannot travel outside of the country, and is susceptible to snap house inspections by the D.M.L.E. at random. His lawyer tried to get that revoked but it was either that or Malfoy remain behind bars. Amelia quietly revealed to me that Lucius had a tracking rune engraved onto his collar bone during his last medical evaluation. This way they'll be able to keep an eye on his movements, even if he does decide to break his parole and flee the country. It's undetectable and Malfoy was knocked out during the procedure." Lucas explained, the boys nodding lightly.

"So the Daily Prophet will have the story out by tomorrow morning." Dean said, Lucas nodding.