UNFORESEEN Chapter 7, a harry potter fanfic

Unforeseen

Note: Please pardon me if you encountered any grammatical, misspelled or technical mistakes.

Hermione,

You're probably wondering why I am writing to you at this time of day... It's simply because I couldn't sleep. And for some unknown reason, I've been thinking about you more than I've intended to.

I'm betting Draco had written the same thing about it as we have been corresponding with each other with regards to you. And we both hope you don't feel offended or weird about it because really, what you're going to find out is confusing and somehow intriguing…

On May 2nd, I had an unheard-of condition even my Aunt Miranda couldn't figure out…

Hermione stopped right here and immediately grabbed Draco's letter. Hastily and with care unsealed the envelope.

Hermione Primrose,

She snorted.

I suppose you're still awake as you wouldn't be reading this letter at all if not. Harry and I have decided that you should know something that we're both hoping you do too. And frankly, from our exchanges, Harry mentioned that our situation might fascinate you.

You see last year on the 2nd of May, around the afternoon, I had a perplexing brain illness that caused me to fall unconscious for the rest of the day…

Hermione exhaled sharply. The back of her hands hitting the table's edge.

Why didn't she know about this? And why didn't her mother mention them having the same episode as hers last year? On the same day? What made them speak about it to each other? Why didn't the boys approach her earlier about this?

That question caused her to inhale deeply as her magic pulsed within her with the thought of her mates not trusting her.

Her eyes widened at that. She stared at the two letters in her hands, dumbstruck. Unable to keep her hands from shaking at what this meant for them…

Hermione tried focusing her mind to calm herself and her magic. She couldn't avoid feeling a little betrayed by what they did, hiding this important piece of information. If only her mother had told her about this, Hermione would have been prepared to meet them and help find a way to help them adjust.

Her eyes slid to the journal lying to the side. She grabbed it with her right hand that's still holding Harry's letter.

This journal is personalized. Unlike her other journal—the one with lots of security engraved in it—this journal bears all the snippets of the life of Hermione Jane Granger.

What she learned from Hermione Jane—other than their differences in outward appearance—is their contrasting personality and life growing up.

Jane is a very outspoken, and prodigious intellectual witch, who's sorted to Gryffindor. A house that perfectly represents her brave and courageous heart for people and creatures who are abused because of their standings.

Primrose, on the other hand, doesn't have a prodigious mind but is brilliant in her own way, with enough thirst for knowledge. Just like her mother and Jane, she also loves reading and a library filled with books. Though, they do have the same standing with regards to fighting for the rights of every creature that is subjugated in the hands of maltreatment and the prejudice of blood supremacists.

Jane was raised with no magical background until she turned eleven and received her Hogwarts letter. Primrose on the other hand is raised with magical and muggle background.

In terms of learning further deeper magic, Primrose is very open-minded. Jane, however, hesitates. The fact that her other self was reluctant to delve deeper beyond the magic bestowed for them slightly boggles her. But at the same time in spite of the fact that she's exceptionally gifted with knowledge and magic, it wasn't really a surprise to Primrose considering that Jane has personal beliefs she'd grown up used to before finding out that she's a witch.

Hermione Jane also grew up surrounded by kids that are the same age as hers and began studying at around five into a muggle primary. Primrose on the other hand was unable to, even though her parents planned to let her attend in one. But by the time she began manifesting her magic at four, her parents took it upon themselves to train her in better controlling it and also teach her the basics of math, reading, and writing.

Hermione Jane's favorite color is lavender; Primrose is golden yellow.

They both favor cats as pets.

Speaking of pets, Carina her little kitten had been lovely upon their arrival back here in the cottage. She'd been ecstatic and had promptly made herself at home by single-handedly strutting around the house.

Hermione glanced at her bed where the kitten had situated herself to sleep.

"Hermione?"

A soft voice called her. She turned from her seat and looked at her sister who's now sitting up in the middle of her bed, hugging her own blanket around her. Hermione noted the glassy look often seen from people who just woke up.

"Yes Almairah?" she responded softly. She placed the letters carefully on her desk and stood from her seat so she could approach her sister in her bed.

"Did I wake you?" Hermione asked quietly as she sat down beside her sister. "I'm sorry if I did."

Almairah shook her head, "no you didn't. I just had a dream of you leaving for Hogwarts."

She frowned at the small voice of her sister and sighed. "Almairah, don't be sad about me leaving for Hogwarts later today. You know that we're going to exchange letters throughout the school year right?"

Almairah's eyes shone with tears again and sniffled, "yeah, I'm just.. I'm sorry Hermione."

Grabbed her sister closer to her and sank down together on her bed. "I truly understand your worry over me Almairah. And I want you to know that I really do appreciate it, and know that I have no intentions of ever forgetting about my troublesome sister," she laughed a little when Almairah playfully poked her on her ribs, huffing. "I'm just kidding. Seriously though, I may be leaving for Hogwarts but you, on the other hand, I will not, and I repeat, won't ever leave you ever at all."

They went silent for a moment before they felt Carina join them. Making Almairah giggle as she delicately grabbed the kitten to her.

Hermione noticed her sister hesitating on saying something by the way she's chewing her lower lip. "What is it?" she urged gently.

"You were right," Almairah began in a small voice, "I'm frightened that you might one day forget about me," her sister looked up at her with fear reflecting in her eyes, "I don't want you to forget about me, Hermione. Especially now that you're gaining friends to play with."

Hermione bit her own lip to stop herself from cutting Almairah's admission.

"When you and mama came back home from your shopping, the first thing you've shared with me was about the new friends you've met. Of course, at first, I was happy that you've gained friends your age, but then letters came and you've been awfully busy with your preparation for school and responding to their letters," Almairah paused, absently stroking Carina's soft fur. "Maybe I was jealous that your attention transferred to them, but at the same time I understand because you'll need to surround yourself with friends that will accompany you in school every day."

"I'm sorry if you felt abandoned," Hermione apologized. She grabbed the hand that's stroking Carina's fur. "I realized that I've been horrible and overlooked this from you when it was evident in your face that you feel that way. I'm genuinely sorry, Almairah," she said. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"

Almairah only shrugged and averted her eyes, "I don't want to worry you more and well… it's silly…"

Hermione shook her head, "what you feel is never silly, Almairah. If you wanted to be reassured, communicate it. May it be good or bad. If you're angry at me let me know so I could make it up to you and learn from it to never repeat the same mistake," she said gently. "What you did just now was a good example of communicating. You've expressed that I'm somewhat ignoring you because my attention has been focused on my upcoming academic year and to my friends. It's healthy. Never ever hesitate to put yourself first with regards to your feelings…" Hermione trailed off, her mind working.

"That's unless if it's about love for someone… you know to a boy…" she trailed off when she noted the confusion on Almairah's face.

"I love you though," Almairah said as a matter of fact. "What's hard in confessing your love for a person? Don't you love your friends?"

It was an innocent question but Hermione couldn't help feeling her face heat up at the notion. "Well, I guess I love them as a friend…"

Almairah stared at her face for a moment before shrugging. Her dainty finger began playing with her soft curls, "do you know…"

"Do I know what?"

Almairah's face blushed prettily, wetting her lips, "do your friends have siblings that are my age? I mean I was hoping to meet one before I join you in Hogwarts until I turn eleven. And well, I've never met one my age yet."

Hermione swiftly made a mental calculation of her sister's age and Regulus. "There's one, but I'm not sure if he's the same age as you. I'll let you know once I asked his older brother."

The girl yawned widely, eyes bleary, and nodded, "m'kay. I'll remind you about it then, hopefully, I'll meet him later."

Hermione shook her head in amusement. Only Almairah could promptly fall asleep as if nothing happened.

She slowly and carefully extricated herself from her sister, quietly instructing Carina to stay with her.

As she silently approaches her desk again, Hermione thought of her friends. And shortly, Jane's.

Hermione realized that at such a young age, Jane had a hard time forming a bond of friendship with kids her age. The reason is, she's constantly bullied because of her knowledge and appearance. It was this that determined Hermione Jane's decision to immediately agree in attending Hogwarts hoping that joining her kind would make a change for her, especially forming a friendship.

With some renewed vigour, Jane had done her everything to better acquaint herself with the magical world by reading lots of textbooks that would give her some overview.

In the early days of her admission in the magical institution—as what Primrose had seen—Jane has a tendency of being self-assertive that makes her look arrogant due to her knowledge and because she doesn't have any idea how to build or even create friendship, she does the only thing she does best. Helping others with their school works.

Which only made her more unfavorable among her peers. Even her blood status and physical appearance aren't helping her purpose.

Hermione had silently cried to herself while writing these memories down in her journal. Disheartened that she was all alone, friendless, and bullied in her other life.

But these scenarios changed exceptionally when Jane was almost killed by a mountain troll. If it wasn't for Ronald Weasley's rude words, she wouldn't have been in that place at all.

It was during their Charms class with Professor Flitwick teaching them the levitation spell. They were given instructions on how to perform this spell individually. But since Jane mastered the charm already, she decided to help her partner instead, who's rather aggressively waving his wand over the innocent feather.

Jane obviously, desperate to create friends, decided to teach Ron Weasley the proper way of performing the spell. But was rather impolite by the way he sneers at her as she explains why he shouldn't do what he was doing. Then suddenly, he rudely remarked that if she's so good at it, she do the spell instead.

And Jane did. Which gained them ten points. As she's the very first student that week to have achieved the spell successfully.

When the lesson ended, as Jane was fixing her things to prepare for their next subject, she heard Ron tell his group of friends about her performance.

Up to now, Primrose could still recall the words he'd told them.

"It was no wonder no one can stand her," he said to them as they made their way out the classroom, "she's a nightmare honestly."

Jane had rushed past them and bumped on Harry that time. Slightly knocking him forward due to the force. And ran towards the nearest girl's loo to have a private moment. Skipping the afternoon classes and lunch.

It was during dinner when things had dramatically changed.

Since Jane didn't know what transpired back in the Great Hall and wasn't aware that a troll was let loose inside Hogwarts. She was ignorant by the direct orders the headmaster had instructed them.

Fortunately, Harry and Ron came to rescue her from the huge creature and glad she was saved from almost dying. But despite this, Jane was even more grateful she'd finally built a friendship with these two boys. Even though Ron has his moment to detest her when it comes to Harry.

Hermione skipped that part in her journal and rapidly turned to the very last memory she'd acquired just last night.

This last memory was so heavily vivid and unclear since she'd dreamed this one. She's absolutely certain it was during the war.

Considering that the memories weren't consistent and randomly pops up in her mind like flashes of cameras, Hermione sometimes mixes up all the entries that pertain to Hermione Jane's personal moments, Hogwarts days, or the hunt.

She read her entry:

-Hogwarts courtyard; people in black robes, a waxy figure standing in the middle leading an army; forearms covered in tattoo.

-Two bodies, unmoving; dead (Harry and Draco—Jane's mates)

-Black tendrils around her; Jane's hair?

-Melody of pain; another incantation?

That was it. Hermione knows who the two bodies were and is positive with her guess that this timeline was the very last memory Jane had. The reason why these memories were sent back in time, and to her.

Hermione Jane was provoked by the death of her two most cherished men.

What Hermione Primrose couldn't understand was why did this memory make itself known to her again and show her some more pieces she had never seen before, other than the death of Jane's mates.

Now, there's more to it that she's oblivious to understand, especially the incantation she could hear. It's like a rendition of her mother's lullaby but in a darker tone. The image of black tendrils flowing around her had her shivering. Hermione Jane was probably so mad to the fates that she'd sung her mourning heart and soul out with her magic empowering it.

Rubbing her eyes irritatingly, Hermione instead returned her attention back to the letters. Picking up Harry's first.

Hermione,

You're probably wondering why I am writing to you at this time... It's simply because I couldn't sleep. And for some unknown reason, I've been thinking about you more than I've intended to.

On May 2nd, I had an unheard-of condition even my Aunt Miranda couldn't figure out. From my experience, I encountered a great deal of pain in my head that rendered me to be unavailable for a whole day. As if some unknown force is stabbing my brain. What's most peculiar though was the things I've learned after.

I acquired memories that are not mine but was mine. I know it's awfully confusing, that's why I'm writing this to you hoping that you have any idea of what this might mean. I actually haven't told anyone about my condition, except you and Draco.

You were in those memories, Hermione. But not you in a sense… but still you… do you get me? This is bloody baffling me. And Draco! He was there too, but he has an infuriating personality. It's the total opposite of the Draco we personally know.

You see, it's quite vexing and taxing on my part because I have no idea what is happening to me. The moment my eyes landed on you that day we first met, I knew you were the girl in my dreams. But why am I dreaming about you all this time before actually meeting you? I'm not saying I don't like you visiting my dreams, Hermione!

Anyway, did you know that I had a dream yesterday night about me dying and a woman crying? Draco said it was you...

Sincerely,

Harry Jame Potter

P.S. If you have the same thing going on as Draco and I, then we should probably have a private conversation about this and maybe figure this out together?

Hermione re-read Harry's letter again, making sure she didn't miss anything. She exhaled sharply and moved her throat by swallowing to ease the tightness she's feeling, before turning her eyes on Draco's this time. Slightly wary if the letter carries the same information. Harry mentioning the dream he had last night was probably the most important detail she'd ever received.

If Draco had the same dream, she's certain her suspicions will be confirmed.

Hermione Primrose,

You see last year on the 2nd of May, around the afternoon, I had a perplexing brain illness that caused me to fall unconscious for the rest of the day. After recovering from the said illness, I've obtained certain images flashing inside my mind. Like pages in the books.

At first, I was confused by what happened and thought it was just dreams that my subconscious mind is creating. Hence, I ignored it. But weeks passed and these images remained constant in my mind as it continuously presents their existence in my life.

It got worst this year and began dreaming about you and Harry. It was an unpleasant dream. I was quite terrible to you both and my actions were inappropriate and I made you cry most of the time Hermione!

Well, obviously it wasn't you nor Harry, or me. It was just another us. Which is definitely strange…

If you're wondering if someone in my family knows… None. They don't. I've never mentioned this condition to them, yet. And I was hoping to figure this out by myself by researching in our vast library. But the quest proved fruitless as some texts here were either uninformed or didn't know exactly what this condition is.

As a result, I approached Harry about this the first time we exchanged letters. I was glad he had the same thing happening to him. I even asked if he has any idea about the condition we have. His reply was obviously negative and told me that we should try sharing this about you. I didn't disagree.

I really have a lot of things to share with you, Hermione. And if you do have the same condition as what Harry and I have, please do mention it to us as soon as possible so we could work this out together.

I have my own theories for now.

Lastly, and I know Harry has told you something related to this too, the dream I had last night… I saw you crying and screaming Harry's name. It left us perplexed. Could you help us, please?

Constantly thinking about you,

Draco Astin Malfoy

A single glinting tear dropped over Draco's letter, slowly smudging the already dried ink. Hermione didn't even realize she'd started crying.

Hermione felt lightheaded as she shakily folded the two letters. She felt the beginning of fainting, as she stood up from her chair back to her own bed.

"Liya?" Hermione called quietly and urgently. She read from the clock on her nightstand that it's 1:37 in the morning as she carefully lies in bed.

The elf popped silently beside her bed, wearing her own nightclothes. "Little miss calls Liya?"

Hermione felt bad for waking Liya up from her slumber. The sleepiness is still evident in her posture and the way her eyelids were drooping. But the way her body breaks out with cold sweats and her feeling faint is not good news, and quite needs immediate assistance.

"I'm really sorry Liya, but would you please wake my mother? I'm feeling out of sorts," she whispered desperately. Her body now shaking as thoughts and memories drifts out of control in her mind.

Liya's eyes now opened wide scanning her little miss before nodding vigorously and popped.

It only took five minutes before Hermione heard her mother's soft footsteps and the rustling of her nightdress.

"Hermione dear?" Emma's voice floated from behind her. Hermione moved slowly to the side and saw her mother's worried eyes. "How do you feel?"

Hermione was staring at her mother with wide terrified eyes. Face white as sheet and body covered with cold sweats.

"I feel faint mama," she responded as her vision began forming black spots. Her hearing turned cottony. "I-don't under-s-stand? What's happening to me, mama?"

Emma immediately grabbed her daughter's sweaty hand, shushing her. "Did you meditate tonight?" her mother asked gently as she waves her wand over her body, performing a basic diagnostic charm. She called for Liya and requested a sweet hot chocolate drink.

Hermione's ears perked up at that, despite how distant her mother's voice is. The words slowly making their way into her brain, processing the information.

Of course! That was why she couldn't sleep! She'd forgotten meditating and refurbishing her walls.

"No, mama. I forgot," she croaked. Her mother gently prodded her to sit and lean on the headboard, offering her the steaming hot choco Liya made for her. She took a sip before replying, "I'm sorry mama."

Emma nodded her head in understanding as she takes from Liya the potion that will help Hermione sleep soundly. Once dismissed, Liya went back to her quarters.

"It's fine," she paused as she fiddles with Hermione's blanket. Arranging them. "It's common for those who practice deeper mind magick. And since you've been updating your mind palace and at the same time doing your meditating routine almost every day, it's expected that if you've missed one day from doing it, you'll experience some light-headedness or in your case, fainting," she trailed off watching Hermione drink from her mug. "Just make sure to take it easy, okay? Be easy on yourself Hermione. I know that carrying the memories of your other self is vital for us and this does not mean you have to neglect in taking care of yourself."

"I understand, mama. I'm really sorry," Hermione apologized in a small voice.

"That you do," Emma sighed and took the mug from her as she recognized the color slowly coming back to her face. "I've told you from the very beginning, mind magick isn't to be trifled with and not an easy feat to master. If you force yourself with it, your mind might take time to recuperate. Our minds are too delicate."

"Why aren't you sleeping yet anyway?" Emma asked after a moment of silence.

Hermione nodded her head over her desk that's still bathed with the moon's beam—two envelopes and a journal.

"Harry?" Her mother inquired, one brow lifted.

Hermione nodded, "and Draco."

"At this time of day?"

"Yes, mama," Hermione nodded again, her mind features turning contemplative once more. "They shared something with me. A piece of information that now made sense to me, mama," she paused then turned her gaze to Emma with intent. "Why didn't you ever tell me that Draco and Harry also experienced the same episode last year of May, mama?"

Emma sighed. "Darling, I plan to—we..."

"We?"

"Yes, we," Emma said. "Lyra, Miranda, and I had been in you three's unique situation for a year now. After that event last year, I took the lead of researching what might've been happening to all of you—"

"Then why didn't you let me meet them?" Hermione her tone accusing.

"You three having the same condition that is unidentified and entirely peculiar, Hermione," her mother responded dryly, making Hermione wince. "And the fact that we don't have any idea what will happen to you three if you met early on," she paused considering her next words. "How did it go for you anyway?"

Her mother has a good point. If they did meet early on without knowing what happened to them could have caused them more pain than intended. "What do you mean mother?"

"Did you had any sort of reaction when you met them personally?" Emma asked and cheekily added, "except the part where you transformed into a human tomato."

"Mother!" Hermione hissed quietly in vexation as she could feel her body do just that. Become red again.

"Yes, well, I can seriously blame that on my mother. That blushing gene came from her you know," Emma pointed at her red cheeks. "So? Spill it, young lady."

Hermione glared some more at her mother and grudgingly recollected their meeting.

"When I first saw them, I felt my magic tug," her mother hummed at this but remained silent so she continued. "It seemed like my magic knew them and wanted to connect with them. I didn't understand what I was feeling, so I assessed them instead while riffling through my collection of memories. And then," she snapped her fingers to prove a point, "I recognized them from Jane's memories. They were the Draco and Harry in her life."

"Really? What are they to her—to you for that matter?" Emma murmured beside Hermione, staring ahead.

"They were her mates," Hermione said bluntly, ignoring the gasp her mother expelled. "And I know they are mine too. So don't you ever deny it, mother."

"Hermione..."

"No, mama. I get it, I know. I swear I understand that this is all too early. I just—I can't deny what my magic is telling me. You and papa have always told me to let my magic guide me as it knows better what is deemed for my own good. You said magic can consider me unworthy of myself if I misused it—"

"Yes, although wizards or witches who do dark magic still exist," Emma noted.

"That's debatable mother. Magic isn't always Light. Magic needs to be balanced. Therefore, dark magic exists. In Riddle's case, him gathering forces and practicing darker magic we've never known of is now causing disruption with Her Supremeness magic. Don't you see the reason why that two boys and I were connected magically, mama?"

"I don't like where this is going, Hermione," Emma sighed.

"I don't like it either, mama. But it's a duty given to me by the fates and an honor for Her Supremeness to consider me capable of taking part in such venture. In fact, it makes me anxious and furious at the same time just by thinking of fighting that monster that caused Jane's life to end in a matter of seconds after the death of her mates she had no idea of. It's unfortunate enough that she didn't get the opportunity to test their bond together," Hermione huffed. "And let's not disregard the news the goblins had shared with us, mother."

Emma agreed. The goblins made an international statement about the status of magic in their world.

Wizarding world is now in the state of losing its magic for the next 20 or so years. Upon this announcement, the ICW immediately sought out the Chieftain of the Horde with the request of providing them more thorough description of the situation and what's causing the disturbance for their world to be in this position.

It was no secret that goblins live in hollowed earth called Agvartria. Their realm is hidden from humankind due to Her Supremeness magic protecting them. Apparently, their elders had felt the slow decline began for almost five years now. Originally, their high elves were the ones who knows what to do and usually were the ones who can figure out the problem and find solutions. Sadly they were unsuccessful and in a state of disarray.

The ultimate cause of their distressing situation was dark magic. It's growing exponentially worst than ever and creating an imbalance in magic. Goblins couldn't even figure out what kind of dark magic is causing the very fabric in this world to fluctuate so bad that if not taken care of as soon as possible, the Statue will be broken. And Agvartria will reveal itself for the first time in many years.

Worst case scenario, the muggle world will make war with them, and Hermione knows that wizarding world isn't ready to face them yet. Wands can't stop a nuclear bomb from exploding.

Riddle, Hermione thought. It's his abomination that's causing this disturbance, I'm sure of it.

The other side of King's Cross station is filled with young witches and wizards getting ready to embark on the Hogwarts' Express. Upon entering the portal, all Hermione could hear were the screams of children yelling each other's names in greeting. Owl went unnoticed too with their relentless hooting inside their cages.

Almairah had clung to her side while carrying Carina's carrier. She's currently holding Hermione's hand pretty tight as she watches other kids almost her age that aren't attending Hogwarts this year and is here to witness their siblings leave them behind.

"Hermione!"

The aforementioned girl smiled widely at the figure of James who's enthusiastically waving his hand above his head, gaining her attention.

She pulled her sister to where the Potters are waiting. Following behind them is Daniel who's pushing her trolley and Emma, her mother, just beside him.

"Hi, James!" Hermione exclaimed once she made it to them. Her eyes scanning their group, frowning, "where's Harry?"

A man with greying hair was about to reply when a voice behind her called her attention, "I'm here, Hermione."

Hermione turned and faced the boy she's looking for, her eyes narrowing. "What did you do, Harry James."

The boy only shrugged, sharing a look with James, smirking. "Nothing you need to worry about."

"Why don't you introduce us to your friend, Harry?" A woman with striking and familiar grey eyes asked kindly.

Hermione's brows furrowed and asked the woman before Harry could even utter a word. "Are you by chance related to Sirius Black, madame?"

The woman's eyes glinted furiously in amusement, "I do. In fact, he's my nephew."

"Mother, father, this is Hermione Primrose Granger, and her family," Harry cut in. Making Hermione flush in the realization of what she'd just inappropriately did.

"My apologies, Lady potter," Hermione apologized after curtsying hastily but gracefully. "These are Daniel and Emma Granger, my parents. And this young lady beside me is my sister, Almairah Rose Granger."

Her sister curtsied adorably and hid behind her once again. Peeking over Hermione's shoulder as she watches the boys her big sister befriended. She saw not only once the look of appreciation Almairah is giving on James.

But the boy is too oblivious to what's happening.

Her father and Lord Potter shook hands in greeting, while her mother and Lady Potter gave each other respectful inclining of the head.

"Oh, it's perfectly fine dear. What my dear son here failed to mention are our names," Lady Potter said dryly, her eyes dancing in amusement the way Harry's cheeks attain a pink hue. "My name is Dorea Potter nee Black, and my husband here is Charlus."

Hermione stared gobsmacked, "you're cousins with Sirius?"

The twins only shrugged. "We didn't know until that day when we had our shopping trip," James said. "Apparently he's our distant cousin on mother's side."

Hermione was about to reply when another person joined their group.

"Sorry we're late," Miranda Potter said slightly out of breath. Behind her a boy with tousled platinum hair and a trolley infront of him. "Lyra just contacted me and had an emergency to attend to."

Emma who's been quiet all the time asked, "what happened?"

"It was grandmother, she'd fallen ill due to my leaving," Draco shared with a grimace. "She was against of me attending Hogwarts and was rather nasty in demanding that I'm better of to Beauxbaton."

Silence fell over the group.

"Sirius!" James suddenly yelled.

The group turned in the direction where James was looking and saw Sirius Black with his brother and the illustrious Lord Black.

"Charlus, it's good to see you, my friend!" Lord Black boomed in greeting once they made it to them. Grinning, he turned to Lady Potter, "I see sister, age has been kind to you."

Dorea glared at his older brother, "don't start with me, Arcturus. If you say one more word in my direction I'm going to cut you." Her eyes narrowed dangerously.

Lord Black merely shrugged at her sister, as if the threat was nothing to him. "I see, your twins and my heir finally met," he said in an amused way. His prominent grey eyes darting between the kids, before settling at her, "And who might this beautiful young lady is?"

Hermione flushed prettily her eyes flickering to Sirius who only grinned at her, the same kind as Lord Black's currently wearing. She noted Regulus beside him, nudging him to gain his attention. Making Hermione's lips quirk.

As expected, the boy was a carbon copy of Sirius, but personality-wise, they're entirely opposite.

Sirius cleared his throat and introduced her to Lord Black, "This is Hermione Primrose Granger, grandfather."

She gave an elegant curtsy in greeting. "It's an honor to meet you, Lord Black."

Arcturus' eyes gleamed, "likewise, Miss Granger. And who you might be little one?"

Almairah was too surprised to reply, so Hermione introduced her again, "her name is Almairah Rose, sir."

The distinguished lord nodded his head, before turning his eyes to the adults behind her. "Ah, Mr. Granger, it's so nice to see you again."

Hermione watched her father stumble over his words as he greeted Lord Black in a barely composed way. Her mother had to bump her hips beside him to shake him. The exchange was amusing, to say the least.

"Hermione," Sirius called. The adults had grouped themselves together just beside their group, catching up whatever news they're talking about. "This is Regulus, my brother," Sirius introduced his brother who's now shyly peeking behind him. His grey eyes shining with excitement in meeting her, yet reluctant.

Hermione smiled kindly at the little boy, tugging Almairah beside her. "Hello, Regulus, I'm Hermione. Your brother's pen pal," she grinned, when Sirius scoffed.

Regulus' smile crinkled at that, "yeah, I know." He responded. His eyes flickering to Almairah.

"This Almairah, my little sister. She's eight years old and will be joining Hogwarts in my 4th year," she said with a kind smile, "how about you?"

Sirius grabbed his brother and pushed him slightly forward. His hands firm on his shoulder, guiding him. "Hi, my name's Regulus," the boy said after glaring at his older brother who only offered him a playful smirk. "I just turned 8 years old last May."

"Your birth month is May too?" Almairah blurted out. She flushed prettily when Regulus stared at her wide-eyed.

Despite the amusing and cute interaction between them, for Hermione what she's witnessing are kids deprived to meet someone they could connect with on a personal level.

"When's your birthday?" Regulus asked curious and eager to know more about her sister.

"May 10th. You?" Almairah replied eagerly, making Sirius and Hermione exchange a knowing look. Before leaving them alone.

"Mine's 11th!"

"What's your favorite color? Do you read books? What are your favorite? Do you like flowers? What are our favorite flowers?" Almairah bombarded him with questions, too excited to finally meet a kid her age. Even though it's a boy.

"Woah, calm down, Almairah."

That was the last thing they heard from the two of them as they fell into an animated conversation about their favorites, before grabbing Sirius' arms, pulling him towards the three boys that were left unattended.

Draco, Harry, and James had their heads together, talking to each other quietly. Whatever it is their obviously too busy to notice their presence.

Behind her, Sirius cleared his throat, "Hey guys!"

The trio jumped with James cursing. "That was not funny, Sirius!"

Sirius barked a laugh, one hand clutching his stomach. "You should've seen your face, James."

James only shot him a glare, "watch your back, Black. Don't doubt that I'll return the favor."

"Oooh, I expect nothing less from you, Potter," he smirked.

"So what is it you're hiding, Harry James?" Hermione asked her head inclined as she crosses her arms.

"You know, when you call Harry's full name, it felt like you're also calling me when I'm not," James said, his back leaning on a pillar. "You sound like our mother when you take that tone, which is altogether scary and amusing."

Hermione only glanced at his way before bringing her attention back to Harry, her eyes playfully reprimanding, "well boys, anything to share?"

Draco bumped Harry's shoulder, "just tell her. She won't stop nagging you about it anyway. Better tell her now, Potter."

Hermione glared at Draco's statement, "I don't nag, mister Malfoy. Who said to you that I do?"

The Hogwarts Express whistled loudly, signaling the students that they only have 5 minutes to make it inside the train.

The adults immediately gathered them together and checked their things, making sure they didn't miss anything.

Almairah gave her Carina's carrier sadly, her lips pouting. "I'll miss you, Hermione," she said eyes glistening with tears now. Hermione's heart broke and swiftly hugged her little sister tightly. "I'll miss you too. I promise to write immediately once I'm sorted, okay?"

Almairah responded with a small okay, before pulling herself from her. Her father approached her next, crouching infront of her, and pressed a chaste kiss on her forehead. "Remember what I told you, okay?" He reminded her, as Daniel took Almairah inside his arms, hugging the sad girl.

Hermione nodded at him, "I won't do anything stupid that will compromise me, papa. I promise to take every precaution in protecting myself and the journal." She repeated quietly, before giving him a hug sandwiching Almairah between them.

When Hermione broke their hug she turned to her mother whose eyes were also glistening with tears, causing hers to do so.

"Mama! I thought no crying?" She laughed incredulously while wiping the tears that leaked on the corners of her eyes.

"I can't help it, love. You know your mama is prone to having these sappy moments. And seriously let me have my moment for a bit now that my first child is finally old enough to attend Hogwarts," her mother replied dryly, making Daniel Granger gave a booming laugh.

"Now, what I told you earlier?"

"I must take easy and be kind to myself. I promise to take care myself," she paused and considered the boys who are also saying their goodbyes, "I guess them too. You know how boys are."

"Yes, Hermione dear, would you take care of my boy on my behalf?"

"Mother!" Draco exclaimed making his way towards his panting mother. "You made it on time, we were about to leave!" He looked behind her, "where's father?"

"Your grandmother was rightly imperative to be sent in St. Bernadette in Paris, instead of staying in St. Mungos," Lyra informed him and to the others that now surrounded them. "Bastien couldn't blame her so he allowed the transfer. He's there with her, and he says he's sorry that he couldn't see you be sent to Hogwarts."

Draco nodded in understanding, "it's fine mother. Just take care of yourselves while I'm gone. And reply to my letters, okay?"

Lyra smiled, "of course, dear. Oh, before I forget," she trailed off, grabbing something in her robe pocket. "Your father and I decided that you should wear this."

Draco stared at the small velvet box in shock, "what?! I—mother... Isn't this too early? Shouldn't I take this ring in my third year at least?"

His mother merely shook her head, "your father was instructed to be given this to you at Lord Malfoy's behest."

Lord Potter hummed in understanding, "I see where this is going, and its purpose." Hermione watched in confusion before turning to her parents in question. Silently asking what's happening. Her mother simply shook her head and mouthed, "next time."

Lyra snorted her hand still holding the Heir's ring, "it was actually Cynthia that compelled Lord Malfoy to do so, not only that but also he's been teaching Draco at a very young age the ways how a Lord should manage his family."

Lord Black nodded his head in agreement, "Cynthia is a formidable woman in her own way. It's good that Dominique listens to her before she goes wild—ouch woman!"

"I'll tell on you, Arcturus!" Dorea said one finger pointing at his face.

Arcturus grimaced as he massages his bicep where Dorea had hit him, "fine! No need to hit me, good lord woman. How do you even tolerate her, Charlus?" Arcturus asked Lord Potter who was just slightly behind his Lady.

"I learned," he shrugged and everyone laughed.

Draco slowly opened the velvet box in his mother's hands and slowly, reverently, placed the ring on his right ring finger. The silver metal band shone as it shrunk itself to fit perfectly on his finger.

The men sighed in relief when that happened. Making Hermione frown more in confusion. She really needs to read more about house nobility and how they function traditionally.

"You should go now children," Miranda prodded them to the nearest entrance of the train. She waved her wand over their trunks charming them to be lightweight. "The train will leave in 2 minutes, run along."

The twins, Draco, Hermione, and even Sirius, quickly gave Miranda a hug of gratitude, before grabbing their respective trunks to bring with them inside the train.

Hermione even patted Regulus' head as she passed by him, smiling at the way he huffed adorably.

They were still running towards the direction of the train's entrance when the train gave its final whistle, signaling them that the Express is leaving. The train gave off a loud chug, causing the train to accelerate a little.

Fortunately, their trunks were charmed to be lightweight. The boys made it immediately inside with their trunks. Sirius grabbed hers as her other hand's carrying Carina's carrier and promptly went in with his own trunk. Harry and Draco were already both waiting for her on the steps, hands outstretched to help her step in since the train's already moving slowly.

Draco snatched Carina's carrier from her other hand while Harry grabbed her right hand and pulled her in, with Draco hauling her from her waist to steady her body.

Hermione offered them a smirk, "thanks, boys."

She followed Sirius' voice in the narrow corridor of the Express. Once they made it in their own compartment, without any delay, Hermione opened their window and waved cheerfully over their group with a huge smile on her face. The boys following her lead.

When the station faded from their view, she slid shut the window and grinned at the boys. Sirius laughed out loud prompting the other to join him, releasing their bottled-up excitement at the idea of finally attending Hogwarts.

She's so looking forward to it.

How do you like my cover? I personally made that one! I hope you loved this chapter~ See you at the next one!

P.S. I'll be revising the whole story once I've reached chapter 10. This is a heads up as you might be notified about it. And no, that's not the last chapter. ;)