As is Always as it Has Been

by 1Deivle

Esme was a Ravenclaw and was always in second place. One day Dumbledore summons her to his office and sends her back in time, against her will, and for unclear reasons. She is sent to 1973 the Marauder era. Where she is confronted with an obligation to make her family proud while fighting off the advances of two very different gray-eyed boys who quickly form an obsession with her.

1. Chapter 1

Ok so here we are this is the beginning of an idea that just popped into my head

this first chapter will probably be the longest chapter I just couldn't find the right place to split it up so it ended up being longer than I had planned

but anyway here it is

Chapter 1

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34 pages

16,802 words

Posted 3/12/22

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Eseme Bulstrode glanced into her compact mirror. She was an exemplary mix of genetics; she looked almost nothing like her fraternal twin sister Millicent whose brown hair and brown eyes blended into a crowd seamlessly. Her shoulder-length hair had golden highlights in it. Her most distinctive feature, she had one green and one blue eye, though one could barely see them under her thick bangs. Good, she thought, shifting her hair in front of her face to cover it more, she hated her eyes the most.

Unfortunate, that was a word that her mother used to describe her. Apparently her Great Grandmother was absolutely joyous to see her eyes as a baby; she even apparently named her after her cousin, which was not too long before the old witch died. Which was all just another reason for her mother to dislike her. Heterochromia was considered to be a sign of a dark witch or wizard ever since Grindelwald. Her Great Grandmother back in her youth was a supporter of Grindelwald, at the very least financially. But Esme's mothers marriage to a muggleborn split the family leaving her grandmother constantly walking a tight line between supporting her daughter and respecting her mothers beliefs. After all they were still part of the old and great Bulstrode family, maybe not one of the oldest or richest of the sacred 28 families but still one of them nonetheless.

It was strange growing up having the only person that actually liked you be in a portrait in the main family manor, one that she rarely even got to see. Esme thought that going to Hogwarts would be the breakout that she needed. She was even sorted into a different house than her twin. Millicent was a proud Slytherin fitting in right away. Esme was so happy to be sorted into Ravenclaw. It was a good fit for her. She may not have had any close personal friends, but she was close enough with the girls in the dorm. She had someone to sit next to at lunch and during class. And really she thought that that would be all she could ask for.

Until about halfway through her first year when grades came back. She surprised even herself with how she did. Second in all of her classes. And for the first time in her entire life, her mother gave her a compliment. It was far from any of the motherly love that she showed towards Millicent, but it was also more than she had ever experienced from her mother. And like a person dying of dehydration in a desert, just a sip of water was not enough. But it didn't take long for her to realize that even that sip of water was just a mirage. Soon second was not enough for her mother's praise, she needed to be first.

But no matter how much she studied neglecting her friendships and other activities she found that first place always eluded her. There was almost always someone standing in her way. The muggle-born witch that always grabbed first place, Hermione Granger. It was always her and then, finally, the year she thought that for sure she was going to get first in DADA, Potter got it. The Boy Who Lived, good at DADA? It made perfect sense, it was just not fair. At least she knew Hermione put in the work. Esme could always see her in the library from her spot. But Potter, no he treated the library like the plague ward at a hospital. He was like the rest of the students, only really spending time there when exams were coming. So either he finally stepped his game up or the new DADA was playing favorites again.

Hopefully, she would come out on top for at least potions this year, even though they were done with exams grades had not come back yet. Snape didn't go off on her nearly as much as the other students. Maybe that would be a good sign. It was the end of her 3rd year and things still felt the same; she was in the library while everyone else was preparing for summer or gossiping about the school drama. All the school could talk about was that the DADA professor was a werewolf and that Sirius Black the notorious mass murderer had escaped again, so still on the loose. Neither of those topics particularly drew her interest, if anything she was losing a good DADA professor. Despite the fact that he showed some favoritism towards Grifindors, there was not a lot she had to complain about when it came to his teaching style and was certainly better than that dunce of a teacher Lockheart. Honestly, she couldn't get the fanfare. And when it came to Sirius Black well, he wouldn't dare trespass on Hogwarts again, he would be even madder than they said in the papers for him to go up against Dumbledore. But then again who was she to question the mind of a mad man who killed his friends and a bunch of muggles, and after seeing a Dementor she could see how a wizard-like that could lose even more of their sanity.

"Is Miss. Bulstrode in here?" Esme could hear Professor McGonagall ask the Librarian, and from her seat, she saw the Librarian point towards her section, and Professor McGonagall nod and begin to make her way over to where she was. Esme put her head back into her book waiting for the professor to come to her. "Miss. Bulstrode." Professor McGonagall said

Esme raised her head to respond to her professor, "Yes professor?"

"Your presence is required in the Headmaster's office immediately." Professor McGonagall said turning and beginning her walk out of the aisle of books before turning around, "Well are you coming or not?"

"Oh yes, I'm sorry." she said quickly picking up her books and putting them away, when she finished she followed Professor McGonagall through the Library and into the empty halls of Hogwarts, not many people were up this late studying especially after exams were over. "Umm Professor Mcgonagall, what does the Headmaster need to see me for? Am I in trouble?"

"That is not for me to say Miss. Bulstrode. I have just been sent to find you and bring you here." Professor McGonagall said. As they reached the Headmaster's office Professor McGonagall spoke the password, "Gumball", and the giant bird turned revealing the steps. Esme followed Professor McGonagall up the stairs and into Dumbledore's office.

"Ah Miss Bulstrode, so nice to see you. I know it is close to curfew but I needed to speak with you about something… please sit." Dumbledore gestured to the chair in front of his desk before addressing Professor McGonagall, "Thank you Professor McGonagall you may leave us, and I hope you have a pleasant evening."

"Yes Headmaster." she replied, closing the door with a click behind her.

"So how are you doing with your studies, Miss Bulstrode?" Dumbledore asked calmly

"Well enough, even though the end of the year testing is done, there are still plenty of things out there that I haven't yet learned. So I am still studying fervently for next year… Umm sir, Headmaster, am I in trouble for some reason."

For a moment Dumbledore's eyes flashed with sadness before the light twinkle returned to them. "No dear, though I can understand why you might have thought that. Tell me, Miss Bulstrode, have you ever seen one of these before?"

A golden time turner floated down between them lazily spinning in one direction.

Esme's eyes widened, "That's a time turner, sir."

"Yes, yes it is my dear. And not only that, this time turner is a very special one. It was finished on your birthday. And it is a fabled true-time turner."

Esme's breath caught. "I have a twin sister… does that have anything to do with the time turner."

"No, this time turner is specifically calibrated for you." Dumbledore said

"But, but why? I am a nobody. I haven't done anything, nor am anyone special, I am not even first in my class." Esme hesitantly said, and then there it was again that sad look to Dumbledore's eyes that was gone in a flash.

"You will find that you have been held back by your environment. You are capable of a great many things." Dumbledore said, getting up from his grand chair.

"I am not sure what you mean, Headmaster, Hogwarts is a wonderful school. I have learned a lot since I have been here. And though I might not be Hermione Granger, I have done well both academically and have good marks in spell work as well." Esme responded confused

Dumbledore held a thick letter in his hand handing it to her. "Time is a funny thing, Miss Bulstrode. There are a great many things that time does. It heals wounds. It brings clarity to past actions. It also can ease regrets. Though you must remember time can not fix everything. Generally, I have found that time has a way of passing through all of us the same way. Time is as it has always been, things are as they have always been and will continue to be regardless of what we think we could have or can do."

"Headmaster, are you planning on sending me somewhere?" Esme asked tentatively, "Is my mother aware of this?"

"It is a place you were meant to go to since your birth." Dumbledore said, ignoring her second question and handing the thick letter to Esme, "This is to be given to me the moment the time turner stops, do you understand?" he turned around grabbing the lazily turning time turner, and placed it around her neck.

Esme took a moment to try and process what was happening, "Wait Headmaster, when are you sending me where no when will I end up?!"

"You will end up right here in this chair, but the year will be 1973." Dumbledore said solemnly leaning back on his desk, eyes firmly fixed on Esme's, it was as though he could see through her bangs and straight into her eyes. It made her feel bare and vulnerable.

Esme's mouth dropped open in surprise and her stutter began to come through, "B-b-but that imp-p-possible! No one has ever gone that far b-back in time and survived. Plus that would be before I was even born!"

"And yet you will." Dumbledore said with a dark certainty, before looking up at the clock and pulling out his wand, "Ah, it seems we have run out of time. Though I am sure that I will be seeing you shortly."

"This is mad. I won't do it." Esme said reaching for the chain, but as soon as she touched it she could hear the clock on the wall chime once and then stop. Looking down at the time turner it began to quickly turn in the other direction. At first, she was counting how many times it turned but soon it became so fast that it was a blur to her eyes. The room around her was spinning. Colors blurred around her moving incredibly fast. She began to feel sick and her head began to hurt as though there was a great amount of pressure coming from some outside force. Closing her eyes she put her hands to her head and waited for the pain to stop. After what felt like minutes the pressure began to let up and slowly she opened her eyes. The colors and blurs were slowly taking on more human forms and she was able to think more clearly as she watched the blurs and identified Dumbledore out of them. The images slowed and slowed until finally, they stopped, and once again she was sitting in front of Dumbledore. He was wearing different clothes and his beard was a few inches shorter but other than that he looked very much the same. All that could be heard in the room was the ticking of the clock, Dumbledore's quill writing something, and Esme's heavy breathing.

"How peculiar." Dumbledore said after a moment looking up at Esme, "I don't remember sending out for a student, and neither do I remember a Ravenclaw that looked quite like you... So where did you come from and what are you doing in my office?"

Esme was at a loss for words, her head still hurt but she remembered what Dumbledore had told her not moments before. She produced the letter and handed it over to the Headmaster.

"This is my stationary, and my handwriting. How did you acquire this?" He said opening the letter

"Please Headmaster, I don't know what is going on either, please just read the letter and maybe both of us will get some answers." Esme said.

Dumbledore sat back into his chair and began to read. There were quite a few pages to the letter and they were full of information, she was sure of it; just not information that she was sure that the notoriously cryptic Headmaster would share with her. Esme nervously fiddled with the strap on her bag and waited in silence as Dumbledore read. Finally, he placed the letter down and pinched his nose.

"This is a highly unusual situation. I am sorry that you have been put into this ordeal but could you please hand over your time turner." Dumbledore said, reaching his arm across the desk.

Esme took off the powerful necklace, handing it over to Dumbledore who then quickly put it into a small cloth bag he pulled from his drawer and placed it in his robe pocket. He then pulled out some parchment and began quickly writing a letter. He got up and attached the letter to an owl sitting by his window whispering its destination, it flew off into the night sky.

"Come with me, we have much to do tonight." Dumbledore said, heading over to the fireplace.

"Wait, what did that letter say? How do I get home? What is going on?" Esme could feel tears begin to well up in her eyes with frustration and fear.

"I know you must be very confused dear, but for now we need to act quickly and with prudence. Just know that you are exactly where you are supposed to be." Dumbledore said in a calming voice, putting his hand on Esme's shoulder.

"Can you at least tell me where we are going?" Esme pleaded

"We will be meeting with the Minister of Magic and then we will escort you to your family Miss Bulstrode." Dumbledore said, still trying to calm the girl down, "You are not in trouble, we just need to have this matter resolved quickly before anything illegal does happen."

"What do you mean?" Esme asked, "Will I do something illegal in the future? Is that what that letter said? I promise I won't, I'll do whatever you need just send me back."

"I am afraid that that is not possible at this time. Please stay calm, you have not done anything illegal, everything will soon be as it should be. Now please collect all your things. We must be off immediately." Esme held her bag tight and followed Dumbledore over to the fireplace, stepping inside she closed her eyes as Dumbledore grabbed some flu powder and clearly stated, "Minister of Magic's office"

Green flames harmlessly whipped around them and as Esme opened her eyes as she saw the new office dimly lit.

"Who's there at this hour?!" a woman's harsh voice asked from out of sight

"It is me, Eugenia." Dumbledore said, stepping out of the fireplace.

"Albus?" The woman's voice sounded less harsh than before yet still stern. "What are you doing here so late? It is the end of the school year, isn't it? Did something bad happen at the school that needed my attention? You of all people should know how overworked my office is right now with He Who Must Not Be Named and his followers running around causing havoc after those darned Squib marches. I am truly at my wit's end here."

"Well I would not come to you at this hour if it was not for an important matter." Dumbledore turned back towards the fireplace gesturing for Esme to come out and though tentatively she did, "This is Esme Bulstrode."

The woman in front of Esme was cloaked in blue traditional wizarding robes, she was younger than she sounded but her stern expression reminded her a fair bit of Professor McGonigal. Her black hair was all tied back in a tight bun, and she wore what looked to be ceremonial jewelry for the wizengamot. Her desk was nestled between stacks of papers but the desk itself was neatly organized.

"I do not believe that I have met you before Miss Bulstrode, though I would assume you are related to the main Bulstrode branch in some way? Is this another matter for the Wizengamot Albus?" the minister asked

"Not presently, in fact, this will be between us, a few of the unspeakables, and a select few members of the Bulstrode family." Dumbledore said reaching into his pocket pulling out the pouch and walking over to hand it to the minister of magic

She gave Dumbledore a quizzical look before opening the pouch and pulling out the necklace. Suddenly her face looked much more alert and her mouth opened in shock. "Is this what I think it is?"

"A true time turner." Dumbledore said

"Unbelievable. It is magnificent Albus, who figured it out?" the minister asked

Dumbledore turned to Esme, gesturing for her to come forward. Brushing her bangs down and keeping her eyes towards the ground she approached the desk of the Minister of Magic. "This young lady right here will do it."

"What!?" Esme said her head whipping to look up at Dumbledore

"She finishes the final touches on it in the year 1980 on November 20th at 9 pm sharp." Dumbledore stated, putting his hand on Esme's shoulder.

"I think I am beginning to understand." the minister said, "you are not from this time are you."

"No, I am from the year -" Esme began before being cut off

The minister held her hand up, "Stop. I don't need nor want to hear it. There are procedures set up for things like this Albus, you of all people should know that time travelers are dangerous beings. And terrible things happen to those that mess with the fabric of time."

"This situation is unique. I think we should speak in private now." Dumbledore turned to Esme, "Do you mind going to wait outside the door for a bit Miss Bulstrode."

"Wait a minute here, how am I the person that creates that!" she said pointing at the necklace, "Why don't I get to hear what I am here for?"

"Miss Bulstrode," The Minister said sharply, "this is now officially ministry business and just because you are at the heart of it does not make you privy to all the information the ministry has. Do you understand?"

Esme hesitated before obediently responding "...Yes Minister", Gripping her bag tightly she exited the room and took the seat closest to the door in the waiting room. And of course, the room was warded so that no one could listen in. Esme was not the kind of person to try and break the wards on the Minister of Magic's personal office, but that was not to say she didn't think about it. There must have been a reason that she was not allowed to hear what was going on, she remembered that the Minister said something about procedures, but Esme had never heard of time traveling procedures other than you are not supposed to mess with the past. But then what the hell was she doing here, Dumbledore had put the necklace on her himself. There must have been a reason behind it.

Minutes turned into an hour and an hour turned into an hour and a half. At some point in that time, Esme had opened a book and proceeded to read, hoping that it would distract her from her current predicament. As the second hour came and passed she placed the book back into her bag and leaned back. At this point it was getting late; it must have been at least near midnight. Then finally Dumbledore opened the door and said, "We are ready for you now Miss. Bulstrode."

Walking back into the room Esme noticed that there were now two more people there that looked very familiar. They were an older, very proper-looking couple. They both wore traditional robes and the older man sported an intricately carved cane. Though they were definitely younger, Esme recognized them at a glance from their portrait.

"So this is my great-granddaughter?" the older woman asked the Minister skeptically looking her up and down

"Yes Mrs. Bulstrode, may I introduce to you, Miss Esme Bulstrode." Dumbledore said, closing the door behind him, guiding Esme into the room.

"How very French… Est-ce que tu parles français?" her great grandmother asked

Esme looked around the room for a moment confused before responding,"... Oui je parle très bien français. Je suis allé en France l'été dernier."

"Very good, French is a necessary language for any pure blood to know. But we also have very proud German roots, ones which some in this family seem to have pushed to the side in recent years." her great grandmother said raising an eyebrow

There was an awkward pause in the room before Esme responded, "Ich kann auch Deutsch sprechen. Obwohl ich einen Akzent habe… und ich war noch nie in Deutschland, und meine Mutter hört es nicht gern."

"Wunderbar!" her great grandmother said, "My daughter and granddaughter are too liberal with their studies. A good pure-blooded education is taken for granted these days." she walked forward grasping Esme by the face and swiped her bangs out of her face. the older woman's eyes widened and she called her husband over, "Lukas darling, come, look at her eyes."

In a whisper only loud enough for Esme and her grandmother to hear, "Wie spektakulär ihre Augen sind, eins grün und eins blau. Und was für ein hübsches Gesicht."

Esme's eyes nervously shifted to Dumbledore. He seemed to be very interested in the reactions of her great grandparents to her. "She is also a very well-rounded student; practically all O's in her studies."

"Is this true?" her great grandmother asked

Esme, too nervous to say anything, slightly nodded her head. A smile grew on her great-grandmother's face. She looked at her husband and nodded.

"Alright we will take her in." her great grandmother said letting go of the girl's face letting her bangs fall back into place and walked over to the minister of magic, "Minister Jenkins. We may not always get along, but in this case, what is good for you is also good for my family. We will take her in, she will be our granddaughter from a branch member that we are mentoring from France. We will send you more family details later. She was homeschooled in France but she will attend Hogwarts during the school year while she lives with us; isn't that right Dumbledore."

"Yes, precisely. I will personally take care of her transcripts." Dumbledore responded

Esme couldn't help but interject, "Wait, so you are not sending me back?"

A sad look went across most of their faces. There was another moment of silence before Dumbledore broke it, "My dear you won't be able to go back until you finish the creation of the time turner that brought you here. Now the time turner will be under the control of the unspeakables of which you will join once you graduate. They will study it and do their best to give you a head start on your work but you must be the one that finishes it."

"B-but you said earlier that it would not happen until 1980!" Esme exclaimed, shock turning into anger, an emotion she was unused to expressing

"Yes, and while you are in school, the unspeakables will be working on this time turner, figuring out as much as they can. It will be a top priority until it is completed." Minister Jenkens said calmly, "And while you are all here we might as well go over a few rules. There will be no talking of any information from the future. Specifically significant historical events. Should we find that you are interfering with history, you will be brought to the witenagemot for trial and a punishment will be determined for you at that point."

Esme clenched her jaw tightly at the thought of what kind of punishment they might give her for messing with time, she was sure that Azkaban would definitely be on the table if that came to pass. The war was just beginning and death eaters were gaining followers. This was not a good time to be a half-blood from the future, she remembered her readings about the war and who fought and what happened, and she would be content to stay out of it if she could. The further she was from the heart of the war the better. So there was really no reason for her to involve herself in petty tasks of trying to be a savior.

"I promise, I will not speak of the future while I am here." Esme said, looking at the Minister of Magic

"Good." Minister Jenkins said firmly, "Now it is late and I am sure there will be plenty of things for us to do in the next few days and weeks in order to prepare you for your new identity here in this time. Mr. and Mrs. Bulstrode thank you for your cooperation in this matter, it is greatly appreciated."

"Yes, yes." Her great grandmother said dismissively making her way towards the fireplace before looking at Esme, "Well come along girl, as the Minister said it is late and I for one am ready to turn in for the night."

Esme looked up at Dumbledore one more time, who nodded at her. So she followed her great grandmother into the fireplace and waited as her great grandmother grabbed some flu powder and said, "The Main Bulstrode Manor." clearly and firmly

As the flames died down Esme could clearly see the room in front of her brightly lit and lavishly decorated. It had been years since she had been to the main house where her grandmother had lived for the majority of Esme's life. But she did not remember how tall the ceilings were, or the large classical moving portraits and tapestries hanging on the walls. As her great grandparents walked into the room a house-elf apparated in to take their outer cloaks.

"Come in child, this is Bonby our primary house-elf, Bonby this is our granddaughter from one of the french branch families. You and the other house-elves will treat her as a proper member of this household. Is that understood?" her great grandmother ordered as Esme came out of the fireplace and stood in the center of the large room near her great grandmother and Bonby the house-elf.

"Yes, mistress." Bonby responded

"Good. Her room will be the blue room on the third floor. When was the last time it was cleaned?" Her great grandmother asked

"Just last week mistress." Bonby said

"Well go and make sure it is dusted and that the sheets are new, then come find us. Oh, also prepare one of Mildred's old night dresses for our guest and place it on the bed." her great grandmother ordered

"Yes mistress." and with a crack, Bonby was gone

Then her great grandmother turned back to Esme with a smile "Now that you are our grandchild and not our great-grandchild you will refer to me as Mother Petra and your grandfather as Father Lukas. We would not have it any other way. Understood?"

"Yes… Mother Petra." Esme responded hesitantly

"And there will be no moping about while you are here. There will simply be no time for it. We will first have to get some properly fitting robes, these make you look positively awful. It is as though they barely fit you at all, they must be at least a few sizes too large for you, you are absolutely swimming in fabric. And we will have to get you a new wardrobe. We can go to France for that once the Minister is finished with your papers. Then we will have to do something about your hair and my goodness those bangs. It is a sin to cover up such a wonderful gift." Mother Petra said, moving to sit in one of the large armchairs in the room.

Father Lukas went over to the mini bar in the corner of the room and poured himself a glass of some kind of fine whisky, before taking a seat next to his wife in the opposite armchair. "And we will have to educate you on all of the recent news from all over the world, especially from here and France. Were you taught about the Squib riots that happened recently?"

Esme stood there awkwardly feeling more observed than she had in her entire life. "Well, I was taught about the Suib marches and the following pure-blood riots, that happened a few years ago or so if I remember correctly. The textbook says that the Squibs were peacefully marching for more rights and the purebloods rioted over it."

"Pft! Propaganda that is all they teach in history these days. They have been having minor riots all over the wizarding community since then under the pretense of marching for rights. I think all they want now is just more funding and more attention. But we can go over English politics another time, Esme child, there is also a fair amount of French politics and history that you will have to learn too, not to mention you will need to polish your French up, even more, to say that you were raised in France convincingly." Mother Petra turned to her husband who was comfortably sipping on his whisky, "Isn't your first cousin Hugo living in France?"

Father Lukas looked up for a moment and shook his head, "He was, but I think he and his kids moved to the colonies a year or so ago."

"Perfect," Mother Petra clapped her hands together, "then you shall be Hugo's granddaughter."

There was a pop and Bonby was back in the room, "mistress the room is ready."

"Well, then Esme I think it is about time for us all to head to bed. It is fairly late and there is much we will need to begin doing tomorrow. Bonby please guide Esme to her room." Mother Petra said, getting up from her chair.

Esme looked down at the house-elf and then back at the familiar yet still unfamiliar couple that was standing in front of her, she nodded her head and said, "Well then goodnight Mother Petra, Father Lukas." and followed the house-elf through the large doors and into the foyer. It was also grander than she remembered with a magically hung and lit grand chandelier lighting up the room. There was also the grand staircase which they climbed for two floors and down a hallway passing a few rooms before the house-elf stopped, "This is the blue room, Miss. If there is anything you need you can pull the rope next to the bed and a house-elf will come to you."

"Thank you Bonby." Esme said entering the room. Her eyes widened entering the room. It was a large room that included a sitting area and a fireplace nestled between two large windows that looked out into the forest behind the house. There was a large wooden desk on the other side of the room. And there were two large wooden bookshelves filled with texts. The room itself was a deep-sea blue color, just like Ravenclaw. They must have seen her badge and given her this room. It reminded her of Hogwarts. She looked over to the grand wooden four-poster bed and walked over to it admiring the fine carvings and craftsmanship that must have gone into it. A blue, cream and gold-colored intricately woven rug covered the wooden floor.

Esme looked down onto the bed and there was a simple nightgown laying there for her. This must have been Mildred's old nightgowns. Which would make it her grandmother's old nightgown. And though she was sure that it was clean she still felt a bit strange putting it on. It was a simple floor-length white silk dress with long sleeves and though it was a bit tight around the chest it generally fit her fine. Folding back the covers of the bed she got into the bed. She must not have realized how tired she really was until her head hit the pillow because every muscle in her body ached from stress. With a flick of her wand, she turned all the lights in the room off and placed her wand on the nightstand.

There was a moment where she wondered if she should be sadder that she was where she was, or should she say when she was. But Mother Petra was already more attentive and proud of her than her own mother was and she had barely met her. The last thing she wanted to do was not live up to their expectations of her. So Esme decided in her last moments before sleep overtook her that she would work hard to make them proud so that they would not regret their decision of bringing her in.

The next few days were spent with Mother Petra and Father Lukas learning about the world as it was. They had sent for papers to be brought to them from France so that she would be up to date with French politics and general news. Mother Petra did most of the explaining about the social aspects of society and current events that were happening in the upper echelons of Wizarding society and Father Lukas, when he was not working, took over teaching her about the politics and news. Then they both took turns informing, though at times it seemed more like complaining, about their extended family. Apparently, the branch families had become fairly known for their muggle tolerance, some even marrying muggles. Diluting the Bulstrode blood, Mother Petra called it. Father Lukas did not have much to say on the matter other than his first cousin Hugo had gone to France following a quarter vela witch. Whom he had failed to court and ended up living in their French townhouse and making it his primary residence until this past year when he seemed to want to move his family out of Europe entirely because of what was happening in Great Britain.

Father Lukas could only guess that it had something to do with He Who Must not Be Named's slowly yet steadily growing reach and influence. Hugo was not as avid of a fan of Grindelwald as Father Lukas and Mother Petra were, so it made some sense to him that at any hint of another dark lord coming into power would possibly scare him off. But Hugo was a talented curse breaker and charm inventor in France, so he had enough money supplemented by his inheritance to live with his family wherever he wanted comfortably.

Apparently, like most pureblood families they were related, though distantly, to the Blacks, the Flints, the Crabbes, and the Potters. Though they didn't associate with them much outside of large parties and other major wizarding events. They didn't want to get too close with the Blacks, Flints, and Crabbes because they were tied to He Who Must Not be Named and since much of the family were muggle lovers and half-bloods themselves there was tension about what would happen to their relatives should he come into power. Which made them add a caveat to their plan making sure that the Minister and Dumbledore recognized that she would be documented as a pure-blooded witch and not a half-blood. They did not ask whether or not she was half-blood or pure, and Esme kept her mouth shut in fear of what might happen should she reveal that her mother, their real granddaughter, would marry a muggle-born wizard; making Esme a half-blood.

They were also not fans of the Potters who were openly supportive of Dumbledore. A Wizard that neither of her great grandparents was too keen on. They would acknowledge his power and abilities but not his politics and they made that very clear to Esme.

"He is a man who is not above conscripting vulnerable minds into doing his bidding, just like He Who Must Not Be Named. At least Grindelwald didn't have children fighting his battles for him. So make sure that you are rarely if ever alone with him. You never know what he might try to get from you." Mother Petra said, sipping elegantly at her tea that one of the house-elves had brought in

They had most of their lessons in either the parlor or the study. The study was her favorite. It was like her own private classroom and library at the same time. Tall wooden bookshelves lined all the walls of the room. There were no windows, but there was a ball of light in the room that would adjust to the user's needs or time of day. It was an incredible piece of magic that Esme questioned Father Lukas about for at least an hour trying to figure out the spell work of creating such intuitive lighting.

Whenever she was not learning from her great-grandparents, she was usually self-studying. She still had a few of the books from the Hogwarts Library, the masters level potion book that Snape had recommended she read from the restricted section, for which he gave her a slip, a book on advanced charms, and an advanced book on herbology. She hadn't had the opportunity to tell her great grandparents that she also spoke and read Latin fairly fluently which made spell work much easier than just memorizing the spells not knowing what one was saying.

Then there was the alterations witch who came by a few days after she was there. She altered a few of her grandmother Mildred's old clothes to fit her for the time being. They were old, but traditional robes never truly went out of style in the wizarding world. Again Esme felt weird wearing her grandmother's clothes but she also felt strange wearing her Hogwarts uniform around the Bulstrode mansion. So she wore the robes with the most layers she could find for another week until finally, they got an owl from the minister telling them that her papers were ready to be picked up.

It had been almost three weeks since Esme had arrived in this time period, and so far she had felt more at home in the Bulstrode Main Mansion than she did under her mother's roof. Though nervous to meet the Minister of Magic again she felt a bit more confident with her great grandparents by her side, especially now that they had grown closer. When they got to the Minister's office they did not even have to wait as the Secretary ushered them in immediately.

The Minister looked relatively the same as Esme had remembered. Perhaps not as tired, but still reasonably formal looking in her traditional robes and her dark hair pulled back into a controlled tight bun. Now she was wearing black robes with a dark red dress underneath, and this time she was not dawning the ceremonial jewelry she had seen her wearing last time.

"Ah the Bulstrode family, glad that you could make it at such short notice." Minister Jenkins said standing from her desk grabbing a file from behind her.

"Well, we assume that you have the documents ready for our Esme. That is why we came all this way. In fact, we are planning to go to France as soon as we get all the proper papers so the sooner you hand them over the better Minister." Mother Petra said

"Oh, France how fun, the last time I was there was for diplomatic reasons. Not a very pleasant trip." the Minister said, tapping the folder absentmindedly before shaking her head out of it and handing the folder to Father Lukas, "Anyways, yes here are your documents. Everything is in order. There should be everything you need in there from her new birth certificate to her travel documents."

Father Lukas looked through the documents carefully before looking up, "This birth certificate states she was born in England not France as we told you."

"Well you see, forging documents like these, that will have a magical trace, is difficult enough as it is. Having her born in France would involve subterfuge into the government of France, our ally. And it is something that could be easily traced back to us which would bring up a lot of questions that we do not have answers for. The closest thing we could do was have her parents be French natives like you mentioned in your letter, and have her born in England. Can't you just say they were visiting you for vacation and she came prematurely, then they went back to France?" the Minister suggested

There was another moment of silence as Father Lukas reviewed the documents again, "Since these are so convincing, I doubt that anyone would question that story." he concluded

"Is there anything else that looks to be missing?" the Minister asked

"Her grade transcripts are not here; is that something that Dumbledore is in charge of?" Father Lukas asked

"Yes, anything academic-related goes through Dumbledore. Though if you want that I am sure he could fabricate one for you and have an owl send it to your residence." the Minister said

"I see." Father Lukas replied, "Well if that is all then we do not want to be wasting any more of your precious time. Good day Minister Jenkins."

"Yes goodbye Mr. Bulstrode, Mrs. Bulstrode, and Esme Bulstrode, I hope to see you in the future." the Minister said with a tight smile

Esme nodded goodbye to the Minister and followed her great grandparents out of the office. She watched as people moved out of their way when they walked down the corridors. Some greeting them, some simply nodding their heads in acknowledgment as the head of one of the sacred 28 families. Esme had never really seen such behavior before, and under the scrutiny she held her back up a little straighter, not wanting to embarrass her great grandparents in the Ministry of Magic. They gave off an aura of dignity and respect that Esme wished she could emulate, and maybe one day, under their tutelage, she could.

The next week she went to France with Mother Petra. The trip was mostly to buy clothes, but it was also for her to have more etiquette and French lessons. She barely had an accent but being in the country helped her ear more attune to the proper pronunciation and cultural slang. The etiquette lessons were bearable, though it was full of things that her mother never taught her. What was difficult was the shopping.

Esme was never good at shopping. She was never sure what to wear, everything seemed to be geared towards thin slim figures, and she was all curves. She never liked the attention that came with them so she usually wore baggy clothes to cover herself up more. But once Mother Petra had her stripped in a boutique salon in wizarding France she made her swear no more baggy clothes or layers unless it was cold.

"You have such a wonderful figure. It is a shame to hide it. And it looks bad on the Bulstrode name for you to be walking around unfashionably frumpy looking when you are anything but." Mother Petra said, crossing her arms, daring Esme to say something, "Do you understand? No more frumpy clothing. From now on you will be in tailored clothing that fits you properly."

"Yes, Mother Petra." Esme said, fully embarrassed, unable to really even look in the large mirror in front of her.

Mother Petra snapped her fingers and three women came in with boxes of clothing and so began the hours of measuring and tailoring various clothes for Esme. By the end of the ordeal, she could barely stand, she didn't know how Mother Petra did it. She was still standing around walking from item to item making decisions about color schemes, fabric choices, and seasonal clothes. The whole store had been at their beck and call for the majority of the day. And Esme was not used to the attention at all.

But if she thought that the previous day had been uncomfortable she didn't even know how unprepared she was for the next day. She assumed that they were going to another store by how Mother Petra was smiling, but when she stopped and opened the door to a hair salon Esme audibly gulped. Hesitantly she took a few steps into the store. The smell of fragrant magical shampoos and mooses filled her nostrils. She looked around at all of the witches there. Most of them seemed to be fashionable young individuals. Some were getting color put in, others perms, some just getting cuts.

"How did you find this place?" Esme asked

Mother Petra laughed, "This place is always in the top three hair salons in Paris. I made the appointment the moment we got home after getting your papers. Today those bangs are going!"

"No!" Esme automatically responded with her hand coming up to her hair, before looking around and whispering to Mother Petra, "Please, Mother Petra let me keep the bangs. You do not know what it is like to have eyes like mine. Everyone stares, everyone."

"As they should, they are beautiful, and a sign of powerful magic." Mother Petra said, grasping Esme's face in her hands, "Plus no one can see your beautiful face. No Bulstrode should hide behind hair or anything else for that manner. This is just like those awful baggy clothes you were hiding behind. If you want people to recognize you and your accomplishments then first impressions matter. And this simply will not do."

Fear welled in Esme's stomach. She didn't want to disappoint her great grandmother, but she knew that her eyes were a sign of bad luck and evil, that was always what her mother had said. She had lived all her life thinking that way and even though it did calm her down some that Mother Petra loved her eyes, she knew that it was because she had been a Grindelwald supporter.

"Ok." Esme said, resigning herself to her fate. And perhaps she was right. Perhaps hiding behind her bangs was not the right way of doing things. If people thought she was evil because of her eyes then she would have to prove them wrong some other way. But she couldn't stop the shaking as she sat in the salon chair.

A blue haired man came up behind her and introduced himself, "Bonjour, je m'appelle Louis. Je serai votre coiffeur aujourd'hui."

"Bonjour Louis." Mother Petra said coming behind Esme pulling at the ends of her hair that came to about shoulder length. "I would like it long, about halfway down her back with some light layers. No color, she will be in school soon, and I don't know when we would have the time to come back and have more color put back in. And on top of that she has a nice color to her hair, don't you think?"

"Oui madame, I can do zat." He said with an easy smile and a thick french accent. He selected a potion from one of the beautiful viles on the wall and poured some concoction onto his hands, and began running his through her hair and massaging it into her scalp. After a few minutes, she leaned her head back as he began to wash and rinse the potion from her now very long hair. Esme held her eyes closed throughout the whole process trying to calm herself down. After about a half an hour of cutting Louis said, "Et nous avons fini! Who would have imagined such a pretty face was hiding behind all of zat hair!"

Hesitantly, Esme opened her eyes looking into the mirror in front of her. And took a deep breath in. It certainly was more traditionally pretty, her honey hair fell down her back in light waves and the layers framed her face nicely. Her eyes seemed to be so prominent on her face now with the bangs gone, and though that made her uncomfortable, it didn't seem as though anyone else seemed to notice or care.

Later that night when they were going out to dinner at a prominent restaurant, Esme's self-consciousness returned. It felt like people were staring at her. She was wearing what Mother Petra had chosen and done her hair in the fashion that Mother Petra had told her to, so she assumed that she was in fashion. As they were walking Esme whispered to Mother Petra, "Why are people staring?"

"En français s'il vous plaît." She responded continuing walking down the street

"Tu penses que les gens me regardent drôle?" Esme whispered

"Because people like looking at pretty things, especially the French." Mother Petra responded confidently

They sat down for dinner and Mother Petra ordered for them both as soon as the waiter came to the table, not giving Esme a moment to look at the menu. The waiter was an attractive young French man who kept smiling at Esme who, though embarrassed, did her best to smile back with as much grace as she could muster.

"You will have to get better at that too I see." Mother Petra said, wiping her mouth from the first course, "You will undoubtedly have boys all over you at school, and you will have to act with dignity in order to keep them in check."

"Oui maman Petra." Esme said, a slight blush coming to her cheeks. She had never really dealt with boys before. The main reason was that none of them seemed interested in her. When she told this to her great-grandmother, the old woman let out a laugh.

"That is not surprising if you went walking around the school looking like you did, with those frumpy clothes and that god awful haircut. But now you are a blossoming young flower. Tomorrow is our last day here and we will spend it as you wish, since we have gotten all of the shopping out of the way." Mother Petra said, "Now what do you think of the food? The duck here is their specialty."

Dinner went on like that with Esme perfecting her French and Mother Petra guiding the conversation and correcting her etiquette here and there. Esme had grown attached to the attention that her great grandmother had been giving her. She found that it was not difficult to please her as long as she did as she was instructed and excelled in her studies. And before she knew it both dinner and the trip were over. They spent their final day going through some of the famous magical museums and book stores, where you could purchase tomes that were simply not sold in Great Britain or had not been translated from French to English.

It truly felt like returning home when they got back to the main Bulstrode Manor. The elves took care of their luggage and she happily greeted Father Lukas, who was waiting for them in the lounge room.

"I am happy to see you both. You look like a new witch Esme. I wouldn't be able to even compare you to what you looked like before. Absolutely stunning. Well done my dear." Father Lukas said

"Well it was like polishing a diamond, we both knew there was potential underneath all those layers." Mother Petra said coming behind Esme placing her hands on her shoulders, "And look at those eyes can you believe how absolutely brilliant they look!"

"Yes Dear." he said, "Now that you two are back from France and there is only a week or so until school begins, I believe it is time for her to meet the rest of the family. Well, for the Esme that we have cultivated at least."

"So do you mean my mother and grandparents?" Esme questioned

"Precisely." Father Lukas said, "I have invited them over for dinner tomorrow night in fact. Perhaps meeting you will inspire our granddaughter to do better in her studies and act a little less spoiled. And it will be a perfect time for you to perfect your background. But it is getting late now and I think it is about time for you to go to bed."

"Yes, Father Lukas." Esme said, eagerly going up to get some much-needed sleep

The next day passed quickly Esme sighed, she had been nervously reading most of the day. She felt like a show hippogriff. She tried to pick one of the more conservative outfits that they had gotten from France. But when Mother Petra saw her she decided that she needed to wear one of her broaches along with the outfit. So she was now wearing a gold flower with an emerald and sapphire center. She wanted to make a good impression on her grandmother and mother, not show them up. She put on minimal makeup and let her now long hair hang naturally. Mother Petra and Father Lukas were acting as though they were going to be able to show off that they were better at raising a witch than their daughter was.

Finally, Bonby came to tell her that the family was arriving around 6:30 pm, and Esme Made her way down to the foyer where she met Mother Petra and Father Lukas. They stood on either side of her as Bonby snapped into appearance at the front door and snapped his fingers. At the sound the doors opened revealing her grandparents Mildred and Hubert followed by her mother Edith. It was strange to see her mother at her age. They had some similarities, but for the most part, Esme's features were more defined.

Esme made eye contact with her mother and she gave her best pleasant smile, but the response was a sharp glare. In fact, her grandparents were giving her appraising looks as well. Esme was already nervous and it seemed as though good first impressions were off the table, but perhaps she could win them over during dinner.

"Mother, Father." Mildred nodded in a greeting to each of them, before looking down her nose at Esme, "And this must be our cousin that has come out of the woodworks."

"Mildred!" Mother Petra said sternly, "Do not be rude, it is unbecoming and not to mention childish. Esme, these are your cousins, my daughter Mildred, her husband Hubert, and their Daughter Edith who is about your age."

Mildred made a sour face, but let it slide off. As the family of three made their way into the foyer Esme noted their lack of traditional robes. And though she was sure they were dressed fine for the times, Esme could not help but notice that they must have been at least a tad underdressed knowing Mother Petra's love of being in vogue at all times.

Bonby coughed into his hand before saying, "Dinner is ready in the main dining room."

"Good, thank you Bonby." Father Lukas said moving in the direction of the dining room. "And bring me a glass of fire whisky."

"Father, you know that it is not good to be drinking so much at your age." Mildred said as all of them followed her father into the dining room taking their seats.

"I will drink what I want when I want, and in the quantity that I want. I am not your child, you do not get to pester me about such things, especially in my house." Father Lukas said

Esme took her seat in between Mother Petra and her grandfather Hubert. She had not gotten to know the man much in her youth he mostly kept to himself and his work in the ministry. He was much thinner than she remembered him being, and though he was still sporting a large gut the rest of him was relatively slim. Looking around the table she noticed that she was swimming in blue eyes staring at her.

"So she comes from France Grandma?" Edith asked, the 'she' sounding more like an 'it'.

"Yes, she is one of Hugo's grandchildren." Father Lukas said, placing his napkin in his lap as the food magically appeared on their plates

"I thought all of them left for the colonies?" Mildred asked

"Well they did but Esme wanted to attend a proper school and since Hogwarts is the best school for witchcraft and wizardry we opened our home to her." Mother Petra said

"Well won't there be a language barrier?" Edith asked, "It would be very inconvenient to have to translate everything into French."

"She can speak English perfectly, can't you Esme." Mother Petra said with a tight smile

"Yes, Mother Petra. My English is very good. Grand-père Hugo made sure that I would not have even the slightest of a French accent." Esme lied smoothly

"She can also speak German." Mother Petra bragged loudly

"Well, Edith can speak Latin." Mildred responded in this now competition

"Mom please, it's really only for spells and things like that. I'm rubbish at conversations in the language."

"tu vere loqui Latine?" Esme asked Edith in Latin

"Ummm… valde?" Edith responded unsurely

"You speak Latin as well?" Mother Petra asked Esme surprised

"Well you never asked, and it is the basis for English, French, and a lot of other languages, not to mention spellwork. And like Edith I am not fluent. I just know enough to get by." Esme said, trying to make a connection to her mother somehow. It would be nice if she could be friends with her mother during her school years then maybe when she got back to her time they would have more of a bond. But when she looked up Edith looked both embarrassed and enraged at the same time. Esme could only guess that it must have been due to the fact that Mother Petra seemed to be putting her on a pedestal and swiping Edith to the side. She wanted to do something that would divert the conversation somehow. "I am very excited to be attending Hogwarts this year with you, cousin Edith. I was sorted into Ravenclaw. I really hope we can get along and you can show me the best places to study."

"With her marks, I would be surprised if Edith studied at all." Mother Petra scoffed, "In that regard, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree." Esme flinched, if she knew it was going to be like this she would have pretended to be sick or mute.

"Mother! Grades are not everything, Edith is a very talented witch! She is just not good at taking exams." Mildred said in exasperation

"Then why did she receive a Poor in her practical application in potions? I met Professor Slughorn at a party near the end of the school year and he told me we might want to think of getting her a private tutor over the summer. You did get my letter about this, didn't you? I told you we would be more than happy to help pay for one." Mother Petra lectured

"Hubert makes enough working for the Ministry mother, we don't need your help in paying for a tutor we don't need, all Edith needs to do is apply herself and I am sure that her grades will improve." Mildred combated back sharply, "Plus that Professor Slughorn is a fool everyone knows it, just because he is a member of the sacred 28 families does not automatically make him a person to respect. All he really wants to do is surround himself with people that he thinks will give him more prestige."

"Horis Slughorn is a potions master and head of Slytherin House; you don't just achieve those positions by dawdling around the house doing nothing." Mother Petra said before taking a sip of water washing down what she was eating

Esme could feel her heart beating quickly in her chest, she wanted to extend an olive branch of some kind, "I-I would be happy to h-help Edith study potions if she would like. I am fairly fond of the subject." she said quietly

"Oh please, and have you sabotage my work? I don't think so." Edith said with a tilt of her head and a mean smirk, "And you can quit your little act, anyone with eyes like yours is undoubtedly a snake through and through we can always see through our own."

Esme looked down avoiding eye contact with the rest of the table. She automatically reached up to her bangs, but they were no longer there, so she pulled at a handful trying to distract herself from the conversation.

"Watch your tongue child." Father Lukas said sternly grabbing the room's attention, "You may have been sorted into Slytherin with the rest of the purebloods, but you show none of the tact or poise that is befitting of your name. It would be beneficial for you to take a hand when offered to you, especially when it comes from family."

There was silence for a moment at the table, and Esme, though still embarrassed, felt some happiness swell in her chest at Father Lukas standing up for her.

"Does she have to attend Hogwarts Mother? I can see why you would want to take her in now that I have seen her and her… features, but wouldn't she be more comfortable at Beauxbatons Academy of Magic? If she goes to Hogwarts there will be more rumors and whispers that the Bulstrode family are still avid supporters of Grindelwald, or even worse, supporters of the new dark lord." Mildred said

"The paperwork is already finished. And this matter is already closed. No more silly discussion about sending her to the Beauxbatons Academy of Magic." Mother Petra said with a sense of finality, "And I have made it my business to stay out of Dumbledore's battles. We are a neutral pureblood family now, most of the other families will acknowledge that."

The rest of the conversation that evening was stiff and grating on everyone. Tensions were high and there was just a continuous back and forth between Mother Petra and Esme's grandmother Mildred. The men seemed to stay out of it. Father Lukas sipped on his fire whisky and Hubert filled up his plate again as the two women went at it. Esme quietly ate her food doing her best to keep her manners as proper as Mother Petra had instructed her to. And soon dinner was over. Mildred stood first, declaring that it was getting late and that they should be on their way back into town. Hubert and Edith followed closely behind the woman as she practically stomped out of the house barely giving them a goodbye as Mother Petra and Esme followed behind, walking them to the door.

As the doors closed Mother Petra gave a long exasperated sigh. "I truly don't know where she gets her attitude from."

"We taught her proper manners, she just refuses to follow them." Father Lukas said lazily coming into the foyer still holding his glass of fire whisky that he had been drinking throughout dinner

Mother Petra turned towards Esme, "There is not much we can do for you once you enter Hogwarts, just remember what we have been teaching you, and do well in school. That is all we could ask of you. So do not let their words touch you. Hold your head up high, you are beautiful, and remember you are a Bulstrode through and through."

"Yes, Mother Petra." Esme said truly taking her words to heart

"Now if you would like, we will let you have some time to read before you go to bed, but there is much to be done tomorrow. We will be taking a trip to Diagon Alley to get all of your supplies and have your uniforms fit." Mother Petra said patting Esme on the shoulder

"I would like to go through some texts in the study before I head to bed." Esme said

"Then you may go. Goodnight Esme."

"Goodnight Mother Petra, Father Lukas." Esme said, nodding to each of them before heading to the study.

"Such a dutiful young witch." Mother Petra said, still in light earshot of Esme, who smiled lightly after hearing it.

The next day Bonby came to wake Esme a little earlier than usual. Opening her eyes she found it strange how easily she had gotten used to life in the manor. As long as she did what she was told and continued her studies she was given praise and recognition. It was all she ever really wanted from her family. She wondered idly if Mother Petra had been alive when she was, if her mother would have treated her the same way or if her life would have been any different.

Esme opened her closet and picked out a tea-length, light blue, off-the-shoulder, cotton dress that had dark blue birds embroidered flying around the sleeves and hem of the dress. The dress was A-line and was one of her favorites that she had gotten in France. Slipping on some dark blue ballet flats she made her way to the dining room for breakfast.

Father Lukas was sitting at the head of the table, he was reading the Daily Profit while eating breakfast. Bonby refiled his and Mother Petra's coffee by levitating the coffee pot in the air and gracefully pouring in the steaming hot liquid. Mother Petra was wearing a traditional black and blue suit with a giant golden brooch of a raven, and a sharp-looking blue hat that had a black stripe and a black feather coming out of it.

Mother Petra looked up and smiled, "It seems as though we will both be sporting your house colors today. I thought it would be appropriate since your new uniform arrived this morning. It still needs to be tailored, so that will be on our list of things to do in Diagon Alley today. Come sit, eat. You will need your energy today. I can not have you losing your energy halfway through shopping as you did in France."

"Yes, Mother Petra." Esme said coming to take her seat, her glass filled with pumpkin juice and Bonby placed a plate full of eggs, ham, beans, and some toast in front of her. "All of it?"

"At least try to finish your plate." Mother Petra said, "Like I said it is going to be a long day and I don't know when we will have time for lunch. And remember your manners."

Esme looked back down at her plate and grabbed the fork, and as gracefully as she could, began eating. As she ate, Father Lukas placed down the paper next to him and began complaining about ministry politics while he drank his coffee. Mother Petra nodded along adding a comment here and there about a possible family connection or implication of certain laws or other things that might impact the family. Esme ate most of the food that was on her plate getting the eggs and the ham down, and she began working on her beans as she listened to the conversation between her great grandparents.

Esme was stuffed but was still nibbling on her last piece of toast when Mother Petra stood from the table and folded her napkin, handing it to Bondy, "Alright I think it is about time to head off. It is best to get to the alteration seamstress on time, there are many students getting their robes fit and we do not want to lose our appointment."

Putting her toast down, thankful she did not have to finish it, Esme got up from the table and began following Mother Petra to the living room to where the fireplace was.

"Have a nice trip." Father Lukas called out picking up the paper again.

"We will, dear." Mother Petra said over her shoulder before looking back to Esme, "We will be apparating and Bonby will be coming with us. So hold on to my arm. You have apparated before, haven't you?"

"Once my father apparated me to the doctor when I had a high fever when I was young." Esme said grasping Mother Petra's arm, making sure not to mention her father's name

"Well, then you should bend your knees and prepare to be dizzy." Mother Petra said, and with a snap, the three of them apparated into a side alley of Diagon Alley. Across the street from them was Twilfitt and Tattings, the premier clothing and alterations shop in Diagon Alley. The world swayed to the side for a moment, but quickly Esme was able to get her bearings. As she steadied herself Mother Petra pulled her forward into the street.

The crowd was still light as it was still fairly early in the morning, and as they walked across the street she noticed an older woman in fine flowing traditional purple robes and long gray hair braided down her back opening the door to the shop.

"Oh Madam Twilfitt!" Mother Petra called out, and the old witch turned around. Then a look of recognition lightened her features.

"On time for your appointment as always Mrs. Bulstrode." Madam Twilfitt said, opening the door to her shop for them.

"We would never think to keep someone as busy as you waiting. I know how busy you are this time of year. We are happy that you are able to fit us into your busy schedule."

"Anything for an esteemed member of one of the sacred 28 families." Madam Twilfitt said, she waved her wand and all of the lights came on. Colorful rolls of fabric lined the walls. There were racks of fine robes and other accessories. "Come," Madam Twilfitt said, gesturing for them to follow her to the back of the store to where the fitting room was. The room was intimate but not too small for three people. There was a chair in the corner where Mother Petra comfortably sat, and Bonby stood obediently outside of the door. Rows of different measuring tapes and colorful thread lined the walls. There was a little circular stand in the center of the room that was in front of a large three-paneled mirror that took up one whole side of the room.

After Esme undressed and stood on the stand Madam Twilfitt flicked her wand and the measuring tapes moved on their own like snakes wrapping around her bust, waist, hips, then one measured her height. She was told to lift her arms out, and another tape measurer came and measured her arm length, torso, and her neck. A quill wrote down the measurements and they floated over to Madam Twilfitt. Grabbing some spectacles from her table she looked at the measurements. "I can get you your uniform and robes by tomorrow morning, I shall have one of my staff personally bring them over so that you get them on time." Madam Twilfitt said, taking off her spectacles and looking at Esme, "You may put your dress back on now dear. All I really needed were a few of your measurements."

Esme quickly put her dress back on, and as she slipped into her blue ballet slippers there was a light jingle of a bell.

"Ah, it sounds as though your next client is here. We shall be off then. And again thank you very much for fitting us into your busy schedule." Mother Petra said getting up from her seat. She opened the door and Bonby moved out of the way to walk behind them. As they exited the room Mother Petra stiffly smiled at the man in the shop and turned to walk towards him.

"I would not have expected to see you out of the Ministry on a weekday Mr. Malfoy." Mother Petra said stopping in front of the blond man

"Mrs. Bulstrode, what an unexpected surprise. And yes I took a few days off to get my son's things in order for school. But I do not think I recognize this young witch from your parties." Mr. Malfoy said turning to Esme

"Ah, where have my manners gone, please excuse me. This is Esme Bulstrode, one of Hugo's grandchildren and since they have moved to the colonies we have taken her under our wing. Esme this is Abraxas Malfoy, I believe you will be in the grade below his son, Lucius." Mother Petra said, Esme, following the lessons Mother Petra taught her, gave a slight mix of a curtsy and a bow at her introduction.

"Ah, so she will be attending Hogwarts then?" Mr. Malfoy asked

"Yes, she is all sorted and eager to start off the school year." Mother Petra said

"And if I would wager a guess, I would say you were a Ravenclaw Miss Bulstrode." came a smooth voice from behind them. Esme jumped a bit at the unexpected noise, turning to see a handsome younger version of Mr. Malfoy standing behind her, "My apologies Miss Bulstrode, I did not mean to startle you. Feel free to call me Lucius." He said, extending his hand to Esme. Esme took a step forward and lightly grasped his hand which he took gently and bowed down to chastely kiss though his eyes did not leave hers for a moment, "I look forward to seeing you this school year Esme, I can call you Esme, can't I"

"Lucius." Mr. Malfoy warned

"Yes, father." Lucious said, though his eyes roamed all over Esme, from the top of her head to her feet. It made her feel seen and small at the same time. Lucius had a strong-looking large frame. Tall with wide shoulders and long strong legs and piercing gray eyes that seemed to look right through her.

"You may give the young witch her hand back now." Mr. Malfoy said dryly

"Yes father," Lucius said, releasing her hand yet keeping his eyes firmly on her.

Esme fought the urge to fidget under his gaze. Looking up at Mother Petra she was somewhat comforted by her unamused reaction to the young wizard in front of her. "I think it is time for us to be going now. There is plenty we have to get done and we don't want to take up any more of Madam Twilfitt's time." Mother Petra grasped Esme's hand and began walking her out of the shop.

Esme squeezed her great grandmother's hand and halted her from leaving the store, "It was nice to meet you Mr. Malfoy, and I will be looking forward to your guidance at school Lucius." Esme said, nodding at each before following Mother Petra out of the store. Once they were in the street. Mother Petra went on a tirade,

"The gall of that young wizard! I thought his father was insufferable but my word. There are proper manners and then there are people who use those so-called manners to do things like that. I want you to stay far away from that young wizard. Abraxas always has been working on something shady in the Ministry, Lukas can't put his finger on it, but he is definitely at the center of some dirty business. They may appear to be moderates, but they are the same type of wizard that would call us blood traitors behind our backs due to our family history and extended family not being entirely pure."

"And what if he approaches me at school?" Esme asked

"Well be polite just as you were, but just stick to your studies, boys like that get bored easily if they don't get the attention they want back." Mother Petra said confidently, "And if it brings him down a peg or two that is even better. Plus he has a contract with one of the Black girls. So he can only be but so openly flirtatious with other witches."

"Yes, Mother Petra." Esme responded

Their next stop was Scribbulus Writing Instruments where they picked up parchment and a few nice quills and some ink to start the semester off with. The store was bustling with students and their parents all buying supplies for school. There were prominent families and some she recognized as parents of some of the people she went to school with. It was strange to see them so young, most of them only looked vaguely like their older selves. She wondered how many parents of people she knew in the future would she be making friends with.

Next, they went to a cauldron shop not too far from there and picked up a cauldron and some other potion supplies. Then they stopped by one of Esme's favorite shops, still Located at 18a Diagon Alley, Obscurus was a wizarding book publisher that had a combination of both rare and necessary texts for scholars. Esme could have spent the rest of the day just perusing the shelves, but Mother Petra pulled her along after an hour saying that there was one more place they had to visit before they stopped for lunch.

Holding one of her new rare finds from Obscurus close to her chest she followed Mother Petra into the street. There couldn't be too many more things that she needed to have for the school year. Or so she thought until Mother Petra stopped in front of the Magical Menagerie.

"I have never had a pet before." Esme said walking into the loud store filled with young witches and wizards picking out their pets for school.

"Well, you will need an owl to keep us up to date with everything that is going on. And I do not want you to be using those school owls, they always get lost and the wards at the manor never got adjusted to them flying in. Though that could also simply be the excuse that my daughter and granddaughter came up with for not writing to us." Mother Petra said, stopping in front of a tall screeching owl's cage, "Now what about this one?"

"Oh Mother Petra I would be happy with just a barn owl, a screeching owl is a bit expensive don't you think?" Esme said looking at the price tag

"Nonsense, don't look at their prices, look at the owls and their qualities, pick one that you like. It will be your companion at Hogwarts so I would advise you to get one that is older and already properly trained."

Esme looked around the owl selection that they had and through the rows of well-maintained cages. Most of the owls were making noise or grooming themselves when a cream white heart-shaped face caught her attention. He or she had a cream body with small white feathers making a border of a wide heart around its face, and its wings and back had a light golden brown hue to the feathers. It had made eye contact with her and had not stopped staring at her since. "This is the one." Esme said looking back towards Mother Petra

"Are you sure? It is just a common barn owl." Mother Petra said waving her hand to get the attention of one of the store clerks

"Yes, I am sure." Esme said

"What can I help you with?" one of the store clerks asked coming up to Mother Petra

"What is the history of this owl?" Mother Petra asked

"Oh, she is a little older than some of the other owls we have here, about 7 years old. She was sold back to us after a student graduated from Hogwarts, sad to say but it happens all the time. Students want a new owl to start their new working lives fresh so they think they are done with their old owl. This one has been with us all summer and no one has taken her in yet, I think she has just been waiting for the right home." the store clerk said

"So then it is already trained?" Mother Petra asked

"Yes, this one is already trained and ready for a new home." the store clerk said

"I see well then we shall take her. What name does she answer to?" Mother Petra asked, taking out her coin purse, counting out ten galleons then handing them over to the clerk.

"She recognizes the name Amora." the clerk said before scurrying over to the register to deposit the galleons and make a receipt for Mother Petra, "And here is your receipt and bill of sale for the owl. If you are ever in need of any other kind of pet I hope you continue to be a patron of our humble store."

After getting the owl, both Esme and Bonby's arms were fairly full. So Mother Petra sent Bonby home with the majority of their things, as she and Esme went into a small cafe for a spot of lunch. It seemed to be a bit quieter than some of the other cafes and shops they had passed, perhaps because it was off the main road. But the inside was clean and the wooden tables were obviously older yet well maintained. It was not large and there seemed to be people of all ages eating or just relaxing with a cup of tea. She didn't have a chance to really scan the crowd as Mother Petra guided her through the cafe to a table.

"Order some tea to start, I have to use the lou." And with that Mother Petra walked off into another direction towards the back of the cafe

Esme opened the menu and was surprised to see how many options of tea they had available. She read through the whole list and was slightly overwhelmed. They had regular earl gray to the more exotic red dragon tea that was made with some sort of real dragon parts that she had never heard of. Before she could get more overwhelmed she heard a voice come from the table to the side of her. "I would stay away from that one. It is bitter and spicy at the same time, not a great combination. Cool name though." Esme lowered her menu to look at the boy who was speaking to her. He was incredibly handsome, almost as handsome if not more so than Lucius Malfoy though in a very different way. This boy had shaggy black hair, pale skin, and bright gray eyes. He was also wearing more muggle-style clothing. A long sleeve shirt with no buttons and jeans, he definitely was not as formal or put together as Lucius, but he had the air and confidence of a pure-blood Esme was sure of that. There was something familiar about him that she couldn't put her finger on.

Not forgetting her manners Esme responded, "Thank you for the advice, I don't think my grandmother would like something that exotic."

"No worries, try the hibiscus apple tea. It's grand, just don't tell your gran that it is a muggle tea blend. Or you could order it and wait till she tries it and likes it before telling her." the young wizard said with a sly smirk on his face that put a sparkle in his eyes, that Esme had to admit was very attractive

"Now it sounds like you are trying to get me into trouble." Esme said a small smile playing on her features

"What can I say, I'm always getting people into trouble." he said with a lift of his shoulders and a flirtatious grin

The waitress came by the table and interrupted the conversation. She was a portly older woman that had a kind look on her face, "What can I get for you darling."

Esme looked back at the mysterious boy and then back to the long menu before looking back at the waitress, "The hibiscus apple tea, for two. And we will order our food once my grandmother returns."

"Of course dear." the waitress said, "I will be back in a bit."

"So where do you come from, I don't recognize you as a student from Hogwarts, I would have definitely remembered you if you were."

"Well," Esme said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, "I am actually from France, but due to some unforeseen circumstances I will be staying with my grandparents and will be transferring to Hogwarts in a few days."

"Well then I hope that -" he said before a shrill voice pierced through the room

"Sirius what have I told you about bothering others while you waited for your brother and me." an imposing woman said, standing on the opposite side of the table from Sirius

Esme froze for a moment, Sirius… like Sirius Black? The notorious murderer was sitting right across from her giving her advice on tea. No, it couldn't be. But realistically who else could it be around their age who would have also been named Sirius. All the Blacks were followers of He Who Must Not Be Named.

"Who are you bothering this time?" Mrs. Blcak asked, looking to Esme now with a judgemental expression.

Esme had to clear her throat and remembered the lessons Mother Petra taught her got up and gave a slight curtsy and bowed her neck ever so briefly before introducing herself, "I am Esme from the house of Bulstrode, it is an honor to meet you. Your son was politely informing me about the various teas on the menu."

The woman raised a skeptical, perfectly arched eyebrow, "Are you related to the main branch?", which was finely tuned code for are you a pure-blooded witch

"I am the granddaughter of Petra and Lukas Bulstrode." Esme said, doing her best to keep her posture and eye contact perfect as the older woman analyzed her

"I was only aware that they had one granddaughter, and you are definitely not her, as I have had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting that petulant child. You seem to at least know your proper manners and are not slobbering over my ridiculous son."

"She is actually Hugo's granddaughter, we have taken her under our wing since they left the continent." Mother Petra said walking up to the table, "Esme I hope that you introduced yourself properly. These are the Blacks, though if I remember correctly you had two boys."

"She did a fine job considering she is Hugo's granddaughter; the French are positively lacking in proper manners. And yes my youngest son is right here." Mrs. Balck reached around her side and pulled her younger boy from behind her. He, unlike his brother, was dressed in all black formal robes with a shorter haircut that was cleanly styled. He was skinnier than his brother and had more of a youthful charm to his face, perhaps not as handsome as his older brother but still attractive enough. When he looked up at Esme a light blush gave some color to his face.

"Go on Reg, we can't wait all day just because you're not used to talking to pretty girls." Sirius said, a playful grin etched across his features, his little brother gave him a glare, and Sirius looked back at Esme and winked at her, which she promptly ignored. A brief look of confusion crossed his face at the snub but Esme ignored that as well. If there was one thing that she knew to be true, it was that she did not want to associate with people who killed their friends along with defenseless muggles. He frankly scared her, the whole black family scared her. They were all crazy zealots in her book. No matter how charming he may seem Sirius Black had a determined future, and there was nothing that she could do to change the future. Or at least that was what Dumbledore had told her. But then again he was the one that sent her here… against her will… and was definitely keeping secrets from her. But still, staying away from convicted murderers would probably be a good idea nonetheless.

The younger brother cleared his throat and gave a slight bow to Esme and Mother Petra, "I am Regulus from the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is ours, now please excuse us as we have had a long morning and would like to enjoy our break for lunch." Mother Petra said curtly sitting at the table

"Yes, it was a pleasure." Esme said, nodding to the black-haired group, before sitting back down in her chair.

There was not a lot to consider regarding the menu as Mother Petra once again ordered for both of them whispering something to the waitress while slipping her a few galleons. Their food came very quickly and the waitress made sure that their teacups were never empty. Mother Petra commented that the tea was passable, but that a simpler black tea would have sufficed. Actually, Esme thought the tea was rather lovely, she found that she enjoyed the floral of the hibiscus, and the fruity taste of the apple paired very well together. Not that she was going to voice her opinion in earshot of the one that suggested it.

There was light conversation about what they were going to do after lunch, and about what she was looking forward to in her classes. But Mother Petra kept her eye on the table to the side of them. Watching as the two boys and their mother sent different types of glances at Esme, who was completely unaware of the attention she was receiving. Mrs. Black was appraising her every move as Esme ate and drank her tea, nodding at her proper manners and her eloquent responses to Mother Petra. Regulus mostly kept his eyes on his food, but every now and again he would glance up at Esme for a few seconds, blush, and then look back down at his food. The elder son was bolder in his inquisitiveness, staring at Esme for longer periods of time and even trying to get her attention by dropping his napkin near her. After finishing up Mother Petra quickly got the bill and escorted Esme from the small cafe.

On their way out Mrs. Black grabbed Esme's arm, stopping the girl in her tracks. "What house will you be in Miss Bulstrode?"

"Ravenclaw." Esme replied, "I have always enjoyed my studies so I think it will be a good fit."

"Ah so not a Slytherin, well you should be wary, young ladies should not bother with being too smart otherwise they might intimidate their possible marriage candidates." Mrs. Black said releasing her arm and turning back to the table

Esme didn't have anything to say about that. Most of her life had been about getting good grades, the thought of finding a boyfriend or even a good marriage partner never crossed her mind. She looked back up at Mother Petra who had a stone-faced look at Mrs. Black's back and simply turned her head and continued walking out of the cafe.

Once outside and walking in the crowds, she turned towards Esme, "We have just had terrible luck today. I do not think it needs to be said but stay away from the Blacks. They are a dark pureblooded family that holds onto all the old traditions fervently. If you get into trouble with them there is only so much leverage we have against them, even as one of the Sacred 28 families."

"Yes, Mother Petra." Esme said without a note of hesitation

The rest of the day went off without a hitch. They picked up the rest of her supplies and apparated back to the foyer of the Bulstrode Manor. Esme had a better grip on herself this time and didn't stumble or fall, but some of the nausea was still there. Bonby came and took their bags of goods and went upstairs to pack them with the rest of her school things.

Father Lukas walked calmly into the foyer, "I thought I heard Bonby taking things upstairs. So how was your little shopping trip?"

"It was nice to spend time with Mother Petra, we got everything on the list in record time because of her. I was useless, it was all I could do to keep up." Esme said

"Yes, that is generally how I remember shopping trips with her going. That is why I decided that I was far too old to go on them about 10 years ago." Father Lukas said with a huff at the end of his sentence

"Please you have not gone shopping with me since you tried to convince me to buy that heinous green fur, and that was no earlier than 62. Plus you would have been even happier not to have gone on this little escapade as we ran into not one but two of our acquaintances." Mother Petra said, handing her hat and coat to another house elf.

"Do regale me with the details while I grab a drink." Father Lukas said walking towards the drawing room

"Oh, you will need a drink after hearing about who we ran into. Not only did we have the pleasure of meeting with Abraxas Malfoy and his son, what was it, Lucius?" Mother Petra asked turning towards Esme

"Yes, his name was Lucius. We met them at Twilfitt and Tattings." Esme replied

"Yes at Twilfitt and Tattings. Well anyway, the young boy, who already has a contract with one of the Black girls, was making eyes at our Esme and I was having none of that." Mother Petra recounted

"Oh I bet you weren't," Father Lukas said with a laugh, "But it is odd that he would be out of his office, he usually doesn't take personal days."

"Yes, I thought that was strange as well. But then for lunch, we stopped by a small cafe and ran into the Blacks of all people."

"Oh dear, I hope it wasn't Walburga she is just unbearable. Orion will at least keep his head on straight for political reasons, but Walburga is borderline insane." Father Lukas said taking a sip of some sort of green liquor

"Probably due to all the inbreeding in that family, their family tree must look more and more like a spiderweb." Mother Petra laughed out

"And though I am sure you already have told her but I'll reiterate it; Esme, stay away from both of those families. They are on the side of He Who Must Not Be Named; they are dark witches and wizards. No matter how charming they may seem on the outside, never trust a word they say just focus on your studies."

"Yes, Father Lukas. I will do my best."

"That's my girl." Father Lukas said, patting Esme on her head affectionately, "Now I am sure that Bonby is almost finished preparing for dinner so let us head to the dining room."

Dinner was calming and Esme savored the moments she spent with her great grandparents. They told her stories of when they attended school together and what some of their favorite courses had been. Esme was surprised that Father Lukas could even remember the names of some of his favorite professors from his time at Hogwarts, "You would do well to make a good impression on your professors, you never know when you might need their help with schoolwork or referral for a job or masters."

Esme nodded along listening to the two of them continue reminiscing until dinner was over. Then she went up to her room and cuddled into bed with a book from one of the shelves. The last few days spent at the manor before Hogwarts were hectic, to say the least. Bonby was all over the house in a tizzy, making sure that she had every little thing that she could possibly need or want packed away in one of her trunks. All of her school supplies were in one area, her school books in another, her books for her own pleasure in yet another pile, and her clothes neatly folded away in one trunk all ready to go.

Until finally she found herself back on Platform 9 ¼. it had felt like years had passed since she had been there. And yet other than the distinct change in fashion everything seemed to feel and look the same. Kids saying goodbye to their parents, the smell of the train, and the wondrous looks of first years coming through the wall onto the platform. Yet somehow Esme felt different, she didn't feel as paranoid about her eyes as she used to, she held her head up high as Mother Petra had instructed her to, and she held a sense of confidence that she had never had before. Walking beside her great grandparents and knowing that she would make them proud was good enough to make her a little proud of herself. Finally, after Bonby loaded up her things it was time to say goodbye to her great grandparents.

"You must owl us and keep us up to date with everything that is going on with your schooling. I don't want you falling behind." Mother Petra said

"I hope you are able to meet some good witches to make friends with and that you don't get too distracted by the boys that will certainly be hounding you. Just remember the dorms are warded so that boys can't go in, so if you need an escape to read I would say go there and read in your room." Father Lukas advised

"Yes, I will." Esme said earnestly, "I will really miss both of you, so don't forget to owl me as well."

"Of course, we will." Mother Petra said, "Now go ahead and board before all the good seats are taken."

Esme nodded and began walking towards the train, she turned around once and saw them still standing on the platform. She waved and smiled as they waved back. Yes, this year would be different. This year she would make her family proud and actually enjoy school to its fullest. Little did she know what kind of future was waiting for her.

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OK, So what are your thoughts?

comments keep me writing and interested in continuing stories so if you are interested in more please leave a comment!

What do you think of Esme?

How much do we trust Dumbledore?

Which ML are you rooting for so far?