Hey everyone, here is the requested by vote, second part to Acceptable. Hope you all enjoy and leave me a review to go nuts over!

Acceptable Part 2

She had all her clothing packed. Every single thing she owned within that dorm room was safely tucked away into her drunk par a few things she needed for the trip. Namely a book or two to keep her occupied while her comrades enjoyed talking about some topic or another. If it was Ginny and Neville their subjects could range from Quidditch to the magical creatures living in the lake. Even the brightest witch of her age wouldn't willingly get involved with their conversation out of deep genetic preservation instincts.

"You ready to leave Hermione?" Ginny popped her head into the deserted dorm room like it was nothing. It really wasn't considering she also resided in the same dorm during the school year but her things were long packed and already downstairs waiting to get boarded. She had thrown her gear into the drunk and practically threw it down the stairs the first thing that morning. The other Gryffindors planning to go home for the Christmas break were already in the Great Hall getting their breakfast before the train left.

"Yeah, I have everything. I just didn't know what I would need...she said to bring it all but I don't know why…"

"She just said that because she knew you'd over think anything else she'd say while trying to come up with exact meaning to her words. She knows you well Hermione. You can't get round it, she played you" Ginny chuckled at the look of reluctant admission from the older girl just waved her off before sealing up her drunk and levitating it into the air. The girls descended the stairs to meet their fellow Gryffindor in the empty common room who was waiting patiently with the rest of their belongings.

Neville was one of the few who returned to Hogwarts after the war to complete his final year with Hermione; add in the familiar faces of Luna and Ginny attending their last year made it all seem like nothing had changed. The brunette would never admit openly to anyone other than her close knit friends that she was secretly enjoying not having the two troublemakers at Hogwarts. She could get her studying done, homework completed without a nagging voice in the background begging her to help them and a year without someone trying to kill them was almost perfect. It was a luxury; if it wasn't for the lack of one particular person.

"You all set to go Mione?" Neville was already dressed rather casually and warmly for the outdoors weather, he smiled at her and happily took charge of their things. The gentleman he had become was so warming to the girls.

"All set Neville. Sorry for the wait"

"It's no problem. I'm just excited to see the others again. Christmas this year should be better than ever" brown eyes softened at his expression.

"Well you'll have to enjoy it without her this time Nev. Hermione has a special trip to endure" the redhead snickered lightly to herself.

"Ginny…"

"What? You're going somewhere?"

"Yes. I'm headed to France to spend some time with Fleur and her family again"

"Oh, well I bet that will be just as exciting. Have you met the family before?" with everything ready to go the group left the Gryffindor common room with the wizard leading the way. They'd meet up with Luna, at the station if not before.

"Well, I've met some of them…"

"So what you're really telling us Golden Girl, is that you are going into enemy territory with only minor information and no strategy to meet the entire Delacour entourage during a very important family holiday?" Ginny kept her very well practised innocent smile adorning her face while saying those very calculated words.

"Thank you for putting it so delicately Ginny" the brunette glared with a raging fire, her inner lion was roaring thunderously. If only the girl wasn't a fellow Gryffindor. Neville found the girl's explanatory sentence rather amusing and it kept the mood light all the way to the awaiting crowds ready and willing to head home.

The wretched screeching of the wheels followed by the exhausting sigh of steam signaled their eventual destination; Platform 9 ¾. Night had fallen and the carriage their group with the addition of Luna, rode gave a perfect view of the sunset though it lasted only a few seconds before enclosed in the concrete of the city. The station was full of adults. Parents, relatives and friends were patiently aligned near the pillars, leaving plenty of room for the disembarking students all newly dressed in their more casual attire. There was a moment of silence. When the doors finally opened the flood of bodies poured out onto the platform. Young teens hugged their parents in earnest, older students simply made their way in collecting luggage and the close knit group led by one Hermione Granger stood to the side taking it all in.

Her parents were gone. Hermione made sure they had forgotten all trace of her existence when she wiped their memory before shipping them off to Australia. She couldn't risk them becoming victims in the war but still, each and every day it hurt knowing she couldn't get them back. There was no cure for memory charms.

"You sure you'll be fine Hermione?" Neville broke her out of the solitary thoughts she'd shrouded herself in. He had politely placed her trunk and a very angry Crookshanks to the side ready.

"Neville, she's not going back on the run or anything. Just spending the holidays with a clan of very dangerous creatures known as Veela" the group just rolled their eyes at Ginny and her usual comments. But she did have a point under all the sarcasm and wit; one that she was trying to convey to the older girl through her eyes.

"I'll be fine guys. I've met Fleur's parents before and even her aunts. I'm sure the rest of the family will be just as nice and welcoming. Fleur said they were really excited to meet me this holidays. Since the end of the war and my last visit it's near all they can talk about. Well that's what Apolline says anyway"

"Apolline?"

"Fleur's mother"

"Oh, right. Well um, how are you getting there? Apparition?" the young wizard questioned softly.

"That was my plan. Though it'll have to be nearby. Their family estate is warded up almost as strongly as Hogwarts" Hermione chuckled lightly.

"I zink you will find zat ze chateau is enchanted a lot stronger zan your castle ma ange" heads turned round to find a tall blonde dressed in casual jeans, high neck top and a leather jacket; Fleur Delacour in all her shining beauty was standing out even in her muggle attire. The Quarter Veela was used to such longing looks and subtle glances but she was focused on her lover's face as the brunette's mind connected the dots.

"Fleur, I didn't think…"
"Zat I would come pick you up personally?"

"I think it's more along the lines of 'so soon'. Right Mione?" Ginny hid her smile by a well-placed cough.

"I guess we're leaving now…" Hermione took a moment to collect herself before turning back to her friends. One by one she gave them each a tight hug; Ginny's lasting that little bit longer and a smidge tighter. With well wishes for their holidays and time with family the Gryffindor Head Girl was all set to go. Fleur in the meantime charmed the luggage away into a pocket and picket up the cage housing the still disgruntled cat.

"When you are ready 'Ermione. It was nice to see you all again. 'Ave a nice Christmas" with that the blonde took the girl's hand, leading the way to the exit. Soon as they emerged from the wall, Hermione encased the taller woman in a fierce hug.

"I've missed you Fleur"

"As 'ave I ma amor. But we cannot delay. My mère is waiting for you; as is everyone else. A certain girl 'asn't stopped talking about you since ze last time you were zere. I zink she likes you more zan I"

"What's not to love?" Hermione smirked while blue eyes harden slightly. Fleur couldn't stop smirking none the less.

"I 'ave missed your beautiful mind, even if it comes wiz zose smart replies" The blonde gently led them away to a deserted area before pulling the brunette in for a long passionate kiss. Hermione found herself surrendering within seconds to the Veela's soft touches and hot tongue.

"Ah…we have to…go. Yes, go. Um, your family is waiting" the brunette pulled away reluctantly as her mind caught up to her and realised it wasn't the time nor place to do what they were planning. Fleur smiled at the cute reaction.

"Oui, come. We will be appariting 'alf way at a time. Going ze 'ole way will not be good for ei'zer of us. You ready?"

"Always"

Needless to say her welcome was very overwhelming.

"Mione!"

"'Ermione, welcome back"

"So ze young one 'as returned. C'est manifique"

"Ah my petite fille, it 'as been too long. Let me look at you" a huge mass of bodies came almost flooding out into the entrance when Fleur led her young girlfriend into what would be their home for the next few weeks. It seemed at least all the blood related clan members were present. From an elder Veela living on the edge of Portugal, families from the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to even the few who decided to live at the very top of Norway. Fleur spoke of those like they were the long lost cousins no one could really understand.

Apolline of course was the first in to give the brunette a bone crushing hug and kisses over both cheeks. After so long with a French girlfriend, Hermione had mastered the greeting technique but that didn't prepare her for the onslaught from the remainder of the group. The familiar faces of Fleur's cousins were over taken by the ones she had yet to officially meet.

"Mère, you saw 'er not a few mon'zs ago. She 'as 'ardly changed in zat leng'z of time" Fleur too had greeted her mother warmly all the while taking the chance to reprimand her for the behaviour. She released the cat from his cage to roam the property while poor Hermione was left defenceless against the swarm of ladies.

"Zat girl is going to be my daughter-in-law some day and I will make sure she is cared for like no o'zer. Any woman 'o is willing to spend ze rest of zeir life wiz you is wor'zy in my book" the mother of two smiled cheekily while Fleur just groaned under her breath.

"I brought 'er 'ere for Christmas and to officially meet grandmère. Not so you can convince 'er zat our ceremony needs to 'appen zis winter" the blue eyed young witch made sure to keep an eye on her brown headed charge. She was currently trying to survive her every affectionate cousin and her rather…bestowed amount of cleavage. Hermione could handle it just fine.

"But you do not deny zat you are going to marry ze girl" there was a tiny spark hidden in those dark blue eyes. Fleur returned the exact same look with a grin.

"Oh she is going to be a Delacour by ze end of ze school year" the mother daughter duo shared the private joke with a fit of giggling.

"Oh you set your goals 'igh don't you my child?"

"I do love a challenge" Fleur's eyes softened as they once again landed on the girl; the guardian of her heart.

"Your grandmère said she will be 'ere in ze next day or so. She is ra'zer…keen to meet ze girl…"

"She is? Zat's fantastique! She will love 'Ermione"

"I zink she 'as more in mind zan simply just 'meeting' 'er" Apolline's expression morphed into a harden stare. There was much to consider with the implication. Knowing her mother as she did, the elder Veela woman had concerns over just what exactly the full blooded creatures would do concerning the young girl.

"Every'zing will be fine Mère. She will love 'Ermione. I know she will" Fleur gave her mother a soft smile before pulling her in for another hug. With a sigh, Apolline gave in.

"Very well. Now go save your darling girlfriend before she gets eaten alive by zose vultures"

By the time the procession had moved from the main entranceway to a more relaxing environment for the seventh year, over half of the welcoming flock had moved on to go about their activities. It was only a week until Christmas day. There was a lot to prepare.

"I didn't know you had such…affectionate, touchy, over-bearing relatives, Fleur. I now know why I didn't meet all of them the last time I was here" Hermione had slumped herself over the nearest full length couch and draped an arm over her eyes. Fleur just giggled.

"Now where would ze fun be if I told you about all of zem?" she bend over the armrest of the lounger to kiss the girl's forehead gently. The response was a lowered arm revealing a scowl.

"I knew I was going to meet the family but everyone in the first five minutes? I think I'm more exhausted now than I ever was all last year" sighing as she relaxed again and closed her eyes. She didn't see Fleur's slight cringe and the recoil of her head as the memories passed through her mind. Those long months not knowing where her mate was…the terrifying moments where any news could only make her mind fear the worst.

The silence above her made Hermione realise her mistake.

"Oh Fleur, I'm sorry" sitting up and turning round, she pulled in the taller blonder for a tight hug.

"I'm alright. It is over and we are 'ere, now; toge'zer"

"Always" Hermione smiled softly while playing with the blonde strands, she didn't notice their moment of solitude was broken by the arrival of a few familiar faces.

"I zought we agreed zat you'd wait until ze girl 'ad welcomed us all Fleur. You can be so selfish cousin" the young woman could only giggle as her favourite cousins and younger sister accompanied by her aunts entered the room.

"She is my mate. I 'ave every right to be selfish. I do not share what is mine"

"Mione!"

"Gabrielle" Hermione welcomed the younger teen and her over enthusiastic affection. "It's great to see you again. How's school? Been busy?"

"Oui. I 'ave been practising so much; I 'ave made ze dualing team at ze academy. We practise every day. Ze charms you told me about 'ave been a life saver. Zank you!"

"No problem. I'm glad to hear you're doing well. How about your friends? They still worthy of being the 'Almighty Veela's' acquaintances?" the two shared a giggle.

Last time the girl visited for a small holiday, Gabrielle confided that a few human friends acting oddly. She believed it had to do with her blood and the awakening Veela. It took over an hour but Hermione eventually talked the girl into some common sense and confront the trio of girls. From there things sorted themselves out; apparently being a friend to an excelling student that's part Veela can be a little intimidating. With Hermione teaching her the best charms and curses, she became well ahead of her classmates; not to mention advanced English speaking. Eventually the girls all sorted it out and now reaffirmed their friendship.

"Did you enjoy ze welcome? I zought it was ra'zer over bearing but, you seemed to make it zrough it well enough" Dominique stood next to Fleur calmly as the two watched the small group give their own round of welcomes and intimate touches. Being French had nothing on Veela when it came to kisses, hugs and stroking touches.

"I 'ope zat wasn't your idea dearest Aunt. Such cruelty towards my mate so early in ze 'oliday season. What ever will she zink of us?" Fleur replied with a very sarcastic tone. The older blonde woman just giggled.

"Of course not Fleur. It was Aeron's"

"What am I being accused of now?" the young woman popped out of nowhere to join the conversation. By the hint of her aunt's eye and the stern look from the youngest Delacour heir, she was definitely in the wrong somehow.

"I 'ave you to zank for ze wonderful greeting, oui?" Fleur sent a judging glare her way to which she just grinned.

"Of course. It was a ra'zer spontaneous decision but I zought ze o'zers would love to meet zis wonderful girl soon as possible…" the two held the gaze for a few seconds longer before Fleur spoke.

"It wasn't"

"Not in ze slightest"

"Your mère put you up to it?"

"Of course" Aeron replied with a smile. Sighing softly to herself, Fleur really wasn't surprised. Her family just absolutely loved her mate; it was that simple.

"What are we agreeing to?" Hermione's voice broke the tense atmosphere like a hot knife through butter. All eyes turned to her and the curious head tilt she made. It was too adorable.

"Fleur was just agreeing to let us sleep in 'er room tonight; toge'zer as a group. Ze o'zer girls are waiting outside" the cousin jumped in before Fleur could say a word. When Hermione eyes lit up in excitement of the idea the blonde found her resolve shattering into a million pieces. Her room was now officially overtaken.

"Excellent! It kinda reminds me of the ones I had with my few friends before Hogwarts" the brunette grinned. "But those didn't include this many people…"

"O' my dear, Veela parties are so much better" Olivia leaned over the girl's shoulder to seductively whisper in her ear. Fleur glared at her cousin for that one. Their eyes met with a fierce electrical current.

"We'll all show you a good time" Aeron placed herself on the girls free side, hands slithering their way round her waist.

"GET YOUR 'ANDS OFF MY MATE!"

"Zen, because she couldn't control it…" a badly suppressed giggle cut through midsentence "…she ended up calling ze professor all ze way to ze largest fountain….and 'e fell in 'ead first" Olivia finally succumbed to her uncontrollable laughter after retelling her favourite story about their younger years at Beauxbatons. The time when Veela's were young and irresponsible. When they couldn't control their powers…

"Oh Merlin! Fleur!" Hermione's chuckles were nothing compared to the chime like sounds of the Veela but it was soothing to the blonde. "I can't believe you did that!"

"I was not in a capable position to 'andle ze amount of power my blood gave me…" the blonde simply turned her head away from the laughing women.

Her room had officially been invaded within the hour by the familiar faces of her classmates and Veela sisters. After settling back in to the familiar walls and homey feel, the Quarter-Veela thought she'd have a little time with Hermione all to herself. That thought was blown apart instantly.

Since her dinner was essentially a pitiful snack on the train ride and having missed the fabulous menu the family cooked that evening, Hermione was delighted with a roast dinner all proportioned for one and catered to the room. Of course a gaggle of schoolmates came with that dinner and soon they were all seated on the floor of Fleur's old room gossiping, sharing old stories and laughter while the girl ate her fill.

"I don't zink you really zought much of any'zing zat year Fleur" Aeron commented as she charmed the now empty tray away. Hermione gave her a nod in thanks.

"I was zirteen!" Fleur's eyes darkened for a second of outrage. Of course no one took it seriously.

"Sounds better than my year" Hermione said as she snuggled up closer to her girlfriend. "When I was thirteen I was petrified by a basilisk" her offhanded tone had all eyes on her instantly.

"Excuse me?" Olivia replied.

"A basilisk? In ze school?" Cecile looked between horrified and intrigued.

"And ze professors did no'zing?" the horrified voice of Felicity, a close clan sister Fleur had growing up, followed.

"What kind of school is zis 'Ogwarts?" the other girls shot out question after question trying to find any kind of logic that would solve the equation of how a thirteen year old girl got petrified by a large monstrous serpent. Brown eyes were going back and forth between speakers and Hermione tried to inject explanations but it fell on deaf ears.

"Tell me it isn't some muggle zing you do, going out looking for danger. Ze stories Fleur 'as shared over ze months 'aven't been zat delightful 'Ermione" the sisters cousin ran a hand through her perfectly flowing hair in an attempt to cool her mind. Funnily enough it was Fleur who laughed.

"Zat is not ze worst of it. Moi darling little 'Ermione got 'erself into so much more trouble after zat" hugging the aforementioned witch closer, Fleur managed to blindside the returning glare.

"It wasn't my fault. That's what happens when you're best friends with Harry Potter…" was her rebuttal. After so long it came as a default reply. She didn't miss however the slight sigh Gabrielle gave on her other side.

"Ze boy who lived…ra'zer ironic if you ask me"

"I agree. 'E lives long enough to nearly die in school"

"That's what I've been thinking every year I go to Hogwarts!" Hermione nodded in agreement. Finally! Someone else who got it.

"What else did you zree get yourselves into exactly?" Olivia said after resettling herself.

"Well there was the basilisk second year…then Harry's escaped godfather third year, oh and the werewolf…"

"Werewolf?!"

"Yes, a teacher, Professor Lupin turned out to be the creature. Then there was that minor trouble with the time-turner…" Hermione continued counting off with her fingers.

"Zen it was ze TriWizard Tournament" Gabrielle helpfully input.

"Yes, that. During that year so much went wrong…but compared to little Gabby gaining a crush on the famed wizard…" she smirked somewhat evilly.

"Tais-toi!" the poor teen was going red in the face. Hermione almost felt bad about it when the older Veela started teasing and poking the puffy cheeks.

"Zen it is a good zing 'e is away training to become an Auror" Fleur said with a rather clipped tone. The brunette could've sworn she heard a little…protectiveness?

"Let ze girl 'ave 'er crush Fleur. It's 'armless" Cecila shrugged slightly. It wasn't uncommon for Veela to have many crushes in their young lives, nor being the centre of infatuation.

"Anyway, fifth year was about that sour, over-sized pink…thing! As a professor. She was totally useless! Wouldn't teach us anything helpful! And soon as Harry started off about Voldemort she just went bonkers! If I ever see her again I'll…"

Hermione clenched her fist tightly until the knuckled turned white and her nails were deeply imprinted into her palm. Any harder and she'd draw blood; a factor Fleur caught onto quickly and took the girl's hands in her own.

"It is ok ma ange. She is gone now" pulling the brunette into her lap completely and gently pressing kisses into her neck seemed to calm Hermione down a little. The other Veela were tense and concerned at the sudden uncontrolled anger the witch managed to pour into the air at the mere mention of some…woman?

"I know Fleur" Hermione breathed out a heavy relaxing breath before looking at her. "She still brings up these emotions in me. You should've heard the words she said about creatures…I wanted to curse her right then…You are not half-breeds, nor are you monsters. She's the one…"

"We zank you very much ma amor for your 'onorable defence on our be'alf. But I zink we can 'andle ourselves" Fleur soothed her once again, knowing any further tension might send the other girls raging.

"We've 'eard worse in our lives 'Ermione" Olivia offered a smile and a small one shoulder shrug. "Zey're just jealous we 'ave ze looks, ze magic and every'zing zat comes wiz being a perfect Being; and zey 'ave no'zing" the group shared a collective giggle.

"Hey, I'm part of that non-Veela group you know. I don't have the god-like beauty or your magical presence but I've mastered my wandless magic in the last year" Hermione folded her arms in a superior pose. "I can hold my own against any one of you dangerous creatures"

"You don't count 'Ermione" Gabrielle giggled again at the look.

"Why not?"

"Because you're wiz Fleur. Mates are exempt from all o'zer groups and are placed at ze top of ze list" Hermione was impressed with the factual like aura the young teen suddenly portrayed. Raising a brow she asked slyly.

"And what would you know about 'mates' Gabrielle?" while the blonde blushed slightly, once again the older ladies took the chance to tease. Fleur was more than happy to be an observer but she noticed the poorly concealed yawn her girlfriend just emitted and thought otherwise.

"Alright ladies. I zink it is time for bed. Zis one 'as 'ad a long day and we need our beauty sleep for tomorrow. Many zings to prepare to mo'zer's standards" Fleur squeezed her arms tighter round her love for a second while the group reluctantly agreed. The brunette just rolled her eyes.

"Not like any of you need it…"

"Oh 'Ermione. You are too kind" Aeron said with fluttering lashes and a hand over her heart.

"You Delacour's all act alike…it's scary sometimes" Fleur giggled at the pouting face while assisting the girl to her feet.

Collectively the clan sisters started to prepare their own makeshift beds on the cleared floor space. Fleur wanted to get her darling little bundle of cuteness into pyjamas before settling her in the warm bed made of soft feather stuffed pillows and…

"Why do we 'ave to sleep on ze floor while you and 'Ermione 'og ze bed?" Gabrielle protested causing Fleur to turn around. The action made her miss the sight of her mate changing from her day clothes into the night ones she'd brought along. The brunette cared little for privacy after several years sharing a dorm with other girls and having a Veela as a partner honestly made the embarrassment pointless; if Hermione really thought about it, she just didn't care anymore.

"Because Gabby, Fleur wants to 'old 'Ermione tight against 'er body all night wizout ze rest of us interrupting" Aeron wrapped her arms round the middle as though they were of another. "She 'opes all zat body 'eat may ignite some'zing…isn't zat right Fleur?" The blonde Veela sent a sly smirk to which Fleur just raised a brow.

"But per'aps it is 'Ermione zat will create ze real burn" Fecility had sneaked behind her clan sister and seductively slide arms over strong shoulders. "Denying poor Fleur all night because 'er 'eart couldn't take ze embarrassment of any of us 'earing zem in ze zrongs of zeir flourishing passion"

"Oh Fleur~! We mustn't! Such sinful touches from you make my skin tingle and my 'eart ache! I can't seem to calm myself, I fear my chest bursting~!" Aeron had thrown herself into the dramatics as Felicity's continued whispers in her ear made the whole scene rather ridiculous to the amusement of the sitting Veela. The two carried on their charade much to the displeasure of Fleur and anger of another.

"Ah, can you boz stop zat now. It's getting weird" Gabby said as she pulled a rather uncomfortable face at the two. She knew hanging around mature Veela would result in these shows but she really didn't want to have to watch up close and personal.

"Felicity…" a warning growl came from the back of the group where one Veela was brooding away in a rather dark aura. Aeron felt the girl flinch at her name and slowly removed herself from any and all contact.

"Ma amor, I didn't mean…" Felicity hesitantly made her way over with her hands raised in surrender but the woman just turned away.

"You sleep alone" the pure horrified expression was followed by a groan of despair.

"But ze real reason for ze sleeping arrangements Gabrielle is because Fleur 'asn't been round 'er mate for a long time and I zink ze two 'ave earned zemselves a little…quiet time. Don't you zink? You can come sleep wiz me instead Gabby" Gabrielle looked up to Olivia with surprise then understanding. They hadn't seen each other in months. They deserved it.

"Alright. I still zink it's unfair…" she grumbles slightly.

"If you want Gabby, you can come up here with us. I don't mind" Hermione said from the bed's far side. She had discarded her jeans for a pair of soft loose sleeping pants and was just finishing pulling down her long sleeved top like nothing was wrong. She totally missed the dilated eyes of her girlfriend and not to mention the other numerous lustful looks from matured unmated Veela. The whole performance went right over her head.

"I won't allow it!" Fleur gave an outcry with a very dirty look to which Hermione just glared.

"Excuse me? Won't 'allow' it? Who's to say you have any word in this altogether?"

"Zis is my room and my bed, I zink I 'ave ze perfect say in 'o sleeps in it!"

"That is ridiculous, you share beds all the time with your sister and fellow Veelas. Isn't it something you girls do all the time anyway? Besides its just Gabby"
"It doesn't matter. You are my mate and I will not share you wiz anyone!"

"SO this is all about mates and possessiveness. I thought you go over that Fleur. We've talked about this, if you don't get over yourself, I'm sleeping alone" Hermione crossed her arms while glaring at the equally angry Veela. While the group of anxious ladies were curled up on the floor waiting for the intense argument to climax into emotions unknown, not one of them however noticed the familial magical signature of Celeste standing just outside the room.

The elder woman had be busy most of the day and was unable to 'greet' the young witch with the rest of her family. However, as soon as she stepped onto the property a few minutes ago, Celeste felt the aura. Since she first laid eyes on the girl, the woman imprinted the signature into her memory; if she was to meet this girl officially there would be a test. Not just anyone was good enough for her little granddaughter. Even if that potential is near an exact image of Nicholas.

"But zis is my room…my bed…" Fleur's voice whimpered from the room. That girl had much to learn about one's mate and how to manipulate them.

"Just try me Fleur. I'm tired after a long day and I want to sleep. If you're going to be unreasonable sleep on the couch; alone" and there it was. The tone. That hardness she wanted to hear. Ever since she first laid eyes on the young girl, flashes of times long past came rushing forward like a tidal wave. The first time she saw her Nicholas, their first meeting, their wedding day, even the instant she watched as he picked up their newborn child with tears in his eyes. All these memories she'd buried deep, treasured and safe. It was like she was seeing the future her grandchild was going to live. A life time of happiness all set in a pair of brown eyes.

"But I want you all to myself 'Ermione" the woman continued to walk away after hearing the desperate whine in that tone. If their future was to be filled with great memories, her little Fleur would have to learn soon enough.

Hermione sighed for the umpteenth time in the last five minutes. She figured out their plan. The smartest witch of her age, got it solved days ago but even her; the Golden Girl couldn't persuade, bride, blackmail or plead her way into helping any of the Delacour family with their Christmas preparations. Hermione assumed that the early invitation and extended stay at their wonderful home here in France was under the assumption she'd be helping them a little bit. But Apolline would hear none of it. None. The day after her arrival she'd been perfectly distracted with a proper tour of their property; the whole mansion, gardens, courtyards, extended backyard with more cottages and then a whole forest. Who has a forest alongside their garden? The girl just couldn't contemplate. But after the long time consuming journey that was, Fleur started to officially introduce her to the other clan members, husbands, wives and children alike.

Her girlfriend's fellow Veela schoolmates Hermione knew well enough so that was one small list down. Next was the close aunts and cousins on her mother's side; easy enough. Then came the extended family that were cousins to Apolline soon followed by cousins from her grandmother, clan members related by blood two generations back and so on; that point, Hermione just gave up. It was a giant family, they all looked alike and honestly she just wanted to sit down for five minutes and not have to remember who was whom. The poor brunette didn't even realise the whole day had been strategically planned out and wasted (rather wisely by a sneaky blonde Veela) until it was dinner time.

For the following four days, Hermione found herself in the company of anyone and well, everyone. The boisterous group of young children she met on her first trip were so enthusiastic to see her again, she ended up playing with them for hours; completely distracted from the celebrations she was meant to be helping with and just enjoyed their company over any adults.

Apolline became her next prison warden by snatching her away the next day for some tea, biscuits and a very long conversation about their mutual interest; Fleur. It was then Hermione first encountered the Clan matriarch. The highest woman in the food chain; Celeste Delacour.

Calmly sitting out in the gardens under an enlarged umbrella while Apolline went on about her dear husband and that no good memory of his when she caught movement just in her peripheral. A woman, tall and proud. Hair tied back in a bun, adorned in robes of royal purple and her aura; it was like pure energy. The brown eyed girl could almost see the colour of the pulsing magic but before she could really let her eyes take in everything, the woman was gone. The mental image remained however with the Golden Girl. An abyss hidden behind blue eyes.

When she interrogated her girlfriend later that night, Fleur expressed such delight that her grandmother was there to meet her that Hermione couldn't find the bravery to tell the Veela she might not be getting the most welcoming of welcomes. But even that moment couldn't deter her mind from coming to the conclusion.

"You're all trying to keep me distracted" it was a clear statement. Hermione eyed her girlfriend as the blonde goddess of a Being walked from her private bathroom to the bed where the brunette was already curled up for sleep.

"I do not know what you are talking about ma amor" Fleur replied casually while folding the sheets back to slide her way into the warmth and softness. Veela couldn't sleep on any normal bed. They needed the perfect softness mixed in with a comforting embrace and silence…

"I'm talking about the fact that no one wants me to help with anything" silence she clearly wasn't going to get just yet.

"Zey simply don't zink as a guest, you should be working. It means no'zing 'Ermione"

"It means something to me. I feel like I'm being played the fool here. I want to help and every day since my arrival something or someone has come to stop me" Hermione with arms folded slumped against the mahogany headboard with a gruff snort. Fleur's eyes watched as her demeanour changed. The strong young woman who live through a hellish war, one who had the burden of turning away her own family for their protection; believed she needed to give in order to receive. But it was Fleur's family that wanted to give without restraint. If Fleur had not interfered at every step, Hermione would've been dragged around by one member to another, all of them wanting to give so much affection, she'd end up a brainless mass from all the magical influence they produced.

"You are not being played a fool 'Ermione. I promise you zat" pushing the warming blankets aside, the blonde haired Veela sat up to encase her love tightly in her arms; hoping her physical presence if not her words would settle the fears. "And tomorrow I will prove it to you"

Celeste moved around the room in absolute silence, a technique perfected after generations of wandered souls and wooden floors were easier to walk across than loose dried leaves. It was the middle of the night; the midnight hour had just struck and come sunrise it would be Christmas Eve. But until then, she had her final rounds to complete all without waking a single soul. Sighing the woman flicked her wrist to correct the very obvious unbalance to the ceilings hanging décor.

"Honestly. Those girls wouldn't know what's acceptable even if I stood over their shoulder. If I had more time with them as children maybe this room wouldn't be so…lacking" Celeste spoke softly, as a Veela never mumbles.

The Dancing Hall was in fact a stunning scene of a holiday celebration. Christmas colours were hanging from ceiling to floor, windows draped with rich fabrics, ice sculptures were perfectly situated at the various points of entry and tables were set up ready for the festival of foods. In the exact centre of the dance floor was the biggest Christmas tree imaginable. Grown freely and without any use of magic, it was a gift from the Veela grandmother to her beloved family. In part it was the reason she had been delayed.

"Next time I will think a little better than to get the biggest. Even with magic this takes a very long time to…" the blonde paused in her monologue when her eye caught something out the window. It wasn't a dark night, the moon was nearly full and cast a soothing glow over the landscape, but it was something in that light that caught her attention from decorating the tree. A figure was slowly making their way through the garden.

"Who in their right mind would go walking this late at night? If it's one of those girls looking for trouble, I will…" when she got to the window, her blue eyes caught the site of someone she'd never expect it to be.

"In Merlin's name…" Celeste almost flew out the door and to the nearest exit which happened to be just on the edge of the garden. Keeping the slow moving figure in site, the Veela trailed behind like a lingering shadow; hoping to discover the person's hidden intentions at being out so late. Her eyes widened as she watched them leave the garden path and walk almost with prior knowledge down a hidden trail between the trees. The elder woman burned with anger. How dare they enter her forest without invitation; it was despicable.

The trail wasn't very hard to follow and the brunette still felt she was in some sort of drugged daze. She barely felt the winter's chill through her night clothes and even her bare feet, burning on the frozen ground didn't snap her from her state. It had to be magic, a small part of her mind concluded. Nothing else could make her abandon the warmth and pleasure of her girlfriend's arms and bed for some night walk through the woods. Even if they were very nice trees. Coming to a stop in a small break, where the moonlight shined down, Hermione finally managed to get her bearings by the sight of an ethereal being.

She was tall, an easy head taller than Hermione with long free-flowing hair that had a slight wave near the end. She couldn't tell the colour; there was none. It was like the woman was make of smoke, ever moving and changing that the brunette couldn't get a clear picture of her features; not from the distance. She was smiling though. Hermione could tell that much but didn't know what at. Her eyes were large, open and honest.

"Who are you?" the girl took a step closer hesitantly. After years of being cautious of everything Hermione knew better than to trust a spirit like being in the forest but she couldn't deny her body wanting to be closer. Aching for it. The spirit gave no reply, it just stayed there. Hermione looked down to take in more the scene. She was dressed in a very light flowing dress-like robe. Her shoulders were bare as were her feet. Finally noticing the woman wasn't even touching the ground but hovering, the Golden Girl was starting to wonder if she'd found some rare ghost.

"You're not going to tell me anything are you?" Hermione said with slight accusation. All she got in return was a silent giggle and a head tilt. She sighed. "Great, I'm stuck out in the forest in the middle of the night with a mute ghost. Just my luck. I thought Harry was the one to get himself into these things" the cold was finally starting to sink into her limbs and she tried wrapping her arms round her middle to strive off the cold. "Especially so well dressed…" suddenly there was a rush of warm air. Looking up, Hermione found the spirit had swooped in to circle her. Every wave of her robes created a soft but warm current directed perfectly to encase her body.
"You're…?"

"So this is what I find? The potential mate standing out in the cold trying to sway the Veela spirit herself" Celeste emerged from the shadows of the trees with a glare. She wasn't happy with the discovery. A very sacred secret of the Veela was their spirits. The ability for the very blood itself to manifest into a form at will and travel the earth like any ghost. However, because it is the manifestation of a living Being she cannot travel far from her body; that didn't stop the spirit from expressing its desires. A common site was one a spirit calling forth the wills of man by singing to them in their sleep. Much like the result before her, the human couldn't stop themselves from answering the song and ending up in most dire circumstances.

"Veela...spirit?" Hermione looked from the woman to the apparition still hovering ever so closely. From the change in very expressive blue eyes, she guessed they knew each other well. A tiny smile broke across her face. "Yes. That does make more sense. I thought you looked like Fleur" the spirit looked down at her with curiosity which made her grin. "So you're the one I can blame when Fleur gets handsy and over protective" Hermione giggled into her hand when the Being looked away in an obvious sign of guilt and perhaps, a mild blush?

"I think you should return to your room immediately child. There is a time and place for everything, and this one shouldn't be doing this at all" Celeste stayed firm in voice and stance. Her magic was reacting to the forest's life force and watching her granddaughter's Veela spirit interact with the girl; it made her feel uneasy.

"Why?" Hermione replied, to both their surprise. "I want to know about her. I want to know everything about Veela"

"I cannot allow that. I haven't seen you with Fleur enough to decide anything but I don't trust you with our secrets and sneaking your way in here doesn't help that lack of trust"

"I'm Fleur's mate. I may not know a lot of things about Veela but I know you can't pick and choose. Nor can you change them if you wished" Hermione turned round to face the woman that had been haunting her conscious for the last few hours. Her empowering image burned into her retina and not once had Hermione ever thought herself strong enough to face her with such conviction. Gryffindor courage went very far.

"You seem to know little. But that will not gain you any favour with me" the blonde elder kept herself restrained from emotional opinions. It was true she didn't know what to feel towards the clearly brave, loyal and stubborn witch but she couldn't get the image of her little granddaughter out of her mind. The look of love in those eyes.

"I'm not looking for your favour. Forgive me, I know that is ill-mannered but…" those brown eyes turned away from Celeste for a moment to look upon her companion. The spirit had taken almost a guardian position near the young witch. Hermione wasn't judging, nor curious. She was searching for understanding from the Being herself. Looking for a sign.

"But?" Celeste pressed lightly.

"Fleur and this…her Veela spirit" Hermione corrected herself which made the ethereal face smile. "They're the same person but they're different. And I want to learn about them both. Together or apart it doesn't matter so long as I can be with them. Isn't that part of being with a Veela? Wanting to know?"

Things had taken a turn for the elder woman as she watched in silence. True the girl wasn't her most favoured at present; she'd taken a small liking to her at appearances but only for that. The stories she was told from her Fleur and even her three daughter's didn't change the thought of someone coming into her family uninvited. But the girl before her, growing into a beauty of a woman had an edge. She had survived a war, made sacrifices and every day battled her own darkest demons just out of view of those who cared for her. Celeste was no fool. She knew exactly who the girl was. The Golden Girl, the brains of the trio who saved the wizarding world from its greatest enemy and survived. Apolline had talked for hours about the girl's magical gift, even for a muggle born and while knowing Fleur being the bias partner she is, drowned the girl in such praise it was hard to tell what was truth as to what was simply Veela bragging.

"I cannot flaw you child. You are correct, being with a Veela means having to understand the importance she holds not just with herself as a witch but also the creature blood running through her veins. Can you truly be with her knowing she may one day turn from society and reclaim her roots?" blue eyes almost glowed in the dark as they bore into the young witch. Celeste needed an answer.

"I'd never stop Fleur from doing what was right. Even if I didn't understand it, I'd want to try at least. Learning something new is always fun. Even if it is about certain over-protective, breath-taking beautiful creatures like yourselves" Hermione replied with a grin, catching the adoring look the spirit gave her for such an answer. She had one in the bag.
"I must commend you child. Giving praise to a Veela does give its just rewards" Celeste smiled ever so slightly. "Still, I must insist we return to the mansion. It's below freezing out here; all my children and grandchildren will have my head if you wake tomorrow with even the slightest of colds" holding out her arm in a peace offering the brunette took it with a nod. Their little dispute wasn't over yet. But it could wait till morning.

When they were indoors once more, the fire's heat restoring life back to her frost covered digit's Hermione looked up to the elder Veela with a curious gaze. Even with her eyes focused on her task, Celeste felt it.
"Yes child?"

"How come you speak English so perfectly but Fleur can't even say my name right?"

"Every member of this clan can speak any language of European origin. I'm believing my girls put on the accent and the mild pronunciations to give their voices more allure"

"Those sneaky little…." Hermione grumbled to herself as she clenched her hands into tight fists. "Wait till I get my hands on them…"

"I ask you refrain from harming my children until after the holidays. The paperwork one must do for such a horrific 'accident' takes time to process oui?" Hermione caught a slight gleam in those blue eyes. Teasing must have come from somewhere in the bloodline. "Of course it would make the wedding all the more difficult if one bride wasn't to attend yes?"

Complete! Hope you all enjoy this little update. I'm sorry if not everything adds up to the previous part of this universe. My note taking was terrible so I had to connect the dots somehow. Anyway, life is picking up for me and with my other story as the constant right now, this one is going to be updated in rare times I have extra inspiration. For now please be patient with further chapters. I do have the ideas and plots down. It's mainly the time to write it out.

But if you would like to pick the next one, the list includes; Fluff, Dark, Drama, Humour and I've even had the request of their 'Perfect Day'. Think about it and get back to me!

Any other ideas are welcome too! Give a shout out guys if you really want one ahead of another.

Midmoon Kitsune out!