Chapter 2: Visions

October 28, 1981, Anmer Hall
11:19 a.m.

Charles stood up from his seat when he heard distinct footsteps coming down the hall, a sign that his guests have arrived.

"Sir. His Grace, the Duke of Northumberland, former King of England and his brother Mr. Stephen Strange." Grant, his butler, addressed.

"Grant, how many times do I have to tell you that this is not a formal gathering?" Charles sighed. The butler shrugged gracefully, "Protocols." He said smirking at him. "Can't blame me, sir." Turning to their guest, he bowed and left the sunroom.

"Well?" the Duke of Northumberland said, arms outstretched. "Since this isn't a formal gathering as what you've said."

Grinning, he approached his grand-père and gave him a firm hug. Victor laughed at him, slapping his back. "My goodness, you've grown another inch." He smiled looking at his grandson, "Why are you still growing young man? You're what? 34?"

"Victor, let go of the boy, it's my turn now." A voice drawled behind Victor.

"Uncle Stephen!" he went around his grand-père, only stopping mid-way towards his uncle to get a good look at him. "Wow, you look…"

"Handsome. Gorgeous. Amazing." Stephen offered for him while turning around. Giving Charles a good look at him, "I know, Charles. I am." He said, smirking.

Stephen Strange is wearing an all blue kimono tunic with a layered sash around his waist and dark blue trousers with matching combat boots. Over it, a high-collared red frocked velvet cloak that reaches to the floor. The cloak itself is very unique as if it has a life of its own. The inside of the cloak is intricately embroidered with patterns that looked like runes— just like the one at the edge of the outer cloak. Looking closely at it, the quality of the cloak appears to be it's made of wool. Woven many times, hence the thickness.

What caught Charles was the necklace he's wearing. "Is that, an eye?" It is indeed an eye-shaped necklace.

Stephen reached for the necklace and touched it, "Yes, an amulet. It's the Eye of Agamotto."

He gave his Uncle a hug of greeting, "Well, it appears to be an important amulet. And that ring too." He said as he gestured on towards Stephen's right hand.

"Important is an understatement, but essential? That's the word. So yes, it is. I've been entrusted with the Eye of Agamotto's protection and its use. This amulet is very powerful as it contains an extraordinary ancient stone, that only I could wield it. As for the ring, it's for transportation purposes only." He explained with a casual shrug, as Charles leads them to their seats. Stephen's cloak intentionally removed itself from his shoulder, allowing the man to take his seat, and was now levitating mid-air behind his chair.

Charles stared at the cloak, utterly astonished. As if realizing someone was watching, the cloak's collar made a waving motion towards him. Charles shook his head and rapidly blinked his eyes, breaking the entrancement.

"Only you could wield it?" the Duke of Cambridge asked, as he takes his seat. "So it means you're powerful?"

"Apparently, the Ancient One had seen a glimpse of him using that amulet in the future. Thus training him to master this supreme power he possesses to wield such artifact," Victor answered for him. "So yes, in a way, Stephen here is powerful, magically." He said grumbling as he makes himself a tea.

"Don't look so dejected brother," Stephen said, as he points his teaspoon at him, "It's a huge responsibility to watch over many worlds," turning back to his tea, he continued "And mastering the Mystic Arts is no funny business. It's a serious one."

Victor glanced at him shrugging, a small grin making its way on his face, "You could've included me to your adventure you know." He said cheekily to his twin. Stephen rolled his eyes and took a sip from his tea.

"What do you mean 'many worlds,' Uncle?" Charles asked him, intrigued. His hands automatically reaching for a scone to place in his plate, (instead of using the tongs) not noticing the disapproving look he received from his grand-père.

Stephen gave his twin brother an amused look before answering his query, "It is the duty of the Sorcerer Supreme to guard Earth against any foreign inter-dimensional threats. But we're not here to talk about me, yes?"

"Yes, brother. Very true. We shan't give any more reasons that would cause inflation to your ego." Victor said sarcastically.

"Very funny," Stephen intoned, making Victor bark a laugh at him. "Ah, I missed you so much, Stephen."

"Likewise old man," he admitted, raising his teacup towards Victor.

Charles watches them banter with a fond smile plastered on his face. It still amazes him how these two men, remained looking so young, despite their old age. 'It's probably their magical roots,' he thought.

"So how's Hermione doing, Charles?" Stephen inquired, as he made himself comfortable in his seat.

"She's doing fine Uncle. Still demanding for more books if that's what you're asking." He told him, chuckling. "You can't blame us, son. What she wants, she gets it." Stephen grinned at him from the rim of his teacup. Charles looked at him incredulously, "So you were the one keeping her library supplied with books."

At the corner of his eyes, he saw his grand-père's eyes twinkling while munching on his cookies.

"Let the man do his job as her Great Uncle and Head of House, Charles. He's entitled to provide anything for her, as I am."

"Yes about that," Charles started, "Can you tell me how these Houses operate in the magical world?" His brows furrowing as he suddenly remembers something, "I heard their current government has been taken over by the followers of a certain mass murderer."

"What?" Victor exclaimed, turning sharply to Stephen, "You mean Voldemort and his Death Eaters?" staring at Stephen, horrified. "Where were you, and why aren't you doing something about this? I thought you've already approached the ICW concerning this war?"

Stephen sighed, massaging his temple, "I already did, Victor. And about your inquiry Charles I'll let you borrow the book about House of Novis." then he turned to answer Victor directly, "The current Supreme Mugwump is too focused on his little organization to do his duties and do some actual legal actions with respect to the situation faced by Magical Britain. 'Everyone need not worry as the matters in Britain are now being handled delicately by the Wizengamot under the rule of Minister Bagnold.' Those were his words."

"Personally, I think she's doing a rubbish job." Victor stated, "Death Eaters has been rampaging around the non-magical side. Kidnapping, raping, and worst… killing innocent muggles for some kind of entertainment or as an offering in a ritual…" he said in anger, "Tell me the ICW's planning on eliminating Dumbledore from his position?"

Stephen nodded in confirmation, not affected by the sudden outburst, "The delegates planned on facing his impeachment on the 31st of October. They're charging him for treason and abuse of position."

"Good," Victor nodded, taking calm breaths. "You should take the position once he's out of that seat, Stephen. It'll do us good for once."

"I thought we're done inflating his ego grand-père?" Charles asked with a smirk on his face, as he took a slice of choco mousse. "Isn't it enough that he's the Sorcerer Supreme and Head of his House?" his eyes dancing in mirth.

Stephen barked a laugh when his twin brother, slumped in his chair, murmuring about unfairness and not having a bit more magic. Charles's smirk widened into a smile, at their easy jesting.

A clearing of the throat interrupted them from the doorway, "Sir, Her Majesty, the Queen of England has arrived." Grant announced, before turning to bow before the Queen and left.

Charles immediately stood up from his seat, followed by his guests. "Mother, what is this? Did something happen?"

Rosalinda gave the butler a nod, as she made her way toward her son waving off his worries, "Nothing of importance, my dear. Just visiting." She turned to the other occupants of the room, grinning. "It was a success then, father?"

Victor moved around the table to give his daughter a kiss on both of her cheeks, "Your mother clutches me too tight, and the manor's getting on me."

She made a tinkling laugh in the arms of her father, "Does she know you've decided to get out of the manor?"

"I may have mentioned it?" Rosalinda stared at her father, tutting, "I won't be there to help you out father. It'll be your fight, not mine." She pointed out to him.

"He'll be fine, Linda. You know your mother, once Victor starts charming her, she'll all go mushy over him."

"Well, well, well, look who's here! Lord Novis himself has graced us his presence!" Rosalinda teasingly said, "Or should I say, Sorcerer Supreme?" She said as she reaches up on her toes to kiss her Uncle's cheeks. "Did father grouch again?"

Stephen grinned down at her as he watches her eyes dance with mirth, "Oh you know him, he's always like that when it comes to me."

"Oi, I'm here you know."

"Damn, I should've arrived earlier." Charles's reaction was instantaneous, his eyes widened in awe when he heard his mother cuss.

"Mother, you cursed." He said breathlessly staring at his mother, awestruck.

"What of it, Charles? You should've told me the time of your meeting with them. I could have told Chloe to adjust my schedule today." But Charles wasn't listening to her, he was still staring at her smirking, "You said a cuss word, Mother."

"Now you know why your father's so deeply infatuated with her," Stephen said to him, grinning maliciously.

"Yes, well, Rosalinda is a very dirty girl." Rosalinda bristled and opened her mouth, but was cut off by the seriousness of her father's face, "Dominique was very vocal about the performance of my daughter in their bedroom. It almost gave me a heart attack."

Rosalinda's face turned bright red at that statement which caused Victor to laugh at her reaction, as he sat back down in his chair.

Stephen and Charles were trying to hide their laughs behind the back of their hands, sharing an amused glance.

As soon as the laughter died, everyone settled in their seats and promptly returned to the matter they've been discussing.

"So what business did you have today Rosalinda?" Victor asked, pouring himself brandy this time. However, Stephen who was in the middle of taking a sip from his cup did a double-take as he watches his brother pour brandy in his teacup.

"Have you lost your mind, brother?" he asked thoroughly dumbfounded but amused nonetheless at Victor's antics. "Drinking brandy, in a teacup?"

Victor just raised his eyebrow and stared at him coolly causing Stephen to slowly raise both of his hands in surrender. After several seconds of staring, when Victor didn't hear any taunting from Stephen, he gave him was a casual shrug, and drank from his teacup.

Stephen sighed in relief before taking a peek at his brother's teacup, his face morphing in disgust. The other twin just glared at him feeling offended.

The mother and son watched them in amusement. Rosalinda was enjoying herself more at the exchange. "You two seriously haven't changed. Despite your old age—"

That broke the twins from their silent taunting.

"I'm not old!"

"Am I really that old to you?"

"— you never cease providing entertainment for us. Your brotherhood is a delight to witness. It's very admiring and very immature." Rosalinda continued, ignoring their childish tantrum, her tone sarcastic.

"I feel offended, brother," Stephen said, one hand above his heart. "I think I felt my heartbreak in two." He gasped dramatically.

Victor took his time staring at his daughter, hurt reflecting in his eyes. "I didn't bring you up to call me old, woman."

"Oh please, you two, man up and accept it. You both are ancient!"

The pair groaned in chorus, throwing Charles resentful looks towards him. Charles only laughed at them, and Rosalinda was smiling wickedly, "Now now don't throw hateful looks towards my son. Let's focus on more important matters please."

"Is our physical appearance not important?"

"Or our age?

"Seriously, you two. Stop. I'm sorry okay?" Rosalinda made a waving motion using her white serviette as a sign of defeat. This caused the twins to grin at her.

"Now, let's talk about the House of Novis." Stephen started, as he reaches for something inside his blue kimono tunic. He grabbed a pouch and pulled out an old battered book, giving it to Charles. "The history of the House of Novis is there, including the updated genealogy of the family."

Charles stared at the pouch curiously before taking the offered book being handed to him by his uncle. He read the title aloud, "Documents Historiques de l'Ancienne et Noble Maison de Novis"

"You've written Hermione as your Heir right, uncle?" Charles looked sharply at his mother when she said those words, before turning his eyes to Stephen.

Stephen eyed Charles warily before answering Rosalinda, carefully forming his words mentally, "Before taking the role of Sorcerer Supreme, I was made aware of the sacrifices I'll be giving up in order to become the proper Sorcerer. One of them is my fertility." He explained softly to them, especially to Charles. "Due to the magic flowing inside me it affects the production of sperm, causing them to lose the quality necessary for procreation. That's why I can't produce an offspring to become my Heir."

"So you chose Hermione because she's the only last Magical from your line, except for you?" Stephen was surprised by the easy acceptance coming from Charles. "You're infertile. If she's the only last one from the Novis line to carry the name, Uncle, then it's fine with me." Charles said looking at him sympathetically, yet he can't help regarding his uncle with more respect.

Stephen rolled his eyes and scowled at his brother, "I thought you told him about Hermione being my heir?"

Victor pointedly stared at him and coolly replied, "Rosalinda knows, and she assured me she'll be telling her son."

"You knew mother?"

Rosalinda winced when the men turned towards her, "I may have forgotten about that." She grimaced when her father glared intensely at her, while Stephen shook his head.

Charles ignored his mother and immediately opened the old book his uncle lent to him, skipping the history part. Scanning the table of contents, he turned the pages delicately (Hermione's rule) until he reached to the genealogy section, he went straight at the very end of the family tree and saw his daughter's name.

But he saw something peculiar in the tree.

"Did you sign a betrothal contract for Hermione?" Charles asked, looking at Stephen accusingly.

Stephen was taken aback by the accusation. "Why would I sign a betrothal contract for her, when nobody knows who my Heir is?" he replied to him coolly.

Rosalinda looked at the page beside her son searching for the thing that made him suddenly worried. When she found her son's concern, it was her question that made the two men opposite her, sat up in attention.

"Do magical family trees know who you'll marry in the future? Like a soulmate?"

Victor and Stephen bolted from their seats this time and moved around the table to look at the book over Charles and Rosalinda's shoulders.

Hermione's name, just like her ancestors, is printed in a faint banner. The only difference is that Hermione's not supposed to be married yet to someone, but the family says she is. What bothers them most was the banner beside Hermione is empty, and the outline is shimmering in gold.

"I can't believe it," Victor remarked, awestruck. "It's real, I thought it only exists in children's books!"

Stephen was only staring dumbly at the book, clearly in disbelief. "I…" he started but found that he lost his voice. Victor, Charles, and Rosalinda are patiently waiting for him to say something.

"This changes everything," he said finally able to say something. He cleared his throat and faced everyone, "I need to re-arrange some matters and see if I could find something more about this—" he trailed off as he gestured towards the book, too overwhelmed to describe what this is.

Charles understood the struggle his Uncle is facing right now and could see that he's trying to formulate plans in his head. "Of course, Uncle. Take your time as long as you want, and if you ever found out anything about this phenomena, please approach me immediately." He hesitated for a bit before adding, "I would like to know what's going on with Hermione, and what this means for her. She's too precious and this whole magic thing is costing Madelaine and I a lot of worries."

"I'll do everything I can for Hermione, son. You don't have to worry, as what your mother has told you— hopefully, she did— you're not alone. You have your grand-père and me to give you a hand in helping Hermione in this journey ahead of hers." He assured the young father, with a firm look. "I've already included training Hermione personally once she starts showing bursts of magic."

"What level of accidental magic are we talking about Stephen?" Victor asked, his fingers tapping his chin thinking.

"Report to me the most powerful she has ever shown, in that way I could measure how powerful she is."

"But she's only two!" Charles exclaimed standing up from his feet, he began pacing. Rosalinda followed him and instantly grabbed her son to her, trying to calm him down.

"Hermione's lucky and blessed to have a wonderful and such caring family." She told her son at arms-length, looking deeply in his grey eyes, she continued, "I've told you many times, she's not alone in her journey. We'll be with her along the way. The training your uncle Stephen is planning for her will happen anyway. It's better that she's able to control this magic in her than lose control over it."

"Plus, she's an eager learner. She acquires knowledge like a thirsty caveman, so this training will keep her entertained and at the same time teach her about magic." Victor added as he gazes at him thoughtfully.

Charles stared at them and at the book while thinking about Hermione's future.

If Hermione found out that she's magical, he can't deny that his little girl will be ecstatic at the news. She'll eagerly learn everything about it. What worries him the most is the magical people and their corrupt government. He doesn't trust them much at all except for his uncle. Charles could tell that he's being unfair judging people from rumors but with the war still occurring in that world? He doesn't like that at all for his little girl. Not knowing when it'll end, and the ineffective assurances coming from the Minister of Magic, it might not be possible for his Princess to even take a step in that world.

However, training Hermione is agreeable to him. He's truly grateful that Hermione will at the very least be able to control her magic. But what if she still wants to learn more, and books wouldn't be enough for her, and Uncle Stephen wasn't there to guide her? She'll need to attend school, right? What if there are other Magical schools aside from the one in Scotland? She could attend the one in France, but will she permit it?

There are so many what-ifs in Hermione's future, however, there's only one thing Charles realized while pondering her future… It's up to Hermione's choices.

October 30, 1981, Anmer Hall
8:20 a.m.

While walking down the vast halls of her home, a dainty girl wearing her favorite dusty pink lace-trimmed flare dress with matching white leather doll shoes, Hermione Mea Granger-Windsor yawned and smiles up to every person she meets on her way towards the sunroom.

"Did you sleep well Princess?" a twenty-year-old woman beside her asked, as she guides her through the halls. Angeline, her nanny, and friend. "I slept well, Angeline. Thank you for asking." She replied to her while yawning again.

Angeline gave her an amused look, "I see. It doesn't look like it though. You've been reading again haven't you?"

Hermione mockingly glared at her, "But it was great book, Angeline! I can't seem to find it in me not to finish it." she exclaimed, crossing her arms, "And besides, Jane Austen is a talented novelist. What kind of person am I not to read her works? Especially, Pride and Prejudice!"

"Aren't you too young to read romantic classics?" Angeline asked, honestly bemused. Hermione faltered in her steps.

"I may be two years old Angeline, but in case you've forgotten, I am not most two years old." She told her, sniffing. "Not that I am bragging. It's just. . . when I began learning how to read, something inside me snapped as if I'm finally free to do something. . ." Hermione sighed as they continue walking through the halls, taking a left.

"I understand that there are books that aren't appropriate for my age. I also very well understand that I shouldn't know anything about romance. But Angeline, they are books," Hermione whined, "I love books!"

"Just don't read too much at night, Hermione. At the very least, try not to be caught reading them." Angeline said in a reproaching tone. The little girl beside her whose chin is on her chest, looking at her shoes, ignored her.

"I know I'm very unique and too mature for my own age Angeline. I would have liked it if…" Hermione whispered but trailed off as they finally made it to the sunroom, where breakfast is being served.

She melancholy let Angeline help her climb up to her own chair, and slumped. Madelaine began smiling when she saw her daughter enter, but then it dropped slowly when she noticed the dropping of her shoulders. The mother looked up to Angeline with worry, and mouthed, "What's wrong?"

Angeline sighed sadly; she raised her right pointer finger and tapped it two times beside her temple.

Understanding dawned on Madelaine, nodding she turned to her daughter and gave her a warm greeting, "Good morning sweetheart."

"Good morning, Mama." Hermione greeted back with a false beaming smile. Madelaine nudged her husband sitting beside her who's reading an old thick battered book. Hermione saw this action and turned to her father, noticing that the man hadn't greeted her yet.

Sitting upright in her chair, she took a closer look at the book her father is reading. In an excited tone, "What are you reading, Papa?" she asked clearly intrigued.

When Charles felt a nudge beside him, he looked up at Madelaine who just tilted her head slightly, pointing to their daughter. "Pardon me, Princess. What was it?"

If a smile could beam like a sun, Hermione's would be the first to ever do that. "Papa, you're reading a book! May I know what is it?"

Charles smiled fondly at her, "I am reading a book, my love. However, only your mother and I are allowed to read this book." He told her as he carefully closes the book he's currently reading.

Hermione gave him a pout, as she watches Angeline place food in her plate, "Did Great Uncle gave it to you? Cause if he did, I'll be mad at him for not letting me take a peek."

Charles eyes started glinting at that, "Try telling him that and we'll see what he'll do for you. Maybe if you try persuading him to allow you to read this, he may grant it to you."

"I won't persuade him, Papa. Great Uncle Stephen isn't easy to manipulate. No, I'll use my super puppy eyes power at him." She told them her eyes gleaming with purpose, causing her parents to laugh and Angeline to smirk at her.

Hermione Mea Granger-Windsor is a very clever and brilliant young girl. When she was born looking different and fragile, the midwife who brought her out to this world swiftly went into action. There were no recorded anomalies through the duration of Madelaine's pregnancy, and upon several diagnostics, the baby was truly a hundred percent healthy. It's the baby's unique physical features that worry the midwife. Hermione's curly hair carries a faint color of rose quartz, which no one in the family carries at all. The same goes with her eyes; they are strikingly mauve in the shade of pink. She also bears a distinct birthmark on her left shoulder that's curiously shaped like a perfect zigzag— a lightning bolt.

Because of this, the midwife took the liberty of gathering all necessary papers (from pregnancy records to DNA testings) in order to help the Duchess in case shit suddenly blows up.

And shit did really blow up. When Hermione's unique appearance hit the papers, it caused an uproar in the public with controversies, rumors, and issues floating around the country. Even other countries were made aware of the current scandal surrounding the unique appearance of the baby. The people of England began creating absurd theories such as the article written by Beatrice Santos of the Daily Mail: The Product of Duchess Madelaine's unfaithful acts behind the future King of England.

As a result, instead of resting after her childbirth, Madelaine jumped right away in handling the ridiculous scandal surrounding her baby girl. Despite the protests of her family and those people who believe her, including her doctor assigned for her care, the Duchess of Cambridge promptly gave a public speech and proof that her Princess was truly the daughter of their Duke. She also mentioned in her speech that the public's nonsense accusations with respect to her integrity and beautiful daughter were foul and unforgivable.

Two years later, the public's still reminded by that honest disapproval from the Duchess. As the Princess grows up as a young girl, people were beginning to notice the beauty and innocence the Princess brings. Photos of Hermione's second birthday were released recently to mark the start of her journey as a young girl.

In those shots, Hermione was wearing a lovely shade of pastel yellow dress, with a matching pair of white Mary Janes; her long curly hair tied in a messy bun; skin, glossy and fair; her father's perfectly shaped eyebrows; her mother's almond-shaped eyes with velvety lashes and charming upturned nose; eyes dazzling whenever her small plump cherry lips form a smile on the camera radiantly; and the books surrounding her instead of children has also caught the interest of the public.

Referring to the photos that were released, the former King of England and Duke of Northumberland, Victor Strange, participated in an interview where he told them about the Princess's visible signs of prodigy-hood, due to her advance ability in reading. Hence, her obvious preference for books over toys. He also mentioned that the Princess is a very good and eloquent conversationalist, which makes him happy and visibly proud. "She'll be a force to be reckoned when she grows up into a woman. I look forward to the time when it's her turn to lead."

The family turned their attention back to their breakfast and enjoyed the comfortable atmosphere.

The youngest person at the table noticed something was amiss, "Where are Juls and Nate, Mama?" Hermione asked, searching for her brothers.

Madelaine dabbed her mouth with a serviette before answering her daughter, "They've just left, darling. They have important matters to attend to on behalf of your father. Your father requested them to as he is occupied today, the twins accepted the task without problems."

Hermione nodded in understanding, "Oh well, I guess I'll just meet them once they're free."

October 31, 1981 Anmer Hall
9:30 p.m.

"Hey Juls, can I talk to you for a moment?"

Julien Louis Granger-Windsor, looked up from the book he's reading when his bedroom door swung open revealing a boy that looked almost identical to him. "Yeah, sure." He said and gestured for him to enter.

His twin brother, Nathaniel Kyle Granger-Windsor nodded his thanks and dropped himself to his bed. Julien observed him for a moment before placing a bookmark between the pages he's currently reading. "What's up? You looked like you've seen a ghost."

Nathan gave out a harsh exhale, staring at Julien's bedroom ceiling that's covered with stars; he muttered the only thing that has been bothering him. "Hermione's eyes changed colors."

"What?" Julien asked, his tone urging Nathan to continue, "Yeah, we were playing chess a while ago. She's losing and I was so smug about it— which was very wrong of me by the way," he said, wincing at the memory. Julien just stared at him impassively.

"She got upset because I was riling her up. Then all of a sudden, her eyes turned purple."

The silence was deafening and it's starting to disturb Nathan, "Uhh, Julien?"

"Did she do something else? Other than changing eye colors?" Julien asked, "You know, strange things?" Nathan sat up, leaning on his twin brother's headboard, and stared hard at his twin. "What are you up to Julien? What do you know?" he asked eyes narrowing.

Julien stood up from where he was seating near the fireplace and motioned for him to follow him out of his room. Nathan followed behind him, curious. Once they were out of his room, Julien told him his experience, "I witnessed Hermione unconsciously levitate a book towards her. She actually thought I left it beside her because it was exactly the same book she needed that time." He shook his head as he recalled that moment with her sister.

Nathan and Julien are Charles and Madeliane's, seventeen-year-old firstborn sons. Born as twins; the very first ever set of twins born in the royal family. Just like their great grandfather and uncle, the two brothers are almost identical in regards to their appearance.

Julien inherited his mother's sea-blue eyes and his father's ash brown hair. While his twin brother Nathan has their father's grey eyes and hair color too. They are considered the 'adonis' of the family, because of their incredibly natural good looks. Thanks to their parents, the twins' popularity made it around the world without an effort.

The only difference between the two is what they do in their leisure time. They have different preferences for recreational activities. Julien enjoys his free time by reading books, oil painting, and attending operas. Nathan on the other hand is very active. He doesn't much enjoy reading, but he's good at strategic games, like chess. He's also into sports that require such ability like football and a little bit of cricket. Both of them enjoy horse riding and swimming as bonding time.

Oh, and also acting as Hermione's bodyguards.

At the age of fourteen, the twins started taking part in doing state visits with anyone in their family to develop, enhance, and maintain strong relations with various countries. They also took advantage of their ranks to pursue certain professional fields and hobbies that would be of value to them, such as learning about government laws, economics, traditions, and cooking!— who doesn't want to try cooking?

They've also supported different platforms that would help their nation, especially young adults, progress admirably. Due to their noble gestures to serve the monarch, as a result of their positive influence around the world and their active participation in creating change, the current reigning Queen of England, Rosalinda Granger-Windsor proudly awarded them the Royal Victorian Order.

"Where are we going?" Nathan asked Julien as they walked down to the opposite wing where the rooms of their parents and Hermione are located. Julien didn't answer him, instead, he silently leads him to their father's private study.

Upon arriving at their destination, Julien gave three firm knocks on his father's private study.

"Enter." A muffled voice answered.

To say that he was flabbergasted was an understatement. Charles doesn't usually expect his firstborns to visit or invite themselves to his study. They only do when they were invited by him personally.

He took note of Nathan's confusion and 'is that a hint of fear?' he thought. He turned to Julien this time noticing the seriousness in his stance. Because of this, Charles slowly put down his pen and intertwined his fingers. Leaning back he motioned the twins to take a seat.

"What do I owe the pleasure of your attention this evening, gents?"

"Is Hermione magical, father?" Julien blurted out.

Charles sat very still, stunned in front of his sons. Clearly, the two have figured it out already. 'No, Julien was the one who was able to figure it out. Trust the kid to be the first to catch on.' It's true, Charles wasn't the only one who looked startled at all; the same reaction is also reflected in Nathan's face but with a hint of fear. He made a mental note to talk to him personally.

"Does mother know?" Julien was still asking but the severity in his tone demands honest answers from him.

Sighing Charles reached for his telecom by pressing a button which gave a buzzing sound, calling for the attention of his wife.

"Let's wait for your mother shall we?"

When Madelaine heard the buzz in her boudoir, she knew something urgent had occurred that's why she made it to the study of her husband within a minute. Upon entering the room she noticed that her wonderful sons were also present. She shot Charles a questioning look before suggesting that they transfer to the couches.

Once settled, Charles started reassuring them first by saying, "Hermione is safe, and will be trained to control her abilities." Staring intently at Nathan's anxious face, "She'll be fine, and we'll do everything we can to protect her."

"Ah, so this is about Hermione's special powers?" Madelaine nodded as she makes herself comfortable in the warmth of the couch. "I thought we were going to start giving out relationship advice." She pondered while eyeing her sons with curiosity.

"Is she?" Julien demanded, frowning with worry. Madelaine raised an eyebrow at his tone. Nathan who kept quiet the whole time offered his brother support by placing his hand on his forearm. "If she really is magical, how can we help her?"

Charles and Madelaine shared a look, silently conversing before turning to the twins. "All you have to do is support and accept her. She'll be needing it."

"Just love her the way you do, and don't act differently around her because she'll notice it easily. Treat her the same way you treat her now." Madelaine reminded them. "She'll be looking for assurances from you two, therefore make sure to tell her that you understand this… power she has, and her choices to make. So, expect that soon."

The twins nodded their agreement, "How'd you found out anyway?" Julien asked them, "Did you experience some kind of anomalies when you're around her too?"

The question went unanswered when they heard screaming outside Charles' study.

"NOOOO!"

Another high pitched scream rattled the occupants inside the study. When they realized where the source of the scream was coming from, the family instantly scrambled out of their seats and bolted from the study. They were met by Angeline outside the corridor, already scrambling for the keys she kept in her person.

"NOOOO! DON'T... Please..." Hermione cried out, muffled by the door of her room. Then suddenly sounds of crashing and a lot of thudding inside her room echoed down the hallway.

"HERMIONE... Hermione!" Nathan yelled while banging on her door. Julien has already snatched the keys from Angeline with trembling hands. He was just about to insert the key to Hermione's room when the door was wrenched open by an unknown force.

They gazed at the state of Hermione's room. The Princess's books were everywhere. Some are laying open on the floor, table, and bed. Her wardrobe is half-open, clothes spilling from it. The couches near the door to her balcony were overturned, including her chaise. Torn pages and papers are everywhere. Her self portrait also made it to the floor, unbroken. There were also shards of glasses shimmering on the floor; most of it came from Hermione's mirror.

Everything's a mess, and Hermione— the poor girl's shaking and sobbing uncontrollably.

Seeing the pale looking girl, Madelaine quickly went to her daughter's side and gently pulled her body for a hug whispering some soothing words while also stroking Hermione's hair. "It's okay baby, we're here. No one's going to hurt you. Mama and Papa are here. Angeline and your brothers are here too."

Recognizing the symptoms of accidental magic, Angeline reached for her wand and conjured a Patronus to deliver the message. A bright glowing otter swam around her before standing in front of her awaiting orders. "Code rose." The otter nodded and swam away delivering her message to the intended recipient.

Once she realized what she's done, Angeline returned her attention to the family before her who was staring at her appalled at the sudden show of magic. Charles looked murderous though, which is not good.

Angeline raised both of her hands to placate her boss. "Sir, let me explain."

"Why didn't I know of this?" He demanded at her. Nathan was instantly beside his father, clearly upset at the turn of events. Julien stood guard near his mother and young sister, while Madelaine remained by Hermione's side on the bed, rocking the child in an attempt to bring her back to sleep.

"Sir, you must stay calm for this. I will expl—," she trailed off, paling instantly when the man, the future King of England, stalked towards her.

"Charles, that's enough," a woman's voice sounded from Hermione's doorway, a sign someone has arrived.

"Mother?!" Charles did a sharp turn towards the voice of the woman, looking at her aghast, his eyes widened more comically when he saw who's behind her. "Father? What are you doing here? How did you. . ."

"I'm the answer for that," his Uncle Stephen remarked behind the couple.

"Angeline please be a dear and help arrange Hermione's things?" the King requested to the woman who's staring defiantly in front of Charles.

"Of course, brother." She cautiously glanced at the Duke of Cambridge, before turning to the mess, her back facing the occupants of the room. Charles though was gaping at them, his mind working overdrive.

"Brother?" he whispered harshly, staring at his father disbelievingly. Dominique, his father, approached his son carefully, "Everything will be explained, son." he assured him gently.

"Mama?" Hermione croaked, slowly opening her eyes.

"Hey love, I'm here. I've got you." Madelaine told her, assuring the little girl's worries while stroking her lovely rose quarts colored hair. She also offered comfort by kissing the girl's forehead every minute, knowing how the girl calms in her mother's care.

"B-bad d-dream," the girl confessed, blinking to keep her tears from falling. Madelaine regarded her daughter with concern, "Will you tell me what happened darling? It might help you calm down." She said giving her an encouraging smile.

There was complete silence between the occupants present in Hermione's room, save from the swishing of Angeline's wand.

Hermione took a ragged breath and gave her mother a jerky nod. "That's my girl; my brave, beautiful, kind, clever sweet girl," gently stroking her daughter's rosy cheek.

The said girl gave her mother a small smile before recalling her dream. The rest of the family who remained quiet in the room made themselves comfortable around Hermione's bed, while Stephen stood in front of Hermione's window, looking over the vast ground covered with Hermione's favorite flower— tulips. Angeline went down to the kitchen to fetch them some drinks, after fixing the room.

"There was a black hooded man," Hermione began, her eyes bright with fresh tears as she stares at her mother. Madelaine smiled down at her in understanding, kissing both of her eyes making the tears fall slowly.

"He's carrying a white stick, Mama. He was with the rat-man, but the rat-man quickly left when the hooded man entered the house." Her eyes gazing as she recalls the images of her dreams, "It feels real, Mama."

Hermione then realized that her mother didn't show up alone in her room, both of her brothers and her father are here as well. She also recognized her grandparents nearby and a very familiar figure standing by the window. The Princess sat up gently when she saw her favorite great uncle, "Uncle! Have you brought me more books? Are you here to give me books about dreams?"

Stephen turned around from his post and gracefully kneeled beside her bed, looking at his heir fondly, "Hey little star, I'm sorry to disappoint but no, I don't have books to give you right now. Although if you still want a book that discusses dreams, I may let you borrow one in my personal library." He said while wiping the girl's dried tears.

He smiled when the girl beamed at him eagerly nodding, "Will you also let me read from the book you lend to my Papa?" she begged, pouting adorably at Stephen.

"Only if you'll allow me to know more about what happened in your dream?" he asked softly, smiling towards her.

Madelaine opened her mouth to interrupt them but was stopped when Rosalinda gave her forearm a firm squeeze, not realizing that the Queen was beside her. She turned to the Queen questioningly and got a subtle head shake as a response.

Hermione felt her chin tremble a bit as her eyes began shining again with new tears. She quickly shook her head to pave the memories away, "If I tell you more about it in detail, will you let me borrow more books from your personal collection?" she asked sullenly. Stephen frowned when he noticed a hint of apprehension on the girl's face.

"Of course little star, I'll let you borrow from it. Just tell me, okay?" Hermione eagerly nodded to him, her eyes bright at the thought of new knowledge.

"Okay. I'll tell you," she said in a small voice to her uncle. "Will you help them though?"

The little Princess suddenly looked so small despite her mature personality, yet the family could recognize the importance of this information to Stephen. They didn't try interrupting the two from their little bubble and just watched from the sidelines.

Stephen made sure that Hermione could see the determination in his eyes to help whomever she dreamt of. Fortunately, the girl did saw his eyes gleaming and recognized that the dream she had was of importance to her uncle.

Hermione swallowed her fear before retelling her story, eyes burning with such intensity that no two years old could pull off, "It begins when an explosion rattled the whole house. . ."

Author's Note: Here's another chapter! Once again, thank you for reading my story! I know some parts are terribly worded, especially the part where they talked about politics. It's my first attempt on that by the way, so please bear with me. But don't worry I'm doing my best in giving you the best of my work!

Please don't forget to review! I would really love to hear from you~

I'm still looking for lovely beta/s!