The next morning was a little more hectic for Hogwarts than usual, full of students who had procrastinated and waited until the last minute to pack. Hermione had her things and Thimi had corralled Crookshanks into his carrier.
"Hey Sev?" Hermione appealed after making sure everything was together. It wasn't that she didn't trust Thimi, she absolutely did, but it was more for her own peace of mind.
"Hm?" Severus grunted.
"I never got around to asking you, do you know where I'll be going this break?" She asked quietly.
Severus took a deep breath before exhaling as though talking pained him, "I had figured we would be staying at Grimmauld place with your brother and the mutt. It's easy for me to travel from here to there and back at a moment's notice. While most students will be going home, I have 2 that will be staying."
Hermione nodded feeling a subtle disappointment in her heart, unaware that her face turned solemn.
Severus, even before his morning coffee, noticed.
"I will arrange it so you and your brother are able to visit your parents on Christmas, I'll obtain a portkey for you," Severus offered before his mind fully worked out in how many ways it would be difficult.
Hermione beamed at him and leaned up towards him, the dark wizard bent down to meet her the rest of the way for the kiss.
"Thank you Sev, I would love that very much," she replied, her voice soft with affection, after they broke apart.
"Be sure to inform your brother and the mutt," Severus told her.
The curly haired witch nodded at the menial task, smile still in place.
"I will see you to breakfast, then to the train, do my duties and see you when I make my reports, and leave you to your merriment," Severus declared gruffly as though merrymaking of any kind was gross.
The witch however giggled, "I'll see you for small lessons after you make reports if you're well enough, I'll see you Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day."
"Must I?" Severus inquired.
"Yes, as your Apprentice and future wife it is only becoming that you start to ease into it now. Besides… I would miss you," she admitted, speaking the last part so softly Severus almost didn't hear.
The potion master's eyes softened at her admission, "As short as the time spent apart would be, I would miss you too. I will endeavor to be there. Although on Boxing Day I will have to make my own appearances with Minerva and Hooch."
"I understand, I already have their presents picked out and wrapped. Thimi assured me they would get them on Christmas Day so to leave it to her," she replied.
"I think she asked their house-elves to take care of it," Severus muttered.
"I've never met your house-elf," Hermione hinted before she pushed on, "I would like to."
"Maga is my assigned house-elf, she's not mine really. Thankfully she is also not like the typical house-elf," Severus disclosed, "She is acceptable."
"Is she like Dobby?" Hermione wondered curiously.
"No, I don't believe she is. Maga is proud of being in service to Hogwarts, however she reminds me, and most notably: Albus, that she belongs to the castle and doesn't have to tolerate any abuse, including verbal. We've come to an understanding. She doesn't touch my research papers, the students' assignments, or my books. I don't speak negatively to her or about her," Severus divulged.
"What he forgot to mention is if he slips up, I treat him like the child he is behaving like and shove soap in his mouth," a feminine raspy voice declared, almost jazzy.
Hermione almost jumped and looked down to see Maga the house-elf. Maga had a small pointed nose with large almond shaped yellow eyes, her hair was black and short in a Finger Wave style that suited her brown olive skin, and she wore a black pillow case with the Hogwarts crest on the bottom corner as well as sleek black slipper like shoes that reminded Hermione of flats. Overall Hermione would consider her very pretty for a house-elf. Even Thimi just made sure her hair was combed neatly, but she'd never seen a house-elf with styled hair.
"Hello, I'm the infamous Maga, house-elf of Hogwarts," Maga stated proudly.
"Hello Maga, I'm Hermione Granger, I'm pleased to meet you." Hermione replied.
Maga looked at her for a while, 10 long seconds, "You really mean that, don't you?" she queried with an undertone of surprise.
"Of course, you do so much for Hogwarts and Master Snape; and I enjoy meeting people close to my people," Hermione answered.
"No, you really mean you're pleased to meet a house-elf and treat me as equal status. Your house-elf Thimi tried to tell me and even encouraged me to wait around and see myself, but I told her I had better things to do than to spy on Snape's Apprentice to see her personality. I think that might have been folly on my part now. She even told me that you and your family treat her like a human maid as opposed to what is common among Older Families." Maga remarked.
Hermione lightly blushed at the blunt honesty.
"Thimi is family and she will be treated as such. She says she is most happy taking care of family and I would never stop her from being happy. Besides I think all sentient beings should be treated equally and equitably," the curly haired witch said firmly.
Maga smiled at her, her teeth were healthy and mostly straight although she had one tooth on her left side that poked out like a fang. Hermione recalled her parents telling her about teeth like that was considered cute in Japan.
"I am glad Severus chose you for his Apprentice, Apprentice Granger." Maga confessed, "You have much more to learn, but I love your spirit. Have a good Holiday, Apprentice." With that Maga disappeared.
Hermione blinked at the spot Maga was standing before looking at Severus. Severus however was rubbing his hand down his face.
"I'm glad she likes you, but this is too much before coffee," Severus growled.
Hermione quickly bit the inside of her lip to stop herself from laughing, "Let's go to breakfast Master, I know coffee is at the staff table for you."
"Thank Merlin," Severus grouched before he deftly turned, his robes swirling around him as he made to leave their Quarters.
Hermione allowed herself to silently giggle at the dark wizard. He was such a drama queen before he had his coffee.
'He's a drama queen even after coffee.' She thought to herself.
The petite witch didn't let the wizard get too far ahead of her and quickly caught up.
Once they reached the Great Hall they parted and took their seats. Hermione was quickly joined by Luna and her brother.
"Good morning, Mia," Luna chimed after hugging her friend.
"Morning, Luna," Hermione replied easily as she fixed herself a plate of eggs, toast, and bacon.
"A filling breakfast choice," Luna commented as she made herself a sandwich of the same ingredients.
"I know the train ride is going to be long and I usually get hungry by the time the Trolly Lady comes by, but I'm not in the mood for sweets. So I'd rather fill up on some protein to hopefully last me a bit longer," Hermione admitted.
"You'd have more luck with oatmeal or cornmeal," Harry said as a matter of fact.
Hermione was reminded that Harry would most likely know from experience with those… people. Hermione still couldn't bring herself to forgive the Dursleys completely especially when these little tidbits presented themselves.
"But I know eggs are filling and Luna has a good idea about the sandwich. If anything, why not make a sandwich and wrap it in a napkin," Harry suggested.
"And a warming charm," Luna added, "Unless you'd prefer a cold sandwich, but I think a warm one would be better."
"That's a great idea and I think we should all do it," Hermione remarked.
The curly haired with grabbed a napkin and quickly made a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. She cast a warming charm on it and then wrapped it in the napkin. After that however she shrunk it to half the size and put it in her cloak pocket.
"I didn't think of a Shrinking Charm," Luna commented.
Hermione grinned at the blonde before taking a bite of her breakfast. Luna finished her breakfast sandwich and made a bacon and tomato sandwich for later. Then she cast the Warming Charm and Shrinking Charm on her sandwich.
Hermione turned to Harry who just made a bacon and tomato sandwich and deftly pocketed it. The witch thought of how deftly Harry had pocketed it, if she hadn't watched him, she wouldn't have known. She knew he was a great Seeker, however he would also be a quick Pickpocket if he ever decided to.
"Why were you sad earlier?" Harry prodded.
"Hm?" Hermione asked, unprepared for the question, "Oh! I wasn't sad really, just a little disappointed. However, a solution was quickly found, I'll tell you on the train," she answered.
Harry nodded accepting the statement, he knew they had more privacy in the train compartment than they did in the Great Hall.
"What are your plans for the Holiday, Luna?" Hermione inquired.
"Daddy and I are going to celebrate Yule, have some hard cider, and then I'm going to help him with the Quibbler. We usually run a Yule special edition," Luna answered.
"Some wizarding families still celebrate Yule?" Hermione asked interested in the new tidbit.
"A lot of the Older Families still celebrate the Pagan Traditions, the Lovegood's included. A few of the Light families celebrate Christmas, but since Yule also has gift giving the shops just decorate as they would since there's a lot of overlap. The Wizarding world, at least Europe, don't really celebrate Mr. Christ, many of them don't attend Church for obvious reasons. The Light families usually celebrate the holiday because it's less involved than Yule, they typically just set up a Christmas Tree and exchange gifts. Those who celebrate Yule still set up their alters, recite the prayers, do the blessings and cleansing rituals, and of course hold the Yule log ceremony. I like the wassail too," Luna answered while swinging her legs.
"I wish they taught wizarding customs in a class, traditions too," Hermione sighed before eating.
"Hogwarts used to, Headmaster Dumbledore removed the class when he became Headmaster," Luna reported mildly.
Hermione slowed her chewing before she continued to eat angrily. Harry felt her fury at the injustice and knew it was another thing she would endeavor to change.
"We can ask Sirius for intense lessons about customs this break and Summer, Mia" Harry suggested.
Hermione took a breath and nodded, appreciating the suggestion. She knew Sirius Black had been raised with wizarding traditions since he was not old a pureblood, but as much as he was a rebel he had been raised as such since he was from not only an Old family, but basically pureblood royalty from what she gathered. Everyone knew about the Black family more than other families, even the Malfoy family. She also knew that the Black family basically spit on anything muggle, so what Sirius knew would be pure Tradition.
The curly haired witch knew immediately when her Master stood up and finished her meal as quickly as polite manners would allow. When he reached her, she stood and was at his side ready to be escorted to the train. Her brother and Luna looked at each other before standing to follow them.
Once they reached the carriages Severus held his hand out in a gentlemanly fashion to help Hermione into the carriage. The hazel eyed witch gently took it and entered the carriage. Severus held his hand out again.
"Miss Lovegood, it would be unseemly of me to only offer assistance to my Apprentice if you're also to enter the same carriage as us," Severus said as an explanation.
"Thank you, Professor," Luna accepted as she took it and quickly made her way into the carriage.
"Potter, you can manage yourself," Severus mused with an eyebrow raised.
"Of course, Professor," Harry almost chuckled.
Severus entered the carriage before Harry. Once they were all seated the carriage started to make its way to the train.
"Will we be seeing you this break, Professor?" Harry asked respectfully.
"Mia and yourself, yes. Mia insisted," Severus articulated.
"You should get the portkey for the day of the 23rd," Luna stated unprompted, "Also if you have a topical potion for healing, you should give it to her."
Severus blinked before nodding. He reached into one of his many inner pockets and handed his witch a small container of Healing Balm, the container was roughly the size of a galleon without asking questions.
"Portkey?" Harry inquired.
Severus looked to Hermione, who shook her head in the negative.
"Mia was disappointed at the idea of not seeing your parents this Holiday, I offered to get you both a portkey so you can see them. You would return with me on Boxing Day to Headquarters," Severus replied.
"Oh!" Harry exclaimed both surprised and happy, "Thank you, sir."
Severus stared at the young wizard before nodding, still not used to being on speaking terms with a Potter. The rest of the ride was peacefully quiet. Once they reached the train Harry hopped out and helped Luna and Hermione out. Severus exited the carriage without assistance.
"Have a pleasant ride," Severus told his witch and her entourage.
"Thank you, Master," Hermione responded earnestly, her eyes glimmered happily.
Once his witch was on the train Severus took his post and waited on the platform. While he hated this part of his job, Minerva had suggested he take this shift. In the staff meeting he had of course argued against it until Dumbledore said it was 'A fine idea,' meaning it was settled. In private Minerva had told him it was so he had an excuse to see Hermione off.
He was less enthusiastic this Holiday as after the students left, he and the other Death Eaters had a meeting with the Dark Lord a little after sunset. The Dark Lord had chosen the time so those with children at Hogwarts could gather them and have them settled before meeting. It was also a good time as those with day jobs would be getting home by then and those like him would be free to attend.
When they found an empty compartment, they quickly got comfortable and Hermione quickly cast Muffliato on the compartment.
"Just in case," Hermione said noticing their curiosity.
"We still have to let Sirius know when we get back that we're leaving those few days to visit Mum and Dad," Hermione said.
"Oh okay, he doesn't know?" Harry asked.
"Ah, me and Severus only spoke about it this morning," Hermione admitted sheepishly and lightly scratched her cheek.
Harry laughed at his sister, "That makes sense."
"Luna why did Hermione need the topical healing thing," Harry asked.
"Healing Balm," Luna and Hermione said in stereo.
"Your mum is going to bring you both to get piercings this break. We already know what Hermione is going to get, but you're going to get your ears pierced," Luna answered.
"My ears?" Harry asked as he reached up to fiddle with one.
"Typically in the Muggle World, a gay man will have one piercing in his right ear to let others know subtly that they're gay," Hermione answered, "But there are a few who get both done to leave people guessing, and also because they like them. I know a few people got them because of some rock stars."
"Mia is going to get hoops and buy some bars, and you're going to get both done," Luna stated.
"What am I getting?" Harry asked.
"Diamond studs and I can't tell you what else," Luna said with a mischievous smile, "It's a present and presents are meant to be secret."
Harry just grinned at the blonde.
Soon there was a knock on their door before it opened, it was Greg.
"Greg!" Harry exclaimed excitedly.
Greg smiled at his boyfriend, "I hope you don't mind me sitting with you on the way back?" he asked.
Harry looked at Hermione and Luna with puppy dog eyes.
"Of course, he can sit with us," Hermione said.
Greg smiled at her and quickly took a seat next to Harry.
"I can't wait to go home," the burly wizard said quietly as he fiddled with his fingers.
"Are you excited for the Holiday?" Hermione asked politely.
"Yeah! I love Yule, it's one of my favorite Holidays," Greg said with a grin.
"Does your family have a special alter for it?" Harry asked.
Greg nodded, "We have a special spot in the parlor for it, it takes up a whole wall. I like the scent of pine and cinnamon, and we have a large elk skull with the antlers intact, it's been in the family for hundreds of years!"
Luna nodded, "We have a deer skull on ours."
"My mum always changes which candle holders we use, and since our family is old I haven't seen her have to repeat decorations often. I know it sounds stupid, but they're really cool. We have one that when you light the candle stars and the moon light up on our walls. It's my favorite," Greg said with a grin, "Mum has let me use it every year in my room since I was 4."
Harry beamed at Greg, "That sounds really cool. If you can, take a picture of it for me?"
Greg nodded his agreement, "I'll send you pictures of the alter too."
Harry was about to say something else when the compartment door opened.
"Apprentice Lady Granger, I apologize for the interruption. Potter," Draco nodded in his direction, "I was just checking to see if Greg was with you," Draco said politely, "I see that he is. Greg will you be joining us for a bit?"
Greg sat in silence for a moment, "I'll stop by for 15 minutes after the Trolly Lady comes by. Then I'll come back here, I want to ride the train with Harry and Apprentice Lady Hermione."
Draco pursed his lips a bit before his face relaxed, "Okay. Keep an eye open for Weasley, I wouldn't put it past him to try something while the Professors aren't here. We'll be 3 compartments down," he said, pointing to the right.
Greg nodded.
"Apprentice Lady Granger, Potter, Lovegood, have a pleasant Holiday," Draco said before leaving.
"You too," Harry and Hermione said at the same time.
Draco paused, caught by surprise, slightly bowed his head towards Hermione and closed their compartment door before leaving.
"That was the most polite he's ever been, and that includes first year when he tried to be my friend," Harry said a little shocked.
"Draco sometimes comes off as smarmy when he's nervous or happy about something. The polite Draco you just saw is what we usually see," Greg said.
"Even when he's alone with you he gets smarmy?" Harry asked.
"It doesn't happen often, but yes. None of us like it when he gets like that, but otherwise he's a decent friend. Our families do business with each other. It's easier to be acquaintances or friends so good business continues," Greg said.
Hermione nodded as she was aware that had often been the case in the muggle world. It was only more recently that it started to not be that way in the muggle world.
Harry sighed, "I guess that makes sense. It almost makes more sense that he always says his father will hear about things."
"Lord Malfoy is very influential," Greg said kindly, "He does a lot. He's on the Wizengamot, was on the Board of Governors, and he's an Official in the Ministry. He knows a lot of people and has a lot of gold. Lady Malfoy does just as much as a socialite. She's Chairman on a lot of charities. She's wicked nice, but can also be very scary. Then again, all the Blacks are scary."
"Why?" Harry asked.
Greg looked at Harry and blinked in confusion, "You really don't know?" he asked.
Harry ran his hand through his hair, "I don't know a lot about the family. My Godfather is Sirius Black, and he told me that his family was one of the Darkest families there are, but I also know that he's fairly biased. My relatives weren't as kind to me as they are to Hermione, and to me that's all that matters is they treat her right. So I just want to hear some outside non-Weasley, non-biased, view on the Black Family."
Greg tilted his head then nodded, "I understand. The Blacks are one of the oldest Families there are, so they know a lot more magic than other families and always have. They're closer to magic, which is why a lot of Families want to marry someone from the Black family. They all have a dash of the Black Madness, which is the only downside, without one of their secret remedies they succumb to the Madness. I know that Bellatrix was allergic to one of the ingredients, it was the worst kept secret for a while. But people who don't know just assume it's because she's a Black and therefore she just was always going to be crazy and evil. All born Blacks have to keep taking the remedy."
"All Blacks?" Hermione asked.
Greg nodded, "If they marry into another family and have children, their children won't have to take it. The babies would get the strength of Black magic, but they would be held in their Family's Magic."
Hermione leaned towards Greg, "What about Muggleborns?"
Greg looked a little uncomfortable, "Please don't be angry with me for the answer?"
Hermione nodded, "I'll do my best not to be angry, you're giving me what you know as a fact."
"Most muggleborn are considered an abnormality because they aren't born into Magic's Embrace, they don't have Family magic," Greg answered, "At best they might be considered Wild Magic, but they aren't taught how to respect it."
"What if they had a magical ancestor?" The curly haired witch pressed.
Just then the Trolly Lady opened the door, "Anything off the trolly, Dearies?"
"Yes, 2 pumpkin pasties and 3 assorted raccoon macaroons," Greg said quickly handing over 4 sickles.
"Here you are, Dear," she said passing over the pastries.
"Anyone else?" the Trolly Witch asked sweetly.
"9 assorted Raccoon Macaroons," Harry said, "How much?"
"9 sickles, Dear," she answered.
Harry quickly fished out the 9 sickles and politely handed them over.
"Here you are, Dear." The elder witch said.
Hermione turned to Luna who shook her head, "That'll be all for us, thank you."
Harry quickly gave Hermione and Luna 3 raccoon macaroons each.
"I never even knew these existed. I've never seen or heard of these," Harry said.
"You have to specifically ask for them since they have to be under a Chilling Charm, so they're in a separate part of the Trolley. When some people try to order everything off the trolly they never get the chilled foods," Greg said amused.
Hermione inspected the pastry noticing that it was an adorable simplified raccoon shape. Each were a different color and she noticed that their tail was also striped with cream that swished gently. One was pink with white, one was a very light grey with a darker purple-ish color, the last was a bright cheery yellow with a cream color.
"You don't have to worry about them running away like chocolate frogs," Greg said noticing Harry holding them.
"Oh really? That's great!" the green eyed wizard cheered with a grin.
Hermione quickly bit the tail and was surprised that it was a raspberry and white chocolate. It was freshly chilled and very delicious.
"Oh! These are very yummy," Hermione said.
Luna hummed in agreement, her raccoon macaroon already having a large bite in it.
Harry bit it and savored it before nodding, "I agree, it's very flavorful but also light. Nothing like treacle tart, but still very good. A new favorite definitely."
"That's raspberry and white chocolate, the grey one is blueberry and buttercream, and the yellow one is lemon tart flavor," Greg told them.
When Hermione nibbled on the grey pastry she was very pleased that Greg was correct.
"If you'll excuse me, I did tell Draco I would stop by his compartment after the trolly came up, I'll be back," he said quickly standing up. He took the racoon macaroons with him, but left the pumpkin pasties on Harry's lap. He quickly left the compartment.
Hermione pursed her lips knowing he didn't answer her last question.
"Mia, don't be mad at Greg, I don't think he knows the answer. Very few Old Families know. Plus Greg isn't part of the Sacred Twenty-Eight. They usually know. Thanks to our travels we, Daddy and I, know some of the answer," Luna said.
Hermione turned her full attention to Luna and her eyes were more gold than hazel with the intensity.
"When a muggleborn is born, they are welcomed back by Wild Magic, like Greg said. Like each person is different, the magic is different. Wild Magic is untamed and untamable, that's why a lot of Old Families are scared. Family Magic is their brand of Wild Magic. When someone marries into another family they bring knowledge of their Wild Magic with them, but not the gifts given to them. Only those born to that family get their gifts. A muggleborn doesn't know their brand of Wild Magic, they don't know anything about it. So it's easy to offend it if they don't become one with their Magic."
"And the Old Tales are that Magic will just as easily turn on you as they are to bestow their Blessings." Hermione said with a spark of understanding.
"Exactly. Wizarding kids are taught as soon as they can talk to respect Magic, and respecting Magic will help you with your magic," Luna said.
"I don't know anything about my Family Magic," Harry said quietly.
"Thankfully for you, I know that the Potter Family Magic varied. They were either good at Potions or Transfiguration. Your messy hair is from one of your ancestors who didn't listen and offended Magic. Your family almost died out before you, your grandparents were old even by wizarding standards when they had your father," Luna said, "So their traditions weren't able to be carried out as much as other families are able to. Never mind the fact that some families were wiped out entirely in the last Blood War. That means that their Family Magic is now Wild Magic again and will choose to Bless someone else. Usually it's a muggleborn," Luna said.
"So it is cursed!?" Harry exclaimed as his hand flew to his hair. He had always suspected but to be told it was true! The wizard groaned while running his hand through his hair.
"What if a muggleborn knows who their magical ancestor is?" Hermione pressed after blandly looking at Harry in the corner of her eye.
"That's usually pretty rare, and if they have a Grimoire that explains their Family Magic, it's usually lost by the time they're born," Luna admitted, "From what we know it's rare that Wild Magic will return to that Family."
"Do families still keep track of their squib kin on their family tapestries?" Hermione prodded.
Luna paused and tilted her head to think about it, "No. If a family keeps their squib alive, once they're of age they find a muggleborn or another squib and help them integrate into the muggle world, or if that's too hard they help find them a job in the wizarding world. Like Mr. Filch, he's the Caretaker, his family didn't want him to 'disgrace' their family further by trying to live like a muggle. Sometimes they become clerks, learn math really well and become accountants and bankers through Gringotts for their muggle side," Luna informed.
Hermione tried not to make a face since she knew Luna was only telling her the truth.
"When you and Greg said Wild Magic, I feel like I missed something," Harry admitted, "I know Mia got it, but I'm a little lost."
"Magic born in you, magic that you can wield with your wand or concentration, is different than the magic we were talking about. Wild Magic is old, older than the Founders of Hogwarts. It existed when the world was created or born, whichever you believe. It's alive and makes its own choices. Like there are different animals and different elements, there are different types of Wild Magic. But because of how diverse it is, we just call it Wild Magic. There is a certain way we must interact with Wild Magic and like I was saying, it's different for each family. The Blacks, for example, their Family Magic, which is their brand of Wild Magic, is Dark magic. Which is why it's not illegal for them to learn at home, it would be like asking a family to cut off their legs and not heal them. Hermione is very good at interacting with the Wild Magic that chose her, which is slightly different to yours. I think because your family was already on the verge of dying out and you aren't able to go through the proper ceremonies most Families hold, you might have gotten your mother's Wild Magic more than your father's family," Luna reported.
"But you said when a witch marries into a family their kid –" Harry started.
"What I meant was their child won't have the downsides of their mother's Magic, and instead usually has the downsides of their father's family," Luna clarified.
"So if the Potter family was already dying out…" Harry said trailing off.
"I think they were facing the extreme of not respecting your Family Magic. The curse on your hair is typically what a family would know as a warning, like a slap on the wrist. Like Mia caught on earlier, when Magic decides to turn on you, it can be extreme. I think the extreme started to be extreme nonstop unluckiness. I don't what they did or what they changed, but they offended Wild Magic and it must have been bad." The blonde witch hypothesized.
"Do you think I'll ever not be unlucky?" Harry asked quietly, as though afraid to speak louder would make it true.
Hermione felt her brother's emotions of intense depression and worry.
"I think when you bonded with Hermione, you were able to link to her Wild Magic. I don't know what color Magic chose for your bond so –" Luna started.
"It was Gold," Harry disclosed as the door opened and it was Greg. Everyone quickly turned their attention to the intrusion.
"Sorry, do you want me to come back a little later? I can go back," Greg fretted fumbling over himself.
Luna and Harry looked at Mia, ultimately leaving the decision up to her.
"Come in and close the door, Greg." Hermione said firmly.
The wizard quickly did so and sat next to his messy haired boyfriend.
"We were talking about Wild Magic, and you already know Harry is my brother through bond. Luna was explaining it to us; and since she's been out of the country and in other wizarding communities, I know she's more open to the knowledge other communities have and thus has more insight."
Greg nodded and rubbed his sweaty palms on his cloak.
"While I've been out on Holiday a few times, we never really talked with the folk there. I know my family can be rather closed-minded about it, and I know that's why we don't really marry others. Please don't let my father find out, but I've always been curious, but not enough to disobey my family," Greg implored.
Hermione nodded in sympathy, "I understand, please keep what we talk about here."
Greg nodded, "I will. Thanks for trusting me."
Harry reached over and grabbed Greg's hand and gave it a light squeeze, eliciting a small smile from the burly wizard.
"Each blood bond is different and Magic can tell the intent and can choose to bless the bond or not, in its own way. Usually people can tell immediately if it starts a feud, the color would be dull or murky. Since yours was gold, it was blessed by Magic, which is very good. I'm sure with that you'll find your luck will change for the better. Just remember to not offend Magic. It's not a tool, it's its own life, very much like a family member," Luna explained.
"Luna mentioned earlier that a family will teach their children about their Family Magic, but they don't get their wands until they're eleven, I don't understand," Hermione admitted.
"We learn about our Family Magic from a young age and how to respect it, our Traditions of course, but we don't learn how to harness it or any of that until we at least get our OWLs. Once you have your OWLs you can drop out of formal schooling, but a lot of people prefer to get their NEWTs," Greg explained.
"So Purebloods can do magic outside of school once they get their OWLs?" Hermione asked pointedly.
Greg shifted a little in his seat under Hermione's pointed look, it was a little scary being under her eye like that, it was scarier than Snape. At least he thought so.
"I-its because we need to learn Family Magic. The Ministry allows wizarding households to homeschool and teach their children at home during the summers. Usually, unless a parent or tutor have a Mastery, we don't do wand based magic at home. It's kind of embarrassing for the family to have to turn up at St Mungos for basic Spell Damage. Stuff that Madame Pomfrey can take care of. We usually learn potions, herbology, care of creatures, or theory during the summers. Unless we have a spell down perfectly or need to practice, always under supervision, we don't do magic at home until OWLs, when we're seen as at least an average wizard," Greg tried to explain.
Being Study Buddies with the curly haired witch, Greg learned that Hermione wanted in depth explanations and wouldn't accept anything less.
"Hm," Luna hummed in agreement, "After we get our OWLs, the Ministry sees us as competent enough to learn more advance magic. Since a lot of Purebloods have connections to the Ministry, they're able to get the scores before they owl them out. They usually don't tell their kids and let us wait like everyone else, but they get the information to know if they need to retake their OWLs or not before they start learning Family Magic. Depending on the grade is what will tell their family if they can handle it or not."
"What if someone can't?" Harry inquired.
"While a child will typically take on their father's Family Magic, there are a few exceptions where they take after their mother's family magic. It's what Magic decided and it has to be respected. However, in that case, their mother will teach them or visit their natal family to teach them," Luna conceded.
"But with the Blood War that happened a lot of Pureblood families are being stricter about who is acceptable to marry or not," Greg started to explain, "It's out of fear that their potential spouse might offend Magic and then they'll be cursed, and no one knows how bad it'll be."
Harry and Hermione nodded, it was a good explanation.
"I understand that, but that doesn't explain the hate and prejudice," Hermione contended.
Greg blushed bright red, "Some families are convinced that since they don't have a Proper, what they consider Proper, family that they won't know magic as well, which would make them extremely stupid. Some families are sure that Pureblood Family Magic comes naturally to a witch or wizard from a Proper family."
Hermione pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes.
"I-it's not true of course! It's just what a lot of families believe," Greg hastily added.
"Family Magic is typically an affinity?" Hermione thoughtfully asked.
Luna tilted her head and thought about it, "Just about. Of course, there are a few members here and there that are a little better in one field than another, but they don't struggle with Family Magic. It does come naturally, but they can be intellectually more drawn to another field. They will study their Family Magic, it's Tradition, but they are allowed to choose another field if they like. Again, it's usually influence from their mother's Family Magic."
"That's another reason we usually marry in the way we do. While traveling is considerably easy for wizards, it's a lot easier to get in touch with the mother's family in the same country than another country," Greg said indulgently, "It doesn't happen often, but sometimes a family will try to force their child to do their Family Magic, when they've been embraced by their mother's Family Magic, and Magic will react. Depending on what it is, it can be destructive or isolating. The quickest way to take care of the issue is for the mother or 3 members of her family to come and calm their Family Magic that reacted. They have to do a quick ritual, although it's more like a prayer, that basically let's Magic know that the child is safe and with the family it Blessed. Once Magic is calm, they typically lash out at the offending family. They either get a slap on the wrist or it's something serious. It's always different. Magic can tell if the offender meant it by accident or if it was malicious,"
Hermione let out a small breath. It made a lot of sense, but it still felt wrong.
"Why don't they teach this at Hogwarts?" Hermione fumed; her voice harsh.
"It's considered private and very much a Family matter since it's so different for everyone," Luna answered loftily.
"Muggleborns deserve to know how to react when it comes to things like this. It not only hurts them, but the community," Hermione scoffed, very frustrated.
Luna leaned against the curly haired witch, "Magic welcomed them, they already know, it's instinct. Sometimes thoughts get in the way, but since most muggleborn are eager to learn it's typically not an issue. What Purebloods are really worried about is they won't actually be able to have the power of 3 if they need it, if they offend Magic."
Greg sat and thought about what Luna said, he never really thought of it like that. His family taught him that muggleborns were dirty blood and not worthy of magic. He guessed in a way they were questioning Magic…
Greg sighed and picked up one of the pumpkin pasties he left on Harry's lap.
"This topic of conversation is really heavy; can we talk about the Holiday coming up please?" he asked then took a bite of his pastry.
Hermione quirked her lips up in a half smile at the wizard, "Yes, we can talk about the Holiday. Harry and I already got your presents, you too of course Luna."
Harry grinned, "I hope you guys like them. I had to send an owl to Mum and Dad to get them."
Greg was surprised, "Is it a muggle gift?"
Hermione tutted and shook her finger at him playfully, "That would be telling."
They all laughed before they continued with their conversation for the rest of the train ride.
Severus was glad when the train left as it gave him time to prepare before the meeting with the Dark Lord. He already knew Barty was going home for the Holiday and would be at the meeting later.
"Ah Severus, a word," Albus asserted, it was less than subtle command though.
"Of course, Headmaster," Severus acknowledged and followed the elderly wizard to his office.
Once they reached there, Albus sat in his seat and popped a lemon drop into his mouth. Severus however stood in a corner of the room, but facing the elderly wizard.
"I know Voldemort will be calling you tonight, so of course you'll be going. I also would like for you to make frequent visits this Holiday and make yourself at his disposal, I'll have Septima check on your students if you're not in for the head check," Albus conferred.
Severus grit his teeth, Albus knew that if people used the moniker around Death Eaters their marks hurt them. Severus was sure Albus said it to constantly remind the dark wizard that he was branded and that was the reason he had to keep returning to the Dark Lord and do Albus' and the Dark Lord's bidding. Outwardly though, Severus kept his customary glower in place.
"He is already aware of the duties a Head of House has; he was here for nearly a whole year Albus. It would be strange for me to suddenly be able to be at his beck and call," Severus stated.
Albus pursed his lips, he should have remembered that tidbit. He just assumed that since he was constantly under the turban he wouldn't be able to see or care about the daily on goings of Hogwarts. It also gave Tom a recent view of how the school and its staff worked.
"Be that as it may, please let him know that you'll be available during the day before dinner then," Albus instructed.
"Of course, Albus," Severus affirmed, knowing there was no arguing with the wizard.
"Do you think Barty will be there?" Albus queried as he steepled his fingers together.
Severus took a moment to think, knowing Barty was a valuable ally.
"I don't believe he will. The Dark Lord is aware that Barty is to not be involved or seen to be involved with him. Lucius was there and would have let the Dark Lord know about his trial," Severus settled, knowing he was lying through his teeth.
Albus took a deep breath, believing the dark wizard under his control, "If you do see him there, you need to report that to me."
"Yes, sir," Severus said silkily.
"Will he want to see your apprentice this Holiday?" Albus prodded.
"No. He wants me to introduce her to the Dark Arts before he meets her," Severus admitted.
Albus glared at his desk thinking furiously.
'How can I use this. It might be a way to get her more involved with Tom, but it might also be the leverage I need to get her away from Harry.' He thought to himself.
"I know that you have a Potions Mastery as well as a Defense Against the Dark Arts Mastery, will you be teaching her just potions?" Albus questioned.
Severus arched an eyebrow at the older wizard, "No, as her Master I am to teach her all that I know."
"I see. Then I believe it is time to put potions on hold and instead start teaching her like Voldemort wants. Of course, I still want you both to make potions for the Hospital Wing," Albus remarked, making sure they wouldn't have to pay for any outsourcing.
"Of course, Albus," Severus replied, "It will be done as soon as she returns from the Holiday."
"Good. It shouldn't need to be said, but I want no one but you, her, and Voldemort to know about those lessons, if possible," Albus addressed firmly, "Make sure she doesn't tell Harry. I don't want him to even be interested in the Dark Arts. He's a symbol for the light and I won't have him using any dark magic."
"As you say, Albus," Severus assured.
"Do you need anything to prepare for the meeting tonight?" Albus pondered.
"I was going to have a cup of tea before I left to meet with the Malfoys. See if I can gather intel from them before the Meeting," Severus answered.
"A splendid idea, Severus, splendid. I look forward to your debriefing when you return," Albus settled.
"Of course, Sir," Severus said.
"You're dismissed, my boy," Albus dictated with a twinkle in his eye.
Severus nodded and with a flair of his cloak, he left the Headmaster's Office.
On his way down Severus glowered at any student that had remained in the castle as he made his way to his private rooms.
Once he arrived the dark wizard made his way to the small kitchenette and started to boil the water to brew his cup of tea. The process was relaxing as he scooped the pre-blended spices, a blend he had made. It wasn't something he drank often at Hogwarts, but it was something he kept around for himself to both calm himself and make his mind alert.
Once it was ready Severus had a lovely cup of Spiced Chai, a tea that wasn't popular in the British Wizarding Community. It was something he found in the muggle world though, and it was something he was thankful for.
'I was hoping to keep Hermione from the Dark Arts for as long as possible, but she's already aware. I trust her shields and I'll be there the whole time to make sure she doesn't fall deep into its thrall.' He thought to himself as he breathed in the calming scent of the tea.
Severus had silently summoned a notebook from his desk. Despite it being in his room he had it charmed to look like a stack of parchment to anyone other than himself, it was also charmed to be uninteresting while looking like graded work. The dark wizard opened it and read what he had written. More to keep himself occupied than anything.
Inside the notebook was well organized lesson plans for his Apprentice. The first few pages of course were a mess of him writing spells just to get them onto the page. After that he had written which spells they would work on and in which order. Severus hoped that it was sufficient. He took a fortifying sip of his tea as he continued to read.
Severus arrived in front of the large ornate gates of Malfoy Manor. While he had access to just apparate inside, he also knew that the Dark Lord was in residence and didn't want to be seen as presumptuous. The gates swung open for him as he started walking towards them.
Lucius' prized peacocks were walking around the manicured lawn. Creatures that had only added to the appearance of opulence that was Malfoy Manor. Severus rolled his eyes at them as he walked up the path to the front doors.
Once he reached the doors, the right one swung open. He was quickly greeted by Narcissa.
"Severus, how lovely of you to come. The train isn't due at the station for another 3 hours and the meeting for 5," She greeted the dark wizard warmly.
"Yes, I wanted to make sure I was up to speed before everything happened. Besides I don't begrudge that you'd want to spend most of those 2 hours with Draco," he replied.
"How considerate," she chuckled not denying what he said, "Is your Apprentice not joining you this evening?"
Severus shook his head, "I didn't want to cause suspicion. She is, of course, aware. I will not keep her from her family during the holidays as I see her every day."
"Will you be joining her for the Holiday?" Narcissa asked with genuine curiosity.
"My Apprentice is bold with her words and has stated that I am to participate in their festivities. Better to get used to it now than deal with the awkwardness later," He answered freely.
Narcissa smirked at his answer.
Severus was very much a family friend to the Malfoys. She was aware that at first, he thought they were only House allies. Once he graduated however, he realized that he was more than that to them. Lucius had quickly taken to the young dour wizard who bowed to no one. A few older Slytherins thought they'd be able to bully the half-blood, only to be met with fists and a wild barrage of words that would make a muggle sailor proud. Lucius had then taken Severus under wing and taught him all he could about the wizarding world that he had not learned from his mother, including how to hold himself in society.
Narcissa had quickly understood after they left Hogwarts that the sullen half-blood was a friend to be treasured. Lucius had used his contacts to sponsor him and gotten him in touch with a few Masters, one of which who eventually apprenticed him. As Severus had an affinity for potions and had been making his own modifications while in school, he was quickly able to advance and become a Master in his own right. Severus had been grateful to have friends after the redheaded mudblood had spurned their friendship, but she knew that Severus was happy when they reconciled. It had crushed him and he turned to the bottle quickly after her death. She knew he was more crushed by her death than the disappearance of their Lord.
"I know her family is of high breeding, so I'm sure they're very tolerable muggles…?" Narcissa led, clearly fishing for information.
"Her parents are more than tolerable, it is easy to see where she obtained her brilliance and fortitude," Severus praised his witch's parents.
"Is that so?" she wheedled.
"Indeed. Although they need not work, they achieved higher education and are the equivalent of specialized Healers on the muggle side," Severus confessed.
"Are they?" Narcissa mused, clearly impressed, "What is their specialty if I may ask?"
"Teeth and everything to do with them," Severus answered.
The blonde witch blinked clearly not understanding. Severus saw that she didn't know what he meant and in a blink his wand was in his hand.
"If I may?" he entreated.
Narcissa nodded her consent. Severus cast a specialized health scan on her and had the results floating between them. It was something he had learned from his own Master when he was learning specialized counter-curses.
"These are your teeth. What you see is not just your teeth, notice all the lines leading up to your brain?" he asked calmly.
Narcissa nodded, intrigued.
"The lines are your nerves. You have nerves all throughout your body that send signals to your brain that tell you everything you feel; pleasure, pain, pressure, everything including temperature. My Apprentice's parents heal anything involving teeth and in turn are trusted to make sure their patients' nerves, so close to their brain, are well protected and not damaged," Severus explained.
"Fascinating. More so since they don't have magic to help heal anything that is damaged," Narcissa stated with clear admiration.
"It is because they don't have magic that they must be extremely precise. A wand nor potion can undo any damage done," Severus impressed upon the pureblood witch as he swished his wand to remove the scan.
"Ah, Severus," came a pleased voice from behind Narcissa.
Both turned to see Lucius as he made his way down the marvelous wide staircase that was even wider at the bottom.
"Lucius," Severus nodded his head in greeting.
"Is Apprentice Lady Granger going to be joining us today?" he asked pleasantly.
"Not today, I have allowed her to join the others on the train to not arouse suspicion in the Headmaster," Severus answered.
"Ah I see, how disappointing," Lucius lamented with a small frown.
"Is there a particular reason?" Severus prodded with an arched eyebrow.
"Our Lord has decided to help you with her lessons," Lucius informed with a smug smile, proud of his friend. Narcissa nodded with a smile of her own.
"Oh?" Severus asked. His stomach churned with anxiety.
"You'll find out during the meeting, but I suppose no harm will come if I tell you now," Lucius divulged, "Our Lord has ask Narcissa if she was willing to teach your Apprentice what she knows of the Dark Arts, and of course many of the counter-curses."
Severus blinked not expecting that, while also acknowledging that not all spells that were considered Dark had a counter-curse.
"You are comfortable teaching my Apprentice this?" Severus contemplated, turning concerned eyes to the pureblood witch.
Narcissa beamed, "I am. Lucius was aware that Our Lord had this planned for her and while we know you are extremely knowledgeable in the Arts, we know that a Black's knowledge is unrivalled by most. As she is a Lady of the Peerage, it would be my honor to teach her while making sure she doesn't fall prey to its seductive thrall."
"Our Lord had been considering asking Bellatrix, but didn't want her to hurt your Apprentice in a fit," Lucius admitted.
Severus nodded, silently thanking Merlin for small mercies. At least he trusted Narcissa.
"Isn't there the small matter of Bellatrix's… current accommodations?" Severus queried.
He knew very well that the Dark Lord had been able to command Dementors. It wouldn't be hard to command them to ignore him, if he ever deigned to do what he considered servant's work. It was also known to a select few that the prison had only a handful of human employees on the island at a time. It wasn't as though any Death Eater had any compunctions with throwing the Killing Curse like tickling hexes.
"As you said old friend, it is but a small matter," Lucius acknowledged with a smile, although it didn't reach his eyes.
Severus was aware that Bellatrix had never liked him, he was also aware that she threatened Lucius on an almost daily basis. The only things that stayed her wand was Narcissa and the Dark Lord himself.
Severus was a boon as no other Death Eater was a potions master. While Narcissa could brew many poisons for the Dark Lord, Bellatrix had no patience for potions beyond obtaining her NEWT. If the Dark Lord wanted a specific potion or even a dark potion that wasn't a poison, it was best to have an actual potions master on hand. He was also now the only one able to obtain information from right under Albus' crooked nose. Lucius was well connected as well as the wealthiest of the Death Eaters, Narcissa only adding to his extensive connections. While her dowry was considerable, in the millions, it was not but a drop in the bucket for the Blacks.
Knowing both wizards were not exactly fans of her eldest sister, she decided to move the subject of conversation.
"I have already picked out a lovely cottage to teach your Apprentice, Severus," Narcissa stated pleasantly.
"Do tell," Severus encouraged the witch.
"It's a mere apparition away from Hogsmeade, so it won't be difficult to secrete her away from Hogwarts. It's unplottable, of course, it's in Thurso. I already have a portkey for you both to take directly to the cottage and you can apparate back to the village. I have a floo set up there, only connected to my private parlor, so I can be there at a moment's notice," Narcissa informed him.
"Do you have a schedule set up?" Severus asked curiously.
"Since you were going to be informed today, I figured we could work that out after the meeting, but since you're early," Narcissa beamed.
Severus quirked up his lips, "No time like the present. Lucius, will you be joining us?"
"I have a few quick errands to run, but I should be back within the hour and I shall join you then," Lucius admitted with a nod accompanied by a smirk.
"Be swift, Lucius," Narcissa intoned leaning up to kiss him on the cheek. Her husband bent down to meet her half way without thought and smiled at his beautiful wife. He picked up his wife's hand and kissed it reverently then nodded at Severus.
"Let's go to my office, Severus," Narcissa commanded already walking towards her personal office.
When the train arrived at the station Hermione and Harry were greeted by Sirius.
"Hey, Pup, Kitten," The wizard grinned.
"Sirius!" Harry grinned and quickly made his way to his godfather, Hermione followed after her brother.
"Good to see you both," Sirius remarked, pulling them both in for a tight hug which they both returned.
"I wanted to be the one to pick you up, but I also wanted to let you know what was happening before we just show up. Of course, you both still have your rooms, like I said: they're yours. Molly seems to have turned a new leaf as she's been cooking up a storm, but no funny business. Which is good, but I still want us to stay vigilant," the siblings nodded in agreement, "I have a tree up, but I was waiting for you two before decorating it so we can decorate it together."
Harry grinned while Hermione smiled.
"Snape is going to get us a portkey so we can see Mum and Dad on the actual Holiday. He made sure to tell me to make sure you knew you were tagging along," Harry informed the older wizard.
"R-really?" Sirius asked surprised.
"Mia wanted to see Mum and Dad, and Snape said he would make sure we saw them, and to make sure you knew," Harry declared, "I'm kind of excited. It'll be my first real Holiday with family."
Sirius smiled sadly before he grinned again, "I'm glad I'll be there for it."
"Let's go before anyone sends a search party," Sirius expressed before laughing at his own joke.
"Hold on tight to your things and grab the tassel, I'll be activating the portkey," the wizard instructed as he pulled out a black curtain tassel.
Harry and Hermione made sure to each grab the tassel firmly while holding their trunks before they both nodded.
"Home." Sirus invoked before the trio was whisked away.
Pop!
They arrived neatly on the family floor. Harry had almost fallen on his ass, but thankfully with Hermione and Sirius also holding the tassel firmly all he managed was leaning back.
"Careful there, Pup," Sirius laughed, "I'll help you get accustomed to wizarding travel this summer."
"Speaking of Summer," Harry started, "Would you mind teaching me and Mia about wizarding customs and traditions?"
Sirius looked at him surprised before turning his head and noticing Hermione also seemed eager.
"What brought this on?" he asked, not yet agreeing.
"When we were coming back on the train, we realized that our traditional wizard friends were celebrating Yule instead of Christmas. Of course, somehow, we ended up talking about Family magic and Wild magic too; but we're both muggle raised and the Weasleys aren't traditional and the only wizarding family we have ever actually spent time with," Harry explained, glossing over Greg being his boyfriend.
"We don't really know anything about the wizarding world that isn't found in books or what the Weasleys told us," Hermione admitted looking down.
Sirius took the tassel from them and hung it up on the wall on a hook, looking away from the siblings.
"I suppose it is a disservice to you both, and for that I apologize. While I don't agree with all the traditions and customs, I do know them. I know which ones to follow, which ones I can ignore, which ones that give away a muggle raised from a wizard raised person. I agree that the Weasleys aren't traditional, but I do know that Arthur knows. His mother is Cedrella Weasley nee Black. She's a widow, but I know she's in regular contact with the 5 older kids. She also wrote me as soon as I was proven innocent," Sirius spoke slowly, clearly thinking.
Sirius heaved a great sigh before he turned to them with his grey eyes glittering, "I will teach you both, and it will be up to you to decide which things you will follow and which you'll ignore. It is my duty as your Godfather to teach you these things, and I won't shirk my duty."
Both Harry and Hermione launched themselves at the wizard and hugged him around his waist.
"Woah there," Sirius chuckled as he tottered on his heels before he wrapped his arms around them both.
"Let's go greet the rest of the house then, yeah?" He asked them after holding them tight.
"Okay," Hermione and Harry chimed happily as they pulled back from the wizard.