Ramblings and Dribbles

by WolfgangNH

This is a posting of ramblings, dribbles, one-shots, unfinished ideas or other stuff I just don't think deserves it's own storyline. Some I plan to finish someday, others are what they are. This is mature reading for some posts. Some items may be well developed, others are not yet, and may never be. There will many different pairings, and sometimes none.

42. Of Warlocks and Sorceresses

Rambling and Dribbles: A dribble that I hope some enjoy.

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Working Title: Of Warlocks and Sorceress

-oOo-

Premise: Hermione finds out some devastating news about Muggleborn. After telling Harry, they decide to see what other options there are besides Hogwarts.

This is a 'Harry get's out of England' story. I seem to be writing many of these dribbles lately.

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Chapter 1

-oOo-

September 9, 1995

Hogwarts, Scotland

"Why is it so important that you drag me off to the library?" Harry asked Hermione. "It's Friday. We've agreed Friday nights are free time."

"We have to work on our Runes homework," she told him.

Making the decision two weeks into third year that Divination was a bad decision had been one of the best decisions of his life. Taking up runes was even better, especially with what he was allowed to study this year after getting an outstanding on his OWL's. Of course, it had driven a small wedge between him and Ron, which became worse with the Firebolt fiasco, but after the first prediction of his death in the first class, Harry was not going to put up with the crazy professor.

The wedge had grown larger over the last few years. After finding he liked Runes, he had started to study more. Runes were the arithimatic application of spell crafting, meaning he needed a deeper understanding of transfiguration, charms and defence to understand how to make the runes manipulate magic and reality. This led him actually revising and pushing himself in classes. Which led to him spending more time with Hermione and in the library. Conversely, it led to him conflicting with Quidditch practices and him telling Wood to take a hike his fourth year.

The wedge between Ron and him grew into a wide pit.

As he got better grades, Harry found he liked the higher grades. It also brought others out to talk to him. He soon found Corner nipping at him to understand how he had gotten so good at Charms and Transfiguration. Until then, only Hermione, Susan Bones and Daphne Greengrass had really challenged him for grades.

Now Harry was in the top five of their year, actually making third last year, behind Hermione and Greengrass.

His grades had Ron giving him the stink eye. Him leaving the qidditch team had Ron furious with him. Many had been, until Ginny proved to be a good seeker. After winning the cup her third year, his fourth, the house seemed to forgive him.

An even bigger side effect of others talking with him was his first real girlfriend last year. Susan Bones was a real beauty, both dressed and half-dressed… he never got to see her in her all, but what he had seen and felt was more than worth it.

She was a good person who liked to find out of the way places to snog. The first three months had pretty much been just that. Not much talking. Only snogging, groping and a general haze of hormones that had Hermione rolling her eyes every time he showed up to one of their study sessions with a huge grin and even messier hair than normal.

Then everything changed.

He had gone to her house for a few days over Easter where her aunt had asked some questions that neither of them had an answer too. Like 'Harry, has Susan shown you her bug collection? She has some rather unique specimens.' or the infamous 'So, what's Harry's favourite colour. I know you wanted to get him a new scarf.'

It was over that one meeting that he realized that he knew nothing about Susan except that she wore a 32D bra, loved it when you sucked on her neck while your hands were down her knickers and her tongue was more magical than anything he had even known in his life.

That night, when she had snuck into his room, he had forced her to talk. And what they talked about had him uneasy. It took all of ten minutes to find out she was a fan girl. Worse than that, she believed all the stories written about him and was only so forward because she had heard he had already been with half the girls in the castle and the only way to keep him was to be very aggressive. She almost always went back to how intimate they were getting, instead of telling him what she wanted to do in life or understand that he hated his fame.

Two days later he had asked Madam Bones to take him back to Hogwarts after they had had a huge fight and broke up. Since then, he hadn't wanted to date anyone else, not knowing if the girl only wanted him for him or because he was Harry Potter. Susan looked devastated for weeks, casting him baleful eyes. He felt gutted for losing someone he was really coming to like.

Of course, this had led Ron to snipping at him from time to time, his jealousy starting to show. That was the one good thing to come out of the arguments with Susan. She had opened his eyes to what Hermione had been hinting at for a while. Ron was jealous of him.

That had been when he stopped hanging out with Ron and Ron had stopped asking him to do anything. It was as if they had seen each other clearly for the first time. Ron had frowned when Harry told him that Susan and him had broken up when he found out she only wanted to be with the boy-who-lived and Harry wanted nothing to do with anyone like that.

All these thoughts had raced through his head as Hermione just about dragged him out of the great hall after dinner.

When they got close to the library, Hermione looked furtively around before taking his hand and pulling him towards a door of an unused classroom. A quick, 'Alohamora', later and they were inside. Harry looked at her concerned as she anxiously looked around the room.

"So, is this a big secret or did something happen?" he asked her with a teasing tone on his voice to keep things light.

Hermione had her wand out. There were a few muttered spells. Sheets covered two paintings. The door locked. The power of the spell was more than a simple coloportus. "What was that last one?" he asked, thinking he recognized it, but thought there was something off about it.

"It's a modified muffling charm that I found in the restricted section," she told him.

Harry raised an eyebrow. "I thought we stopped sneaking into the restricted section now that our OWL's were done?" he questioned.

Her cheeks flushed a little. He thought it cute. "Yes, well, I thought we needed to know more about Occum's Theorem," she said.

He chuckled. "And the fact that we were looking up animagus transformations and battle animation spells was just a side project?"

"Well, it got you an outstanding in Defence Against the Dark Arts and Charms with special marks," she defended herself.

"And you a summer internship with McGonagall after your feat of transfiguration," he told her. Occum's Theorem was about making permanent transfigurations and how to make magical items for enchanting.

"It was an interesting four weeks. That's not why I dragged you in here," she told him. "Listen, when was the last time you talked with Sirius?"

"Last night," he said. "He said he would be out of range for the next week or two, if that is what you need."

She shook her head, looked around the room, then lifted her jumper. Harry got a look at her flat stomach as she pulled out a small black leather book from her under clothes. Harry felt a shiver go through him. Not since Susan last year had he felt something like that.

"If you wanted me to see you undress, we could go for a swim in the prefects lounge," he told her with a cheeky grin.

Huffing, she hit him with the book. Harry tried to shield himself, laughing at her annoyance. "Burke. Listen," she told him. She still looked a little on edge. Harry sobered. Hermione only swore if she was riled up.

"Alright, I'm listening, Hermione. What has you all riled up?"

She bit her lip for a moment before saying, "I've been writing back and forth with Sirius after my apprenticeship with Professor McGonagall this summer."

He waited for to go on, but she seemed to be warring with herself what to say. "And?" he prompted.

She let out a sigh, looking pained. "I don't think I can stay in Hogwarts," she told him.

This had Harry's brow disappearing into his hair line. "I'm sorry, what?"

She leaned against a desk. "I don't think I can stay in Hogwarts. I had a talk with Professor McGonagall about what I would do after school. She seemed a little reluctant to tell me anything. I really want to do a Mastery with her or get into St Mungo's. She mentioned that going abroad might be better for that. When I pressed why, she said that it would be better for me to look for a Mastery elsewhere. She seemed to think that the summer internships were to help me get a good recommendation and then I would leave."

"You mean leave Hogwarts and not stay her apprentice?" he questioned, not believing what he was hearing.

She gave a heavy sigh. "No. Professor McGonagall thought it would be best for me to leave the country. She said I had too much talent and should train elsewhere. The exposure would give be a better understanding. I didn't get it. Professor McGonagall is regarded as one of the most accomplished Transfiguration Masters in Europe. So, I needed more information."

"You asked Sirius for a book," Harry said with some dawning understanding.

She frowned. "I asked him for advice," she told him.

Things must be serious if she was asking the man for advice. Sirius was much better now that he had been living abroad and had been able to find some help and get the goblins to move most of his accounts, but still, Sirius was not the most reliable person for advice. "Are you feeling alright?" Harry asked, moving to feel her forehead.

She waved him off, giving him an exasperated look. "I'm fine. But he sent me a letter, and this."

She held up the book.

"And what is that?"

"Laws about Muggleborn and rules at the Ministry and elsewhere in Britain. Sirius said he copied everything he could from his old family library into this book," she told him.

Harry frowned. "What do you mean laws about Muggleborn? I didn't know there were different laws."

"I didn't either. Sirius knew though. So do most anyone that grew up in the magical world. I found one of them forbids anyone from talking about them to any minor muggle raised. If Sirius wasn't already being hunted, he would be for sending me this book," she told him.

Harry looked at her for a moment, a pit forming in his stomach. "What does this all mean?"

Hermione looked very upset. "It means that if I stay and get my NEWTS here, I am bound to the laws. I will never be able to move beyond anything past a beginning or junior position without a sponsor. To be sponsored, I would have to marry into a powerful enough family, become their indentured servant for thirty years, or buy a sponsorship," she said with some disdain. He knew her hatred of the wizarding world for how they bound house elves and a few other beings and creatures. She hated how they were classified as anything less than a full human, never mind that they ranked just above a Muggle in their society.

"Do you know how repulsive this all is. I feel so… so…" she sputtered.

"Angry?" Harry provided.

A tear ran down her cheeks in her frustration. "That too, but betrayed. I could have kept going in muggle school. I had started at Eldridge Prep. Do you have any idea how hard that is to get into? I wanted to be a doctor, helping children. I still want to be a healer, but now I never can unless I sell myself to someone," she said angrily. "I feel so betrayed. McGonagall knew all this when she talked to me and my parents. She convinced us this was the best thing. The only good thing about all this has been you."

Harry was flattered. "Hermione…"

"She knew. They all knew. All those times that Malfoy teased me about how I would get no where… he knew. He knew and he laughed at me when I fought against him, knowing in the end he was right." She was working herself up into a tizzy. "They all knew, Harry. Ron. The Weasleys. Dumbledore. Flitwick. Sprout. They all knew. I always wondered why there was no Muggleborn professors or any staff here. Now I know. Hogwarts would never higher a Muggleborn because it would cost extra. There is a tax that employers pay to the Ministry on us. A thirty-percent tax of our wages. Even a starting professor would cost Hogwarts more than what the Deputy Headmistress makes."

"Hermione…" Harry tried to interrupt her.

"They all know!" she screamed. "All of us, Harry! Anyone that is Muggleborn is better off not even learning magic. The only way I can fully apprentice myself to become a master is to be an indentured servant. I would be at the Master's will for thirty years, then I would have to go before the Master's board. Do you know how many Muggleborn get their mastery?"

"I don't, but Hermione…"

"Fourteen in the last fifty years. Fourteen! Do you know how many Muggleborn are in Hogwarts right now? Thirty-eight! That means that there were probably more than two-thousand Muggleborn that have gone through Hogwarts in that time, most likely more because there used to be more students here. In that same time three-hundred and forty-two half bloods and over a thousand purebloods have received masteries. In the same time that means at least fifteen thousand other students have been through Hogwarts. About nine-percent of them go on to get masteries, while less than one percent of Muggleborn achieve the same. It's a scam Harry! We even pay more!"

'HERMIONE!" Harry yelled at her. She was now pacing, her hands and arms moving wildly, tears streaming down her face and looking frantic.

"WHAT!" she screamed at him.

He reached out to pull her in. She moved to him, holding her arms to her chest as he hugged her. She started to cry into his shoulder. "None of this will matter. I will never be able to achieve anything," she said through her tears.

"I won't let that happen," he said into her hair. "What do we need to do? Can I sponsor you? I can give you the gold. Do you need to leave to go somewhere else? I'll go with you, if you need."

Her head shook against his chest. "It's at least ten-thousand galleons for a sponsorship."

Harry cringed. The last time he had checked, it was more than twenty quid to a galleon. That would be over two-hundred thousand pounds. "Merlin, why?"

"That's what the law requires, and its more depending on what you want to do. The sponsor can also raise the price. To follow the laws for a Transfiguration Mastery, it costs eleven-thousand galleons for the sponsorship, then another six thousand for the master's fees and eight-hundred for the Mastery board test. It's highway robbery!"

"Bloody hell," Harry said into her hair. "Is it like that everywhere?"

"I don't know," she told him.

"That was why McGonagall said you should go elsewhere," he said.

"I believe so," she said, starting to sniff now that her tears were drying up.

"We'll find a way, Hermione. We have our OWL's. As far as I know we can keep our wands and go elsewhere now," he told her.

"That is mostly true." She pulled away from him, wiping the tears off her face. Harry reached up and brushed some off her right cheek. She leaned into his hand for a moment. "I want to check something."

"Uhm, sure," he said.

Hermione took out her wand. "Deprehendere gradu potential," she said.

"What are you doing?" he asked before a small translucent disc appeared before them. He watched as it made clock. The hour hand moved close to the large four, while the minute hand moved towards the nine. It took him a moment to realize the clock only went to five hour marks, with ten divisions between each mark. If he was reading it right, then it had stopped at eighty-five.

Hermione took in a sharp breath.

"What is it?" he asked.

She shook her head, looking at it before pointing her wand at herself and repeating the strange spell. A similar eerie blue clock appeared before her, the hour hand stopping just before the two and the second hand stopping close to the eight.

"Hermione? What is this?"

She wiped another tear off her face. "It's a power scale. One of the laws doesn't allow a Muggleborn or half-blood to leave before their NEWTS if they aren't powerful enough. Something about reaching magical maturity and making sure that they are powerful enough to make it in the wizarding world," she said bitterly. "From what I can find, most wizards are only about a hundred points. The law requires any one not of pureblood decent to have a score of at least one-twenty and their OWLs or to have two NEWTS to leave Hogwarts."

Harry's brow rose. "Uhm, okay. So, what does this mean?" he asked, indicating the two gages.

"That I am above average. Most of the books say that wizards or witches usually gain another twenty percent of their power between sixteen and thirty. If that is true, I'll cap out over two hundred, which is considered a sorceress level," she said.

Harry had to think about that for a moment. As he looked at her score and had a rough idea what another twenty percent would mean for him, he exclaimed, "Bloody hell! If you are going to be over two hundred, I'm going to be over four hundred. What does that mean?"

She snorted. "I always knew you were powerful, but this would make you a grand warlock, like Dumbledore," she said.

He blinked stupidly for a moment. "Bloody hell." There was a silence for a moment as he absorbed what he was being shown while Hermione seemed to be lost in thought. After a few, he commented, "Well, I guess this means we can leave Hogwarts."

She snorted. "This means you won't even need NEWTS," she told him.

"How so?" he asked.

"With a power level like that, you could enter into an apprenticeship with anyone you want. You would probably have Masters paying to train you, never mind that you are Harry Potter. I know you don't like that, but you have to admit that you are famous," she said, noticing his discomfort.

"Yeah, and that's such a great thing," he said bitterly. "So, what do we do next?"

She shook her head. "I don't know. I should have stayed in the Muggle world, but I love my magic, Harry. I don't want to give it up, but I won't be a slave," she said with determination.

"Then you won't give up your magic. Can we transfer?" he asked her.

She started to chew on her lower lip. "I don't know. I have to do some research. None of the laws say anything about it because I think that the Wizengamot thinks they will trap everyone here with them."

Harry rubbed the back of his head. "Well, besides you, I really don't have anything keeping me here. Sirius is out of country. I have no idea where Remus disappeared too. Ron is still being an arse. If you want to leave, I'm with you."

She nodded before moving in and giving him a hug. "Thank you, Harry. I need to do some more research. Maybe see if Sirius has anything else on this. Give me a few weeks."

He liked how she hugged him. He also noticed the smell of her hair. It was the first time he had been this close to her since Slughorn's class and realized that what he smelt in the armortencia was the same smell of her hair.

Oh, bloody hell, he thought to himself. He thought he had gotten over this crush.

"You don't have to do this on your own. I'll help you," he told her.

"That would be nice," she said, not letting her hold on him go.

-oOo-

September 17, 1996

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry was walking through the hallways towards the sixth floor. The life of a prefect wasn't as glamorous as Percy had led him to believe. The late nights. Having to write up students they found after curfew. Having to see more of students in closets than he ever wanted to at times… though some were rather nice looking…

No.

Being a prefect was not all glamorous.

If not for the few benefits, he would have turned it down this year, but the Prefect's bathroom, the fact that he could be out after curfew without getting in trouble, regardless if he was on patrol that night or not, and that he got a permanent, unlimited pass to the restricted section, had made it totally worth it last year. This year it was proving its worth in a different way.

Hermione was walking next to him. She looked at a broom closet as they passed. The sounds from it should have had them knocking, but they had something more important than their rounds. Whomever it was going to get lucky tonight, and in more ways than one.

Towards the end of the hall was a tapestry that Fred and George had told him about before they graduated. They both looked up and down the hallway before he cast a silent distraction charm. When they were satisfied, Harry held the tapestry to the side. Hermione slipped under his arm and he quickly followed her.

It was close quarters behind the tapestry. He had to stand against her back, resisting the urge to wrap his arms around her waist like he would have done if they were under his invisibility cloak. They weren't as small as they had been as first years anymore, so they had to stay close to keep the cloak on them both. Anytime they had been forced to use it the last two year, Hermione hadn't complained either.

"Porto ignus," Hermione whispered. Something clicked behind the solid wall and she pushed on it. The wall silently opened like a door. They slipped in. After closing the wall, he made sure the lock was engaged before turning around. They had entered into the twins secret lair when they had been at Hogwarts. There were still half completed projects, congealing potions and notes of failed pranks around the room. They said they had found it that way, so they left everything for future generations to see if they could complete the works they couldn't, or come up with new stuff.

Harry took a vibrating mirror out of his pocket. "It's been going off for a few minutes now," he said as she moved to his side. "Sirius."

The mirror quickly faded from their faces to a man in his later thirties with black hair, grey eyes, a goatee and a nice shirt with the top few buttons open. "About time, Fang. I've been trying to get hold of you all day."

"I've been busy, and this is the first time Hermione and I were available when you've called," Harry said back.

"Hey there, Paws. Hope you are keeping him in line," Sirius said with a smirk.

"Hardly. You know how Harry likes to get into trouble," she replied back.

"Oi! I'll let you know I haven't had any detention yet this year," he said rather indignantly.

Sirius shook his head. "I'm so disappointed in you. You'll straighten him out, Paws?"

Hermione laughed. "I kind of like him the way he is."

Sirius gave them a cheeky grin. "What is this? Are you saying you two are finally dating?"

"No," they both said at the same time. Sirius' smirk grew to see both their faces flush. Harry would have to admit that the idea had merit.

"Just remember the broom closet on the fifth floor by the north stairwell usually gets missed by the prefects and its much larger than the others," Sirius told them.

Harry made an annoyed sound. He wouldn't tell the mutt that Hermione and him tried to check that every time they were out. "That's not why we were trying to get hold of you."

Sirius smirk faded. "I know. I got your letter. Pretty ingenious sending it via muggle post to the owlry in Paris."

"We can't be sure that anyone would try to stop us if they knew we knew," Hermione spoke up. "Were you able to get any information?"

"Yeah, I was. I don't think you should look into schools in Europe though. Most have treaties with the ministry or the ICW that could be used on a runaway, and I don't know how happy people will be with Harry leaving," Sirius said.

"So, you agree with us?" Harry asked, sounding a little surprised.

"Who am I to tell to tell you what to do? Hermione is seventeen, right?"

"In two days," she corrected him.

Sirius acted like he didn't notice. "And you'll be seventeen next summer, Fang. You have you're OWLs, and if Hermione's test was right, you both meet the criteria to leave Hogwarts. I'd like you to come here to France, but Beauxbatons only teaches classes in French. Do you know how to speak French?"

"I do, but I don't think Harry does."

Harry shook his head.

"Well, that complicated things. There is a small school in Ireland, or you could get tutors in the UK, but there isn't another school in Europe that teaches in English," Sirius said.

"Bloody hell," Harry muttered.

"Then where would you suggest? I found that there are about a dozen schools in the MACUSA between Canada and the United States, three in Australia and two in New Zealand. I don't know of anywhere else where English is the primary language," she said.

"No, that's about right. There are a few others, but they mostly fall under the Crown or Ministry as colonies still, and thus…"

"…the ministry here in Britain," Hermione finished.

"Right in one," Sirius said.

Harry nodded. "So, we will have to go further abroad. Is that a big deal?" he asked towards Hermione.

She chewed on her lip for a moment. "It is probably better," she said. "I haven't been able to find much yet, but I think that the MACUSA has anti-discrimination laws. I'm not sure about Australia. It sounds like they're not very welcoming to the pureblood dogma."

"Australia isn't very welcoming to purebloods, or anyone really from the home isles, from what I've heard," Sirius butted in. When they both looked at him, he went on. "Something about how the purebloods sent off prisoners and other dissidents to get rid of them. There is still some animosity about that. Wizards have long memories."

Harry frowned. "We are trying to get away from any discrimination."

"What about New Zealand?" Hermione asked.

"Not a clue," Sirius replied with a shrug. "Never been and I only know about Australia because I worked with a few hit wizards from there when I was an auror. They hated coming to England, but the job paid well."

"Ok, so that leaves the MACUSA and its colonies," said Hermione.

"Alright, then what are our choices and can we just go there?" Harry asked.

"As long as you have a Gringotts passport, it's easy to go there for a visit. If you want to stay, I'm not sure. I can find out and find out what schools are available. I only know about Ilvamorny and the Salem Witches Institute, but, you know, you kind of need to be a witch to attend."

"Are you trying to imply something?" Harry challenged.

"Not sure. Maybe Hermione can check for me?" Sirius said, his playfulness coming back.

"I can tell you that Harry is not a girl," she shot back.

"Oh, do tell," Sirius said, that annoying smirk coming back onto his face.

"It's not what you think," Harry said back, his face getting red again.

Sirius chuckled. "You sure about that? You both look a little guilty."

"We are not dating," they said together.

This time Sirius gave out a barking laugh. "Didn't say you had to be to find out."

"Bloody dick," Harry groused.

"Language," Hermione chastised.

Sirius laughed again. "You keep him inline, Paws."

"Will you please find out as soon as you can? I don't want to be here past Christmas," Hermione said. Harry put an arm around her shoulders, knowing that she was still very upset. They had even tried to see if they could change things, but short of having a Wizengamot seat, and then enough votes, there was nothing they could do.

"Sure. Give me a few days and I'll call you back," Sirius told them.

"Thanks," he replied.

"Anytime. Is there anything else you two need? Pointers on how to make Paws scream?"

"SIRIUS," Harry yelled at him.

The man started to laugh again before the mirror showed just them again. Harry didn't realize he still had his arm around her shoulders, or that Hermione was leaning into him. "Remind me why we trust him?" Hermione questioned.

"Because we don't trust anyone here to help us," Harry replied.

"Oh, yeah, there is that. But still," she said, leaving the rest unsaid.

"Yeah, but still," he agreed.

-oOo-

September 25, 1996

Hogwarts, Scotland

"Mister Potter and Miss Granger," a rather sever Scottish woman called to them as they were leaving the Transfiguration classroom. A few of their classmates looked to them, but Harry ignored everyone as he walked to the front of the classroom with Hermione.

"Yes, Professor?" Hermione asked when they were before her desk.

"I received requests to leave the school this weekend? Do you care to explain, especially since you will miss classes on Friday and Monday?" she asked.

Hermione sniffed. "I thought it very clear it was for a family need."

"Yes, you did say that, but for both of you? What family need could you both have?" she questioned.

Hermione sniffed again, as though she was keeping tears back. Harry reached out to hold her hand, as though he was comforting her. He prayed they could pull this off. "Hermione's grandmother passed and the funeral is this weekend. She asked if I would go with her."

McGonagall's severe expression fell. "Oh. Miss Granger, I'm so sorry for your loss. Of course, you can go. Do you need more time than just Friday and Monday?"

Hermione sniffed again and looked like she was putting on a brave face. "I don't know, professor. The funeral is Sunday."

"I see. Well, I can approve you to miss the classes, even for the entire next week, if you need. As for you, Mister Potter, I can approve for you to go if you have permission from your guardians and I can find someone to escort you," she told him.

Harry took his book bag off his shoulder and opened the front pocket. He fished out two letters. "I just got these this morning. My aunt and uncle have given me permission and Mister Lupin has agreed to escort me."

She frowned as she took the letters. After reviewing them, she said, "Very well. I'll inform the headmaster. You will both be responsible about talking to your other professors and making up any work you miss."

Hermione sniffed, then pretended she was wiping a tear from her eyes. "Thank you, professor. Mister Lupin will be meeting us at the gates Friday morning."

"Of course. I am very sorry for your loss. If you need to skip any class the next day or two, I will understand and let your professors know," McGonagall said sympathetically.

"Thank you, professor. I think I'll be right enough. My grandmother was getting up there," she said.

"Still, I understand how hard this is. My grandmother passed while I was in my seventh year and it affected me for a while. Please, let me know if I can do anything to help you," she said.

"Thank you," Hermione said.

When they walked out of the room, Harry could see a real tear on her cheek. He reached over to wipe at it. "Are you alright. We didn't have to lie about that," he said softly. "We could have found a different way."

"I'll be alright. It just brought up how much I miss my gram. She passed last summer, you know," she told him.

"I remember. Are you sure you're alright?"

She squeezed the hand that was still holding hers. "I'll be fine. Let's make sure we're packed, just in case."

"Sure," he said, leading them towards the common room and skipping lunch.

-oOo-

September 27, 1996

Hogwarts, Scotland

Albus watched as two specks moved down the long drive towards the main gates. He frowned some, uncertain if Harry should leave the wards of Hogwarts. Things had been quiet for more than two years now. There hadn't been any sign of Voldemort since the end of Harry's second year. That whole debacle with Peter Pettigrew the end of his third year had seemed to cut short a prophesy that Sybill had made. He had been positive that Pettigrew would be the servant, and that Voldemort would be back by now, but alas, Pettigrew died that night and nothing came of it.

It had been a long time since Albus had been unsure of what to do. He had waited for years for Harry to come to the school, and as he predicted, as soon as Harry had been away from the wards of his relatives, Voldemort had come to him like a moth to a flame.

And how bright that flame was.

Harry had defeated Voldemort twice in two years. He was certain that things would keep escalating. He had never known Voldemort to ever give up on a goal. He was relentless, which had always been part of his success. Even as a student known as Tom Riddle, he had been determined and found ways to get around every obstacle. What was stopping him now?

There was no ambiguity of what the diary had been, or that the shade that had inhabited Quirrell was the same man. The prophesy ensured that Harry and Tom would be in eternal conflict until one of them was ultimately defeated. That ultimate defeat had not happened yet.

This fact, and the fact that Harry had seemed to really grow into his own over the last few years, had him contemplating a way to force the conflict. Before that happened though, he would have to start considering the horcrux issue. He was certain there were more. He was also certain he knew of where two of them were. The issue was, if Harry was the one destined to defeat Voldemort, shouldn't he be the one to hunt and destroy the abominations?

Watching him walk towards the main gates with the Granger girl had him doubting his interpretation of the prophesy all those years ago. How could there have been no conflict between the boy and Voldemort in more than three years now?

It was this doubt, and his desire to see Harry enjoy what life he could, that had swayed his hand into letting Harry leave. A week away to comfort a friend, one he suspected was more than that, would do the boy well.

A knock came at his door.

"Come in," he called out. When it opened, he recognized the familiar clack of his transfiguration professor's boots. "Good morning, Minerva. I take it that Harry and Miss Granger have left?"

He watched as they disappeared around the bend and into the trees by the gate.

"They have. I received the patronus from Remus saying he was waiting from them. All their professors have said they made arrangements and may be gone the whole week," she told him.

"Very good. My sympathies go with Miss Granger and her family," he replied.

"Mine as well. Was there anything else before I head to my first class?" she enquired.

"How is Harry doing this year? I was wondering if signing off on him taking the Ancient Magics and Advanced Runes was wise," he questioned.

The woman gave a satisfied smile. "Just as he has the last few years, his grades are at the top of the class and even Severus isn't complaining about his effort in Defence. From what I understand, him and Miss Granger are already starting to master silent casting."

Albus nodded. The boy had unexpectedly jumped to the top of the class the last three years. Before that, he had been a mediocre student at best, with an intuitive grasp on magic that saw him through situations far beyond his years. Now, the boy was showing that he could be knowledgeable enough, and strong enough, to take on Voldemort in a decade or two. He wasn't sure if that was a complication or not yet. Only time would tell.

"That is good to hear. Perhaps next year I will ask him to join me for some more advanced classes. I understand he is one of the best Runes students in a long time," he said.

"That is my understanding. He has certainly picked up on his father's talent for transfiguration and Lily's for charms. I know Filius is keeping a close eye on him," she commented.

Albus felt the front gates open and two people leave the grounds. "I didn't think Filius took on private tutoring anymore?"

"For Potter, I think he will make an exception. You may have to figure out which one of you will take him on as an apprentice," she said a little mischievously.

With a chuckle, Albus said, "I would not want to cross wands with him. I am unsure who would win."

"Yes, well, I had thought you both had grown beyond such schoolboy antics," she said dryly.

He laughed for a moment. "I'm afraid the schoolboy never truly leaves us. Thank you, Minerva. I know you need to get to class."

She stood there for a moment. "Albus, is there really nothing we can do for Granger? You know she won't take it well once she learns about the laws when she graduates next year."

He sighed. For many years he had fought against the Muggleborn laws, but had never been able to get enough support. "I am afraid it will be a harsh reality, like it is for all our Muggleborn. All we can do it try to cushion their fall the best we can."

His old friend didn't sound pleased. "I mentioned she will want to leave the country this summer. If I have her for special studies next summer, I will hint at it again. If she does, we may have to keep an eye on Potter."

"And why is that?" he asked her.

"Weasley and Potter have had some falling out. I thought he was starting to expand his friend group last year, but after Miss Bones and him broke up, he really only spends time with Granger," she said.

Albus sighed again. "I have noticed that. They have also appeared to have grown much closer lately. Unfortunately, I think it best if Miss Granger leaves though. She is too bright to be bogged down by our society. I will keep fighting to change that, but I'm afraid the traditionalist still have too tight of a control over the Wizengamot and Ministry. I must also admit that I feel myself slowing down. I'm afraid age may finally be catching up with me."

There was a heavy silence. After a few minutes, Minerva cleared her throat. "Perhaps you should consider pulling back and focus on Hogwarts."

He nodded his head, "Perhaps," he conceded.

Perhaps it was time. It would allow him to focus more on this apparent conundrum about Harry and Voldemort. It might also give him time to consider if he should go after the horcruxes. If he was to leave any legacy, then giving Harry a fighting chance may be a good one.

"Well, I need to go. Have a good day, Albus," she said.

"You as well, Minerva," he replied.

He stayed looking out the window of his office. Something was starting to niggle at the edge of his brain. Something that Minerva said was slightly worrying, but he couldn't figure out what. He pondered things for a bit until the fireplace suddenly spat out green flames.

Turning, he saw a man poking his head into the flames. "Albus? Albus, are you there?"

He walked over to the fireplace. "Good morning, Barty. What can I do for you? It's been a while since we have talked."

The man had his normally brusque manner to him. "Yes. Yes. Good day and all that cordial non-sense. I received a missive from Durmstrang and the Norwegian Ministry today."

Dumbledore looked at the man intrigued. "Truly? And why are you contacting me about this?"

"Well, it appears that Durmstrang would like to revive the Triwizarding Tournament and are contacting our ministry and the French ministry. It may work for international relations to do so. If we follow the old schedule, Hogwarts would be next to host," the man said.

Albus frowned. He knew why that tournament had stopped and been disbanded by the ICW. "Are you sure this is wise, Barty? The tournament is not known for its stellar track record."

"I had thought about that, but I'm sure we can find a way to make it safer. The last thing the ministry wants is to kill a student," Barty replied.

"Perhaps. I would have to see what Maxime from Beauxbatons says, and to see what events are being planned," he said back.

"Yes. If we agree, there is a meeting in a month to open talks about this."

"Very well. I will attend any meeting," Albus agreed.

"Excellent, Albus. I will have Weatherby get a reply to them," Barty said.

Albus had to hide his smile. The man had almost never gotten the name of any aide correct in years. He was sure Percy Weasley would not be too pleased about that. With the call being over, Albus felt a little unsettled about this idea. He wasn't sure if the tournament could be made safer. He would have to look into it.

When he went back to the window, that nagging feeling as though he had missed something important was still there, but he had no clue why.

-oOo-

Chapter 2

-oOo-

October 4, 1996

Welches, Oregon, USA

Stepping out of the car, Harry took in a huge breath of fresh air. They were a little over an hour from the airport in the largest forest Harry had ever seen. Tall firs and cedars grew up from the edge of the road. Behind them, he could see the distinctive cone of Mount Hood.

"The guidebook said Mount Hood is the tallest peak in Oregon and an active volcano. It last erupted over a hundred years ago," Hermione said, following his gaze.

"This is very beautiful," Mrs Granger commented. "I've never seen a place like this."

"It is different than the Black Forest," Sirius commented. "There is a large preserve just to the south of us. SMART is supposed to be on the edge of it."

Harry looked around. They had been told to meet the representative at this scenic overlook. "What time are we meeting?"

Mr Granger looked at his watch. "In about a half hour. I was afraid we wouldn't make it."

"We could have taken a portkey," Sirius commented.

Hermione shook her head. "We agreed to do no magical transportation for the week. That can be tracked."

He thought she was being a little paranoid since they were under MACUSA law and the MACUSA and ICW didn't really get along, but he wasn't going to say that. She was nervous enough about this meeting after they had been unexpectedly contacted a few days ago. Originally, they had planned to see a school in California, but the letter and guidebook to the area had really gotten their attention.

"It does sound interesting to be able to travel hundreds, if not thousands of miles, in a matter of moments," Mrs Granger commented.

"Much better than being stuck inside a metal tube for hours, and I'll take a motorcycle over this automobile any day," Sirius groused.

"You're being a big baby," Harry snarked.

"Well, I miss my motorcycle. We could have kicked in the flight mode and taken two days to get out here," he whinged.

"I don't know about you, but I like it up here far better than in Alabama," Hermione told them, pulling her jacket a little tighter. It was about the same temperature as Scotland this time of the year. It had been too warm in Alabama, and he had not liked the bayou where the Metriz School was.

"I do too," Harry told them.

They walked around the small scenic stop, talking about the other schools they had visited. Ilvamorny in Massachusetts. St Augustine's in Quebec. The Metriz School in Alabama. Rogsnarg in Colorado. If they didn't like this newest one, then they were going to go south to California and look at the West Coast School of Magic. Today, they were going to check SMART.

The South Mountain Academy and Rectory of Thaumaturgy was supposed to be an elite school that was invitation only. Most other schools in the MACUSA were by application, with Ilvermorny, Rogsnarg and the WCSM accepting pretty much anyone that wanted in. It had been a little bit of a surprise to know that the MACUSA houses so many wizards and witches. The last population survey that Hermione found said there were well over a half million.

That invitation was why they were standing there. The guidebook to the school and area had caught Hermione and his attention right away. Harry was very interested in their runes and enchanting programs, not to mention the giant magical preserve. He really did like creatures, and would like to continue his studies. He had dropped it this year only because Hagrid wasn't the best teacher, even though he knew his dangerous creatures better than anyone else he had seen. Harry wanted to know about all magical creatures.

He had turned to say something to Hermione when a soft crack interrupted the peaceful silence of the woods. The few animal sounds quieted immediately. Harry turned, his hand going towards his wand on his forearm. Sirius had done the same, while Mr and Mrs Granger had jumped at the sound. He wasn't sure they had ever heard an apparition pop before.

Standing along the guard rail were two people. The woman was tall with greying brown hair, a kind smile and dark eyes. She was dressed in a smart mint green business suit that had a crest on her left breast. The man next to her was younger, with a strong build, short black hair, hazel eyes and wearing jean trousers and a button-down shirt with a tie that had the same crest on it. That was one thing he found he liked with most of the American schools and magical districts they had visited, they dressed more like Muggles and in more current styles. Ilvermorny had been the only one to require robes like Hogwarts, but since its founder had come from there, Harry wasn't too surprised.

The woman nodded towards them. "Good morning. I trust you are the Grangers, Mr Potter and Mr Black?"

"We are," Mr Granger said, taking a step towards them. He extended a hand "Dan Granger. This is my wife Emma and daughter Hermione. Her friend, Harry Potter, and his godfather, Sirius Black. Are you Headmistress Westford?"

She took his hand. "I am. Doctor of Medicine and Master of Charms, Erica Westford, currently headmistress of the South Mountain Academy and Rectory of Thaumaturgy. If you want, you can call me Erica. Most of the students call me Headmistress or Master Westford. This is our Assistant Headmaster in charge of all undergraduates, Headmaster Nathan Nadeau."

Sirius approached next. "Nice to meet you, Erica." She shook his hand as well before shaking hands with the Assistant Headmaster.

"It's just Nathan or Mr Nadeau. I'm not huge on titles and prefer to be more approachable for our students. I'm sure that Harry and Hermione are anxious to see why they got an invitation. I admit, we usually send them out at a much earlier age, but when the Education Department said some British nationals were investigating schools, we thought it prudent to see you," the man said in a good nature way, moving to shake his hand and Hermione's. Shaking hands was much more prevalent here in the United States. The handshakes were also much firmer.

Harry frowned. "I hope it wasn't just because of my name," Harry said, not sure if he liked the way the man had mentioned it.

The man laughed. "You'll find you're not the only celebrity young person we have here, Harry. If you are worried that is the only reason we extended the invitation, then you have nothing to worry about. When you applied for a student visa you had to supply your British OWL results and be tested for your magical power. The Education Department gives those applications to all the schools so we know you are allowed to attend. Let me say you both caught our eye for your potential."

"Yes, we have not had the opportunity to train a grand warlock in some years, and Hermione's grades would challenge even our top students, not to mention her potential to be a sorceress," Headmaster Westford said with a smile.

Harry shared a look with Hermione. It was different that someone wanted him for something else besides his fame. She looked excited to have a potential challenge and nodded to him.

"If you are ready, we can show you how to access the drive, or we can apparate you to the campus from here," Mr Nadeau offered.

"I've never tried apparition," Dan said.

Harry grimaced. "Side-along apparition isn't the best."

"Will the car be safe here? How long will it take to do the tour?" Mrs Granger asked.

"If you have noticed, any car just passes by. This particular spot is only accessible if you have permission. The letters we sent to Harry and Hermione gave you that permission," Headmistress Westford said. "I also expect you will be with us through dinner."

"Well, if the views from the campus are anything like this, I'm sold," Harry said with a smile.

Mr Nadeau laughed. "If it was that easy all the time, my job would be much easier."

"It is beautiful around here," Hermione said, moving closer to him.

"If you would, I would take Harry and Hermione first," Mr Nadeau offered.

"I will wait here with the Grangers until you get back," the headmistress offered.

They both held out a hand and Mr Nadeau took it. A second later, and after feeling like he had been pulled through a straw, Harry stumbled, almost falling on his face. Hermione managed to steady herself.

"If you want to look around for a moment, I'll be right back," the man told them.

Harry leaned over, putting his hands on his knees. Side-along apparition was the worst form of magical travel. Hermione put a hand on his back and rubbed. "You alright?"

"Yeah, I just hate that," he said.

"Merlin," Hermione breathlessly said.

Harry looked up to see what had caught her attention to look at where they had been dropped off. They were standing on a small ridge overlooking a valley. Just below them were a half dozen buildings. The campus had a few rolling lawns, gardens, greenhouses, a large barn with some type of flying horse in the paddock and some people walking around the paths between buildings. There was a drive that came up to a small car park with a dozen or so cars in it.

"Bloody hell," he said, feeling awed by the place and the valley beyond it. There was a crack next to them. Harry stood up to see the Grangers and Sirius with the Headmistress and Assistant Headmaster.

Mr Granger stumbled before catching himself. The more excited Mrs Granger looked distinctly uncomfortable, before stumbling off to the side and tossing up her breakfast. Harry could sympathize with her, having done the same the first time he had been side-alonged by Sirius.

"Oh, dear. That can happen," the headmistress said, moving to Mrs Granger before waving her hand. The sick disappeared. She then offered a small vial to Mrs Granger.

Hermione was looking wide eyed at the headmistress. "You do wandless magic?" she asked.

Mr Nadeau chuckled as the Headmistress was still taking care of Mrs Granger. "I'm afraid that is one of our not so hidden secrets here. Wands are not the only means to focusing one's magic. Most schools and magic users still use them, but we use the more practical rings and talismans. Much easier to hide from the No-Mages and you don't have to worry about drawing one, since a ring is always on your finger."

Hermione's eyes had gone huge. "You can use rings? I thought only rods, staffs and wands could focus a witch's magic?"

"I did too," Sirius said, looking interested.

"You mean you don't have to worry about a wand holster or it breaking if something happens?" Harry asked.

The man looked amused. "Like I said, its one of our secrets. Only a few other places around the world have learned how to craft such items, and wands are much easier to make and less expensive."

Mrs Granger looked a lot better as she joined them. Her husband was looking at her concerned. "I'll be alright, Dan."

"How much cheaper?" Hermione questioned.

"A typical wand will cost about ten dracuts. The rings are much costly since they require a magical core, a precious metal and a gemstone. The more power one has at their disposal, usually the more powerful the core, the more precious the metal and the rarer the gem. It can cost hundreds to tens of thousands of dracuts. It's more practical for most to have a wand, but we are a rather elite school and would not handicap our students that way," Mr Nadeau explained.

Harry's eyes widened. When they had converted galleons to dracuts, it had been almost two galleons each. In England, that would have been close to forty pounds at nineteen pound, thirty pence each.

Sirius whistled. "You can by a nice house with that type of money."

"You can, but like I said, we don't handicap our students. Wands have limitations unless you buy specially crafted ones, and even then, they are not as versatile as a ring or talisman," he said, holding his hand up. He indicated a ring that looked like white gold with an emerald on it. The emerald was a decent size.

Hermione looked like she wanted to investigate it and ask a thousand more questioned, but the Headmistress cut her off. "I would like for Headmaster Nadeau to take you on a tour of the campus. We have lunch starting at noon in the cafeteria, then, if you are interested, we can start on the testing this afternoon. I would have to ask you to come back tomorrow as well as it typically takes a day and a half for the entrance evaluations."

"We are being tested?" Hermione asked in a slight panic.

"If you are looking for an immediate transfer, then I would think so," Mr Nadeau said.

"But I didn't know. I haven't revised anything," Hermione said.

Harry could tell she was starting to panic. He took her hand. "It's alright, Hermione. We already know what we will, we just have to show it."

"That is a great mentality, Harry," Mr Nadeau said. "Erica, I'll see you at lunch."

"Until then. This afternoon I can go over all the parent information, cost, scholarships and answer any questions you might have," the headmistress said to the Grangers and Sirius.

Sirius shook his head as she dissapparated. "Merlin, they know how to drag you in."

"This place is beautiful. I really wish we could have seen Hogwarts and had a tour before we sent Hermione there. We would have sent her here to the states if we had known," Mrs Granger said.

Hermione didn't let go of his hand.

"As you can see, our campus is a little spread out. We'll head over to the classroom buildings first. Reese Hall and Hood Hall have most of the classes on campus. Reese Hall is essentially our science building: Potions, Arithmancy, Xylamancy, Runes, Muggle Adaptation Studies, Alchemy, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Engineering. You can petition for other specialized classes, but will often require us to find an expert or a professor for a semester or year," Mr Nadeau said as he led them down the hill towards a brown, two story building.

"You teach normal subjects?" Mr Granger asked.

"Yes. Many of our students come from either a mixed or normal course of study. When they graduate, many will work in both the magical and no-maj world, and in the last twenty or thirty years, there has been a larger push to integrate muggle inventions into our world since the restrictions of No-Maj interactions were lifted. We had a few very bad incidents where the Statute of Secrecy was almost irrevocably breached, and it was decided that we needed to learn more about the No-maj world, instead of isolating ourselves. Since then, many have found they like a melding of both," Mr Nadeau said.

"Wicked," Harry replied with some enthusiasm.

"Britain is so backwards," Hermione commented. "The permits you need to get to adapt any Muggle technology is horrendous."

"When did you look that up?" Harry asked.

"Last year when you asked if it was possible to make a rune chain that kept electrical devices from shorting out. I thought it would be nice to have a television and VCR," she said.

"Those are easy things to get and you will find them in the common rooms of Tracey Hall. That is the dorms for those that stay on campus," Mr Nadeau informed them and pointed towards a long two story building on the other side of campus. "We typically have about half our students as boarders."

"How many students do you have here? I don't see that many," Sirius enquired.

"Currently we have ninety-three undergraduate students, and nine-teen master students. As we said, we are an elite school. Depending on what year you qualify for, there are twelve sophomores and eight juniors. Our sixth grade class is our largest with eighteen, but that usually shrinks by a few before they make their freshman year," Mr Nadeau said.

They all looked a little confused. "Sixth grade? Seniors?" Mrs Granger questioned.

"Forgive me, I forget that the British system does it differently. We start at sixth grade based on the No-Maj system. Our starting students are eleven or twelve. Some come from magically orientated elementary schools, while others come out of the No-maj system. We find it makes the transition easier if you keep them on the same path they were used too. We don't get many foreign students, unfortunately," he said, sounding like he really regretted that.

"From there, the typical high school starts around the time most are fourteen or fifteen as Freshmen. At the end of their Freshman year, all the students take the North American Standard Wizarding Tests. Its equivalent to your OWLs."

"Wait, the students here take their standard test after only four years?" Hermoine asked, sounding a little panicked.

"Yes. Most that come here already have a rudimentary or better understanding of magic, so we push them to do their best. It gives them three years to work on the Advanced Graduation Tests, and potentially get ahead on a masters by a year or so. Many that go onto getting their masters here are completed by the time they are twenty-one," he told them.

Hermione's hand was starting to crush his. "Oh my god, we are so far behind," Hermione said in a frightened voice.

The man gave her a smile as he opened the door to the Reese Building. "I highly doubt that, Hermione. Based on your OWL results, I think it highly likely you will be put into the Junior class and be able to take the AGT's next year. Now, this is our science building…"

By the time they had made it to lunch, Harry was feeling a little overwhelmed, while Hermione was just about bouncing out of her seat at all the possibilities.

The labs and classrooms, with not more than ten or so students each, looked more like a normal school than Hogwarts. There was a mixture of magical and Muggle equipment and textbooks. They watched as other students used their rings or necklaces to channel their magic. That was one thing that Harry wanted.

Hood Hall had been most of the practical and soft studies like Transfiguration, Charms, Defensive Magics, Literature, Esoteric Magics, English, languages and arts. Harry wanted to stay and listen to the lecture on Esoteric magics since they were talking about some of native tribe magics at the time. Down the campus, herbology, ecology, agriculture and forestry were in a building by the greenhouses. The barn held classes and labs for biology and creature studies.

Even though he was feeling overwhelmed, Harry had never wanted anything more than to attend this school.

Hermione was picking at the sandwich she had gotten from the cafeteria line. "I'm going to fail," she said morosely.

"No, you aren't," he tried to encourage her.

"This place is amazing, Harry. If I had known, I would have tried to get in here years ago, and taken you with me," she said.

"It is amazing, and you are going to do amazing here," he told her.

She chewed her lip more. "No. I'm going to fail. We are already a year behind everyone else."

"MR Nadeau doesn't think so. Sure, we need to catch up on the muggle studies, but I think we can do that. Besides, is it really a bad thing if we are in school for an extra year? Think of all you can learn, and you can go straight into a masters program without all the laws back home," he told her.

A small smile came over her face. "It wouldn't bother you if we are sent back a year? It wouldn't make us look stupid?"

He knew her almost pathological need to be at the top. "I don't really care, Hermione. With what we can learn here, Hogwarts has nothing on this place."

"I suppose you are right. But what if we fail?" she asked.

"We won't," he assured her.

"But what if we do?"

"Then there are other schools out there," Harry said. "Rogsnar was better than Hogwarts and had many of the same subjects. Its just bigger."

She gave him an unimpressed look. "SMART is leagues ahead of any other place we've seen. I would feel like we are wasting our potential if we go anywhere else," she told him.

"Then we will do fine. If everything works out, Mr Nadeau said we could start as early as next week. That is months ahead of what we thought could happen," he told her.

She chewed on her lip. "What about mum and dad?"

"You know they were talking about moving near any school you chose. They don't like what Britian was doing to you and want to be where you go," he reminded her of the conversation he had heard between them the other day.

"And Sirius?"

"He already told me he was moving once we find out where. He's a freeman over here, so he wouldn't have to worry about hiding anymore," Harry said.

She nodded. "You really think we will pas the tests?"

"I don't think they are pass or fail, Hermione," he replied. "Mr Nadeau said it was just a placement exam. If we end up sophomores, then you will have an extra year to go through the library in South Hall."

A slight smile came over her face. "Do you thing we can go back there today?"

"If we have time, sure," he agreed.

They didn't notice how Sirius was smiling at them as they talked. Mr and Mrs Granger were involved in a conversation about everything the school had to offer with the headmistress.

-oOo-

October 5, 1996

Welches, Oregon

A curious Dan sat with his wife as they had been called to the main administration building. Instead of going towards the Headmistress's office like yesterday, they were led down the opposite wing to a small conference room outside of an infirmary. Curiously he looked in to see Harry and Hermione sitting on beds with a man between them in what looked like muggle scrubs.

"Why is my daughter in the infirmary?" he asked as Nathan indicated for them to enter the conference room.

"If you would, our Healer Esqavar will be joining us in just a moment. After you, Mr Black will be talking with Healer Esqcavar as well," the man said in a sombre tone.

"What is wrong with Hermione and Harry?" Emma asked from besides him.

"I am unsure, but Healer Espavar has asked to talk with you right away," Nathan said.

"We should go to her then," Dan told the man.

"In a moment. The healer is coming now," the man indicated as the man in scrubs was walking towards the door. Hermione and Harry were talking in quiet tones before Harry got up and sat next to his daughter. As he had thought many times over the week, he wondered how long it would be before they realized how much they liked each other. He always thought he would not be happy about the first boy sniffing around his daughter, but there was something about Harry that he liked, and it was obvious, ever since her letters first year, how she cared for her best friend.

"Mister and Misses Granger? I'm Healer Jesus Esqavar. Would you step into the conference room for a moment?"

"What is wrong with my daughter?" Dan demanded.

"I'd rather not talk about this in the hallway," the man said. Emma looked very concerned as they stepped into the room. As soon as the door was closed, he demanded, "What is wrong with Hermione?"

"Nothing that is harmful to her," the man assured. "If you would, please take a seat."

"What is wrong?" Emma enquired.

"While going through their entrance evaluations, a few of the teachers noticed that the spells they cast were not as strong as they expected them to be and that even though Hermione was casting every spell with precision, she seemed to struggle against her magic some," the healer started to explain.

"What does that mean?" Emma asked concerned before he could say anything.

"I am getting there, Mrs Granger. She was referred to me to make sure there wasn't any issues with her magic. I can say that her magic, her core and the way she channels magic is all perfectly healthy," the man said in a calm tone.

"If that is the case, then why do you have us in here?" Dan enquired.

"Well, did Hermione used to have wild boughts of magic when she was young? Most call these episodes accidental magic," the healer questioned.

"I really can't remember any. It came as quite a shock when Professor McGonagall showed at our door to inform us she was a witch," Emma answered.

The man nodded his head. "I suspected as much."

"What is going on?" Dan asked, getting annoyed that they weren't getting any answers.

"Do you know what obliviation is?"

"That's that thing where you are made to forget something," Emma responded.

"Yes. I have asked for a mind healer from the wizarding hospital in Seattle to come here. There should be one on campus within the hour. I have found traces that she has been obliviated and, more importantly, that she has a magic limiting bond on her that is blocking about forty percent of her power. By the age of the spell, I would estimate that it was put on her sometime around the age of six or seven," he said.

Dan shot up. "WHAT! Are you saying that her mind was messed with and someone has been keeping her from being all she can be?"

"Please, Mr Granger, just calm down. It is easy to remove the block. The obliviations not as much," the healer said

"But I don't remember anything like that and I would have never agreed to allow Hermione to be blocked. Is that even legal?" Emma asked, taking Dan's arm and pulling him back down.

"In the MACUSA, it is not without permission. It is common to use blocks on children that have either very strong or frequenct wild magic boubt, but they are to be removed before any formal magical education begins. If applied incorrectly, they can stunt a witch's growth in her magic. This does not appear to have happened with Hermione. Either way, the block should be removed as soon as possible," the man told them. "As for being legal where you come from, I don't about the laws in England. I do suspect that you and your husband have also been obliviated."

Dan took in a deep breath. It would not do to blow up at this man. "So, someone has messed with our minds as well?" Emma took his hand.

"I think it is highly likely if you don't remember any wild magics from Hermione. She is a rather powerful witch for her age and it is highly unlikely that she didn't have episodes. With your permission, I would like the mind healer to check the three of you, and she should start the process to release her magic," the healer suggested.

"Why do you need our permission? Isn't Hermione considered an adult now?" Emma questioned.

"In England, yes. In the MACUSA, you need to be eighteen to make legal decisions. Until she turns eighteen next year, you are still her guardians."

"Oh," Emma replied.

"Do what ever you need. I don't care the cost. I want to remember what happened and Hermione needs to be healed," Dan stated.

Healer Esqavar nodded his head. "I'll get the paperwork ready if you want her to be healed here, or she can be transferred to South Yard Medical in Seattle."

"If you can do it here, then I am alright with that that," Emma said, giving Dan a look that he was to agree. Dan nodded.

"What is involved in releasing her magic?" Dan questioned.

"It's a rather simple process, but given how much of her magic is blocked, it will take about two weeks to break the bonds in a responsible way. Essentially I will cast a spell that will slowly break down the magical barrier. It is essential to do it slowly so that her body can get used to the increased magic and her core doesn't backlash on itself if she has issues containing it. During that time, she can't use any magic and she might go through mood swings, become tired or very hyper. I would recommend a quiet place for her and to check in with me every few days," Healer Esqavar told them.

"There won't be any danger to her?" Emma asked.

"No. There won't be to you either. Cases of wild magic are rare as her body will be more focused on channeling her new power and adapting to it than being able to force itself out. Keeping her close to her friend may also help to keep her emotions more stable," the man told them.

"We can do that. You said you need to talk to Sirius. Is there something wrong with Harry?" Dan enquired.

"I'm afraid I can't say anything about that. If Mr Black or Harry would like to tell you, that is their prerogative," Healer Esqavar said.

"We understand. When can you start with Hermione?" Emma asked.

"Like I said, let me get the paperwork together for you. Perhaps in a hour or two? Until then, I need to talk with Mr Black."

They all got up and Dan reached a hand out to the man. "Thank you Healer Esqavar."

"It's my pleasure."

-oOo-

A little while later…

Harry was rubbing his lightening shaped scar as he looked down at the floor. Sirius was next to him while Healer Esqavar and Healer Benson sat across from them.

"You are sure about this?" Sirius asked in a rather serious tone.

"I am. There is something in Harry's scar. It is rather dark and I think its been affecting his eyesight and has been leaching some of his magic. With the block that was applied to him when he was very young and the leach, he is currently using about fifty percent of his magic," Healer Benson said.

"Bloody hell. How do you fix it?" Sirius demanded.

"The hospital has a few curse specialists and we sometimes contract out for Curse Breakers. I would recommend Harry going to South Yard today so we can do more test and determine the best coarse of action," Healer Benson recommended.

"What is in my scar?" Harry asked, looking up at the Healers.

"I am unsure. I've never come across dark magic like this before," Healer Benson said.

"I have to inform you that Harry will not be allowed to start at SMART until his magical binding is released and that dark magic is either taken care of or the Healers at South Yard say he is medically able to attend," Healer Esqavar told them.

"Does this mean I am a student here?" Harry asked, feeling a ray of sunlight in the gloom that this day had turned out to be.

"Assistant Headmaster Nadeau has indicated you will be accepted. We just need to resolve these issues first," Healer Esqavar said.

"And Hermione? Will she be attending?"

"I can say she had been accepted as well. For now though, you need to focus on healing," the healer told him.

"Would you give us a moment to talk?" Sirius asked.

"Of course. I will wait for your decision. If you decide to go to South Yard Medical Center, then I can admit you in this evening," Healer Benson, the mind Healer, told them.

"Thank you," Sirius said.

When they both stepped out of the room, Harry was still tracing his scar. "What are you thinking, Fang?"

Harry looked up into the man's eyes. "It's Voldemort, isn't it?"

Sirius frowned. "What makes you say that?"

"Healer Benson said it was something very malicious, but he couldn't get a read on it because there was some type of shield around it. It's Voldemort and mother's magic, isn't it?" Harry speculated.

Sirius leaned back in his chair and ran a hand over his mouth. "Potentially. I've never heard of anything like this before."

Harry sighed and leaned over his knees. "I want it gone."

"If that's what you want, then we will go with Healer Benson. I'm sorry about the block. I knew James had put one on you because of the accidental magic you were doing at fourteen months, but I would have thought it was removed when you went to Hogwarts. You really never received a full exam before?"

"Why would I? You know how the Dursley's treated me and I never had much of a problem with using my magic. Sure, there were some spells, like the Patronus, that took me a while, but I always got things in the end and everyone always said that I was strongest in our year. Why would I get checked out for a magical block?"

"But I thought it was required to get a medical check at the start of every year? McGonagall always took us to get one," Sirius told him.

Harry snorted. He really liked McGonagall, but she had never really helped them when they needed it. "Why would she do that? We only ever saw her when the parties went too late or there was a issue in the house."

Sirius looked at him for moment. "You never had a meeting with the whole house and her to go over the rules or any notices? She used to schedule those about once a month. As head of Gryffindor that is part of her responsibilities."

Harry gave the man a look. "She never did anything like that."

Sirius frowned. "I see. Well, you are decided you want to get this taken care of?"

"Yes," Harry stated.

"Alright then. Let'f go find the healers and tell your girlfriend where you're going."

"Hermione is not my girlfriend," Harry shot back heatedly.

Sirius smirked. "Just keep telling yourself that, Fang."

"Bloody wanker," Harry groused, making the man laugh.

-oOo-

October 6, 1996

Hogwarts, Scotland

Albus was reviewing the monthly report of expenses from September. It was getting later in the evening and this was one task he hadn't done in a while, relying heavily on Minerva for years as he dealt with all the major issues of his school, the Wizengamot and the ICW. Looking over the report, he thought that some of the expenses seemed a little low, like building maintenance and ward upkeep. He thought he remembered a goblin or human ward weaver team from Gringotts checking in on the wards shortly after the students arrived to ensure that everything was well. That line was missing. As was the expense for a healer or two from St Mungo's for the yearly exams.

As he looked over the parchment work, he took out the master ledger that recorded all expenses and accounts. He was going over the numbers, frowning slightly, when the small gargoyle statue over his door called out, "Minerva McGonagall."

"Ah, good," he muttered, wanting to ask her about some of the irregularities we was seeing.

He was still going line per line, his finger tracing the payments and income to the accounts when she walked into his office. "Albus, I've come to ask if you have let anyone into the wards today."

"Only the students and professors that went to and from Hogsmeade," he commented. "Minerva, there are some troubling items in the ledger and this report from last month and the ones over the summer."

Minerva's brow rose. "I haven't seen any irregularities. Is now the time though? It is close to nine in the evening."

"Now is always the right time to tackle an issue. Have you truly not noticed the irregularities? There have been no ward weavers or cursebreakers to review the wards. Is Poppy doing all the medical exams herself? I thought that usually took three people to get them done in the first week. It also appears as though there is a large amount that is being paid out to the governors that doesn't any contract or itemized list of services attached to it," he replied.

Her lips pursed. "There is nothing off about that. The wardweavers were stopped by the Board of Governors more than ten years back. The yearly medical exams about the same. They were cost cutting measures that Lucius Malfoy put forth and you agreed too against my rather strenuous objections at the time," she said rather imperiously. "As for the 'large amount' being paid to the Governors, that would be their salaries."

He scrunched his brow. "Salaries? The Governors are not supposed to be paid. It is in the charter that it is a volunteer position."

"That was approved by the governors about eight years ago. You were at an ICW meet at the time and blew off the notice when you came back," she informed him.

Albus frown deepened. He looked up. She looked rather upset at him. He gave a heavy sigh. "I have truly been that poor of a stewart in the last decade?"

"You have not been here when needed. You always seem more concerned with the Wizengamot and ICW than you have with the students here for a while. I have done what I can, but I do not have the powers of the Headmaster to try and thwart the changes that have been pushed through. I thought after Malfoy was removed from the governors three years ago you would have pushed to remove some of those changes, but you have been too distracted with all your other responsibilities and whatever has preoccupied you since Potter came to Hogwarts," she told him.

He closed his eyes and leaned back into his chair. His hand came up to rub the bridge of his nose under his glasses. "I am getting to old to do everything I used too," he told her.

Her face softened a bit. "You need to decide your priorities, Albus. Do you want to see Hogwarts run the way it should be or do you want to keep playing politics? If you do not want to stay at Hogwarts, I have let you know many times that I would be willing to step up, or help someone that will be full time."

It was painful to admit that she had said much the same a few times over the years and he had always thought he could do everything. With the Triwizard Tournament potentially coming back, it might be best if he focused on the students and their safety. After the discussions he had heard this week, many wanted the tournament and his political influence was waning enough that he doubted he would be able to stop it.

"It is time for me to decide," he told her.

"I will support you, Albus, but if the Governors force many more changes through that I disagree with, I think it time for me to retire myself," she told him.

"No. That won't be necessary. I will talk with Cornelius and Barty about my positions and transition plans. There are things that need to happen at Hogwarts and I have a very important personal project that needs handling. Perhaps Amelia Bones will be willing to step up?" he told her.

"I think that is a splendid idea. I have a list of all the changes that have been pushed by the Governers the last decade or so that I do not agree with, if you want," she said, looking happier than he had seen her in a while.

"That is probably a good place to start. Now, I assume you didn't come up here to help an old man with his faults?" he asked trying to lighten the conversation.

"Indeed not. I came to enquire if you have heard from Granger or Potter. I know I gave them a week to be back, but it is Sunday and I have not heard from them," she replied.

Albus frowned again, straightening his glasses. "I have not. Have you contacted Remus? He said he would be in charge of Harry."

"I have tried, but he did not answer the owl I sent him yesterday and the floo call to his home went unanswered today," she told him.

That uneasiness that had plagued him from time to time over the last week came back. "Perhaps you can go to Ms Granger's house and check in on them? They should both be in classes tomorrow."

"It is getting a little late for a house call this evening. If they are not back by breakfast tomorrow, I will pay a visit at lunch time since I have a full day of classes tomorrow," she told him.

Albus sighed. At one time the Assistant Headmaster had been an independent position. He was starting to wonder why he had combined them with Minerva's responsibilities. "You stay in your classes. If they are not back by breakfast, I shall go and investigate. I do have some meeting at the ministry in the afternoon though."

"I can't image it would be hard to track them down. Potter was supposed to be Granger all week as she mourned her grandmother," Minerva told him.

Her nodded solemnly. "Yes. Some find loss like that hard to get over, but we all must move on with our lives.

-oOo-

Chapter 3

-oOo-

October 9, 1996

Hogwarts, Scotland

To say he was in a mild panic was something that he would never show to the outside world. For three days now he had been trying to find out where Harry Potter was and had not liked some of what he found.

After checking in at the Granger's Monday morning and finding nothing, he had been forced to ask for help in finding them. Nymphadora Tonks was the only one in the order that really knew about modern Muggle society, so she was currently trying to find their dential… denial… detal… Merlin, damn it! tooth doctors… business.

Remus was still out of contact and the tracking device that Albus had always thought showed where Harry was had been contaminated somehow and instead tracked down the nearest blood relative of the Evans, which happened to be a forgotten great-uncle in a small muggle city called Dumfries in southern Scotland. It had also been a shock that the tracker used the blood wards and the blood wards recognized other Evans beside the Dursleys. Perhaps using Petunia had not been his only option?

He was waiting for word from Nymphadora, so looked up when the owls started to enter the hall for breakfast. Three owls angled towards the staff table and he started to feel some hope as they turned towards him until they flew just past him and landed on the table before Minerva. She often received missives, but they usually went straight to her office, so he looked at her a little curiously.

"Hello, you are a rather handsome owl," she said to a regal looking black eagle owl. Dumbledore frowned a bit. That looked an awful lot like a Gringotts owl, but without the typical leather thong and seal on its chest.

"Anything important, Minerva?" he asked.

"I don't know. I don't recognize the seal on this letter. Yes, yes, I am getting to you as well," she informed the other two owls. When she removed the next letter, she sighed. "Miss Granger has finally responded. And Mr Potter."

The tight knot in his chest released some. "Where are they?"

"I am getting there," she responded to his impatient request as she opened the letter from Harry first. When multiple sheafs of Muggle parchment came out, along with a few normal parchments, he felt a little curious. She unfolded the normal parchment first, before taking in a sharp breath.

"What is it?" he asked her.

She was looking at the top sheet a little dumbly before holding them so he could see it. The tightness in his chest returned, as did the falling sensation in his gut. At the top of the parchment was 'Withdrawal from School' from the Department of Magical Education.

"He can't withdraw. Harry isn't of age and is required to complete his NEWTS at Hogwarts," he said. He noticed that a few of the other professors were looking towards them.

"According to this, Potter fully qualifies to withdraw and the requirements were validated by Grizelda. The attached forms are from the MACUSA providing proof of the requirements," she told him. He grabbed the parchments out of her hands, earning him a huff as he looked through the forms and the certifications of Harry's magical power, signed permissions from his guardians… no guardian he realized as he saw Sirius's signature. "Dear Merlin," she gasped.

"What?" he demanded.

"They have been accepted to South Mountain Academy. I have only heard rumours of what it takes to be accepted there," she said. "There is a letter here as well."

"I always thought Potter was smarter than most gave him credit for," Filius suddenly spoke up.

"And what of Miss Granger? I am sure he wouldn't leave her on her own," Albus asked, holding onto whatever strings he could.

She put down the muggle parchment and opened the letter from Granger. After a moment, Minerva pursed her lips. "They have both left us, Albus. I thought I would have one more year to teach her, but she must have listened to my warning."

Albus closed his eyes. He was fairly positive Minerva was right. That girl had ways of researching and finding out information that almost no one else would. He could see her discovering the Muggleborn Laws and he was also convinced that Harry would follow her. He had seen how attached the boy was to her.

"Albus, what are we going to do once people find out that Potter left?" she asked.

"Why does it matter? I say it's a good thing," Severus said. When he looked towards his Defence professor, the man was actually smiling. Albus felt very annoyed at the man. He was usually complaining about how petty children were while Severus was worse than almost any teen he had dealt with.

That was the question though. What should he do about this? Apparently, he had failed in keeping one of the brightest minds in the country, and lost one of their largest national heroes. Did he find a way to bring the boy back, or did he let him go?

Albus reached for the letter from Harry. It was on Muggle parchment and written in a much neater script than anything that he had seen from Harry before. The ink and the way the letters were formed it didn't look like Harry had used a quill.

-o-

Dear Professor McGonagall,

I am writing to inform you that I have withdrawn from Hogwarts. Hermione has pointed out that you would want to know why I decided to leave. Well, we recently learned about the Muggleborn Laws, and even those effecting half-bloods. To say Hermione is not happy about them is an understatement. To say I am right down bloody pissed doesn't even begin to show how upset I am.

When I first came into the magical world, I thought it a wondrous place. Of course, that was only from the perspective of a very sheltered boy being shown about by a giant of a man, but it was still marvellous. That wonder disappeared some after the events of my first year. After having to kill a basilisk my second year, I was starting to get frightened of the magical world. Then a mass murdering godfather was after me with dark creatures that had me reliving my worst nightmares, had me wanting to leave. It was only you informing me that I had to stay until I got my NEWTS or lose my magic that had me staying. I like my magic too much to give that up.

The last two years were better, but I think since seeing Pettigrew die and my godfather denied a trial, I have only been counting down the days until I could leave. When Hermione found out about the laws that saw her only being a clerk somewhere, I knew something had to change.

That change, for us, is going to be attending SMART.

I wanted to thank you for giving me a chance when I was only eleven to join the quidditch team, and for your years of hard task master like instruction. Without that confidence builder and your push for me to do better, I would never have shown what I can do and been given an invitation to attend SMART.

Thank you for the warning you gave Hermione and for being our Head of House.

Sincerely,

Harry Potter

-o-

Albus allowed some emotion to play across his face as he read the letter. If Harry had left, the blood wards would soon fail and they were looking at a possible backlash once it was found out.

"Albus, what are we going to do?" Minerva enquired.

"I need to talk with Grizelda and find a way to contact Harry and Remus," he told her. "Then I need to talk with Cornelius."

"That doesn't answer my question," Minerva pressed.

Albus supressed the sigh he wanted to let out. "If Miss Granger and Mister Potter meet the requirements to leave, then there is nothing I can do. I think there has been enough controversy the last few years. I do need to offer to meet with Mister Potter. There are things he needs to know."

Minerva blinked. She was shocked. Albus had always tried to keep a tight reign on the boy. "But… he has left. You know that people won't be happy about this. Miss Granger is one thing, but Harry Potter?"

"I know, Minerva. Perhaps this is for the best. South Mountain Academy has a reputation for turning out very talented wizards. Perhaps he will finally show us all what he is truly capable of," Albus told her. "If you excuse me, I have things to do. I would prefer not to make any announcement of this unless necessary. Severus, do not advertise what you know." He gave his Potions professor a sharp look. The man didn't look as pleased before giving a curt nod.

-oOo-