Chapter 10

Rounding the Bend

Jasmine's return home with the others, was a lot easier and quicker than their trip to Hogwarts. As both Hermione and Jasmine could apparated even if they could not do so legally. This meant after they got out of the Floo at the Leaky Cauldron they only had to find a quiet spot to disappear from before reappearing at home. Their arrival at Grimmauld place, and got quite the reception. Those that had been helping with the evacuation of the students had all been at the house discussing what had happened the previous night. As such when they realized Jasmine and Hermione were about meeting them turned quickly into a party. Both at a mission well done, and at Jasmine and Hermione's completion of their O.W.L.s.

Jasmine enjoyed it, though she spent most of the time sitting with her children rather than talking with others around the kitchen in which the party was taking place. She still met a good majority of the members from the Order of the Phoenix. Many of which were still in awe of her, despite her changes. Thankfully, no one asked her about the changes from last night, or her appearance. Jasmine decided to escape when she saw her children beginning to flag. They needed to get some rest she could see, and that was easier to do at the Granger's home.

Anna and Samual who were both at the party as well, though hanging out around the edges of it left with Jasmine and Hermione. They took the Granger's van back to the house after Dobby checked it for tracking charms, as though they trusted the Order it was always better to be safe than sorry. Back at the house, Jasmine got the kids into their beds so they could sleep. Though Lily took more convincing than the other two that she could take a nap without Jasmine vanishing. Jasmine closed the door carefully behind her, tapping the silencing rune that Sirius had helped Hermione place on the door so the children could better sleep at night.

Seeing no one about, Jasmine moved over to the bathroom and closed the door. Facing the mirror, she once more stripped her clothes and looked at her body to see how it had changed. She had already noticed her feet, and how her belly tucked in similar to a dog. But she wanted to know everything that had changed since her latest experience with the more dangerous parts that came with being an Animagus. Something Sirius had informed her of quietly during the party.

Color wise, she still was sporting the black she always had in her fur and hair. Her tail still curled as it always did, and her ears still had their full range of movement. Checking out her face and mouth next, she noticed a slight growth in her canine teeth along with the barest hint that her face had the makings of a small snout. Not enough to be noticeable, not unless you were looking for it. The effect gave her a more feral look if she grinned and showed her teeth.

Moving down her body, her eight breasts had thankfully not changed at all. Leaving her still her normal b-cup, which meant she could still hide her extra's when she wanted to. Her belly though was a little different, rather than being flat as it had been, it tucked in slightly like a dogs would. Sitting down, Jasmine found she could very easily get her legs right up to her chest, which afforded her a lot more power and movement when she sprang back up, nearly crashing into the ceiling above her. It was a near miss, and though nothing broke, there was now a visible dent in the ceiling.

Her groin was still mercifully unchanged. Looking precisely as it had been since her first change back to a human. No new dog features had snuck in to make her already possibly weird love life weirder. Her legs, however was where the changes she had first noticed still were. She stood on the balls of her feet, with her toes acting more like dog toes and claws than human feet. And as she had already seen, the power she could put into them was far greater than she could as a human.

Jasmine signed in relief as she looked back at the mirror, and grinned looking down at her form. She really had gotten off lucky if all that had changed was a slight muzzle, tummy tuck, altered legs and feet. She did wonder what her form might appear like if she channeled her powers, but decided against it. While she might have tried it back at Hogwarts or even Sirius's house, she was not about to do something like that in the Granger's home.

Pulling her clothes back on, Jasmine left the bathroom to return to the family and curl up next to Hermione in her favorite chair. Only to be confronted by an odd sight. A large mountain lion with a bushy tail was sitting in her favorite chair while Anna and Samual tried to act as if nothing was out of the ordinary. Jasmine right away could guess it was Hermione. Not only because Hermione had told her in the thrill of discovering her form, but the scent coming off the creature was uniquely Hermione's own. It still held the scents of her shampoo, but the cat notes in it were much stronger than before and it had an earthy scent that Jasmine had not noticed before. She was also distinctly still female, or at least Jasmine did not detect any male scents.

"My dear Miss Granger," Jasmine said in an almost teasing voice as she looked at Hermione, "I do believe that is my seat."

Hermione gained what seemed to be a grin as she got off and walked towards Jasmine. Jasmine changed shape, and found that Hermione was a fair bit bigger than she was. Not that Jasmine cared, as they each sniffed each other before curling up in a large pile besides the Granger's couch. Hermione's large body allowing her to curl up around Jasmine's much smaller form, her long bushy tail being used to tease Jasmine into nipping at it every now and again as she would a dog toy.

The rumbling purr from Hermione soon lulled Jasmine asleep as she happily got lost in the scent and comfort her close friend's new form brought to Jasmine. Jasmine slept till nearly supper time, when she was awoken by a lick on her ear by Hermione. It took Jasmine a few moments to figure out why she was curled up in the protective legs of a massive cat, but when she did, she nuzzled her head gentle against Hermione's own. The purring returned at this, but Jasmine smelling food, and hearing the door to her children's room open knew she could not spend the rest of the day like this.

She changed back, and then helped Hermione up as her girlfriend turned back as well. Jasmine carefully looked over Hermione, but did not notice any extra traits that her time spent at the mountain lion might have brought. Jasmine knew that till her dying day she would probably keep checking Hermione over for new traits, same with herself.

"If I change, don't worry about it," Hermione said, clearly guessing why Jasmine's eyes were looking her over, "I would happily join you as a cat person."

Jasmine smiled at the tender expression, though Sirius who had already shown up seemed fit to slightly ruin the moment with a small tease, "I thought cats and dogs were supposed to fight."

Jasmine and Hermione both rolled their eyes, though Sirius was saved from retorts as the children made their appearance known. Each came into the room near top speed and launched themselves at Jasmine and Hermione. The pair was barely able to keep from toppling over as they caught their very enthusiastic children. Jasmine knew she would have to tell them, that launching themselves at her was not allowed. For the moment she did not blame them for being glad to see her again after what had happened.

Things quickly settled back into the familiar routine at the Granger household over the next few days as the summer break would soon begin for the magical parts of Great Britain. They were going to meet Luna, Ron and Ginny as they got off the Hogwarts express, Jasmine's traits would be hidden by spells, her lack of ears covered by her long hair. This was more for the muggle side than for those of the magical world which by this point had mostly found out about Jasmine's secret.

Jasmine was at first worried about this meeting, but as time went on. They saw a rather big swing against a portion of the Ministry of Magic. Umbridge's hasty actions and attempt at arresting Jasmine in front of the entire school had backfired badly. As not only did the entire school find out that Jasmine was more or less Harry. But had also found out what Umbridge had done, and the power Jasmine now held because of Umbridge's actions. There was even a rumor the former witch could not even see Hogwarts anymore once she had stepped outside the protective ward, but only saw the aged ruins that muggles did.

The backlash of the events would have seen rather abrupt removal of Cornelous Fudge from office, had he not quickly distanced himself from Umbridge. Not that he was in a good position anymore. As though he might have claimed otherwise, saying he had never strongly supported her, to many families had members in the Ministry that knew he was lying. And was simply acting to save himself. Even those that did not have a family member in the Ministry of Magic knew someone or was close friends with someone in the Ministry. The result being, his days were be numbered. It was only a question of what landed the final blow that had him tossed out, and how hard that toss would be.

Likely, the only thing that was saving him from being burned at the stake for what he had done, was the lack of action from Voldemort. As though he might have acted badly, Fudge still seemed to be correct about Voldemort not being about. Not that it was very likely to remain true for every much longer. While remaining hidden had served Voldemort well so far, the upswing in Dumbledore's and Jasmine's popularity would make things much harder for him. As Dumbledore was also the one who was still pushing the message that Voldemort had returned to the wizarding world. If Dumbledore gained too much support, it would make things much harder for Voldemort in the long run.

Jasmine arrival on the platform along with Hermione was rather lowkey. For though most people knew to a degree what had happened with her, very few knew what she now looked like. Even most of the students at Hogwarts had not spared her much of a second glance with the exams taking place. So, when the Hogwarts express arrived and the students began to disembark, only a few of them gave her a second glance.

Luna was the first to reach them, of their friends. She had dashed straight from the train to the pair dragging her trunk along. She had not even bothered to look around for them, but already seemed to know where they would be. She threw her arms around them, thrilled that they had indeed been right where her visions had suggested they would be. Jasmine noticed the barest hints of tears from their newest friend, though they were quickly blinked away as she gained control of herself. Ginny and Ron took a little bit longer before they found them. Thankfully they held off on the hugs, but rather greeted the couple normally.

"So, the school is back to normal?" Jasmine asked as she watched the students leaving the train, noticing that large portion of the Slytherin students seemed to have become rather subdued.

"Yeah mate, after you put Umbridge in her place, things returned to normal in a hurry," Ron said looking rather pleased at the sulking Slytherins.

"Miss Bones took care of a lot of the problems," Ginny continued, "She placed most of the Aurors around the school till things got back to normal. Probably a good thing to, as the Slytherin students were ready to revolt till she made that announcement."

"Sounds similar to what we have been hearing," Hermione said.

Jasmine nodded in agreement, noticing that Luna had moved behind her. She was able to guess why as Lucius Malfoy walked up a moment later, with Draco not too far behind. His scent reached her long before he was able to speak. Several scents that she caught form him were his own, while one or two clearly were not. One of which she knew very well. It was the scent of decay and death like that of a horcrux yet apart of this scent was also that of a still living snake. Voldemort's own scent if Jasmine was to guess, given off by the dark mark Lucius possessed or just because he was around Voldemort so much. She was not sure yet.

"So, I see the rumors have proven true," Lucius said in a level tone while Draco stood behind him looking sullen.

"That depends on which you are referring to," Jasmine returned her voice even, as her mind tried to guess why he was even bothering to talk to her.

"Draco here informs me of your unfortunate accident, and recent return to the school where you were attacked by Deloris Umbridge," Lucius answered.

"Yes, though her downfall does not seem to have done you any damage," Jasmine said evenly her eyes locked with his own.

"I am a simple advisor to the Minister. Nor was I one of the people that told him to smear you," Lucius commented slight dismissive wave of his hand, as if he had not really been a part of the matter.

"Neither did you try and stop it, though I suppose that is only because like most Slytherins, you were cunning enough to avoid draw attention to yourself," Jasmine said slightly countering his statement with her own, her mind finally coming across a reason for his chatting with her in such a public place.

Lucius must have been ordered by Voldemort to find out what had happened to Harry or Jasmine. As Lucius Malfoy was well respected, he could travel where he wanted without being questioned. Nor would it be odd for him to be on the school platform, as he had to pick up Draco. Then if Jasmine showed up, he could watch and study her. Nor would it seem out of place for the so-called kind hearted Lord Malfoy to take an interest in someone else's bad fortune. Jasmine had to admit it, even if she did not like it, Lucius was good at his craft.

"As you say," Lucius said, showing his charm and a smile that did not quite reach his eyes.

"Then you might want to know about some of my abilities," Jasmine said, hiding the smirk as another idea crossed her mind.

"I would never presume to ask about them," Lucius said, though he could not hide the gleam in his eyes for the briefest moments before it was hidden once more by his good manner.

"Oh, but I am sure you master did presume," Jasmine with a small smirk, that caused Lucius to frown slightly, "It is a simple trick. One that you can even show your Master, if you wish. Not that he can use it."

Lucius hesitated unaware that Jasmine was already putting her plan into action. Putting her thumb and pointer finger together, she pulled as a thin line of black formed in the air. It appeared as a void to them, and Jasmine could already feel the small bit of her power hungering for magic. Had Lucius been more aware of what he had been staring at, he would have left then and there. However, as very few people knew precisely what happened to Umbridge, and even less how it had been done. It would be too late for Lucius by the time he realized what Jasmine was doing.

"No bit of magic is without its uses," Lucius countered with a voice of a teacher lightly rebuking a foolish student.

Jasmine looked for a moment as if she thought about it before she held the thin black line up, "You are quite right. I am sure your master will love to study this bit on his most loyal of servants."

Jasmine then with a flick of her wrist caused the piece of black void, to fly forward far faster and straighter than it looked able to. As though the black void seemed to flow in the air current, it was truly just a bit of Jasmine's magic and power. The floating motion caused not by the air, but her own magic's flow around her. And with that same magic, she sent if flying forward with the speed of a bullet. It wrapped itself around Lucius wrist, before it began to slowly drain his magic just as it had done Umbridge.

"What the!?" Lucius said backing up but far too late.

"Mr. Malfoy, while I would not presume to tell you how to do your job. I would suggest you never stick your nose near someone who despises you," Jasmine said the calm cheerfulness slowly disappearing being replaced by a tone of utter contempt, "As though you might think yourself strong and a well-dressed spy. Being a good spy requires that people don't know you are one."

Jasmine had begun to wonder as she said this, why Lucius who was known to Jasmine as a Death Eater. Was acting so up front with her rather than staying in the shadows. Then she had a small realization as to why he might take this risk, when he knew she did not trust him at all. Tom Riddle's Diary, Voldemort had found out what Lucius had done. Nor was he likely happy about learning this either. Which meant this act, was Lucius's desperate attempt to get more information than just observations or second-hand accounts could provide.

Jasmine was only slightly aware of the platform having grown silent as many people realized what was going on. To a few it appeared as if Lucius Malfoy a supposedly fine upstanding citizen was confronting this weird girl. To most, however, they did not trust him and were not likely to rush to his aid. As though he put on a good public face, many knew about his true goals and actions. What was more, as the few that could see Jasmine clearly quickly began to recognize the scar that was still on her forehead, even if it was now faint. And it seemed the rumors about her were being confirmed, as people began whispering and pointing her out to others.

"You will pay for what you just did," Lucius said losing his calm manner as he glared at Jasmine feeling his arm where the black band had struck it.

"I did nothing," Jasmine returned cooly, "I merely gave you a choice to make. What happens afterwards is up to you. You can take your son and wife and return to your master. Voldemort, or you can swear to never follow him or his orders again. Give up your pursuit of so-called blood purity. And if you show that you do want to be rid of him, then we will hide you. And keep you hidden till Voldemort's last and final fall."

Jasmine noticed how Lucius's glare grew harder, and knew his choice had already been made. That however, was no longer her problem. Like Umbridge, the black band that had coiled about his arm would soon render him little more than a squib till he repented of his crimes. If he was lucky enough to survive that long. If he was, as Fudge constantly claimed, a good man. Then nothing would happen to him, and he would retain his magic. Jasmine doubted that would happen.

"I have made my choice," Lucius said softly and dangerously, "As did your parents, yet I am still here."

"And so am I. While your Lord was destroyed reduce to "Little less than spirit," as he said. Voldemort is not all powerful, and he will fall. If he comes after me or my family, his finally fall will be that much sooner. Or do you think he has the same power needed to breach the Hogwarts wards as I did? Or maybe enough strength and skill to threaten the school while Albus Dumbledore and Alastor Moody stood ready to stop a force unlike they had ever seen before," Jasmine said, her voice low, just loud enough for Lucius Malfoy and her friends to hear.

"A declaration like that often see that person killed," Lucius said his eyes narrowing.

"Yes. Though it is not as if Voldemort has not already tried his best to kill me yet. How many times has it been?" Jasmine asked her voice once more carrying to the listening silent crowd, as it took on a mocking quality, "Let us see. I count at least six attempts on my life by him. I mean might be seventh time is the charm, but I doubt it."

Lucius stared at her, silently fuming. Draco looked just as angry, but Jasmine was done with the pair. She had made her statement, and she knew her bit of magic would make it quite clear to Voldemort what she could do to even his most devoted servants.

"While it was nice talking to you, Death Eater Lucius. I would suggest you make this the last time you ever meet me face to face. Nice time I will not be so kind, or generous as I am being now. I would suggest your return to your master, before the crowd decides to check if my claims are true. Those marks are hard to hide after all," Jasmine said, and drew her wand as black tendrils began to float about her.

The show of force was enough to get her message across. Lucius while he had been rather foolish to confront Jasmine like he had, was not dumb enough to pick a fight on Platform 9 and 3/4s. He quickly turned and left as the crowd parted in front of him. And though people stood aside for him, it was more out of not wanting to touch the man than actual fear. Jasmine saw him and Draco vanish through one of the nearby Floo entrances and was soon gone. Jasmine gestured towards the exit, and they were allowed to leave without issue.

They met both the Weasleys and Grangers outside the barrier. Jasmine knew the Weasleys would be traveling back to Grimmauld place for a short while before returning to the Burrow. Jasmine, Hermione along with Luna, however would be taking the car down to visit Luna's father. Something that Jasmine had requested, as she wanted to meet Luna's father. While they could take the Floo, they wanted to talk to Luna about something on the trip over as it was rather important to keeping not only Luna but her father safe.

"Luna?" Jasmine said, softly once they were in the car and Luna was not looking around quite so much in wonder.

Luna sighed, and looked at Jasmine as said expression filling her eyes, "I know what you are going to ask."

Jasmine just nodded, and said, "I must still ask it anyway. In case you saw this vision incorrectly."

Luna sighed, but gestured for Jasmine to continue. Jasmine studied the younger girl for a few moments more, and spoke.

"This trip is for two reasons. One to give you an introduction to the muggle world. But also, so we could meet your father. While it is clear, he is not too far gone yet it is only a matter of time before he cannot take care of you or himself. We would like to offer our aid should you or your father need it. By aid, I mean we can visit to help him or yourself. If worse comes to worse, I will even cover trips to Saint Mungo, or a long-term stay," Jasmine said, watching Luna closely.

Luna nodded looking somber, "That is what I saw you saying."

"Do you have an answer?" Jasmine asked curiously.

"No I don't," Luna said softly, "I don't know what I should do."

There was nearly a minute of silence before Anna spoke up, "Luna, if I may offer some advice, as someone who has had to deal with this same problem. Let us help you."

"You dealt with this before?" Luna asked surprised, making Jasmine wonder how far Luna had really looked ahead this time, "How?"

"While I am not sure how common it is, among wizarding kind. As some muggles age, their brain begins to go. They lose their memories, touch with reality, and will die from it if ages does not claim them first. The common name is dementia. My own grandmother suffered from it, though I did not understand it fully at the time. I can well remember the effects and the pain my own mother went through watching her mother's decline. The worse was near the end, when my grandmother forgot who her own daughter had become. As to her mind, her daughter was still a child, not a full-grown woman with children of her own. That was… a hard night," Anna said, her voice becoming soft as Luna's face filled with an understanding horror.

Anna took a deep breath, before she continued, "It is not easy, going through what you are. The toll it takes on those closest, is also hard. But, unlike my grandmother, we still have a chance to save your father. If it goes as badly as my grandmother's case, you will have your friends, and us by your side. While I cannot make the final decisions for you, I can offer to guide you through what is to come."

Luna nodded, looking sadden but stunned. Jasmine who was sitting beside Luna leaned over and drew her into a light hug. While Hermione reached up from the back seat and lightly squeezed Luna's shoulder reassuringly. Yet, the words seemed to give Luna some strength as she realized she remembered she was no longer alone. She had friend with her that would help her if she needed, even with the situation that came with her father.

They stopped to eat out, picking a pizza place kind of at random. Which turned out to be the right idea, as Luna who had never had pizza before, utterly enjoyed the meal. It also gave her a chance to unwind after the stresses she had been under. As though she understood she had friends, and they would help her, she also was not used to the support they would give her. By the time they got back into the car, and reached the town Luna lived near, she was quite cheerful again.

It took a little bit to reach Luna's house from where they parked the car. Though their first sight of the place Luna and her father called home was indeed worth it. While it was no Hogwarts, the tower shape house nestled in the hills was none the less a very striking image. Jasmine who had never given much thought about what her own house would look like should she make one, rather than buy one. Could not help but want something akin Luna's own home. Or at least a location like this one as it was so peaceful and with plenty of room for her children and herself to run around.

"Welcome to 'The Rook'," Luna said, gesturing towards the building before her, "It isn't much, but it is home."

Jasmine nodded, "It looks like a great place to live."

"It was," Luna said, a bit of sadness slipping into her voice.

Jasmine placed her hand on Luna's shoulder as Anna stood beside her. Together, Luna taking the lead, they went up to the house and entered. Luna looked about and saw the house seemed dark and empty. Stuff still littered the place, but even Jasmine could feel how uninviting the place felt. She sniffed the air, noticing that all the scents were a few weeks old.

"Luna, where is your father?" Jasmine asked, "IT does not smell like he has been here for weeks."

"Probably on one of his quests to find another creature," Luna said appearing to sound unconcerned, though Jasmine could see how tense she had become.

"Luna?" Jasmine asked uncertainly, "What is wrong?"

It took a few moments before Luna responded with a soft sigh, "My dad is a bit of a blind spot in my powers. While I cannot see his future directly. If I am around him, I can see his possible futures through my own."

"Clever trick," Samual said, getting a smile from Luna.

"Yeah, I never could figure out why he was my blind spot," Luna admitted, looking about the place sadly.

"It is because of the bond," Hermione said, causing everyone to look at her confused.

"What do you mean?" Jasmine asked.

"Well, it is just a guess. And I would to have to ask Dumbledore to see if it is really possible. But, since it was your mother's magic that caused this gift in the first place, and she was bonded with your father. It is not impossible that the gift cannot see him as his magic would be the same, or at least similar," Hermione explained.

"Then, why can I see myself?" Luna asked confused.

Jasmine blinked as she realized where Hermione was going, "Because the gift is not yours. It is not powered by your magic but the bond that remains of your mother and father's magic."

"Precisely," Hermione said grinning at Jasmine, "Which also means, that maybe we have a chance to help your father."

"How?" Luna said looking clearly lost, but looking hopeful.

"If I am thinking what Hermione is," Jasmine said speaking a little more carefully, "IF we were to remove your gift, we could return the magic and bond to your father. You would lose the ability to see the future and past, but if it works…"

"I could get my father back," Luna finished, her eyes widening as she finally understood where Jasmine and Hermione's thoughts lay.

Luna looked hopeful for a moment before a small frown marred her features. Jasmine could guess Luna was trying to look at the future, to see what the possible outcomes for this idea were. But clearly whatever they were only caused the frown to grow. Jasmine wondered if that Luna was finding another limit to her powers, or rather if the outcomes she saw were not something she wanted to risk.

"Luna?" Anna said, looking at the girl with concern.

"Luna," Jasmine said, reaching out and taking Luna's shoulder causing Luna to look into Jasmine's own eyes, "No matter what you may or may not see. Give yourself some time to think. Remember what happened when we first met."

Luna blinked before sighing again and giving a small nod, an apologetic look on her face, "Yeah, I need to trust you, and not just what I see."

"Precisely, we will figure this out together," Jasmine said before glancing at Anna, "Let's head to the Grangers for now. I am sure we can find a place for you to sleep."

The nod of agreement from Anna brought a small smile to Luna face as she said, "I would like that, thanks."

"Well let's get back to the car then, it is going to be dark before we get home," Samual said and gestured for the group to follow him before calling back, "Next time we adopt another person into the family. Just make sure they are male; I am starting to get outnumbered here."

They laughed as Hermione pointed out that Jasmine had brought in Sirius and Remus. Before they left, Anna also made sure that Luna left a note for her father in a location he was sure to find it. Once that was done, they got back down to the Granger's car and finally drove back to London to Sirius's house. Luna as they drove was given the secret so she could find the house as well. As though they would have preferred to go to the Granger's actual home, because of recent events and indeed the interactions with Lucius. For the time being no one wanted to risk being in the house long term till they were sure it was safe.

Sirius still had plenty of room at his house, as though he did not have the number of bedrooms required to house everyone at his place. None the less he had plenty of rooms that were able to be converted to bedrooms should the need arise. Anna and Samual of course had one. Hermione and Jasmine had another. Sirius was in a third. The kids still together for the moment in a fourth, and Luna in the fifth. There was one last bedroom currently, though as that housed Buckbeak. So, no one was in a big rush to claim it, as that would mean finding another home for the hippogriff.

A week later, Luna's father returned. Luna, Samual, and Anna all went to talk with him now that he was back. Jasmine had wanted to go along but Anna had stopped her. One of the things they were going to talk about was not only Luna's continued living at the place, but her father's own. And though they were muggles, being older would give their point more credibility. Plus, if worse came to worse and Luna ran away for any reason, she would aim for Jasmine's location first.

When the group returned, Jasmine could tell no one was really happy either about it. Though she quickly informed of the conversation that had taken place. The lateness of Luna's father was a simple matter as all international portkeys to England having been revoked. The reason being Jasmine's own hellhound appearance had caused quite a stir in the magical world. Resulting in no one wanting to risk someone getting caught up in the mess till it was sorted out. Luna's father was very happy to see and hear how well Luna had gotten along with her friends who had so kindly taken her in.

The talks from there had shifted to small things, till he had gotten them some tea. Some of the things he had tried to add made Anna and Samual see the other side of his mind. While nothing was downright dangerous, and mostly resulted in a very odd flavor. It was quite clear that a few times he had almost grabbed something that would have resulted in a very mild case of food poisoning. Using this, they had then broached the subject of Luna and her father's long-term care.

The talk had filled up much of the rest of the time, and though it took a while. It soon became clear that Luna's own father feared the very thing they worried about. That he would soon be lost to the world, and unable to function even at home. The idea of someone else that could take care of him as his mind continued to lose itself was a comfort. As was the idea that Jasmine and the Grangers would be looking after or even raising Luna should it come to that. It was a sobering conversation, and not one anyone of them really enjoyed.

They also talked about the idea of transferring Luna's gift to save her father. And while he did agree it was a good suggestion and that it could work. The simple fact remained that there was no such process currently in existence that could do what they were suggesting. Meaning any process or method that was discovered would likely come from their own testing and research. As though, a lot could be done with magic, transferring one's power completely was not something anyone had ever tried. Sharing the gift while still retaining it, yes. But transferring it completely, no.

Luna needed a lot of comfort when she Floo over later that evening. As though she had remained with her father so they could have some alone time to talk. He agreed she could spend at least one more night with the Grangers and Jasmine. If only so he could get some better food, and tidy up the house some, since the house was mostly empty of things to eat. That and as Luna later revealed, he could tell she needed to talk it out with her new friends. As though he was indeed losing his mind, he could see that despite the hard talks they had had, she much happier than she had been in a long time.

That night, though Jasmine, Luna, and Hermione did not talk too much, they still spent a lot of time together. The children had their main focus rather than each other. But the simple fact others were with her and she had a slight distraction of the children, seemed to remind Luna that she was indeed not alone. All the things facing her, and her father was things Luna no longer had to do by herself. By the time they were all getting ready to head to bed, Luna while not happy at least content with life once more. Luna would continue to swap between living with her father, and at Sirius's house, the rest of the summer as they worked out things for not only her, but her father as well.

It was two weeks later when Jasmine found out what had happened with her little stunt on the platform. Everyone had been growing slowly tense as they waited for Voldemort to make his first move. After all, with the dual events of Saint Mungo being damaged, and Umbridge's crimes coming to light. It had thrown a fair bit of the Ministry into disarray as they worked to gain some sort of control over the mess. Combined with the very solid chance that Fudge would be ousted from the job, and there was never a better time for Voldemort to make an opening statement. Yet nothing happened.

"Jasmine dear, the Order would like to speak to you for a few moments," Molly said, from the door.

Jasmine looked up a little surprised. As though Jasmine and Hermione could sit in on the Order meetings, so far, they had generally preferred to stay out of them. They were allowed in, both because there was no real way of stopping Jasmine. But more importantly as Anna and Samual had pointed out in a rather bluntly during their first meeting in which they mostly listened in.

"Any plans you make will end up involving stopping Voldemort long term will include those two in the end. Voldemort wants Jasmine dead, and if you exclude her for no other reason than you think she is too young, then you might as well hand her over to Voldemort now. Because none of your plans or Dumbledore's has yet to keep her safe. Or do we need to remind you of all the times she was forced to risk her life because your plans failed?"

Needless to say, this had not gone over well with most of the people in the Order. Yet none of them could deny the truth of those worlds. No matter what anyone had done, Jasmine had gotten involved in the problems of Hogwarts and Voldemort the last five years. Even Dumbledore could not come up with a logical argument against Jasmine or Hermione joining. And while Molly had complained very loudly about it, nothing she said had stopped anyone else from agreeing that both Jasmine and Hermione were to be allowed access.

"Sure thing," Jasmine said, a little confused as she got up and glanced back at Hermione, "Hermione?"

"Go on," Hermione said with a small smile, as she like Jasmine knew anything either found out was quickly shared between them.

Jasmine nodded and followed Molly out the door, down the stairs and into the kitchen where the entire Order of the Pheonix had assembled. By this point, Jasmine was much more aware of the different people who made up the group, and had names to all but a few members' faces. She also saw several people that while not official members, such as Professors McGonagall and Flitwick, had also shown up for this meeting.

"Miss Potter," Dumbledore said, once Jasmine came to a stop by Sirius's chair.

"Professor," Jasmine said by way of greeting as she glanced about the room, noticing an odd cheerfulness in the air, "What can I help you with tonight."

"Answering some questions mostly, Severus, if you would be so kind as to inform Miss Potter what you have learned," Dumbledore said.

Jasmine's eyes flicked to where she spotted Snape, standing near the end of the table, opposite of herself. He likewise seemed oddly cheerful. There was a softness to his features that Jasmine had never seen there before. Indeed, when he looked at her, his eyes were not the cold pits they always seemed to be. Instead, they held a bit of the warmth that Jasmine always saw in Hagrid's eyes whenever Hagrid looked at her in the past.

"It is a most odd thing," Snape began and even his voice held less chill than it had once done, "I was summoned to Voldemort's side for a meeting. We went over several details including updates on several projects. However, when everyone started to leave, they found that they could no longer apparated. It quickly became clear as Voldemort's anger grew that none of his followers could use magic, though when he went to curse them, he failed to cast any sort of spell as well. Of them, only I still retain my ability to cast spells."

"Okays. So, what does this have to do with me?" Jasmine asked, though feeling she could already guess the answer.

Snape pulled up the robes on his right arm, revealing the mark that was burnt into it. However, unlike the last time Jasmine had seen it black bands seems to be spreading out like a net over Snape's skin. Even without a sniff at the air, or touching it with her own magic, Jasmine could tell that the bands were her own spell. The same one she had used on Lucius and Umbridge.

"Well Professor," Jasmine said, unable to keep from grinning, "I was pulling a prank on Lucius Malfoy. It seems it has some, unintended side effects."

"Indeed," Snape said, though the very edges of his mouth curved in the barest hints of a smile, "Care to explain?"

"The curse I laid on Umbridge drained her magic, through these bands. And until she was truly sorry for what she had done, she would be unable to use magic. And I don't mean sorry about being caught, but sorry for the crimes she had committed. I used the same spell on Lucius though it was a slower version," Jasmine answered, looking thoughtfully at the black marks on Snape's arm, before she continued, "I am just guessing, but the curse must have become part of Lucius Malfoy's mark. So, when Voldemort activated the mark, it not only spread to him, but to all the other death eaters who wore the mark. The reason you still have you magic is because you do indeed feel sorry for what you did as a death eater."

"So will the bands fade?" Snape asked glancing down at the marks.

"They should have already. I think it is just the mark still being on your arm that keeps them from fading," Jasmine suggested uncertainly.

"For once Potter, you have caused more trouble than ever. And now I am in your debt. Lord help me, I thought being in your father's debt was a bad thing," Snape said, but he was smiling and a faint chuckle escaped his lips.

Jasmine a little taken aback by this joking attitude tried to focus on the matter again, as a joking happy Snape was just too weird for her, "Just so we are clear here, all current marked death eaters are without magic. As is Voldemort?"

"It certainly seems that way," Dumbledore said chuckling before he grew a little more grave, "While it does not eliminate the threat of the Death Eaters, it is unlikely they will remain faithful to him for long. As without magic, he will find it hard to keep the control he once held. It is also possible he might find a way to escape the bands you placed on him, though I find that highly unlikely."

Everyone was murmuring now. As though the man was still out there, and still had some followers with magic. This accident, caused by Jasmine seemed to destroy the very heart of the problem. Now it was not so much a matter of defeating Voldemort and his followers, as it was rounding up the group and presenting them to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.

"Albus?" Anna said, her voice cutting through the meetings murmuring, "What if he found one of his objects and tried to use it to return his magic. I mean can he be killed now?"

Dumbledore's eyes sharpened and the general chatter died down as this new problem came into question. It was not Albus but Jasmine who answered, knowing that the room in general was not to know about the existence of Horcruxes.

"From what Sirius has told us, and Hermione has found out. In order to reclaim the object, and take the part within it back. He would have to feel sorry for what he had done. As in true remorse. Which would likely undo the magic that I have placed on him. Problem is the process has only happened once according to the book, which resulted in the person's death. Which then would call into question, if Voldemort survived reclaiming that part, would he still be willing to continue his war, as he would have to be truly remorseful to reclaim it anyway," Jasmine pointed out.

"It does seem unlikely. Even if he did return to his old ways. The only people Voldemort showed any real level of trust towards were his death eaters. And none of them would be able to do what was needed, as they lack magic. This is why muggles cannot brew potions, as they lack the needed magic," Dumbledore explained, though he was smiling, "In short, though Voldemort is not dead. I doubt we need to worry about him. This is a blow I doubt he can truly recover from."

A cheer went around the room, and Jasmine was laughing. For a year that had started off so weird and odd, with Harry's disappearance, and Jasmine's return. Umbridge's scheming, and the near destruction of Hogwarts. This news was the best thing they had heard in ages. And what was once a meeting quickly devolved into an impromptu party. For the first time, though the wizarding world did not know it yet. They were truly free from Voldemort's shadow.

(Hi All Espo Here.

Well i am back, and finally finishing this story up. The last few chapters are written and i just need to get around to posting them. I will be dealing with a lot of the loose threads that are still hanging and bring them back together. Once of which we saw today, the downfall of Voldermot...by accident.

When it came to his downfall, i did debate about making it more drawn-out and a full battle with Jasmine in her hellhound form. But as that was not the main focus of this story, i decided against it.

I will note, some of these chapters will be shorter than the others. But the shortest is still in the 4000-5000 word range. And that is only because it focuses on the shortest point and set of events.

Small notes for this one. Simply Lucius Malfoy. Or more correctly how must people portray him in Fanfiction. While it is easy enough to write him as a person who gets caught easily enough. One most always remember that Malfoy has been working hard on a public image that has kept him out of jail since before Voldemort fell. While it would be clear that he is not as good as he seems, neither would he make dangerous moves that would land him in trouble in public without a good reason. In short, people tend to make him a little to hot headed.

Remember that till he was caught in the fifth book never had a charge put to him that stuck. He was a silver tongued snake, that never bit or let himself be seen doing what he did best. Charming people with honeyed words.

Draco on the other hand, has always had that almost Weasley temper.

Either way, till next Monday ( my new posting time ), in which we begin to see things slowly begin to wrap up. But not offically for a few weeks yet. Till then, bye for now.)