Hermione knew she was different from most kids her age. When she'd been in kindergarten, all she'd wanted to do was sit and read while all the other kids played. She didn't understand all the girls' fascination with the dolls and she really didn't understand why the boys found enjoyment in shoving each other around. The playground was fun for a while but eventually she really just wanted to find a good book and curl up on the floor, getting lost in all the of that, not many other kids wanted to hang out with her, but that was ok. As long as she had her books, she was fine.

At least, that's what she told herself.

She kept hoping, with each new school year, that she would find someone who was like her, someone who shared her tastes. Who preferred studying and working hard to running around like maniacs or just gossiping about things that didn't matter like most of the other kids. But each year she was disappointed and each year she was shunned, considered the 'goody-two-shoes' and 'teacher's pet' by the rest of the class. Though, occasionally, the second one wasn't really accurate as she did tend to annoy a few of her teachers as well with her barrage of questions and constant thirst for knowledge.

"Teachers need a break too, Hermione!" Miss Alwin said during recess when Hermione had come to ask her for some follow-up questions on the work they'd been doing.

So, more often than not, Hermione wandered into the library and buried herself in the books there, hoping to find some comfort in them. Books always gave her something and never made her feel worse about herself, never made her feel unwanted or like she should change. They reminded her of what she really wanted in life.

She knew her parents were worried about her. She'd never brought any friends over and only ever talked about schoolwork when she came home. They kept urging her to try and reach out but Hermione was tired of that. Every time she tried, she was rejected and it hurt more with each attempt.

"Why would I want to hang out with someone like you?"

"All you do is read all day? Where's the fun in that?"

"You're boring."

"All you want to do is work. You're no fun."

"Just go back to the library."

Of course, she heard other comments, but they were made behind her back when the other kids didn't think she was listening. Or maybe they did and they just didn't care. Either way, Hermione had decided that she didn't want friends like that. She'd rather just have her books.

"It's not healthy, sweetie," her mom would say.

"Just try. I'm sure there's someone who shares your interests out there," her dad would tell her.

Well, if there was, she hadn't found them. The years went by, and she was still the school's resident bookworm who always hung out in the library and never went out and played with the other kids. She'd even caught a few of the teachers giving her odd looks when she walked to the library, making her just look at the floor. At least the librarian, Mrs. Beckman, was nice, always greeting her warmly and directing her to the best books. She'd even help her on the more difficult homework problems, not that Hermione really needed it though. It was just nice to have some company, even if it was from a fifty-year old woman who smelled like mint.

That wasn't the only thing about Hermione that made her stand out though.

The first incident happened when she was five years old. Or at least, that was the first incident that she could remember. She'd been at home and was looking for a specific book to read only to find out that one of her parents had put it on the top shelf by accident, out of her reach. Even standing on her tippy-toes, her fingers never got close to it. So, she went and brought a chair over but even standing on that didn't get her within reach. She held out her hand desperately, wishing the book would just come to her and was on the verge of giving up when the book suddenly just fell of the shelf and into her waiting hand.

She'd gasped, not sure what just happened. But, a minute later she was happily reading the book and deciding it must have all been a happy accident.

There had been other such incidents. When she'd overheard a particularly nasty comment by one of the more popular girls in school during lunch, Hermione had felt an almost overwhelming sense of sadness, anger, and frustration. The next thing she knew, the soda in the girl's hand had exploded, spraying her and all her friends. No one had even glanced at her, no one thinking it was her fault, but she had somehow felt a little drained afterwards, like something had been taken from her.

Another time was when she'd gone camping with her parents I the Forest of Dean, she'd been watching some fish swim by in a creek and had reached out to see if she could reach them and the next thing she knew she was falling with one thought in her mind 'I don't want to get wet, I don't want to get wet, I don't want to get wet.' And then, miraculously, she was back on solid ground.

There were more incidents that she was aware of, more she'd pushed to the side and never told anyone as she felt it would just make her more of a freak in their eyes. She couldn't even tell her parents. The looks they gave her these days, knowing she was an outsider, made her want to shrivel up. She didn't want to think about how they might look at her if they learned about everything else.

So, Hermione just kept doing her best, working hard in school and reading as much as she could. She was top of her class, always receiving praise from her teachers and always receiving top marks all around. And always receiving eye-rolls at best from her fellow students but more often than not it was glares and muttered phrases meant for her ears alone.

"Teacher's pet," they would say when she handed her test in before anyone else had finished.

"Know-it-all," they would say when she put her hand up high to answer a question.

"Bush hair," they would say when…well, that didn't have anything to do with her personality. It was just what some of the popular girls would say when they saw her in the hallway. Hermione had tried combing her hair but it was too much work to do every day so she just did the best she could and left it as is.

With each day, each month, each year that passed, she felt a little lonelier. She kept holding on though, kept waiting. She wasn't sure for what but she knew there had to be something to hold on for. Something all her work and accomplishments would lead to, something…that would make everything worth it.

She just wished she knew what it was.

And then, on the 20th of July 1991, it happened.

It had been a normal day. Hermione had been in her room, reading a bunch of books from the library. Her parents were back home from their work as dentists and were now relaxing in the living room, her father reading the paper while her mother was having a cup of tea.

Ding!

"Now who could that be?" her mother wondered, getting up to answer the door. As she opened it, she saw that it was a woman who appeared to be in her fifties or perhaps even sixties wearing a dark green cloak.

"Good afternoon Mrs. Granger. My name is Minerva McGonagall. Might I have a word with you and your husband?"

"Um…may I ask why?"

"I feel it would be best if I told you and your husband together."

"Honey?" her husband called at that second. "Who is it?"

"Uh, someone who wants to speak to us. Both of us."

Mr. Granger muttered something under his breath as he folded his paper and got up, walking to the door. "Yes?" he said as his wife opened it further, letting him see the woman who had interrupted his relaxation. "Can we help you?"

"Well, as I told your wife, my name is Minerva McGonagall and I am Deputy Headmistress at Hogwarts, a school for gifted youngsters."

That got their attention.

"This is about Hermione then?"

"Yes. We've had our eye on her for a little while now and believe that the time is right. She would be a perfect candidate to enroll for this coming year."

Both Grangers blinked before the mother offered a wider, more sincere smile to their guest. "Please come in," she said. "Would you like some tea?"

"Yes, thank you," Professor McGonagall said, walking in. Moments later, all three of them found themselves sitting around the coffee table in the living room sipping tea. Unbeknownst to the Grangers, their daughter was hiding behind the corner, listening to every word said. McGonagall had noticed her the second she had appeared though.

"So what kind of school is Hogwarts?" Mr. Granger asked.

McGonagall hesitated. Now came the hard part of the conversation. Fortunately, she'd had years of practice and knew the best way to handle it. "Hogwarts is a school unlike any you've seen before and is more than qualified to help your daughter reach her full potential. However, and this might be hard for you to understand at first but I ask you bear with me, it is a school that focuses on one specific thing."

Both Grangers frowned, already not understanding. "And what would that be?" Mrs. Granger asked.

She gasped suddenly and her husband turned to ask what was wrong when he found himself gaping at the sight of his wife's tea floating out of the cup. Behind the corner, Hermione was gaping as well, but in amazement, not shock.

The tea suddenly transformed from its darker shade to clear water before twisting itself into the figure of a cat and then freezing solid. The figure then floated down, landing on the coffee table softly.

"To put it simply, Hogwarts is a school for witchcraft and wizardry. A school for learning magic," McGonagall told them.

"Wha…but…how…huh?" Mrs. Granger stuttered.

"What madness is this?" Mr. Granger muttered, staring at McGonagall in horror.

"I know this is a lot for you to take in and I apologize for the abrupt manner I did it, but I find it best to tackle things head on and get straight to the point. Magic is real, Mr. & Mrs. Granger. It has existed since, well, the beginning. But, it has been hidden from ordinary citizens such as yourself."

"This…this can't be real," Mrs. Granger said, still staring right at the cat. "I…I must be dreaming."

"What are you?" Mr. Granger asked, glaring at McGonagall now with suspicion and fear.

McGonagall sighed, already knowing this might not go well. "I am a witch, Mr. Granger."

"A…a witch?" he repeated, stuttering over the word. "Wha-what do you want from us?"

"As I explained at the door, I am here as I believe your daughter woul-"

"Hermione!" Mrs. Granger gasped, finally looking up from the frozen cat. "What do you want with our daughter?"

"She's like me, Mrs. Granger. She has magic in her. She is a witch."

All three Grangers gasped, but while the adults did it in horror, McGonagall noticed that the young girl hiding had gasped in surprise as well as something that seemed like awe. Well, if that was the case, then perhaps this might go smoothly another way.

"How dare-" Mr. Granger began.

"Perhaps it would be best if she explained," McGonagall interrupted. "She is listening to this conversation after all. And it is her future, her opinion is paramount to whatever is decided today."

The Grangers barely heard her, turning to see that their daughter was in fact standing just by the corner leading to the bedrooms, their eyes widening at the sight.

"I'm sorry," Hermione began. "I just wanted to-"

"Hermione, don't come in here!"

"Please, sweetie, go an call the pol-"

"Oh really now!" McGonagall huffed. She had hoped that these individuals would be more open-minded but it was always a toss-up. It might have been better to ease them into this but given their backgrounds she had presumed that seeing magic upfront would help them understand. Clearly that had been a mistake. But this was getting out of hand now and it was time to bring it to a close. "I mean the girl no harm. I only wish to help her. She has magic in her, magic she doesn't understand and cannot control, and Hogwarts can help her master her magic and use it effectively in her life."

"M-magic? Hermione?" Mrs. Granger gasped. "That's not-"

"It's true." They all turned to the young girl who now had walked up to them. "I…I do have magic. I've been able to do strange things."

"What?" both Grangers asked at the same time, staring wide-eyed at their daughter. Hermione took a deep breath and then told them everything, all the incidents she could recall where something strange happened, something unexplainable. The book, the soda, the creek, and all the others.

"I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want you to look at me like I was…different," she said, looking down. Or more different, she added privately.

"Oh honey," Mrs. Granger murmured, walking over and hugging her daughter.

"We would never think that," Mr. Granger told her before turning back to McGonagall who was watching it all silently. "Well…certainly not now anyway. Not after…that," he said, looking at the figurine of the cat.

"Well now, I believe we can officially begin now," McGonagall said pleasantly. "Shall we all retake our seats and I can tell you everything you'll need to know."

Still apprehensive but less scared now, the Grangers retook their seats, Hermione joining them as well. Once they were all comfortable, McGonagall began to explain to them all about the magical world, how witches and wizards hid themselves from ordinary people or, as they were more commonly referred to, Muggles. But still, young wizards and witches needed to properly learn their magic or else it could go haywire which was why schools like Hogwarts were built.

"There, Ms. Granger will be able to learn all she is capable of. Hogwarts will be able to help her reach her full potential as a witch, I can promise you that."

"This…this is all unbelievable," Mrs. Granger admitted. "But are you sure this is what's best for Hermione? I know you think because of all those incidents that Hermione is magical but…"

"Mrs. Granger," McGonagall stopped her. "I would not be here if it was not certain that young Ms. Granger there did possess magic. We have our ways and we have verified it beyond a doubt."

"Oh," Mrs. Granger nodded, still uncertain.

Mr. Granger, however, had been focusing more on his daughter as McGonagall talked. And the more she said, the more excited Hermione seemed, her eyes and face lighting up in a way he'd never really seen before. There was no doubt, she wanted this.

"If I may ask," he said, drawing everyone's attention. "What exactly will you be teaching her?"

"Oh just the fundamentals for every witch and wizard. Charms, transfiguration, potions, astronomy, and several other classes as well." She purposefully left out defense against the dark arts as they seemed to still be on the fence about all this and that might push them back over. "Later on, as the courses become more advanced, she will be able to pick and choose what is best suited for her for her future."

"Ok," Mr. Granger nodded along, the classes not dispelling the absurdity of it all but given what he'd witnessed he just had to go along with it. "But what about her school classes here. Math, writing, science, and the like. Do you offer those classes?"

"Given how magic works, science is not really a class required. Or even math. However, we do have the course option Arithmancy down the line which is similar. As for writing, we believe at this point that students have the required understanding and they should rather focus on their magic rather than perfectly understanding their writing abilities. Of course, you may disagree with this but that is how Hogwarts's curriculum operates."

Both Mr. and Mrs. Granger thought about this. The conversation dragged on for a little longer, the two of them asking McGonagall many questions with Hermione often jumping in with questions of her own. After some time had passed, McGonagall looked at her watch, and sighed.

"I am afraid that I must take my leave now," she said. "I'm sure you have plenty more questions but I believe you have enough information to come to a decision."

Hermione beamed but the Grangers still exchanged a look. "I think we still need a little time to talk it over," Mr. Granger said.

"Of course. I will return tomorrow at 3 o'clock sharp to hear your answer. And, I must insist you not share anything you've learned today with anyone."

"Of course," Mr. Granger nodded. "It's not like anyone would believe us anyway. I still barely do."

McGonagall gave him a look that made his light chuckle die out. "If you do, just know that Hermione will likely be banned from attending school and that we would have to wipe your minds of this incident completely."

Both Grangers gulped at the news, vowing to never tell a soul. Hermione was also frightened but she also was wowed that such a spell existed.

"That was…something," Mr. Granger said a few moments later.

"Should we really take her seriously?"

"You saw what she could do. It seems legit," Mr. Granger replied.

"What if it's all a hoax?"

"If it is, it's a good one. But that's a lot of trouble to go to."

"It seemed real to me," Hermione chimed in.

"Yes, it did," Mr. Granger nodded. "I think we should take it seriously right now."

"Ok. But then, is this really the right choice for Hermione. I mean, a magic school. I know they think it's for her own good but what kind of career will she have with no proper education and-"

"I am still here, mum!" Hermione said a little loudly, getting their attention.

"Sorry sweetie," her mum apologized. "I didn't mean to do that. But the point stands. If you go to this Hogwarts place, you'll be throwing away a lot of great opportunities at other schools that will help your future."

"Professor McGonagall said that going to Hogwarts would help my future too."

"Yes, in a career working in magic," her mum replied, rolling her eyes a little. "I just found out about all this today so forgive me if I'm a little dubious on what they consider careers."

"Hermione," Mr. Granger interjected. "What do you want to do?"

Hermione stared at him for a few seconds before she replied. "I want to go," she said firmly.

"Honey, are you sure?" Mrs. Granger asked, surprised. "What about all I just said? Your school and everything you can do here?"

"I've never really fit in at school," Hermione told them. "But maybe at Hogwarts, I can. I can finally find people like me. Find real friends. I know I can do magic. I've done it before and if it happens around someone else next time, I don't want to know what they'll think of me afterwards, how they'll treat me. But at Hogwarts, it would be normal. So…I want to go. I want to learn magic."

Her parents stared at her, stunned by her words. Tears appeared in their eyes as they realized just how hard their daughter had been struggling and perhaps some of the pressure they may have put on her.

"Ok," Mr. Granger said. "But let's make a deal. I'm also a little unsure about this, so let's give this school until Christmas break. You come back and tell us everything. From there, we'll see if it actually is the right place for you. Deal?"

"Deal," Hermione nodded firmly.

The next day, at 3 o'clock, they heard a knock at the door as Professor McGonagall appeared.

"So, have you come to a decision then?" she asked as she came in.

"Yes. We will, for now, accept your proposal to send Hermione to Hogwarts. We will see how it goes for now and decide later on whether or not she'll stay there."

"Acceptable," McGonagall nodded. "I've known other Muggle families to make the same decision. Very well then, there are a few things for you to sign. Oh and here." She pulled out a document and handed it to Hermione who took it eagerly. "That is a list of all your school supplies. You'll need to purchase them at Diagon Alley."

"Diagon Alley," Mr. Granger repeated. "And where is that?"

"Here." McGonagall pulled out a map and marked a location on it with her wand. "That is the Muggle entrance. Ask for a liaison who will guide you through it all including currency exchange, which is very important. Don't worry, there will probably be a few other Muggles there as well with their own children. Just follow your liaison and it will all work out. And remember that the train for Hogwarts will depart King's Cross station on the first of September at 11 o'clock at Platform 9¾.

"Platform 9¾?" both Grangers questioned.

"Yes, I know how it sounds, but it does exist. Just ask your liaison and they or someone else will wait for you there to show you how find the platform and enter safely."

After looking through and signing all the documents, each one looking very official and making the Grangers doubt even more that this was a hoax. All the while, Hermione read through her list, placing her thumb over the book list and mouthing out all the names.

Ever since Professor McGonagall had walked through the door, she had felt a change in her. A charge of excitement that she'd never really felt before. Finally, someone had come to take her to a place where she could really belong, where she wouldn't feel so alone. It was a dream come true for her. And it was magic! She may consider herself more academically inclined but that didn't mean she didn't read the occasional fiction story, especially fantasy stories. And she did love magic, sometimes imagining all the things she could do. Well, now she wouldn't have to imagine it anymore.

She looked at the bottom of the list, staring at the word 'wand.' An actual wand. One she could perform spells with. It was too incredible to put into words.

"This is the best thing ever," she muttered.

"Well now, if that is all, I shall take my leave then. And, Ms. Granger," Professor McGonagall said to Hermione. "I will see you at Hogwarts."

"I look forward to it, Professor," Hermione beamed. "So, what do you teach?"

"I am Professor of Transfiguration, to change something's form or appearance," she replied. "A difficult course for some to master."

"Transfiguration," Hermione repeated. "I can't wait to learn it."

Professor McGonagall smiled at her. "I'm sure you will," she said sincerely. "Now then, I best be off. Thank you for your time and for hearing me out and I promise to ensure your daughter's education will always be the best."

"Thank you," Mrs. Granger said.

"Yes, thank you."

With that, McGonagall left. Hermione sighed in disappointment once she was gone. She reminded Hermione of some of her favorite teachers at school, the ones who may be strict at times but were always top educators and had so much to offer students. Hermione couldn't wait to go to Hogwarts and learn from her. But first thing, she needed to get her schoolbooks. And her wand.

They'd had to wait until the weekend as her parents were still working for most of the day. Hermione was practically bursting with excitement Friday evening, wanting the sun to rise already and start Saturday even though it had just set. That next day, she would go to Diagon Alley and finally see the magical world. She knew her parents were still apprehensive about the whole thing but tomorrow she knew would put it all to rest.

With all the energy inside her, she didn't think she'd ever go to sleep, but eventually she did as the next thing she knew was the sun in her eyes. She yawned, rising up and stretching before it hit her like a thunderbolt. It was morning. Saturday morning. It was the day.

She squealed in delight before leaping out of her bed to start her day. She got dressed as fast as possible and rushed into the kitchen, nearly running into her mum.

"Whoa!" her mum cried, stumbling a little. "I see someone's a little excited."

"Yeah, sorry," Hermione said sheepishly.

Mrs. Granger wanted to chide her on it but she couldn't remember the last time Hermione had been this excited about something. She really hoped that it wasn't a hoax, that it was all real, for her daughter's sake. She had noticed more and more that Hermione was withdrawing into herself. Now, it was like she was open and ready for anything. And that smile was the greatest thing in the world.

"Alright, eat your breakfast. We'll be leaving in about an hour."

"Ok!" Hermione said cheerfully, chomping into her eggs and toast.

The morning seemed to drag on for her as she hurriedly got ready herself but had to wait around for her parents to get ready as well. It felt like it would take forever but finally they were all ready to go, Hermione doing her best to keep herself composed as they walked out on the street, the sun shining down brightly.

They took a cab to the designated spot and Hermione felt a little disappointed when she stepped out. She had expected it to be somewhere more…magical. Like in the woods or in a park or something. But this was just downtown London. Nothing special at all.

It's just hidden, she reminded herself. And it made sense to be more local as it was more available to everyone. Still, a bit of doubt creeped into her mind.

"Here, this way," Mr. Granger said, following Professor McGonagall's instructions, leading them down the street to a specific building. Once they reached it, Hermione found her disappointment and doubt mounting as it was just an ordinary building. Small, square-like shape with only two-storeys. It looked like it could be a post office but the windows were all shuttered up. It was only the sign at the door that read 'open' that made them walk up to it and knock on the door.

There was a second's delay and then the door opened and a young woman appeared before them. "Hello there," she said, a soft smile on her face. "How can I help you?"

"Uh…hello," Mr. Granger said a little hesitantly. "We're the Grangers and we-"

"Ah, of course," the woman nodded. "Professor McGonagall told us to be expecting you. Come right on in and we'll help you out."

Mr. Granger hesitated for a second before walking in, Hermione right behind him. As soon as they were all inside, they followed the woman down a narrow corridor until they reached an open space. The second they walked through, they blinked at the sight that awaited them, Hermione staring in awe.

An atrium awaited with half-a-dozen booths where people who looked like bank tellers were talking to specific customers. There were other people walking around or sitting in some of the chairs. But that wasn't what caught the Grangers' eyes.

It was all the magic in display.

First of all, the building was much bigger on the inside as there was no way all of this could fit into the small building they'd just entered. There were also paper airplanes flying around like real planes, zooming from one end of the atrium to another and certain people in robes plucking them from the air to read whatever was inside. One man was putting something up on a board only all the papers around him were floating on their own. Hermione also noticed that a lot of the paperwork, like stamping, stapling, and filing, was all being done by itself, none of the people lifting a finger. There were message boards in several places, but the messages kept changing from work shifts to the booths available to apparently not forgetting Lizzie's birthday.

"Welcome to the Muggle Orientation Office," the woman introduced. "My name is Andrea and I can get you started. First, we'll need to set up an account which I can do for you right over here. Then I will lead you to an open booth over there where someone will help you exchange your money for wizarding currency. After that, if you wish, I can be your escort through Diagon Alley to direct you to everything you'll need for school."

"Um…thank you," Mr. Granger replied, only half-focusing as he tried to look around as much as possible and absorb everything he was seeing. If this was still a prank, than whoever had done it had gone to great lengths to fool them, and he couldn't think of anyone in his life who would do that. Maybe his old assistant Brad, but he didn't have the brains for this.

No, this was real. This was happening. Magic was real.

"Right," Mrs. Granger said. "Right. Well…right."

"It's real," Hermione beamed. "It's all real." Without waiting, she began walking over to the booths, prompting her parents to go after her.

"Hold on Sweetie!"

"Wait for us!"

"Don't worry," Andrea said as they brought Hermione back. "Everyone reacts the same way their first time. It is a lot to take in but part of my job is to make it easier. Now, shall we get started?"

It took a little while as they had to fill out a bunch of paperwork to become members and qualify for the exchange. Then came the actual exchange as the wizarding currency was explained to them and what the exchange rate was. Then they finally were able to do it, a bunch of bronze and silver coins handed to them. Andrea then explained everything on the school list and where they could find them. And, since she had an opening, she was able to be their escort.

They started off simply at Madam Malkin's where they could get Hermione's robes. And as she was fitted, Andrea would be able to collect some other items as well.

When Hermione was led into the back as she got fitted, she found another girl there, a small redhead who ducked her head shyly as Hermione came in.

"H-hi," she said.

"Hello," Hermione greeted, grinning. "I'm Hermione Granger."

"Uh, Susan. Susan Bones."

"Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too."

"So, are you a witch?" Hermione asked enthusiastically.

"W-what?" Susan asked, confused. "Of course I am. I don't think I could be here if I wasn't."

"Oh, that's not what I meant," Hermione corrected. "I mean, I'm not a witch. Or I am, but I didn't know. My parents are…what was the word again? Muggle, right?"

"Oh," Susan nodded in understanding. "You're a Muggle-born. That's why you were asking if I'm a witch. Well, yes, my parents are both from the wizarding world."

"Wow," Hermione gushed. "That must be so exciting. Everything's been so surreal since I found out. But also wonderful. And everything now makes so much more sense. I can't wait to find out everything I can about witches and wizards. And Hogwarts! I hope there's a book about it I can read. I'd love to learn everything I can."

Susan blinked at her enthusiasm. "Um, I think there is. It might be called…"

She was interrupted when the door opened again and a new girl was led in with bright blond hair. "Sorry, a busy day today," Madam Malkin told them. "Busy week actually but that's to be expected. Let me just get some more fabric and I'll finish you up dearie," she told Susan.

"Hi, I'm Hermione Granger," Hermione greeted the new girl. "I'm Muggle-Born."

The new girl's eyes widened at that but she still shook Hermione's hand. "Um, hello. I'm Daphne Greengrass. Pureblood, I guess, though I don't really care about all that."

Hermione supposed pureblood meant one whose parents were from the wizarding world, though the name had some superiority to it that she didn't really like. "So you're a first year as well then?" she asked.

Daphne nodded. "Yes," she said simply.

"Does that mean you haven't been allowed to use magic yet?" she asked curiously.

Daphne shrugged. "I've done a bit of magic. It's alright when you're in wizarding household as long as it's not too big or in the presence of Muggles. But my magic's pretty weak, like most first-years."

Susan nodded as well. "Very few first-years will be able to perform actual magic."

Hermione was fascinated by this but couldn't ask more questions as Madam Malkin returned and finished up Susan, sending her on her way.

"Bye then," the girl said, waving at them. "I guess I'll see you at Hogwarts."

"See you," Hermione replied while Daphne just gave a little wave. "So, do you already have a wand?" Hermione asked the other girl a few seconds later.

"Uh, yeah. First thing I got." To demonstrate, she brought the wand out. "Eleven inches with unicorn hair. Still not allowed to use any magic with it. That's just for school."

Hermione nodded. She'd received strict instructions about that from both Professor McGonagall and from Andrea. Students' magic was still a little wild and unpredictable and was better used at school where it could be properly managed. So while she was excited to get her wand, she also knew to temper that excitement as she wouldn't be able to do any real magic until she got to Hogwarts. But she would make sure to read up on as spells and techniques that she could beforehand. It was clear to her that all wizarding children had major head-start and she couldn't afford to fall behind any further and look like a fool in front of them all. She had been given this amazing and fortuitous opportunity and she refused to let it go to waste.

"So…do you know about the different houses?" Daphne asked.

"Oh, I think so," Hermione nodded. "Professor McGonagall explained briefly while she was at my home. There are four, right?"

"Yeah, Slytherin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw. It's meant to create some familial bonds between the students, I think. That's what my mom said anyway."

"I see. So, which one is…well, which one do you want to go to?"

Daphne snorted, taking Hermione by surprise. "Doesn't really matter, I'm pretty sure I'll be heading into Slytherin."

"And…that's bad?"

"Slytherin has a pretty bad reputation which is…mostly earned. Almost all bad wizards in British history have come from Slytherin house. It's where most pure-blooded wizards go due to prejudice. Not that all members of Slytherin are bad," she amended. "I know plenty of people from Slytherin who are decent enough. But there are still others who…well, they're not decent."

Hermione blinked, not quite sure how to respond to that. "Ok," she said after a moment. "What about the others?"

Daphne shrugged. "Honestly, they all have strengths and weaknesses. Gryffindors pride themselves on being brave but I've been told a lot of them are arrogant. Still, it is the house Professor Dumbledore belonged to, so…"

"Oh wow!" Hermione gushed. Professor McGonagall had only spoken briefly about Dumbledore but from her words it was clear he was a great man who had accomplished many things. He was someone else she wanted to research and learn more about.

"There's also Ravenclaw who I think are supposed to be the smart ones, the clever thinkers or whatever."

Hermione did her best to hide a grin. That seemed to be the one for her then. No doubt about it. Though, still, being the house of Gryffindor from where both Dumbledore and McGonagall came from…that was tempting.

"And Hufflepuff. Most people seem to look down on them but I heard they are more loyal than any other house so that's something. Still, I'm pretty sure I'm destined for Slytherin." Daphne sighed again. "Stuck with Malfoy and Parkinson and all the rest. Great."

Hermione assumed those names were of other kids her age she knew.

"Everyone makes their own way," Madam Malkin commented. "Don't worry so much, you'll find your place at Hogwarts. Now, that's you done dearie," she told Hermione. And just in time too as she saw her parents and Andrea returning.

"Bye then," Daphne said as Hermione stepped off the stool.

"Bye," Hermione waved. "I guess we'll see each other at school then."

"Guess so."

A few minutes later, Hermione walked out with her new robes for school in her brand new cauldron that Andrea had bought for her. She also had scales, phials, and a telescope set along with apparent potion ingredients which she could not wait to take a closer look at later.

"Now then, that's almost everything," Andrea said, looking over the list. "We'll need to get your parchment and quills which should be right next to Flourish and Blotts. Apparently, we'll save that for last given your, uh, tendencies when it comes to books," she said, glancing over at her parents.

Hermione flushed red. It was true, she spent way too long looking at books and tended to want to buy as many as she could carry and then some. So as much as she wanted to find that store and dive right into all the books there (that would tell her everything she needed to know about the wizarding world!), they should probably get everything else first.

"So that only leaves your wand," Andrea said, smiling. "That should be exciting."

Hermione's grin got wider. Yes, it most definitely was. For the first time, all thought of books left her mind, the idea of a wand in her hand driving everything else away.

Behind her, Mr. and Mrs. Granger couldn't help but chuckle at their daughter's enthusiasm. They had long passed the point where they knew this was not a hoax or elaborate prank. And they had to accept the fact that magic was real. Of course, there were things that made them want to back away. Everyone waving their wands around made them flinch every time. The strange creatures they saw almost made Mrs. Granger have a heart attack. And despite the cheerful and magical atmosphere that Diagon Alley permeated, they couldn't help but feel like outsiders. Which they kind of were.

But it was clear from Hermione's face that she didn't feel like that at all. She looked happier than they'd ever seen before. And so, despite both of them wanting to leave as soon as possible, they pushed that out of their minds and focused only on their daughter.

"Here we are," Andrea said, coming to a narrow and shabby stop right in front of a shop with the faded words 'Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C.' printed above it. "Nowhere better to get a wand."

Hermione frowned, this not being what she expected a wand shop to look like. If she was being honest, it would look like that bank they passed by to show off how important the contents within truly were. This shop made it look like it was selling used furniture or carpets or something, not anything as great as actual wizarding wands. But, perhaps looks were deceiving? She certainly hoped so.

They entered the shop, a bell dinging as they did so. Hermione stared at all the shelves packed to the brim with small, thin boxes which she assumed held the wands. Again, not the kind of shop she expected to be selling wands. She wasn't quite sure what it should look like, but definitely not this.

"Don't worry," Andrea said, as if she'd been reading Hermione's thoughts. "It may not look like much, but this is the best place to get wands. I got mine some years back and it hasn't failed me yet."

"Elm, nine inches, pegasus feather, and a bit firm if I'm not mistaken."

Hermione and her mum gave a synchronized shriek at the voice while her dad stumbled into a table, knocking a few boxes off and sending them tumbling to the floor. Andrea jumped and turned to the old man peering at them all with wide, pale eyes.

"Damn Ollivander, you shouldn't sneak up like that," Andrea said, letting out a breath.

"My apologies dear. Now, you young lady," he turned to Hermione who did her best not to back up. "I believe you are here for your wand, yes? Always a momentous occasion in a young witch's life."

"Yes," she said, overcoming her fear. "So…which one do I pick?" she asked, looking around the shop at the endless sea of boxes. Was she supposed to just pick one up? Was that how it worked? She hated feeling uncertain.

"Let's see, let's see," Ollivander said, walking over to her. "Which is your wand arm?"

"Your dominant hand," Andrea added helpfully.

"My right hand," she said, holding it up firmly.

Ollivander hummed as he pulled out a tape measure, the tool floating around easily as Ollivander read the results. The sight of this proved too much for her mother who took a seat in an old chair.

"You should know that every wand has a core of a powerful magical substance. From the hair of a unicorn to the scale of a hydra. No two are the same and you must know that while your wand will work for you, another witch or wizard's will not be so effective."

Hermione frowned at this information. She was still new to everything about magic but that didn't sound right. Wands were just tools, right? They were made to help channel inner magic, or at least that was what Professor McGonagall had been saying. So why wouldn't someone else's wand be as effective. She wanted to ask but he'd walked to the nearest shelf and had begun looking through them. He mumbled to himself before picking out one box that looked no different from the others and handing it over to her.

"Try this one. Vine, ten and three-quarters inches, dragon heartstring, quite firm."

Hermione took a breath before taking the wand and picking it up. As soon as she had, she felt this warm feeling envelop her hand and on instinct gave the wand a little wave. As soon as she did, blue sparks shot from it, causing them all to gasp.

"Remarkable," Ollivander commented. "It's been a while since I had a customer find their wand on the first try. Very fortuitous."

"Not bad," Andrea said. "Took me ten tries before I found mine."

Hermione looked down at her wand, the warm feeling now spreading through her entire body. She had a wand. She was actually a witch now, part of the greater wizarding world.

Her parents handed over the money and they walked out, Hermione staring at her wand the entire time. It was hard to believe that this small, thin piece of wood was capable of channeling magic and yet she could feel it. Like it was just waiting for her to use it. And she really wanted to. She was tempted to just start waving it around and let magic fly. But that would be irresponsible considering all the people around not to mention against the law that Professor McGonagall had warned them all about. She was strictly forbidden from using magic outside of school until she was of age, which for wizards and witches was 17. And apparently the rules would be stricter on her. Apparently, many wizarding children performed small bits of magic outside of school but the Ministry let it slide most of the time, letting the family deal with it. But for Muggle-borns, they would crack down hard to ensure the rules weren't broken. So there was no way Hermione could do it. She refused to do anything that would even come close to risking her chances of going to Hogwarts and becoming a witch.

So while she was still tempted to wave her wand around, it was also easy to push it to the side. Besides, they were now approaching the place she'd anticipated the most: the bookstore.

"Ok, now remember," her mother warned her before they went in. "There's a limit. We'll first get everything on the list and then…well, it depends on how much those cost. But don't go grabbing every book you see no matter how much you may want to."

"I know, I know," Hermione said quickly, eyes already scanning the store through the glass, trying to see all the different titles.

"Alright," he mom sighed. "Here we go."

The second she opened the door, Hermione rushed inside, coming to a stop at the first shelf, scanning through all the different sections and titles she could see. And she saw so much so quickly that it was hard to absorb it all.

History. Magical creatures. Spells. Potions. Plants. Famous witches and wizards. Wandmaking. Metalwork. There were books that covered everything and she didn't know where to start. She eventually landed on history of magic in Great Britain, figuring that she should at least absorb as much information about the wizarding world as possible. She was positive all the other students knew all of this so she needed to catch up fast. She read through the first few pages, already absorbing as much information as she could, before moving on to see what other books would be most useful to her.

"Here," Andrea stepped up beside her. "You'll need this." She pulled out a book and handed it to her, Hermione reading the title and realizing it was the Standard Book of Spells. "Oh and here's your transfiguration book. And this over here is your potions one. And this one you'll need as well. And then…"

They went through the store, collecting the different books and Hermione didn't think she could be any happier. When they'd collected all her necessary books and placed them in the bags, her parents looked like they could use a rest but Hermione still wanted to explore the shop some more.

"Why don't I take you to Fortescue's?" Andrea suggested. "It's an ice cream shop nearby."

"Oh, we're dentists," her parents immediately said.

"You're…what?" Andrea asked, confused.

"Dentists," her father repeated but Andrea just cocked her head, still not getting it. "You know, doctors who focus on people's teeth and help keep them clean and healthy. You…you don't have dentists in the, uh, wizarding world."

"No. We use magic for most ailments. No need for specialized doctors. But that sounds interesting. I've always been fascinated by the Muggle world. Tell you what, I think there's a coffee place nearby. Why don't we go there instead and let Hermione stay here for now and let her…do her thing. Then we'll come back in about an hour or so and you all can head home."

"Please!" Hermione pleaded.

"Alright," her mother nodded. "That's fine. But not too many books, Hermione. We already have a good amount. So if you want more, choose wisely."

"Ok!" she nodded back cheerfully, already holding two books under her arms. The history one and another she found about famous witches and wizards. As soon as her parents and Andrea had left, she pulled that one out and flipped to the page about Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts. She'd asked Andrea about him already and learned that many considered him to be the greatest wizard alive and even one of the greatest in history given everything he'd done. Now she was reading about all his accomplishments. While some she didn't understand, she got the gist of others. An accomplished warrior and duelist from his victory over the dark wizard Grindelwald. A magical researcher/scientist from his discovery of the twelve uses of dragon's blood. A leading figure in the wizarding ministry due to his place in the so-called Wizengamot. And so much more.

But as much as Hermione wanted to keep reading, there were plenty more books to find and new things to learn. She spent the rest of her time going through the bookstore, looking for as many books as she could that would help her grow accustomed to the wizarding world as quickly as possible. One book that immediately caught her interest was Hogwarts: A History. She picked it up and instantly knew this one would help her be prepared for Hogwarts. She skimmed it a little, learning a bit more about the houses Susan and Daphne had talked about.

The rest of her time passed quickly. She talked to the shopkeeper about the best books for Muggle borns and got a few more choices based on that. She met another new student named Percy Jackson who seemed nice enough. But after that, her parents came back informing her it was time to go. She was able to buy a large stack of books, all of which should get her ready for whatever came her way.

They thanked Andrea as they went back to the office, and Andrea wished Hermione the best of luck going forward. "Though with your smarts, I doubt you'll need it," she said and Hermione beamed.

She spent the rest of the day pouring through her new books, absorbing as much information as possible. She had gone so deep into it that her parents had to both remind her it was dinner and then later bedtime. She even took her book into the bathroom and lost track of time, leading to her mother knocking loudly on the door to tell her to come out.

"So, good day?" her father asked when she was tucked into bed.

"The best!" Hermione grinned. "I can't wait to go to Hogwarts! Just imagine, all the things I can do there. All the people as well!"

Her father smiled. Yes, all of this was well worth that look on her face. "I am so happy for you Hermione. Sweet dreams."

"Thanks dad."

That night, Hermione dreamed of flying to a large castle, her wand in hand. She saw Professor McGonagall waving at her and an old man who she instantly was Professor Dumbledore beckoning forward. She saw Susan and Daphne and Percy all there waiting with other students, guiding her in. And she knew, in her heart, that she was home.

Hey everybody, hope you liked Hermione's POV chapter. I had fun diving into her past so I hope this feels like her to you all. As for the additions to canon here and there like the Muggle-Born services there, I thought that that was something that should be there anyway.

As for Daphne Greengrass, I first heard about her in another fanfic and learned later she's actually canon. So I decided to just include her here and see where that goes. Anyway, hope you liked it and leave a review if you can.