A few hours later everyone under the age of 20 were encouraged to go to bed. Harry and Hermione put up no fight and went to the family floor. Once they were there, they entered Hermione's room.
The witch sat on her bed and Harry deftly swiveled the chair so he could sit on it with his front to its back while facing his sister.
"So what did both Mrs. Weasleys want?" Harry asked.
"Molly wanted to thank me personally for my part in saving Arthur. She even told me that since everyone but Ron found out about her drugging the food no one wrote home to ask for treats. So she was able to make some extra money with the unexpected bumper crop. She was very proud that she was able to make a little more than the stipend she was getting from your vaults. After that I suggested that she make some potions for St Mungos part time. She eventually told me she'd ask Cedrella to teach me about Magic like we had discussed on the train. That it would be my main Christmas present." Hermione told him.
"Huh. I expected her to maybe thank you, but not the other stuff. I'm glad she was able to make the money she was getting from my vault, I was kinda worried about them," Harry admitted.
"I know, but I figured that Mr. Weasley was making a decent amount despite them appearing being lower middle class," Hermione said.
"What do you mean?" Harry asked, "I thought they were poor. At least that's how Ron griped."
"Harry, Mr. Weasley is the only one working. He's making enough that he was able to support 9 people on his income alone. Sure they had to make do with hand me downs and second hand things, but they're all dressed, well fed, and they even have a few animals to help with that. They have to feed the animals too, so they have to pay for the feed for them too," Hermione explained.
"I didn't think about that… wouldn't things be easier now that Bill, Charlie, and Percy are out of the house though?" Harry asked.
"You would think, but brooms and books aren't cheap. Lockhart alone probably hurt them a lot financially" Hermione huffed, "They had to buy 4 whole sets, would have been 5 but you gave Ginny yours. That was 28 books for one subject. This year they were able to afford a new broom for Ron and new robes."
Harry ran his hand through his hair having never thought of that. When Hermione pointed out things like that he was able to see more that Ron was just upset he hadn't really had many new things to himself. He always complained about hand-me-downs and how since Ginny was a girl she got new things. Yet when Hermione pointed out those things he realized that Ron wouldn't really remember what life was like without a few brothers in Hogwarts.
"They had to make sure they had money for school things and cut corners on clothes," Harry realized.
Hermione tapped her nose.
"Ron sees that most of his peers have money, but a lot of them don't have siblings. Families can save a lot of money or spend more when there's only one child," Hermione stated.
"And in the wizarding world most families only have one kid –" Harry started
"Meaning they were able to save that money they would have spent on their family," Hermione finished.
Harry sighed, "Ron really is a pillock to not realize that."
"Kids aren't meant to notice those things, so I do understand why he complains; but the rest of the Weasley kids seem to be more financially knowledgeable than him," Hermione stated, "Ron is just willfully ignorant."
Harry huffed since he knew that was true. Ron was barely pulling Acceptables in their first year before they befriended Hermione. He was sure his grades had dropped since neither him or Hermione were letting him copy their homework.
"I'm gonna go to bed, I'll see you in the morning," Harry said standing up and stretching.
"Night," Hermione replied before flopping back on her bed.
"Night," Harry chuckled as he left her room.
Hermione woke up early to make sure everything was as it should be before getting ready for the day. She was anxious about how Severus would react to her telling him she would be gone for a few hours. Hours that would in truth be… years. She wouldn't see her family or master for a whole 7 years. She hoped she wouldn't change too much… Maybe she could convince Cedrella or Narcissa to let her see Severus and Harry at least once a year during that time. She knew that even monks could contact their family and spend a bit of time with them… She wasn't a monk though; she was a witch.
Hermione sighed to herself. She knew she agreed and she would follow through. She would be honest and tell Severus, her parents, and Harry. Not entirely in that order, and hopefully all at once. They deserved to know why she would suddenly be overly affectionate with them. She also had to study for the rest of her NEWTs.
She would do what had to be done. Maybe she could pack a few books for the trip…
At 10am she heard Molly yell to wake her brood up. Hermione knew she didn't wake them until breakfast was done and ready. She quickly knocked on Harry's door before bursting in.
"Harry, Mrs. Weasley is done making breakfast. Better get up and down there before most of it is gone," she told her brother.
Harry groaned, "I heard," but got himself up, his hair messier than usual. He had taken his shirt off before he went to sleep and Hermione rolled her eyes. Even on the family floor Hermione didn't feel comfortable sleeping in less than a full set. She did notice that he kept his pajama bottoms on though.
"I know you mean their mum, but two Mrs. Weasleys is confusing," Harry said as he stretched and then put on deodorant before putting on a pastel green button up shirt. He buttoned all but the top 3.
"Cedrella told me to call her Ella, the Weasley kids will call them Mum or Grandmum respectively, and Sirius will just call them by their first names," Hermione replied, her tone trying to convene that she was trying but also helpless.
"Oh, so only I have to call them both Mrs. Weasley. That's a bit easier," Harry admitted sassily before pulling his pants down.
Hermione turned around while her brother struggled to put on pants and rolled her eyes at him.
"You can look now, they're on," he alerted her.
Hermione turned and saw that he had grabbed black slacks and nodded. He tried to brush his hair and at least got it to look tussled. Overall, he had a tired debonair air about him. The curly haired witch couldn't really say much, she was wearing a periwinkle blue colored maxi dress that cinched at the waist and reached her feet with her apprentice robes over it.
"We look good, let's go eat," Harry said as he tugged her by her wrist and led them to the stairs.
When they entered the kitchen, they noticed that aside from Ginny they were still the first of the Hogwarts students there. Arthur and Sirius were reading the paper, Molly was puttering as she did, and Cedrella was daintily dipping a breakfast cookie into her tea.
"Morning," Harry and Hermione said before sitting down. They were met with spattering of morning greetings.
Molly had placed plates of food in front of them before she went back to her puttering.
"Thank you, Mrs. Weasley," they chimed.
Cedrella looked up only to notice they weren't speaking to her, but Molly.
"Oh, you're welcome, I just wanted to make sure you both ate before you left with Severus," Molly replied.
"Speaking of Snape, did he forget to mention me in the patronus last night?" Sirius asked. His anxiety over the coming events was clear for all to see.
Hermione tried not to roll her eyes at the wizard, "Considering I don't know where my master was or who was near him when he sent it, I can't tell you why."
That seemed to mollify Sirius though, "Oh right. I forgot he has to be more careful than the rest of us."
Hermione could see in the corner of her eye that Cedrella did roll her eyes at Sirius's statement. Both sides knew Severus was a spy, but Cedrella was an Unspeakable, being careful and secretive was her bread and butter.
They ate in relatively silence, the noise of cutlery on plates and turning of the newspaper their background noise. At least until the twins came down after something sounded like it blew up in what Hermione assumed was Ron's room. However, the shake that would accompany such an explosion never came.
"What was that!?" Molly screamed as she turned and pointed the wooden spatula at her sons.
"We were only helping him wake up," Fred said.
"Don't worry it wasn't a dungbomb, just a noisemaker," George added.
"Noisemaker?" Cedrella asked.
"It's a triangle, but we made it so that when you hit it with the accompanied beater, it makes a loud explosion noise," Fred proudly said.
"If you don't have the accompanied beater it just makes regular triangle noises," George added.
"Also if you just have the beater and try to hit it against something, it doesn't do much other than make a light tapping noise," Fred finished.
"We did base the explosion sound after a small dungbomb though," they said sheepishly.
"I think you boys should hold off on selling that one," Cedrella said taking a sip of her.
"Why?" they echoed.
"With the war on it'll be a great distraction for anyone who buys. As business men you have no say on what your clientele choose to use your products for. And it may bring an unfavorable look if they were being used by terrorists," Cedrella answered calmly.
They both nodded and sighed.
"If you guys do want to sell things like that, I would suggest that you let the Order buy them first, and then I'll see if the DMLE will want to buy anything," Sirius suggested.
"You can't be serious!" Molly howled.
"Deadly," Sirius said from behind the paper, "Albus decided that we shouldn't using anything lethal, we could use the distractions to save ourselves."
Cedrella hummed clearly unamused.
"Being distracted in a fight could prove fatal. Distracting your opponent could give you an element of surprise," she muttered loudly.
Molly was clearly ruffled before her shoulders sagged. The redheaded witch moved to physically clean dishes.
"I know we can trust you, Mum," Molly said, "However I don't feel it is appropriate to talk about the Order in front of you as you are not a member. Besides I'd rather keep this kind of talk away from my children."
"Molly, don't be like the common rabble at the Ministry. They all want to stick their heads in the sand and wait for it all to blow over. War is cruel and merciless. Trying to protect your kids from reality could very well get them killed. They should be able to protect themselves, at least enough until they find help," Cedrella said cooly as she dipped another cookie in her tea, "The other choice would make them sitting ducks. I don't want to see any more of my family die from anything other than old age."
"They are safe at Hogwarts!" Molly blustered.
Cedrella scoffed, "So safe Albus hasn't reached out to a Wards Master to check up on the wards that protect the children since he was promoted Headmaster. Wards need to be checked every so often to make sure they still work and nothing altered them. Good wards tap into ley lines and Hogwarts is on a Nexus of them. Ley lines are also wild magic. Hecate knows what state they're in."
Hermione chose that moment to take a bite of her toast. While she very much agreed with Cedrella, having been in a ridiculous amount of danger while attending Hogwarts. Danger that the parents should have been told about, but never were. Hogwarts wasn't safe. However, them talking about wards and ley lines made her anxious. She could look at them and fix them if she had access to them, but didn't want anyone else to know about her affinity. Harry nudged her with his leg feeling her anxiety. Hermione pressed her leg back reassuringly.
Sirius chose that moment to put down the newspaper.
"Hogwarts used to be safe. It wasn't safe when I was a student though. Just because the war was happening outside didn't mean there weren't wanna-be Death Eater students inside. They would torture other students, mostly muggleborn. Then there were those like my friends and I who did something about it. We weren't much better though, we targeted dark aligning families and students too. Slytherins we swept with a blanket of prejudice and considered them all future Death Eaters," he said clearly, "Something I can honestly say I'm mostly ashamed of now. Some of our peers didn't deserve it and we actually sent them straight into You-Know-Who's arms once they graduated."
At that moment Severus entered the kitchen.
"I'm glad your viewpoint has shifted to reality," Severus said.
Cedrella nodded, "I was Slytherin and the Houses weren't so divisive in my time. There was typical Quidditch rivalry and Family rivalries, but not the animosity I've noticed lately."
"How would you know?" Molly asked tightly.
"Hogwarts graduates usually come looking for work if we're not waiting for them. Since they're recently out of school most of the stories they tell are about their time at Hogwarts. Or at least when you make conversation with them," Cedrella stated neutrally.
Severus rolled his eyes knowing how gossip worked, being surrounded by it all year round. Besides once the students graduated, they could only speak about their experiences at Hogwarts and rarely from home. Boarding school for 7 years with only 2 months per year spread out to visit family would do that.
"Apprentice, Potter, Black, we will be leaving shortly. I hope you packed, and if you have not done so make it quick. Our portkey is there timed, the return key is word activated," he said.
Hermione smiled at Sirius, who looked a little relieved to hear that he would be leaving with them.
"Harry, do you need to grab anything?" Hermione asked.
"I don't think so. My school stuff is in my trunk and I have my wand. We have clothes and stuff at home," Harry said.
What went unsaid was their stuff was on the family floor anyways and no one aside from them and possibly Cedrella would be able to access it.
Hermione hummed, "Likewise" before she looked at Severus, "We're ready, Master."
"I packed a suitcase so I just need to grab it," Sirius said.
"I will wait in the hallway for you then," Severus said calmly.
"Why don't you have some breakfast?" Molly said.
"No thank you, I ate before I came here," Severus replied.
"I've made a pot of coffee if you'd like a cup," Cedrella said conversationally.
Severus paused for a moment, "If it wouldn't be any trouble."
"None at all," Cedrella said.
Molly hurriedly went and got a mug for the dark wizard.
"Here you are," she said as she passed it over to him.
Severus nodded, "Thank you."
"Now why would you need a portkey? From what Hermione told us her house is in London," Molly asked, her tone held one of suspicion and curiosity.
"Their home is in London, but her parents decided to use their Holiday home for the Holiday," Severus said.
Molly blushed in embarrassment, "I'm sorry I tend to forget that Hermione comes from Old Money."
"Which is the way they want it," he replied.
Cedrella hummed in approval.
"After Septimus died, I moved to our Holiday home permanently. My son Hollow decided to stay at the manor and raised his family there. Arthur could have done so as well, but Molly wanted privacy," Cedrella said casually.
Hermione and Severus caught Molly stiffening at her mother-in-law's words.
"I love to cook and I wanted to take care of my children myself instead of just having house-elves do it," Molly announced stiffly, "The elves always go behind my back to do it their way. I didn't like it, so we left."
Hermione watched Cedrella roll her eyes.
"Mum always said we were too rowdy to visit," George said.
"Nonsense! I always love when you visit. It was after you almost buried your brother Ronald that your mother decided the beach wasn't safe for you," Cedrella said swiftly.
"I can't tell if that would make it our fault or mum's fault," Fred said.
"Both," Ginny answered.
"What do you mean by that, Ginevra?" Molly asked hotly.
"Fred and George did what they do best and caused trouble, and you got a little overprotective and decided no one could go to the beach ever again because of it. We're all in Hogwarts now, we should be allowed to go the beach, especially since Grandmum has a house that's a floo away," Ginny answered, clearly not impressed.
"Yeah, besides it's not like we don't cause trouble at home –"
"Or here –"
"Or Hogwarts –"
"We should be allowed to visit Grandmum Cella on Holidays." The twins chimed.
Molly's face was flushed red.
"I don't mind, Molly. You can send 2 at a time if it makes you feel better. I have to teach Ronald and Ginny anyways. Plus then I can go over the boys' arithmancy and thought process to see if they'll work or explode. I do have a lovely potions lab and a greenhouse," Cedrella said.
Cedrella was greatly understating her potions lab and greenhouse. It was a potions master's dream lab and with her private greenhouse she had many rare plants as well as common agents. Some of her plants attracted magical creatures, which worked fine for her as they were more potion ingredients for her. They weren't connected, as Cedrella wanted to encourage creature visitors, without needing to deal with it at night. It helped that they were indicators that her plants were healthy. Some creature visits even benefited her plants.
"I think it would be good for them," Arthur said with finality.
Just like that Molly's sails seemed to deflate, "I just want them safe."
"They'll be safe, Molly," Cedrella said, "It's not like my home is open to the public. Arthur knows this."
"They'll be safe Molls," Arthur reassured his wife.
Molly nodded clearly defeated. She knew they were both right. Cedrella had her holiday home unplottable, only way to enter was with a clear invitation. No one could suddenly floo to her home, apparate in, it was very safe in that regard. She had to extend the invitation and then allow access. With her being an Unspeakable it allowed her a lot of legal leeway and privacy.
"Ready!" Sirius yelled excitedly.
Hermione and Harry bit their lips to stop themselves from laughing at the stark difference. They still ended up snickering at the childish wizard.
"Since Black is all set, I believe we can leave," Severus announced before drinking the rest of his coffee, "Thank you for the coffee."
"You're welcome. Have a great time," Cedrella said with a smile.
"Thanks, you too," Sirius yelled, drowning out the responses of Harry and Hermione, while grinning.
Severus rolled his eyes as he pulled out a small wooden bucked from his robe pocket. He tapped it with his wand, enlarging its size.
"Everyone, grab hold," Severus said firmly.
Everyone grabbed part of the handle and held tightly. Less than a minute later they felt the telltale pull behind their navels. When they arrived, Harry was glad they landed on the ground and he didn't have to suffer the embarrassment of falling.
"Where are we?" Sirius asked.
"France," Hermione said calmly.
"We're in a French Ministry approved portkey location," Severus said, "From here I'm going to apparate my Apprentice and Potter to the location, then I'll come back for you and get you."
Sirius made a face but nodded.
Hermione grabbed Severus's arm and Harry quickly grabbed the other after a second of hesitation. It wasn't that he didn't trust Snape, he did now, it was just that he hadn't ever willingly touched the man before.
With a whisper they were gone. Thankfully Sirius didn't need to start pacing as Severus returned in less than a minute. Severus quickly grabbed his sleeve and apparated them to edge of the wards of the chateau.
Once they were there Sirius couldn't help but be surprised that he was standing in front of a castle. He quickly turned around thinking it might have been the view across the street, but found that it was quite a way's way to the end of the driveway.
"I knew mentally that Hermione was royalty, but it didn't click until now that we're at their castle in France," Sirius said with wide eyes.
"They don't live opulently; you've seen their home in London. This is their Holiday home, they call it The Chateau," Severus said walking towards the front door.
Sirius nodded and followed the other wizard while looking at his surroundings. The castle itself was a bit remote and afforded privacy. Letting his magic out a bit to get a feel of the land, he was surprised to feel wards up.
Sirius tentatively took out his wand to check out what kind of ward he was dealing with. One of the wide range of things taught by the Auror Academy. It was a ward identification spell. No need to walk into one without knowing if it could turn your blood into acid and die.
The grey eyed wizard almost fell down laughing. He quickly pulled himself together and walked into the ward. Severus nodded and walked into the ward and towards the chateau.
"Who did she hire to put up the wards?" Sirius asked.
Severus looked at him coolly from the corner of his eyes, "I'm not sure, they were up before I was invited."
"You didn't ask her?" Sirius asked.
"I didn't need to. The ward offers protection, sends away those with malicious intent, and purifies those who may be under a potion or spell. You of all people know it's rude to ask a witch or wizard who they hired for their wards," Severus answered with a sniff.
Sirius had the decency to blush, "You have me there. I was just wondering in case I needed to add that specific one to my own house."
Severus' eyebrows rose as he was very aware of what Sirius was saying, and for once it didn't involve him being the end all be all evil wizard next to Voldemort.
"I believe that if you ask my apprentice she may tell you, however if she doesn't that's her decision," Severus said.
Sirius nodded in acceptance and walked next to the dark wizard.
"I take it she knows that you'll most likely be her future husband?" Sirius asked.
Severus nodded with a slight blush, "We spoke of it as soon as we found out. We also informed her parents of it as well."
Sirius's eyebrows rose in surprise, "They took it well?"
"Better than expected. They've accepted that I will one day be part of their family. I'm included in family functions and activities. It was her mother who asked me to consider it," Severus answered.
Sirius made a look that clearly said he was impressed as he nodded his head.
Once they made it to the entrance, they noticed the door was left open and walked in. Severus closed the door behind them.
"We're in the first parlor!" Hermione called out.
Severus walked to the room with Sirius following closely behind. Sirius whistled low when he saw the chandelier. It was clearly new, and he was sure the crystals were real.
Abigail and Leeroy were sitting on a loveseat, across from them on a sofa was Hermione and Harry cuddled closely together even though there was space. There were two chairs available to be sat in.
Harry stood up when he saw Severus, "You can sit next to Mia, I'll sit next to the mutt."
Severus nodded his thanks and traded spots with the young wizard.
"Hermione said she had something very important to talk about with us," Leeroy said.
Severus looked at his witch who was chewing on her bottom lip again and raised an eyebrow.
The curly haired witch took a breath and let it out, clearly calming her inner anxiety.
"Cedrella made me an offer I couldn't refuse. Before the year is out, I will be taking my NEWTs. The 28th and 29th, so I have time to enjoy the holiday and study. Cedrella said she would make the appointments. Then we're going to go to Gringotts on the 30th where we're going to rent a time room. Cedrella said Sirius said he'll be paying for the room and potion. Once I'm in there she and Narcissa will be teaching me about magic and I'll be learning magical combat. An hour in there is a year. I'll be in there for 7 hours…" Hermione said, trailing off at the end.
Harry whistled low, "I would ask to join, but I know that I wouldn't be able to keep up."
Abagail looked at Leeroy, her eyes crinkled with worry, he noticed her look and nodded.
"We're supportive of your choices. I know that if you had been raised in a magical household we would have done your combat training ourselves. We taught you how to extract yourself from dangerous situations, but now you'll be learning how to put them down. We don't like how you'll be aging 7 years. 7 years is a long time, people change, and you'll only be seeing 2 other witches the whole time. We're worried returning to regular society after will leave you a little jumpy." Leeroy said.
Severus looked at his witch and knew it was something that she weighed the pros and cons about before deciding on this. For them it would be 7 hours, which was a while, but not uncommon to be out that long. He had heard about the room and the price was so steep he understood why it wasn't used often.
"I was recently at a meeting, and the Dark Lord said he wanted Narcissa to teach you the Dark Arts. However, with both Cedrella and Narcissa, I am confident that you won't fall prey to its seductive nature. Narcissa had planned on having me take you out occasionally for training at a cottage at Thurso. Originally, he had been considering Bellatrix," Severus stated.
Sirius glared at Severus, "Bellatrix? The mad bitch, that's unfortunately my cousin, in Azkaban?"
Severus nodded, "I've already informed Albus, he knows that the Dark Lord plans on freeing his incarcerated Death Eaters. He has no plans to stop it or even warn the DMLE. Not that it matters much since Yaxley is already on the inside."
Sirius's face turned stormy.
"Albus knows?" Sirius asked darkly.
Severus nodded solemnly.
"That fucking old goat fucker!" Sirius spat, "I knew that Yaxley avoided it by claiming he was under the imperius, like many others. Amelia knows that I never want to be partnered with him. She knows that I know what it takes to take the Dark Mark, but since everyone is a pureblood, they're allowed to reject Vertiserum."
Harry looked upset and agreed with Sirius.
"Why didn't Cedrella offer to teach Harry at the same time instead of in the summer though?" Sirius asked.
Hermione shrugged her shoulders.
"I think because it'll be one lesson after another. Hermione will be learning how to respect magic, the dark arts, society lessons, and probably a thorough education on the sacred 28," Severus said.
"I know I only just met Mrs. Weasley, the one with dark hair, but are you sure she'll be okay teaching Hermione?" Harry asked.
Sirius nodded, "Cedrella is mostly sane. Even Mum, Dorea Potter, was mostly sane."
"You keep saying mostly sane," Abigail said.
"The Blacks are subject to Black Madness. If they're properly trained, they can avoid it. It's because Black family affinity, their branch of magic that blessed them, is Dark magic, it's called the Dark Arts," Sirius answered, "Madness usually takes form in aggression. We're raised to believe we're the cream of the crop. The most influential, wealthy, dangerously powerful, and closer to magic than the average wizard. My childhood wasn't short on lessons, so I flourished under the freedom that I had at Hogwarts. Some areas more than others. Dark magic makes our blood sing. Even a simple first year hex can appease it, but the darker, the happier our magic is. I personally never wanted to be a dark wizard, I fought against everything my family believed in. I ended up being a different kind of dark wizard anyways... I raised through the ranks in the Auror Department, I've been promoted to Hit Wizard. My job is respectable, but I am still technically a dark wizard," Sirius explained.
Severus nodded, "Cedrella and Narcissa are both sane. I know Andromeda is also sane. Sane enough that I know that they haven't fallen to the Dark Arts."
"Bellatrix was allergic to an ingredient in the Black family remedy," Harry said.
Sirius looked at Harry and squinted his eyes at him.
"My boyfriend told us," Harry said with a blush, "He said it was one of the worst kept secrets for a while."
Sirius nodded, "I heard that rumor and thought it was false. My parents never said anything, but then again, she wasn't their problem. I didn't think it was possible for a Black to be allergic to the remedy."
"What is the remedy anyways?" Harry asked.
"It's a special blend herbs. It can be taken as tea or blended into a paste that's then watered down to look like a potion. It's non-addictive, so when we have company over for tea, it's typically that blend," Sirius said.
Severus stared at Sirius hard while he was furiously thinking.
"Narcissa has been giving the Dark Lord that blend of tea. When he was at his height, he looked normal and was still charismatic, but he was also extremely mad. Narcissa would never serve tea that her sister wouldn't be able to drink. Bellatrix being in Azkaban is what is keeping the Dark Lord sane enough that he isn't having random killing sprees," Severus divulged.
Sirius facepalmed, "If it's making him less mad, then it's his magic. He needs to keep drinking that tea. It'll probably be worse for the Order, but if it saves some lives…"
Severus nodded.
"What happens when Bellatrix is uh, release? I don't know the word, but I don't think Narcissa would serve a drink that her sister can't drink when in mixed company," Harry asked.
Sirius and Severus grimaced, he was correct.
"I'll have to speak with her and ensure that he continues to drink it. I don't think it'll be too hard, if anything I can probably make it seem as though he is given a different drink simply because he is the Dark Lord," Severus said.
Sirius pursed his lips, "I don't see why you don't have her serve it and then do a switching spell so the remedy will take her out before she does damage."
Hermione rolled her eyes at him, "Yes because killing Bellatrix during a meeting, or even just giving her a severe allergic reaction that isn't deadly, is going to keep my master safe. Why don't you just keep a satchel of it or even the paste potion version, and spell it into her stomach yourself?"
Sirius gave her a look, "I hadn't considered that, and now I wish I had. I mean she's still in Azkaban, I can go to remove her from the Family and then add it to the water in her food tray."
Hermione and Abagail's mirror expressions were clearly not amused. Harry and Leeroy found it quite amusing as Hermione seemed to have Abagail's temper. Sirius could tell immediately that he would be outvoted on anything unless the women agreed. Leeroy and Harry had made peace with it quite some time ago. Harry still had moments of stubbornness, but thankfully he deferred to Hermione in most things. It didn't make him less of a leader, but a better one. He had a trusted advisor, who also happened to be his sister and the brightest witch of their age.
"As much as I would enjoy a threat being neutralized sooner than later, even I find it distasteful to do that to someone already in prison," Leeroy said.
"Besides, you would immediately be pegged as the asshole who killed their cousin in prison, or tried too anyways. No, you wait for her to be broken out, and then you can spell it into her. For all anyone else knows, you had it on your person for yourself," Abagail said with a huff.
Sirius took a moment to actually consider Abagail's words. Bellatrix suddenly dying, they would find out why during the autopsy before they transfigured her skin back together after. Harry's boyfriend told him it was a poorly kept secret, so those who knew would be suspicious immediately when they found out. At least he hoped the reaction was fatal, otherwise they had allergy potions to help with that.
"Fine! I won't do it while she's in Azkaban, but I do need to see her to remove her from the Black Family officially. I thought I'd been disowned because of my mother, but father never made it official with my Uncle Alphard. I've been appointed the new Head of House Black," Sirius said.
Severus raised a brow at that. He was skeptical, but only because of Lucius's boasting. While Lucius was just as much a peacock as his peahens, he only told Severus what he thought was the truth. In the beginning of their friendship and eventual brotherhood, Severus double and triple checked everything behind Lucius's back. Eventually it turned into a double check, or even cursory checks.
Narcissa however always just smiled at Draco whenever Lucius said it.
Sirius noticed and nodded, "It's true, I even have the ring," Sirius said before he showed off the Head of House Black ring.
It was a signet ring of silver with onyx in the face, while the crest was cut emerald. The Black crest had a skull on top and a three crows circled around a wand.
"A murder of crows, how fitting," Hermione said with a quirk of her lips.
"Ha ha. The only benefits are being wealthy and having a vote in the Wizengamot now," Sirius said.
"Does Narcissa know? Lucius has been telling his son that he was the next heir Black," Severus asked intensely.
Sirius paused before answering, he could tell the answer was important but didn't know why.
"She should, but she still hasn't been around to help me redecorate the place," Sirius said, "However we have kept in contact. As much as I hate Malfoy, I know that Narcissa is a Black through and through. If she could have kept the name Black, she would have."
Severus nodded, "Then it's possible that she knows, but I do know that Draco and Lucius don't."
"Well Sirius is just gonna have to burst their bubble," Harry said deadpanned.
Sirius grinned mischievously, "I already put a few things in motion. At this point in time, if I were to kick the bucket, Harry and Hermione would get most of my wealth, and St Mungos gets 1/4, of course I have it set so Black family members still get their monthly stipends. Heir apparent is Bill Weasley."
Hermione and Harry were surprised, but happily so. While Harry felt he could do without the money, he appreciated the offer.
"Why wouldn't Bill get most of the wealth then?" Hermione asked.
"Because, as much as it pains me, if I gave all that to the Weasleys they would be new money," Sirius said with a wince.
"New money?" Harry asked.
Hermione made a face and nodded, "New money is when someone who is not from old money gets an amount that would equal or rival what old money has. Then they spend it all. At least the stupid ones do."
"They also tend to be flashy and gaudy," Severus said with a sniff.
Harry immediately understood and knew Ron would be the best, or worst, example. When Ron caught more than a handful of leprechaun gold, he immediately tried to pay Harry back for a gift and grabbed as much as he could pocket. When the leprechaun gold disappeared and Harry didn't notice, Ron was quick to sour.
"Wouldn't I be considered new money?" Harry asked.
"No, you're too humble," Hermione answered quickly.
Abagail and Leeroy laughed at their kids' interaction. With one sentence their daughter had both reassured her brother and also slapped his proverbial hand down.
Sirius joined in on the laughter.
"Let's decorate the tree. I had Leeroy set up the tree and the lights, but I didn't put on any ornaments," Abagail said happily.
"Wake up it's Christmas!" Sirius shouted down the family hall.
The chateau occupants slowly rose and went to the kitchen table first, with Sirius basically bouncing around them.
"If you were in dog form, I'm sure your tail would be a helicopter," Abagail said dryly.
Sirius then turned into a dog and his tail was indeed wagging like crazy. It cheered up the grumpy occupants, who were quickly greeted with pancakes as well as the option of a full English breakfast plated down the center of the table.
"I think we should have breakfast first, before presents. Thimi was up before any of us, it would only be right," Abagail said.
"No dogs at the table," Severus said firmly.
Sirius quickly shifted back, "You're no fun."
"I like not having dog hair in my food, nor do I want to be subject to the abysmal eating habits of dogs," Severus said.
"Not a dog person?" Leeroy asked.
"I am very much a feline inclined individual. As much as that pains me to say as they're willful and stubborn creatures," Severus said.
"Snape's just saying that cause Hermione is a jaguar," Harry said with a smile he was trying to hide behind his hand.
Hermione's eyes went wide. While she remembered she had told them in a letter of her achievement, they didn't ask for photos.
Abagail stopped her fork's ascension. She had completely forgotten that her daughter told her about achieving her animagus form and she was excited to show them in person. Abagail quickly put the fork in her mouth and chewed before opening her mouth again.
"After breakfast," Abagail said looking at her children.
"Yes, Mum" they chimed.
"Harry, do you have an animagus form?" Leeroy asked.
Harry shook his head, "Hermione, Luna, and the Weasley twins did it together. While I want to, I don't have the academic brilliance they do. If it wasn't my OWL year, then definitely."
Sirius and Hermione snorted.
"Something you'd like to share with the class?" Abagail asked dryly.
Sirius and Hermione looked at each other before Sirius gestured for her to go first.
"The Weasley twins are brilliant, but not academically. On purpose too," Hermione huffed, "The Weasley twins had their own hurdle, while Luna had to wait for the right time, mine happened in a moment of territorial fury. If Harry decides to undertake it, he'll have 6 people willing to help him at Hogwarts, and 2 here."
"It's easier with guidance, and it doesn't really take much other than finding your inner self and accepting it," Sirius said.
Severus rolled his eyes, "There's also the potion you need take at a specific time with weather permitting."
Sirius shook his head, "I almost forgot about the potion. Having a mandrake leaf in your mouth for a whole month always was the hardest restart. Remus eventually had to use a sticking charm on it for the roof of our mouths."
"Restart?" Hermione asked with laughter.
"Laugh it up. We swallowed our leaves a few times. I swallowed mine 5 times before I let Remus cast the charm," Sirius laughed.
"Don't worry, Harry. When you start, I'll make sure I have the leaf, sticking charm, and potion ready for you," Hermione said.
They ate their breakfast that was peppered with happy banter.
"Presents!" Sirius yelled once everyone had finished.
He quickly turned into a dog and was barking and jumping around people, but not on them.
"C'mon y' old mutt," Harry said with laughter.
"Before we open them, I want to see Hermione's animagus form!" Leeroy said over the noise.
Hermione smirked at Severus as she swiftly and casually transformed into her jaguar form. She happily headbutted everyone there.
"Oh Hermione, you're beautiful," Abagail said, choked up.
Leeroy nodded, very impressed, "Very befitting, my hellion."
Hermione bonked her head heavy against her dad and rubbed her face on his legs with a 'Mrrr' sound.
"Severus, do you have an animagus form?" Abagail asked.
Severus nodded, "I'm registered, but not many people know about it. I know the chances of you being kidnapped and held ransom are slim, but never zero. Only 5 people know, and Mia is one of them. As you live in France and will one day be my in-laws, I suppose upping that number to 9 is acceptable."
Severus quickly turned into a jaguar. His form was clearly strong, and while Hermione was fine having fun and looking cute, Severus put on no such airs. He walked deliberately and transformed back once in the living room.
Abagail smirked smugly at Leeroy, who rolled his eyes with a smile. Abagail had said a while ago that Severus and Hermione were perfect for each other once you got over the age gap. Leeroy had agreed and still lamented about it from time to time. However, both of them being the same animal? That didn't happen often. In fact, it was quite rare for a couple to be the same animal if they were animagi.
They were all quickly seated, Harry, Hermione and Sirius were on the floor. Sirius was handing presents under the tree to Harry, who would read the name and then pass it to Hermione to organize. Hermione quickly had everyone's presents piled neatly.
"That's all of them!" Sirius shouted happily.
"Harry's dogfather is lying," Thimi said, "I have the stockings here."
"Oh! I can't believe I missed those!" Sirius exclaimed.
"Come on, Thimi. You have your own pile of presents too." Hermione said as she patted the space next to her.
"I h-have presents?" Thimi squeaked.
"Of course you do, we even got Dobby presents," Harry said.
"This is your pile," Hermione said, "And thank you for breakfast."
Hermione slid over the small pile of presents, one from each of the family. Thimi sat on the floor next to her mistress and carefully read who gave her presents. Everyone here, except Sirius, had gotten her something. Her eyes watered for a moment before she was able to clear them.
"Thank you," She said softly.
Various calls of 'You're welcome' were her response.
Thimi carefully opened her presents while everyone else ripped their presents open.
From her Mistress Hermione, she received new potion ingredients and a new cauldron. Accompanied was a gift from Potions Master Snape, which was a journal for her to write her recipes down as well as the first half being filled with basic potion recipes and how to improve them. From Master Harry she received a rainbow of embroidery thread and 100 galleons to spend as she pleased. Mistress Abagail had given her a beautiful set of real pearls, clip on earrings and a necklace. Finally Master Leeroy had gifted her a set of imported kitchen knives as well as knives used to cut potions.
Hermione had received the same potion knives and grinned at Thimi.
"We got the same set," Hermione giggled.
Thimi grinned at her mistress. She had a family that loved her and took great care of her. They even bought her presents like a real member of the family. Thimi loved her family.
Harry's hair looked messier than normal. He also looked more frazzled than usual.
"Are you okay, Harry?" Abagail asked kindly.
"Yes? No? I don't know!" Harry said in frustration.
"Okay, why not start at the beginning?" Abagail said gently.
"Mia is studying for her OWLS and NEWTS, and cramming Mia is scary. I'm just thankful that she did Defense Against the Dark Arts already, and she has Potions in the bag too. She's just stressing, and it's making me stress, and I only have to study for half of what she is doing. I tried to help, but I couldn't figure half of it out! And I can feel her anxiety and determination and it's a lot!" Harry said in a rush.
Abagail nodded in understanding. Pretest Hermione happened to morph in behavior from ladylike to herding a scared kitten into a crate; lots of hissing and poofing up, with some claw strikes for scary pizazz. The euphemism wasn't lost on her.
"Take a moment, grab a snack from Thimi, then you can bring up some cocoa with marshmallows. She'll calm down for a little bit," Abagail told Harry.
Harry nodded, "Kay. Thanks, Mum."
"You're welcome, Harry," Abagail said with a beaming smile.
Having Harry call her Mum was always going to cheer her up. She hadn't expected him to take to that so soon. She expected it to be years, if ever.
"Is Severus with her right now?" Leeroy asked from behind Abagail.
"Yeah, and he's been helping her calm down a lot by yelling questions at her," Harry said.
Leeroy 'Hmm'ed and approval of Severus's methods. When Hermione fretted, she needed a shock of 'demand' to recall the fact without over thinking.
"Well, I'm going to go see if I can help her any. I have the exact questions that will be on the tests," Leeroy said smugly.
"Well don't just stand there all proud of yourself, I'll ask how later. Now go give that to our daughter now!" Abagail said sternly.
Leeroy saluted his wife and went to go give the potions duo the questions. He knocked on the door frame before walking in.
"I'm knocking out of courtesy, but establishing my dominance as the Dad of the House by coming in an open room anyways."
Everyone could hear Abagail and Harry snort.
"I have something invaluable to you at the moment. I have the questions that will be on all the NEWTs available," Leeroy said with a smirk.
Hermione may as well have pounced on him, as she was in front of him in a blink with an intense look in her eyes.
"Aht! Before I give it to you, did you both eat? Did you both drink water?" He asked them.
Hermione and Severus glared at him, but nodded.
"Thimi has been making sure we don't go without while I cram," Hermione said.
"Good. I know Severus knows the potions portion like the back of his hand, but I do know that you're taking on much more than that. Just because you're no longer taking Divination, doesn't mean I don't know that you're taking the rest of the classes that you can anyways."
Hermione had the decency to blush beet red. Her father was correct of course. While she stopped taking Divination, and thus the key to using a time turner, she didn't stop taking the other classes. She loved Arithmancy and Runes. At least Arithmancy was good for spell and potion creation. Her art class and music classes were therapeutic, and thankfully didn't have an OWL or NEWT counterpart.
"Y'know, once you're done, you can graduate from Hogwarts," Leeroy said.
Hermione nodded, "But I'm not going to. I'll stay at Hogwarts and even though I'll have my OWLs and NEWTs, I still want to keep the extra classes that I take."
Severus rolled his eyes, "While you'd be able to test out of Hogwarts, it's best to stay to graduate with your year mates. Part of it is social networking, which I think Narcissa will teach you. I know Cedrella only covered a small bit of what you will be taught, as you'll have seven years alone with private tuition from extremely knowledgeable and crafty witches."
"What would that be?" Harry asked.
"They're going to give Hermione the education they got as children. As soon as they can walk, they're taught how to comport themselves in all things. I thought seven years might have been for the reason she gave alone; however, she is aware that Mia learns at an exceptionally high rate. The reason Hogwarts doesn't accept students who aren't 11 is because it takes about that long for even the slowest pureblood to learn it to their family's satisfaction." Severus answered.
Hermione growled lowly; it was impressively scary.
"Here you are, Hellion," Leeroy said with a smile, handing over the packet.
Hermione gently took it, knowing that no matter the urgency she wasn't to snatch from her parents. Once she received it, she immediately poured over the questions.
"What exactly will Hermione be studying?" Leeroy asked Severus.
"I can't be entirely sure, but I do know both women have taken an immediate interest in her. Her intelligence kept her on their radar, one higher than the other. The revelation of her being my apprentice and her status reveal elevated their interest. They are Blacks first and foremost; most society is aware of that. They are basically the royals of the wizarding community. The Blacks are impatient in general from my experience, but Narcissa and Cedrella both have patience. They were raised to be the quintessential Black of Blacks, who wait for the best opportunity. The opportunity is now. They will teach her everything they know. She will essentially be a Black to them. They are noble and respect the royal family, and since Hermione is the first witch with royal blood in some time… they will teach her," Severus explained.
Harry managed to get around the older men and made his way to his frazzled sister.
"Here, hot cocoa and marshmallows. Thimi made it. She also made you some tea sandwiches with no crusts. That you can share if you want," Harry said, getting her attention.
Hermione looked up with narrowed eyes, but gently took the offering. Her initial reaction would have been to snap at him, but she could feel his concern and anxiety. She had every right to be stressed and he didn't try to talk her out of studying once. Instead, he read questions to her, brought her a drink and snacks (even though Thimi had been doing so), and was supporting her as best as he could.
"Thank you," she said lowly before looking back down at the list of questions.
Harry leaned over. Despite knowing that he was out of his depths, he was still curious as to what she was reviewing.
"It's transfiguration. Despite being an animagus and knowing how to transfigure both animate and inanimate, and reverse, it's a very technical field. Like any magic, the more advanced the more exact you have to be," Hermione explained softly, "I'm memorizing the formulas that will be on the written portion."
Harry ran a hand through his hair. Harry usually relied on the practical portions of classwork and tests, excluding potions. Hermione, however, always aced both. He looked over at the other packets and noticed that she set aside DADA since she had already completed that. Harry gently took it, as though afraid of taking food from a food guarding dog.
Hermione looked at him sharply, her eyes narrowed dangerously, before nodding and looking back down.
Harry hadn't noticed that he had been holding his breath. He slowly breathed out as though everything was normal. The young wizard read over the questions; no answers were on the parchment. He was pleasantly surprised that he actually recognized a lot of the spells and could cast most of them. He knew that Barty had been teaching him and Luna advance DADA, but he hadn't realized how advanced the lessons were. It was easy to see how Mia had aced them not long into the semester.
"Yes, Potter?" Severus asked quietly.
Harry startled a little before looking up. He hadn't been aware that he was being watched.
"I was reading the Defense portion of the NEWTs and I recognize all the spells, and I can perform most of them. As can Luna," Harry answered.
Leeroy grinned crookedly at Harry, clearly proud of him.
"It would appear that Barty is a competent professor then," Severus said a slight sniff.
Leeroy only continued to grin and nodded. He knew Barty and while his history was far from clean, he had watched the wizard cry before he even cast the torture spell on his daughter. He was firm, but he clearly cared about his private pupils. Enough to ensure they survived the war.
"He's clearly a great professor," Leeroy said, "Very stern when teaching. Very exact."
Hermione growled lowly; a sound normally only produced when she was a jaguar.
Severus was impressed, control of a partial transformation was superb and very helpful. He knew Minerva did so with her nails all the time.
"Ah I see I've been talking too much, Harry you can stay and study or you can come with me and leave these two to study," Leeroy stated with a slight laugh.
Harry nodded and walked towards the door with the DADA question sheet. Perhaps he'd be able to test out of DADA, he still held Defense Association meetings and he wouldn't mind helping the other students with their NEWT. He'd talk with dad and Sirius about it.
While saying goodbye was hard, it was harder for Leeroy and Abagail. They hugged their daughter long and tightly.
"We love you. Study hard. See if Severus or Harry can do some visiting while you're in there. I'm sorry we'll be missing out on more of your life," Abagail said with some sniffling, "You should even ask Luna. Your father and I would love to be there, but we know if we went that it would send some alarm bells."
Hermione nodded and hugged them both tightly, knowing it would be 7 years before she got to do so again.
"Sirius invited us to New Years, so we'll see you then. The Headmaster won't be happy, but that's too bad. Sirius told us we have rooms on the family floor," Leeroy stated.
"I love you, daddy," Hermione said softly while hugging him. She knew she was her father's pride and joy, and would be missing out on 7 years of her life. This way she knew he would understand that she would always be his daughter and she would always love him.
"I love you too, hellion," Leeroy said.
Before they knew it, they were back in 12 Grimmauld Place. Harry, Hermione, and Sirius went up to the family floor to put their new goodies away. Severus debated on leaving immediately after so his witch could enjoy Boxing Day among semi-good company.
"You should stay for the movie on New Years, Day not Eve," Cedrella said from the kitchen doorway.
Severus looked at the witch who would be with his witch for 7 years. Severus had many feelings about the matter, while he was elated that Hermione would be older and it would assuage his sense of moral ethics, he was worried about how much she would change.
"My apprentice will be under your tutelage for the next 7 years. I would like visitation to her at least twice in what will be your years. Her brother visiting also twice a year. 4 days a year is certainly not enough. However, be prepared for her other best friend, Luna Lovegood, to perhaps show up suddenly," Severus said.
"Lovegood? Pandora's child?" Cedrella asked.
Severus nodded and replied quietly, "She takes after them both, but inherited her 'gifts' as it were. Thus, she occasionally appears when she's needed. She took a shine to my apprentice, and my apprentice considers Miss Lovegood hers."
"Ah! The young witch who was groped and had his face slashed for it. A very fitting response in my own opinion," Cedrella said with a slightly cruel smile.
Severus nodded with a slight smirk, "A completely understandable response."
"I will agree to the visitations and either Narcissa or myself will collect the visitors. I may make an exception with my granddaughter and teach her the same time, Molly would have her back in an hour," Cedrella answered.
"I will leave that conversation up to you, Molly, and Arthur," Severus replied evenly.
"Up to us what?" Arthur asked.
"I want you to consider allowing Ginny to come with me for an hour so I can teach her. She would come with me to Gringotts," Cedrella answered.
Arthur looked at his mother over his glasses. He could tell from the way she phrased it that his mother had managed to somehow get access to the fabled Gringotts' Time room that they used for training. "I see. She would have a full understanding in that time?"
"Absolutely, and I will pay for everything," Cedrella said with a grin, her gold tooth glinting in the candle light.
"I think it would work out for the best. I honestly believe you will need to teach Ronald one on one when it comes to it," Arthur said, "In the meantime I will escort Ginny to Gringotts so Molly doesn't panic and then I'll bring her here after I take her out for ice cream."
Cedrella grinned. Arthur knew what was happening and how long Ginny would actually be gone for.
"Excellent! Now I believe that Hermione is eager to study and we will commandeer the library," Cedrella announced.
"I'll meet you there!" Hermione called as she descended the stairs.
"Shall we help my apprentice cram and practice?" Severus asked the other witch.
"I would be delighted," Cedrella said before she went up the stairs.
Severus was behind her and wasn't sure if he was excited or dreading this. His apprentice studied furiously at the chateau, and he knew that the ferocity she exhibited would continue here. While he admitted it was kind of sexy (to him at least), he knew that once she finished her tests, she would hopefully be a little less stressed, but it also allowed for them to continue her apprenticeship further.
Sirius made his way to the library as well, quickly followed by Harry. The young wizard had decided to take his Defense Against the Dark Arts OWL and NEWT the same day his sister took her tests.
Harry's palms were sweaty, but otherwise he looked unbothered showing up to the Ministry of Magic with his sister, her master, and Sirius. Severus had offered Hermione and Harry the mild calming drought, that he was forced to admit, was just a potent version of lavender tea forcing them to relax without addling their minds even the tiniest bit. Hermione took it; Harry said if he tried, nothing would stay down.
Hermione did practical casting with Severus and Cedrella, as well as advance arithmancy and rune carvings. 12 Grimmauld Place now had runes carved into the floor that repelled pests.
Sirius had done practical casting with Harry. Severus would interject with advice here and there, which Harry actually found helpful. Sirius was amazed with how advanced Harry was in the subject. While he was annoyed when Severus interjected, he didn't say anything as the advice was sound. Harry was extremely thankful that Hermione helped him set up lessons for the DA as it helped him understand the written portion more than he was aware.
Severus walked with Hermione slightly behind him, allowing his presence to part the light crowds easily. It was only a few days after Christmas and most of the workers didn't need to be in until the New Year. This, of course, didn't apply to the DMLE, Transportation, or International Intelligence departments. The latter being a laughing stock as the employees were typically rude to their counterparts.
They walked down the halls before stopping in front of the familiar warm brown door with opaque glass. Hermione took a moment to take a deep breath and square her shoulders. Hermione nodded when Severus looked at her and held the door open for her.
Once she entered Hermione saw the same witch as before. This time around though she was greeted with a small tight smile.
"Welcome back, Apprentice Lady Granger. Your Master made a quick appointment and Professor Tofty and Madame Marchbanks managed to get the pertinent examiners to come in. You will also be observed by Professor Flitwick, Master Gristle, Mistress Applegate, and Madame Penrose. Professor Tofty will be observing your written portions first. Then you will take the practical portion of the tests. As the examiners had been informed of the importance of this case you will have your scores within an hour after testing. Professor Tofty will be grading the written portion while you take you practical," her voice was just as nasally as last time.
"Thank you, ma'am," Hermione replied, "I am also scheduled for tomorrow, yes?"
"Yes! Same time for the rest of the practical portion of exams. They're not cause Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Tests for nothing," the witch chuckled before turning her attention to Harry.
"You must be Harry Potter," the witch said evenly.
"Yes, ma'am," Harry replied, "I'm here to take my Defense OWL and NEWT."
"I see," she looked down at her schedule to confirm that Harry actually had an appointment and wasn't just showing up to tag along willy nilly, "You will be taking the written portion in the same room as the apprentice, however as you are sure to finish before her, please quietly raise your hand to let Professor Tofty know you're finished."
"Yes, ma'am," Harry replied, he could tell from the frown lines that if he so much as sneezed wrong she would make problems for him.
"Please come this way, Apprentice Lady Granger, Mr. Potter," the witch said.
"Yes, ma'am," Hermione said as she squared her shoulders and walked through the door to take the rest of her OWLs and some of her NEWTs. Harry ran a hand through his hair before he followed her.