"Harry! Hermione!" Arthur shouted as he saw them come down the stairs.
Arthur was sitting in a wheelchair with his neck bandaged. Molly was standing behind him with her hand resting on his shoulder.
His brood quickly surrounded him as the three came down the stairs.
"I thought I heard you arrive," Arthur said genuinely pleased to see them.
"We're so glad you're okay, Mr. Weasley," Hermione responded happily with her brother nodding in agreement before they leaned over to take turns hugging him.
"Hermione, I'd like to speak with you privately for a moment, please," Molly asked, her smile was wobbly, but her eyes were bright with gratitude.
Hermione nodded at the older witch and allowed herself to be brought into the kitchen, where Molly then threw up silencing spells. The curly haired witch was instantly wary.
"I wanted to thank you personally for saving Arthur's life," Molly began, she fussed with her apron anxiously.
The younger witch was flabbergasted and opened her mouth to ask how she knew about her minor involvement, but Molly had cut her off.
"Alastor told me. Severus had come up with the idea of the emergency kits, but he didn't think to add potions or the like because of common stupidity until you suggested it and the kit checks. They found the emergency kit when Arthur was popped into the emergency room, he told me he practically threw it at them. They found the bezoar, and while it's not a potion and very much an emergency aide to poisons, it wouldn't have been in the kit without you. The venom was quick, and the bezoar gave them more time that they needed. The blood replenisher was also used to keep him stable. I didn't have to confirm with Severus to know that you had helped with the antivenin base," Molly explained.
"I'm glad the kits were able to help and not a moment too soon," Hermione said demurely trying to gather her wits.
"Albus said The Order didn't need them," Molly declared baldly, her face twisting in anger and regret as she clenched her apron tightly.
"Master Snape had assured me he would wait for people to approach him after the meeting if the Headmaster decided that," Hermione admitted and then tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.
"Exactly. Hermione, Arthur wouldn't be here without those kits, and because of you Severus stayed after, something he never does, because he said he'd do for you. It's because of you. I've been rather horrid the last year, and extremely entitled, and rude. I even encouraged my children to be so." She waved her hand frustratedly unable to come up with the right words, "Thankfully most of them were able to see what I couldn't before this. I know Arthur has always considered you part of the family, and I did too for my own reasons. Of which I apologize, but that doesn't make you any less part of the family," Molly stated, wringing her apron.
"Master Snape told me that you promised to stop trying to potion us and The Order," Hermione hinted.
Molly nodded fervently, "I was stubborn and lax and it made me forgetful. That is all my fault. I forgot that potions can addle a mind depending on how a person reacts, and each person is different. It didn't really click until Severus reminded me that we are at war, which is the very definition of life or death. I want my family to make it out alive, that includes you and Harry."
"I appreciate the sentiment Mrs. Weasley. Aside from Ronald at the moment, and recently even yourself, I consider the Weasley family an extended part of my family. I am extremely glad that Mr. Weasley survived," Hermione replied gently.
Molly's face flushed with shame at Hermione's admittance and she bit her lip before squaring her shoulders and looking at Hermione with determination.
"I think my Mother-in-law would love you. We butt heads so often I haven't let Ron or Ginny really visit her, and they didn't get the lessons from her that my older boys did. All of whom are extremely smart and talented, and despite how I feel the twins can be, mindful. Of themselves, others, and Magic. I know the twins have taught what they could to Ginny, and Ron had no interest. If you'd like I will write her and ask her to teach you about Magic. Magic they don't teach at Hogwarts," Molly offered.
"You'd have her correspond with me to learn how to respect Magic?" Hermione asked a bit awed.
"The Black Family is extensive in its knowledge on how to respect and be mindful of Magic more than most families. Even if most of us don't want to admit it" she fussed with her apron more, "It's because of how precarious Dark Magic is, it has a bit of a temper and is more prone to lash out than other magic. So The Blacks know best how to respect and appease Magic than the other families. I know Sirius is available, but I would feel better if you learned from her. She's…" Molly's face twisted a bit, "She's a wonderful mother and taught my husband and even my boys well. I know her tract record and I'm able to honestly vouch for her."
"I would love that Mrs. Weasley," Hermione beamed genuinely thankful.
"Consider it the main present this Christmas. Keep your eye open for a letter from Cedrella Weasley." Molly smiled, glad that she was able to finally make proper amends with the younger witch "And don't let Ronald know I used finer yarn for yours and Severus's sweater." She finished with a mischievous grin and leaned in conspiratorially.
"My hard cider sold really well this season and I was able to get a few skeins of Alpaca wool," she whispered gleefully.
"That's wonderful Mrs. Weasley!" Hermione gushed, genuinely happy for the family.
"After Alastor and Severus told me that you and the kids knew about the potion laced," she grimaced at her own actions, "food, it made sense that nobody but Ronald asked for anything. It left me with a bumper crop. I know that you know that I was getting a stipend from Harry's vaults, and I can honestly tell you that I'm proud that I was able to earn it and some on my own from the orchard."
"I'm very pleased to hear it. Master Snape told me that you have a mastery but never used it. Why not offer part time services to St Mungos?" Hermione suggested while praising the other witch.
"I had to raise my kids –" Molly started.
"That's not what I asked or suggested." The curly haired witch quickly interrupted.
"I suggested, now that the kids are all at Hogwarts for 10 months of the year, and the others have left the nest, why don't you offer your services to St Mungos part time," Hermione rephrased firmly, "I know from helping Master Snape that even the orders that we do fill pay handsomely. They give you a stipend for ingredients if you don't already have or source them yourself, and they pay you for the final product."
Molly was red, but took a breath and thought before reacting, since this was the witch who saved Arthur.
"When you say it like that, it is something I can do. I don't see how it would hurt to help the hospital while also helping my family. I can only fill my time with knitting so much, and even then some of the bulk I can have magic do," the redhead admitted with a smile, "When did you become a fine young witch?"
"When no one was looking I suppose," Hermione replied with her own smile.
"Come, let's join the others, I'm sure they think I'll have strangled you to death while drowning you in my happy tears," Molly quipped, flicking her wand and removing the silencing charm.
Once they opened the door Harry quickly made his way to his sister and pulled her out to the Hallway as though leading her to Arthur, but stopped in the middle of the Hallway.
"You were with her for a while, and I couldn't hear anything but I didn't feel anything bad happened," Harry prodded her quietly once they were together.
"It went well I'll tell you about it later tonight," Hermione responded with a small smile.
"Is Kreature still gonna check?" Harry asked.
"As much as I have her word as well as my Master's, yes. The most that'll happen is he'll be able to confirm she's being honest," Hermione nodded.
Harry's shoulders sagged with relief. "Good."
They made their way back to Arthur who was handling his family's fussy nature with good humor.
"We waited to decorate the tree, let's get to the parlor and do it now, yeah?" Arthur cajoled them with a grin.
Fred grabbed his chair and wheeled him to the room with George right behind him.
"Not to alarm anyone," Hermione started once everyone was in the parlor, "But Christmas Day we'll, Harry, Sirius and I, be visiting my parents. I was hoping we could open Christmas crackers together when we returned on Boxing Day?"
Molly blinked in surprise before looking over to her brood.
"I suppose if no one objects then perhaps Christmas Day we can visit your Grandmum?" Molly suggested tentatively.
Arthur's face lit up brightly, and none of his kids (or Molly) could say no to that.
"Molly, would you send a letter with Kreacher to make sure it's okay?" Arthur insisted giddily.
"If she says she can't host, she's welcome here," Sirius stated, "Of course she would have a room here when she stayed. She can come as soon as tonight if she'd like."
Arthur and Molly smiled at Sirius's generosity.
"Thank you, I'll write her now while you lot decorate the tree," Molly stated.
The gathering had happily decorated the tree, it had a smattering of black and gold ornaments for the bulk of it, countered with red tinsel garland and strings of shiny silver beads. Hermione and Harry were surprised to see that Sirius had also ventured into the muggle world to buy a few ornaments there. He bought an assortment of Hallmark ornaments classic cars, classic barbies, Glinda the witch from Wizard of Oz (of which Hermione was extremely surprised but nonetheless very happy about), some cute animals, and Snoopy.
"Oh! You got Snoopy!?" Harry shouted as he carefully held the ornament.
"I did, I asked the shopkeep what I should get. I told them I lost all our other ornaments in a house fire and it was my first time shopping for them by myself. I said I wanted my Godson and his sister's first Christmas with me to be a good one," Sirius declared proudly.
"I love Snoopy. The Peanuts was one of the only comics I was able to read when I brought Uncle Vernon the paper," Harry said with a soft smile.
"The Peanuts was one of the few things I loved about the paper as a kid," Hermione admitted with a chuckle.
"Are they muggle ornaments?" Arthur asked excitedly.
Harry, Hermione, and Sirius smiled and nodded.
"What are they then?" he inquired brightly.
Arthur had always been a family man and had taken to fatherhood like a duck to water. He loved asking the kids things and having them answer him whether he knew about it or not. It engaged them and allowed for a bond to foster between them. Arthur worked closely with muggleborn wizards and witches and knew a bit, but still struggled with the newer things. Granted electricity was a word he struggled with, but he knew enough to blend in the muggle world. He was even aware of the disconnect that happened while muggleborn were at Hogwarts and missed a lot of the newer inventions and how they functioned.
It was part of the reason he had Molly buy muggle clothes for their kids. He knew about cameras and recorders and didn't want his family to be one of those Purebloods that didn't know how to blend in. Molly usually trampled over his efforts when they entered the blended areas, but he was still trying.
"The Peanuts are a funny in the back of the muggle newspaper," Hermione explained, "Snoopy is their dog."
"In the funnies Snoopy has a great imagination, and he's sweet," Harry testified, "He has a best friend called Woodstock, he's an adorable little yellow bird,"
"He's also very mischievous, and looks nothing like a real bird," Hermione tacked on.
"I really love that you managed to get Glinda and a few barbie ornaments," Hermione told Sirius with a grin.
"Barbie?" Ginny asked curious.
"Barbies are plastic dolls that girls, and women, get to dress up. You can have one Barbie and buy many clothes, or you can buy special edition Barbies and have multiples," Hermione proclaimed holding up an ornament of the first Barbie, "Barbie has been popular since the 50s, this was actually her first design when she was released."
"Glinda is the good witch in the movie the Wizard of Oz," Hermione remarked smiling softly down at the ornament before showing Arthur, "It's a classic movie from 1939. My mum loves it."
"A movie?" Ginny pressed as she leaned forward, clearly interested in the topic.
"It's like a play, but it's recorded like a wizarding photograph and has sound," Harry explained.
"Maybe one day we can watch it together," Arthur suggested.
"I would love that, Mr. Weasley," Hermione professed with grin her mind churning out ideas on how to make it happen. With the war going on and almost losing him, she wanted to make it happen as soon as possible.
Harry and Hermione took turns bringing the ornaments over to Arthur before putting them on the tree. Both were thankful they were still in their Hallmark boxes since neither knew anything about classic cars.
Once all the ornaments were in place Sirius added the fairy lights.
"Now who gets the honor of putting the tree on top?" Sirius asked the room holding a black box with constellations on it.
"Harry!" Hermione and most of the Weasley brood exclaimed. They had all had turns putting up the star on their own trees and knew Harry had never had the pleasure or experience. Ron didn't say anything and was eating the cheese and meat spread.
Harry's cheeks tinted but grinned as he was handed the glass star ornament. What amazed Harry was while holding it he could see there was something glittering inside the five-pointed star. Hermione was intrigued and looked over his shoulder released a small gasp. Inside the glass star looked like a swirling miniature galaxy.
"Don't worry pup, I have a stepping stool so no one has to lift you up," Sirius winked, "The inside of the star is mica powder mixed with water and a neat spell that I don't know to keep it always turning. It's got an unbreakable spell on it."
Harry laughed as he stepped on the stool and put the tree topper on. After he placed it Kreature returned with a letter of acceptance from Cedrella.
Dear Sirius, Arthur, and Molly
I would love to spend the Holidays with you and will be packing my trunk immediately. I will have my house elf Holly bring it over once I've flooed there. I will not be arriving until after supper, so please don't wait for me to eat. I can't wait to meet the newest Family additions. I will teach Apprentice Hermione Granger after Boxing Day about Magic. It is her right as a person with magic and I would feel honored to teach an Apprentice something so important.
Sincerely,
Cedrella Weasley
As Molly was serving dinner Hermione thought she had figured out the logistics of their movie problem. She would surely be able to tell Severus her plans when she saw him.
"How about New Years Day?" Hermione suggested, confusing the table.
"New Years Day what?" Harry asked.
"New Years Day, we all go to my house, Harry's too of course, here in London and watch the Wizard of Oz. I have the tape, we have a VHS, Sirius can slightly transfigure the couch to make it longer, some of us can sit on the floor to watch it. The TV is certainly big enough," Hermione articulated thinking of their 32" (81cm) TV, "As long as no one but me or Harry touches it, it'll be fine. You-Know-Who has a special order that I'm to be left alone, so I don't have to worry about the house and we don't have to worry about an attack, even if it's being watched. Which it probably isn't because of that. Sirius, Harry, and I can walk there and set up; then he can have Kreature pop you over. If he doesn't mind of course."
Sirius grinned at the young witch, "That sounds amazing Kitten. A wonderful way to bring in the New Year."
Harry nodded and bumped his shoulder into hers, "It's a great idea, Mia."
Harry looked at the Weasley brood, "As long as everyone can respect our home, I think it'll be a great idea. All we'd do is go and sit on the couch or floor and Mia can put the movie on for us to watch before coming back here."
Arthur was ecstatic. Sure he wouldn't be able to explore a muggle home, but he could respect that entirely. He'd also be able to watch a movie with his family. A classic muggle movie.
Molly frowned while she thought about and looked over to Arthur. She didn't want to go to a muggle house or even be in muggle areas more than she had to. However, for Arthur it would make his year. They almost lost him and they'd be safe. They'd elf pop so no one would even know they entered the house, they wouldn't be exposed in any way.
"How long is the movie?" Molly asked.
"About 2 hours," Hermione answered.
Molly nodded, it was about the same time as a play in the theater.
"As long as everyone behaves and doesn't touch anything," she announced casting a stern look to her children, "we can go."
"Before we do watch it," Harry interjected, "You should be aware that it's fake. It's all fake. Oz, the flying monkeys, munchkin land, what they think about witches. It's fake."
"The only think that's real in the movie is Kansas, it's a place in America, and Toto who is a dog. The munchkins are played by little people, they're about Professor Flitwick's height, some a bit taller, but they're not part goblin. They're muggles who were just born short. Don't call him, or any little person, a munchkin or ask about the Lollipop guild. It's extremely offensive," Hermione said firmly.
Harry nodded, "A movie is just a play. Everyone is in costume. Any flying done is people with wires, like fishing wires or other movie magic, which is just special effects. There's no real magic."
Sirius almost said something before he remembered how many questions he himself had asked when he watched his first movie. A lot of which no one had any real answers for because the people who did it were specialized in their field.
"I can't wait to see it," Arthur remarked.
"Why don't we all get dressed for the night while we wait for Cedrella?" Sirius suggested.
Harry and Hermione nodded and stood up, the Weasley brood followed.
Harry and Hermione walked up to the Family floor and to their respective rooms to change. Hermione had decided to change in a simple pajama set she had. They were black with pink accents, and the sleeves partially covered her hands. The pants had soft pink clouds on them. Harry had decided on his black and red pajama set. The bottoms were plaid and shirt was red.
After they finished dressing, they met in the hallway.
"Should we speak with Kreature now?" Hermione prompted Harry.
Harry nodded, "I want to know now before this new witch arrives. Kreature."
Kreature popped in looking more put together than last time. His pillow sheet was clean with the Black crest sewn in the bottom left corner.
"You're looking well, Kreature," Hermione commented.
"Many thanks, Dirty Royal Miss. What can Kreature be helping Master and Dirty Royal Miss today?" Kreature asked kindly.
"Kreature, we wanted to see if Molly had potioned the dinner tonight, if you needed to replace our meals," Harry addressed the house-elf. They both knew Kreature responded better to Harry being a half blood and accepted Hermione, but the less they had to hear him call her dirty, the better.
"Blood traitor Molly did not potion food and hasn't since she came back with blood traitor husband," Kreature stated.
"Thanks, Kreature," Harry said.
"Kreature lives to serve." He intoned before he left in a quiet wisp of smoke.
Harry and Hermione were very happy that Molly was true to her word and there was no potion attempt that evening. With that Harry had Hermione go down the stairs first so they could meet back up with the rest of the house' occupants.
"Ah my esteemed Death Eaters, thank you for joining me today as I know many of your children have returned home for Yule. Treasured youth of the future continuing our wonderful Traditions. I would like for those of you with children to see how they will be of use to us in our community. What areas they are skilled in. I care not for their weaknesses, nor do I want you to push them in a branch that they are weak in. We must adhere to their strengths and focus on that. Those who are good at Charms, but weak in Potions, must be encouraged to advance themselves in Charms. Those who excel in Transfiguration, but fall short in Charms, should be encouraged to test their limits in Transfiguration. Even if your Family Magic comes to them easy, I want them to focus on what branch comes to them like the air we breathe," Tom addressed his followers as he began his meeting, his Ss only having a little bit of a hiss.
"Those whose children are young, need not bother with such as of yet; but keep it in the back of your mind. Those with older children or even children on the cusp of Age should inquire about these things. We should count ourselves as lucky that two of Our own are professors as our most esteemed school. As you should all be aware, Severus teaches potions. His classroom demeanor isn't charismatic, but his students' health record should be applauded. No serious incidents that need more than Madam Pomfrey. None who need St Mungos, none with any permanent ailments or disfigurations, and no fatalities," he paused and searched their faces, skimming their thoughts.
Many of them were pleased that Severus kept their kids safe, even if some of them wished he was more lenient with their wayward spawn.
"Those without children may be surprised that it is Barty who teaches Defense Against the Dark Arts. I have had access to the place of the jinx recently and adjusted it to my Death Eaters, so they will not fall afoul of it. It is my expectation that Barty will keep this position as it allows him to inform me of our youths' magical output. Of course, there will always be those who do poorly in the branch and do not produce accurate results, but it is something of importance that Severus doesn't have full access to. Severus has access to those who have intuition, discipline, and who can properly follow instructions. Both are key information that gives me underlying details of our youth," he continued, "You would do well to remember that no one is to mention that Barty was here." He left the threat unsaid.
A few Death Eaters were pleased with this information, not having thought about such knowledge. Others were merely glad as they had thought Severus was too close to Dumbledore that he wasn't getting enough information to them, but information about their youth's abilities was well worth the trade-off. Many however were skeptical about Barty actually gauging his students' magical output, mostly due to the lack of stability that was in their education. In their minds it skewed the information as their foundations in the subject were faulty at best. Which was an astute line of thinking, if he hadn't had Barty also teaching last year and correcting such things.
"With that said, I would like for your own reports. The quicker we finish this Assembly the quicker you may leave, return to your families, and finish preparations for the Solstice."
Severus sat and listened to each Death Eater report what information they had whether they were assigned to it or merely gleaned it through their own discussions or happened to overhear someone else's. Information about the ongoings of the Ministry, the unrest that was in the circles of Society as well as their contentment, where gold was going and leaving in businesses. Most of this information Severus was aware that Albus already had access to, but didn't share with the Order. While he was no longer Chief Warlock and had a tenuous standing as Supreme Mugwump (not having officially been voted No Confidence), he still had connections.
The Dark Lord listened to each report attentively. He wanted to change society as well as rule it. He was fully aware that to do that, he needed this information and once he had won the war, it was information he would read on his desk before making further decisions. While most would consider this boring, tedious even, he knew the importance of it.
They didn't tell him everything about their trading system or business, something he knew was private and acceptable. He was made aware however before he recruited them what their business was and what they dealt with in their business.
"Severus, what information do you have, if any, for this Assembly?" The Dark Lord asked.
"Most information that I gather I tell Lucius so that it may get to you in a timely fashion without raising alarm. Hogwarts staff is aware of my ongoing friendship with him and his family. However, so the rest of my brethren are aware; the Minister implanted Umbridge, who abused her authority to the point my apprentice had her poison herself into insanity. The Minister's replacement after she was arrested was a pedophile, of which my apprentice quickly discovered and did her best to protect the students and out him. She was successful and clawed his face on his way out for daring to grab her friend's bottom. Dumbledore tried to parlay with the Giants using Hagrid. He failed. There was a 3 year hazing discovered in Ravenclaw that was taken care of. The House doesn't have Hogsmeade privileges for the rest of the year. I'm unsure how that will affect business in the village," Severus reported.
While he didn't want to mention Hermione so much, he was aware that it would be stranger if he didn't. All the while he wanted to expose some of his witch's darkness to The Dark Lord as well as the Death Eaters.
"Very good. Now we will allow a few questions of clarification," The Dark Lord stated addressing his followers.
A few wands lit up, letting the rest of the table know that they had something to say or ask. They had adopted the manner of which to speak from the Wizengamot, which many were familiar with. The Dark Lord preferred this method as it was quiet and orderly.
"Nott," The Dark Lord acknowledged.
The wizard nodded in thanks for being called on, "Snape, you said your apprentice clawed his face? I know she's a muggleborn. Did she use muggle violence on him?" Nott implored. He was one of the few who wasn't happy about her position, even with her peerage. To him dirty blood, was dirty blood. He was of course, very quiet with his opinion as The Dark Lord vocally approved.
"It was that moment she successfully gained her animagus form. She's a jaguar. A large. Jungle. Cat," Severus answered. He wasn't afraid to share that information since all of Hogwarts already knew and she was registered.
"I see," was his only response, though he paled. He had thought his son was exaggerating and even berated him for reporting such nonsense about a mudblood he didn't care about.
"Gibbon," The Dark Lord called next.
"You said she had Umbridge poison herself. How?" the wizard solicited.
Severus gave the other wizard a cruel smirk, "While the manner of how she did it would be telling, and quiet a number of witches would be appalled that you asked. You only need to know that she used Pink Acido Sunshine. It's a hallucinogenic one can typically find in the darker corners of Knockturn Alley, and it's not illegal. Typical use is to make the user happy or feel good. Overdosing however can cause intense and dark hallucinations. A steady dosing over a month will leave traces of the potion in her system for the rest of her life. Meaning Umbridge was happily hallucinating for a few weeks and didn't feel the need to have herself checked or stop."
The Dark Lord nodded with approval. It wasn't the Dark Arts that he wanted the witch to learn just yet, but it showed promise. He knew from what he had been told about her that she would have done deep research before deciding on which poison to use on the other witch and all its repercussions.
"I approve of Severus's apprentice's choice of action and methods," The Dark Lord announced. He leaned forward, resting on his right elbow, and grasped his chin with his thumb and forefinger, "So much so that Narcissa will be helping train her in the Dark Arts."
Severus nodded, letting the Dark Lord that he had heard and would abide by his decision. It also wasn't his turn to speak, the Dark Lord was subtle in those ways. If one of his Followers spoke out of turn they were subjected to a light bout of Cruico.
"Yaxley," he called next, moving the meeting along.
Once there were no more lit wands, the Dark Lord began the next part of his meeting.
"I would like to let it be known that soon we will free our Most Loyal brethren from Azkaban. The Dementors will be more than willing to side with us once again. I want everyone to be useful. Severus and Barty will be closely watched and will not be able to help with this endeavor. Lucius must be seen as surprised and keep his hands clean of their liberation. Yaxley will inform me of the guard rota. Of course, in public you are all to pretend that you're horrified by the turn of events. Especially those of you who claimed Imperius. Barty especially cannot show anything that can be misconstrued as happiness over the events. After that I will call each of you separately to let you know your role," The Dark Lord stated firmly.
"Severus, I want you to return to the castle and inform the Headmaster that I merely wanted to inform my men of your apprentice's upcoming Dark Arts training and encouraging the same for their children. Of course you can tell him that I asked for reports as well, but nothing that isn't already public or Society knowledge," he prompted, staring at the potions master.
"Yes, My Lord," Severus replied before thinking and lighting his wand.
It caught the Dark Lord's attention.
"Severus?" he asked calmly.
"My Lord, the Headmaster wanted me to stay nearby so you could call on me easier over the Holiday. However, I admit that I, like my brothers, have plans for Yule. What would you have me do?" Severus inquired carefully.
"You, as well as the others here, are allowed to do as you please for the Holidays. I will not call any until after New Years Day. If the old man is that desperate for information, it means that keeping a low profile may be the best way to proceed," the Dark Lord answered, "I will still need my Most Loyal, but I will make appropriate plans after I ponder this development."
"Thank you, My Lord," Severus intoned.
"With this new information I would like everyone to keep with their initial New Years Eve plans. I know the Malfoys host a large Gala. I will make myself scarce that day and peruse one of your libraries. I know that Lights and Grays will be at the Gala and I would like to keep this low profile if it's making Dumbledore this desperate. Perhaps Nott's residence?" The Dark Lord phrased it as a question, but it was a command.
"I would be honored to share the Nott library with you, My Lord," Nott affirmed with a bow of his head.
The Dark Lord nodded solemnly, his eyes scanning his present Death Eaters.
"I will call you all again after you have enjoyed your Holidays. You are dismissed," The Dark Lord concluded.
"Thank you, My Lord." They said in unison.
"Have a pleasant Yule, My Lord," Severus expressed quietly.
The Dark Lord looked at Severus and nodded, "You as well, Severus." He replied quietly.
Severus knew he was supposed to appear thrilled at having the Dark Lord back. However even as a child when he had first signed up to be a Knight of Walpurgis, he wasn't cheery or charismatic. He rarely expressed joy which he was grateful for once more as he didn't need to force it.
As he was leaving he spotted his godson and Narcissa, she calmly had her hand on his shoulder.
"Uncle Sev, I was hoping to have a quick private meeting with you," Draco implored quietly.
Narcissa nodded regally.
"Of course, Narcissa may we use this room?" Severus appealed already heading towards the closest parlor room.
"Of course, Severus," Narcissa replied, smoothing out nonexistence wrinkles in her skirt. Severus could see she was anxious and raised a brow in response. Narcissa noticed and gave him a small smile, reassuring him that it wasn't what Draco wanted to discuss that was making her anxious.
Once the 2 entered the room Severus stood by the door and closed it quietly.
"What did you need to speak with me about?" he asked, getting right to the point.
"2 things Uncle, one I have a gift for Apprentice Lady Granger and I was hoping you'd be okay delivering it. I am working hard on making amends with her and hope someday in the future we might be friends."
"What did you get her?" Severus asked with a raised brow.
"I got her a book. I checked all the books on Runes," Draco tilted his head forward to assure Severus that it was not about Runes and instead Wards, but he had kept it secret, "And noticed Hogwarts only had three books on Greek Runes."
"I had to Owl Order it from Greece. I remembered Mother said I should get her a very nice gift. I remembered when we visited Athens and we passed through many precautions. The owners at the Holiday Villa told us they had managed to hire a Professional. They told us their name. I wrote to them, and I asked if they would suggest a book for someone with the Affinity, they suggested this book," Draco explained taking out the wrapped book from his robe pocket.
Severus took it gently and made note to check it once he left.
"Thank you, and the second?" Severus nudged the young wizard.
"I would like to offer my services to Apprentice Lady Granger," Draco announced standing up tall with his arms to his side like a soldier. He kept his voice down thankfully, knowing the company they kept.
"My Apprentice hasn't decided a side…" Severus imparted with a glint in his eyes testing the other wizard.
"Whatever side the Lady decides, I would do my best to serve her as a Malfoy. I know you will marry her, and she seems to have no issues with it. I even heard rumor that she will happily do so. I would like to be one of her Chevaliers. To protect her when you're unable," Draco asserted. His expression was serious.
Severus stared at his godson seriously before taking out his wand.
"Would you mind if I checked for myself that you're serious?" Severus asked.
"Of course, Uncle," Draco agreed knowing what the other wizard was asking, and stared into the dark wizard's eyes.
Severus silently used legilimens and was in Draco's mind. The boy had clearly lowered his defenses, Severus noticed they were a step above basic. However he continued out and was able to sus out that Draco was telling the truth. He had been genuinely surprised and ashamed of himself when he found out Hermione was a member of the Royal family. He had been in awe of Hermione healing something he couldn't see, but could feel. She removed so much of something that was Dark and made him nauseous and made it go away. He knew that Hogwarts was over a Nexus of Ley lines, that helped its wards stay up. He also knew that the last Wards Master that had checked Hogwarts Wards was in the late 1800s. He was prepared to do what it took to protect someone as important as her. Whether it meant joining the Dark Lord as a Death Eater, trying to play Light, or stand by her side if she decided to be Neutral.
Severus then tweaked his own mental connection to check that what he was seeing was genuine, that made Draco wince, but he didn't back down. Everything was genuine. What Draco had hidden was that he hoped that when they were older his kids played with their kids.
"She would be lucky to have you a Chevalier. I will deliver your present to her. Does your family know of your decision?" Severus implored.
"I've spoken of it with Mother, and written Father about the idea. It was his suggestion of the position, as I was just going to suggest being her Knight. They are aware and Mother said she will teach me a bit of free dueling, she called it, so that I can actually protect her," Draco admitted, "She said we will work on it sometime this Holiday and more in earnest this Summer."
Severus nodded.
"I will inform my Apprentice of this and let her make the decision. I will inform you now that she will most likely decide you would be best as either you have been, or posing as a friend. Perhaps one day you will be friends," Severus affirmed.
"Greg says she's a great friend. I just hope I can work on my prejudices so I don't offend her further," Draco admitted, "He said that he learned a lot from her and my prejudices were a block in preventing me from being the best I could be. I could instead be helping her integrate into our world and would have had a wonderful friend and resource sooner in life."
"The first step is admitting it. If you'd like you can speak with her when you return from the Holidays," Severus remarked proud of his godson, his eyes glittering with pride.
Draco smiled knowing that he had put that glitter in his godfather's eyes.
"What if, if it doesn't interfere with her plans, you bring her to the Gala?" Draco beseeched the dark wizard.
Severus raised his brown again and tilted his head.
"I know you only stay until the New Year comes and then leave immediately, but it would give –"
"Hogwarts would be more neutral. If she were to come to the Gala she would be surrounded by idiots and feel obligated to spend time with you instead of mingle," Severus countered, "If you want to come off as sincere as your intentions, you must meet her on her terms or neutral ground."
"Yes, Uncle," Draco sighed defeated.
Severus placed his hand on Draco's shoulder, making the wizard look back up at him.
"Your intentions are good, follow that vein. My Apprentice values intelligence and genuine people. She already has plans this Holiday and although I am her master, it would be rude to suddenly change them on her. I know you didn't involve yourself in Lovegood's bullying, something I am proud of and will help you. While Potter is her brother now, Lovegood is her best friend," Severus advised lowly, "She doesn't take kindly to those that harm what belongs to her."
Draco's eyes widened and he nodded. Everyone knew what Hermione did to Ogden for groping Lovegood. He knew she would do way worse than clawing someone's face.
Severus saw that he understood the meaning and patted his shoulder.
"I will be leaving now," Severus said done with the conversation, wanting to leave the manor.
"Happy Yule, Uncle and please tell Apprentice Lady Granger I said Happy Christmas," Draco blurted quickly.
Severus's lip quirked up before he nodded to the young wizard "You as well."
The floo flashed green before a woman stepped out of the fire. Harry and Hermione noticed immediately why Molly wouldn't get along with her. She was a stately looking woman who barely looked like she was in her late 30s, lightly tanned skin, a small black beauty mark on her face just above the left side of her lip, grey eyes, and black hair with a single streak of grey. Her hair was styled in a way that reminded Hermione of a rockabilly pin up girl. The front of her hair was curled into bang that didn't fall in her face, but was angled to the right side of her face, then pulled back with headscarf that tied into a baby blue bow, and the rest fell over her shoulders in defined curls. She wore red lipstick and had winged eyeliner. She wore what looked like muggle clothing, but the sleeves gave her away. The top of her robe was the same baby blue as her headscarf that tied into knot at her left hip while the skirt was black and ended just above her ankles.
She was met with boisterous greetings from everyone but Harry and Hermione.
"Hello little luvs, Sirius, Molly," she spoke clearly with cultured tones, "You must be Apprentice Lady Granger and Lord Potter."
"Yes, please call me Hermione, Mrs. Weasley," Hermione replied standing up and giving her a small curtsey (despite not wearing a skirt or robes). Harry stood up and gave a slight bow before simply saying, "Harry, ma'am."
"Hermione, Harry. Aren't you two delightful," she grinned at them revealing a gold tooth.
'Wow she has a golden canine tooth. I've never seen a gold tooth before,' Hermione thought to herself, 'I thought skelegrow would work on teeth.'
"Sirius and the kids told me a bit about you both. I'm so glad that you're part of the family," Cedrella said genuinely, "Give me a second to smother my son and then I'll pull you Hermione aside for a short chat."
"Yes, ma'am," they both responded. Internally they were both curious.
"Good," she chimed with another grin before moving to hug her son.
"Oh, Arthur! Don't scare me like that! If Hallow didn't tell me what happened I wouldn't know what to do! I'm glad you're going to be alright," she touted before kissing his head.
"How did Hallow find out?" Arthur wondered.
"How Hallow found out isn't up for discussion," she declared kindly but firmly, "Just know the snake that attacked you was killed."
Arthur caught her meaning and nodded, "Yes, Mum."
"Who's Hallow?" Harry quietly asked Ginny, who was sitting closest to Harry and Hermione.
"Dad's older brother," Ginny answered quickly and just as quietly.
'Oh, I do recall Ron saying that their Uncle Bilius died after seeing a Grim. Something I still think was just coincidental…' Hermione thought to herself.
"Now, moving on from such talk, tell me something nice," she commanded.
"Hermione and Harry are going to bring the family to their muggle home so we can watch a movie! It's a muggle play, but recorded like photograph," he raved excitedly.
"Oh? When?" she asked with an indulgent smile.
"New Years Day," Arthur answered, "If you stay that long maybe you can come with."
"If it's no imposition, I suppose I will. It might be better than the muggle car shows," she replied.
"You've been to muggle car shows?" Harry asked surprised.
"Oh yes, Septimus loved looking at those cars. It was impractical for us to have one, so we always looked but never bought," she answered with twinkling eyes.
"So you've been to the muggle world a few times?" Hermione pressed.
"More than a few times! Car shows are weekly. So are motorcycle shows. We took our sons to see them at least once a month. Arthur was more interested in the plane shows, but those aren't as often and rarely were they in the UK," she answered excitedly, "My favorites were when we visited America. They have cool cars and cool fashion."
Harry could practically feel Hermione's brain working at the fast pace it typically did when she connected many dots.
"Do many wizards go to car shows?" Harry puzzled.
"Only non-Traditionists," she remarked with a smirk, Sirius grinned at the response, "Although speaking of there are some things Traditionalists know better than non-Traditionalists. Since I was raised as a Traditionalist I know what is important and what isn't. Hermione, I will be instructing you on both. Harry, Sirius told me he will be instructing you this Summer. If he doesn't or is unable to, he asked me to do so and I agreed."
"Thank you, Mrs. Weasley," Hermione chimed happily.
"Would I be able to get in on those Summer lessons?" Ginny insisted.
Cedrella looked surprised before looking over to Molly, "I thought you said you would take care of it?"
"I taught them the basics, but I… wasn't as thorough with them as you were with the other boys," Molly admitted.
"The basics will not cut it, Molly. Arthur did you know about this?" Cedrella asked her son calmly.
"No, she said that she had covered it enough that we wouldn't need to worry. I'm sorry, mum," Arthur conceded with a sigh.
"What about Ron?" Cedrella continued her questioning.
"Ron's stepped in it, Grandmum," Fred admitted quietly.
"He's on probation at school for it," George added.
Cedrella quickly turned on Ron and whipped out her wand so quick Hermione almost didn't catch it. It came from up her sleeve, so most likely a holster. Cedrella muttered a spell under her breath while pointing it at Ron. When she was done Ron was covered in an aura of green with dark blots.
Cedrella glared down at her youngest grandson. It was a dangerous look.
"Ronald Weasley, jealousy doesn't become you. The fact that you fired a curse dark enough that it left marks on your magic means that it was recent and intentional. The fact there's more than one dark area means that your intentions are to continue that path. I'm warning you now. Don't. Do it," she said lowly and calmly, her eyes were hard and flinty. Her demeanor reminded Harry and Hermione of Severus.
Ron flushed in embarrassment and was too scared to say anything. He was even more scared that his mum didn't defend him like she usually would.
"Molly, I know you have no control of what your children get up to at Hogwarts, but this is serious. If he doesn't change his course he will turn dark," Cedrella stated bluntly with a grim look.
Molly nodded. She knew the spell wasn't well known and took a lot of concentration. Cedrella had used it on her children before the taught them, each of them glowing white after. The spell was designed to show if the other person had used dark magic or magic with enough malicious intent that it made the spell and if they did what their emotion was behind it. If there was anything else it was harbored malice with intent to use it. That her one of her children could actually do so… it sobered her up.
"Ronald, unless you have something nice to say to Hermione or Harry you will leave them alone. I argued to keep you in school and I had thought it was a heat of the moment thing. However your Grandmum is right. I will write to Professor McGonagall after the Holiday and tell her if you slip up one more time to let me know. This is your OWL year, you need to pass those tests to keep your wand rights. You will buckle down and study. You already lost prefect privilege. If you continue, you'll lose your wand," Molly declared with a serious look and a grim tone.
"What was that spell?" Hermione asked curiously after it was clear Ron wasn't going to speak.
"It's an old spell that was used to detect dark magic cast by someone else. It used to be in favor by the DMLE, but the Black family was able to petition to put conditions around it's official use. It was eventually ruled that Aurors couldn't use the spell on captives unless they were caught red handed casting a dark spell. That's because the Black family all eventually have to cast a dark spell at one point or another to appease Magic. Even if it's just at pottery," Cedrella explained neutrally.
Ron made a face of disgust.
"Fix your face, Ronald. Just because the Weasley family needs to cast light charms to appease Magic doesn't make it any better than any other family. The fact that you cast dark magic at all will make it harder to perform those spells down the line," Molly hissed.
"What do you need to cast, Mum?" Ginny asked casually, never having asked.
"Hexes. The Prewett family needs to cast a hex, either at a living creature be it human or animal. Typically we try to keep it light. But you most likely take more after the Prewett family, your Bat Bogey hex is innate talent," Molly answered.
Cedrella nodded before looking at Harry and Hermione, "Most muggleborn or muggle raised are wild cards. Thankfully it's a bit easier since their affinity is what they need to cast or deal with. I say that since I know the Boot family need to brew potions and the Lovegoods need to interact with magical creatures."
"Do you know what Potters had to cast? I recently had a discussion with some friends and we think I might actually have gotten my mother's side instead," Harry prodded.
"The Potters had to transfigure things. Whether that be items or themselves, they had to create things. Your mother though, I heard was very drawn to combat spells and charms. What a lot of people forget is that defensive spells are part of combat," she answered gently.
Harry and Hermione shared a look and Harry nodded.
"I take more after my mother then," he voiced with an easy smile, "Defense has always come naturally to me."
"It makes sense, not a lot of people can do what you've done, Harry," Ginny commented calmly bumping her foot into his leg from her spot on the ground.
"I will gladly admit that he does better than me in Defense practicals," Hermione agreed.
Harry nudged her with his shoulder, "Barely. I only get extra points for casting with some extra oomph because it feels good. You don't waste your magic and do enough to perform extremely well."
Hermione laughed lightheartedly and bumped her shoulder back into his.
Cedrella smiled at them despite her simmering anger at her youngest grandson. She always loved watching siblings interact. The easy bond some of them had was enough to make her think fondly of her own sisters. It was something she always endeavored to protect.
"Hermione, may I steal you for a quick minute?" Cedrella asked.
"Yes, ma'am," Hermione said standing up and following the witch out of the room.
"Now it's not really a secret, but clearly there wouldn't be enough time to teach you all that I need this Holiday. So I'm proposing that the 27th, if you and your master are okay with it, that we rent a special room at Gringotts," Cedrella articulated.
"What kind of special room?" Hermione asked with honest curiosity.
"A time room. While the wizards have time turners, goblins have made a time suspension room. While we're in the room, the outside world won't progress as normal. At least to us. The downside is that we will age while in there. The goblins have specialized de-aging potions that wizards don't have. They only allow us to use them if we use the time room. It's standard to pay for the room and potion ahead of time. It isn't cheap. Sirius agreed that he would pay for room and potion for the both of us," the older witch explained.
"Do you need to take the de-aging potion when you leave the room?" Hermione asked.
"While you don't specifically need to, it's unsaid that you should. If a muggle saw you one day looking as you do now then a week later and you look twenty, it could break the Statue of Secrecy," Cedrella answered.
"Why would we be in the room so long that we would need that?" Hermione asked with slightly narrowed eyes, crossing her arms defensively.
Cedrella smirked before taking out her wand and casting a few privacy spells.
"You are smart and quick on the uptake. Sharp. Good. While I was disowned from the Black family, many members still keep in contact with me in secret because of my job. Sirius reinstated many of us, allowing Traditionalists to speak to us in public and society," she held up a finger to Hermione's lips before continuing.
"I work as an Unspeakable in the Department of Mystery. I cannot speak of my job or what I study, but I do have access to knowledge and many other things. It benefits them to keep in contact with me. Once you finish your Mastery the Department will reach out to you. Normally we would only spend a few months covering Magic and wouldn't need the potion. However, with the Second Blood War here it's imperative that we take time we don't have. Narcissa will also be meeting us there. Just know that we will keep track of how long we stay in there. Room, bath, and food is provided as well as nutrition potions. We will be on a mostly meat diet since much of the food in the room is jerked. When we run out Narcissa or I will step out and the goblins will give us more food and resume. I say her or I because you will be learning and working every day we are in there. After we cover Magic Narcissa will be teaching you Dark magic, how to interact with it, and how to handle it. You already know that The Crown must learn combat and defense so they are not entirely helpless or weak in the face of danger. The same applies to you since you're a witch. The difference is you need to learn magical combat. Normally we would wait until you had all your NEWTs, but because of the situation just having your Defense NEWT is enough for us to go ahead."
"This means that I'll finish the rest of my NEWTs way behind my peers," Hermione complained with a frown, almost a scowl.
Cedrella's lips quirked up in amusement, everyone in the Department would have felt the same way.
"How about this then, the 28th and 29th you'll take your NEWTs. I'm sure you're ready," she added after seeing the panic in the younger witch's eyes.
"The 30th we will rent out the room. If you'd like me to give you a crash course on what you need to know for your NEWTs I'm offering now and we can do some practical magic on the 27th," Cedrella offered.
'I really don't want to take my NEWTs so soon in case I get anything less than Outstandings, but Severus, Barty, and Moody have been working with me and training me. I learned one of the most complicated pieces of self transfiguration with Luna and the twins. I'd be able to further dedicate my time to my apprenticeship, I wouldn't have to actually attend classes unless I wanted to observe. I know the Professors would let me. I wouldn't need permission to access the restricted section of the library. I'd even be able to find time to further work with the ley lines and the wards. The benefits do outweigh my anxiety…' Hermione thought to herself before sighing.
"An added bonus would be you'd be closer in age to Severus," Cedrella wheedled.
Hermione looked at her and raised a brow, silently prodding her to continue.
"I know Severus enough through Narcissa and Eileen. They tell me he's an upstanding wizard outside of the classroom and while he is grey, a dark grey, he is also a good man. He has never physically hit a woman or child, even during raids in the war. He actually helps report abusive cases and even helps those in abusive situations with no way out. He's never been with an unwilling woman and has balked and refused to even entertain the idea. He couldn't do anything about Harry's case because of Dumbledore," she grumbled a few insults about the elder wizard.
"Frankly even with your use of a time-turner, you're too young. Severus is many things but he's not a groomer. Eileen doesn't deserve that stigma either, that her son is a groomer. I know what muggleborns think of the Pull that happens in a magic blessed Apprenticeship. I know he's spiteful, acerbic, and hates idiots without bothering to even try to hide it. But Magic decided and you two mesh well. I think it would be better if your age and brain were fully developed before you continue." she conceded.
"I would have to be there for 7 years.Besides wouldn't the de-aging potion undo that then?" she asked with anger starting to simmer in her throat.
She knew that Cedrella was only speaking facts. While she was 18, an adult, she was also still a teenager. She wasn't sure if wizard biology was different, but she knew in the muggle world the brain reached emotional adulthood at 25. While she was more mature than her peers, she also knew that she had some growing to do.
"Surprisingly no. The goblins wanted what was learned in those rooms to stick. Goblins use their time rooms for training. While they're bankers, they're warriors at heart and in spirit. It would be a waste of time and effort if they didn't retain their training, muscle definition, and muscle memory. They also want their young to have carefree childhoods so to speak. Once they reach majority they enter the time room so they complete their mandatory warrior training. The timing varies. They didn't want old warriors when they could have spry young bodies. The older goblins at the desks are retired warriors. Plus then they're emotionally and mentally prepared for their own apprenticeships. So aside from your other organs and skin, your age is noted. It even shows up properly when you perform the Age Verification charm," the elder witch explained.
Hermione nodded before voicing a thought, "You and Narcissa are willing to age 7 years for me?"
The elder witch nodded seriously, "We are. We're prepared. Besides as I told you the potion will make our bodies young again to avoid suspicion."
"What if I want my body to be 20 or something?" she asked.
Cedrella's mouth quirked up, "Once you hit 17 your magic starts to keep you young. Your body at 20 would still look as you do now. Professors at Hogwarts tend to show a bit more age due to stress."
"Nice to know that's still a thing," Hermione mutter under her breath before clearing her throat, "How long would it be outside of the room?"
"Roughly an hour a year, we wouldn't celebrate Holidays in there so we will be working straight through the years," Cedrella answered.
"I accept. If you can provide the list of what I need to know so I can compare it with what I already know would be extremely helpful. I also have a minor suggestion that we bring 2 house-elves. One to provide fresh and dry food when needed and another to cook while we work. I know I wouldn't be able to handle eating only jerky and nutrition potions."
"I can accept that and it'll be done. My house-elf has dispensation to get galleons out of my vault for errands. I have more than enough money for this endeavor," Cedrella agreed.
"Thank you, that's all I ask at this time," Hermione conferred.
Cedrella nodded, "Shall we return to the festivities?"
"We shall. I'm sorry I won't really be here for 3 days," Hermione apologized.
"There's no need for an apology. It's 3 days and you'll be here for the rest of it. I'll be here until the day before you go back to Hogwarts. It'll be nice to spend time with my family. It'd be even better if Hallow could be here, but he has his own family to tend to," Cedrella mused with a small gentle smile.
She picked up her wand and canceled her privacy spells, "Also please call me Ella."
Hermione smiled at the older witch, "I will, thank you, Ella."
Cedrella tossed an arm around Hermione's shoulders in a grandmotherly fashion and walked them back into the parlor.
As they entered the room an ethereal panther leapt into the room making its way to Hermione. The witch smiled and couldn't resist reaching out and ghosted her fingers around the panther's face.
"Apprentice, I will collect you and your brother at 11 in the morning. Be ready." It shared.
"My isn't that quite the patronus," Cedrella said admiringly.
Hermione couldn't help but grin at the elder witch, "Isn't it?"
"Looks a lot like you, Mia," Ginny noted.
"It really does," Fred and George chimed.
"What do they mean?" Cedrella inquired.
"Hermione is an animagus," Harry explained, "She's a black jaguar."
The twins nodded, "Nearly scared the wits out of the registrar too."
"And how would you boys know?" Molly demanded with her hands on her hips.
"We went to registered with her," they announced proudly.
Molly's face went a little red, "How were you able to afford that?"
"Hogwarts covered the fees as long as it happens while they're at school," Hermione placated, "Professor McGonagall took us."
"The Headmaster didn't even ask what we were, just assumed we were a bunch of coyotes," George grumbled.
"Dumbledore didn't bother asking what you were?" Cedrella asked almost casually, "Well I would surely love to see what my grandsons were."
The twins didn't need anymore prompting before they turned into foxes and wiggled their way to her with happy fox whines where they proceeded to flop and wiggle by her feet.
"Oh my!" Cedrella squealed, "You two are adorable! And you're mirror twins when you're good fluffy boys! Who are my handsome fluffy boys!? Are you handsome fluffy boys? Yes you are!"
The witch quickly dropped to into a squat to pet her grandsons in fox forms. After a few seconds of that she grabbed them both, holding on under each arm.
"Arthur! Look at my boys!" Cedrella shouted with pure joy.
Arthur laughed at his mother while also beaming with pride, "They're foxes! Red foxes."
Molly watched her husband and mother share their joy over her twin boys' forms before smiling. Being an animagus was extremely hard and her joker sons had achieved it.
"Congradualtions. I am proud of you two," Molly said to her sons, "I'll bake a cake to celebrate."
Ron's face turned red with jealousy and anger before he scoffed, "I can't believe you guys are excited because they managed to turn themselves into animals. They were animals before."
Cedrella's face dropped and the skin around her eyes tightened, "Ronald, being an animagus is extremely hard and exacting. One slip up and a number of bad things could have happened. Not only that, but you have to trust yourself while also giving into that side. It isn't easy."
Arthur sighed at his youngest son, "Ron," he rubbed his hand down his face, "You need to work on your jealousy. All of you are worthy of love and attention. We as parents and adults praise accomplishments, because they're trials you overcome through hard work. I know you're jealous because you feel we sometimes don't give you enough attention or praise. Your mother was able to give you and Ginny both her undivided attention for a few years. In that time your mother coddled you both. Ginny felt suffocated by it and wanted to go and do things. You however were delighted and didn't feel the need to do more. It shows, both at home and at school. You expect praise for nothing."
Ron opened his mouth before shutting it and his face grew a bright red.
"Your father is only speaking the truth, Ronald. No one gets praise for nothing. Acting out gets you attention, but not the kind you want. If you want to continue this way…" she trailed off with a small frown.
"You'll end up in Azkaban, Ron," Sirius said for her, "You'll attract the attention of the DMLE. If it weren't for the Headmaster and your mother you would have been expelled and arrested when you fired that spell at Hermione."
"I'm so disappointed in you, Ron," Arthur said with a soft frown.
Ron quickly stood up and left the room. Hermione was sure she saw the beginnings of tears in the tall redhead's eyes.
Harry waited a few seconds before sighing in relief, "I'm so glad I don't share a room with him."
"You said it," Ginny huffed.
"Mia, why don't you show Mrs. Weasley your animagus form?" Harry motioned.
"Yeah, Mia. Don't let the boys have all the fun," Ginny teased.
Hermione folded her arms and playfully huffed, "You only want me to so you can pet me and snuggle."
"You got me," Ginny laughed.
"Well don't keep us waiting," Cedrella said, both twins still in her arms.
Hermione stood up and transformed before walking over to the older witch and sat in front of her and yawned. Both Arthur and Cedrella were stunned. They had never seen a jaguar before today. She was beautiful, but her teeth were clearly predatory, her form was dangerous, and she was sitting less than a foot away from them.
"Oh my," she whispered. She quickly put the twins down.
"Hermione, your form is beautiful," she breathed. She reached out a hand to the side of Hermione's face where the animagus shoved her head into the older witch's hand.
The older witch laughed disbelievingly as she pet the animagus with more confidence.
"I can't wait to teach you!" she exclaimed while laughing.