*Disclaimer - I own nothing, the Harry Potter universe belongs to JKR and I make no money from these writing.

Alyssa's Retreat -

~oOo~

Hermione was sleeping wonderfully, that was at least until the earth quake hit and violent shaking woke her from her sound slumber. She shot bolt upright in bed and scanned the room frantically, only to see a wide eyed Mipsy standing next to her bed – apparently there was no earth quake, just an over-eager house-elf.

"Miss, must be waking. Everyone is ready to be going!" The little elf squeaked.

Hermione groaned and rolled out of bed not very eager to proceed with the day. She noticed Draco was already gone; hopefully he escaped before anyone noticed his presence in her room.

After she completed her morning routine she scooped up Gambol and called for Mipsy in order to provide her with an escort.

Moments later Theo appeared at her door. Gave her a mock serious bow, offering her his arm as he joked "Good morning, milady."

She smiled at her brother, "This is getting a bit ridiculous; don't you agree?"

He raised an eyebrow and smirked, "this coming from the witch who refuses to take Dreamless Sleep, because she is afraid that if something happened she would not wake-up. Besides, what better a way to be greeted everyday then with the fine young Slytherins assigned to protect you?"

She rolled her eyes and scowled, but still took his arm.

~oOo~

When she arrived in the traveling room she was surprised with the number of people there. She couldn't believe the number of supporters her grandfather had. Families with small children were packed into the room. Some were saying good-bye to loved ones, others seemed to be gathering small children, and some seemed like they were just milling about waiting for instruction. It looked like all of the families from Slytherin House were there, and she saw some students from other houses as well. She was quite surprised to see the Patil twins standing with their parents and younger sibling. She was grateful to see Draco approach her and Theo successfully blocking Hermione from the Patil's line of vision. She really did not want to speak with them right now.

"Morning," Draco took Hermione's hand and placed a gentle kiss on the back of it, his lips lingering a little longer than what could be considered proper.

The action caused Hermione to blush and she mumbled, "Good morning," in return.

Theo held out his hand and in a falsetto tone addressed Draco, "Good morning."

Draco not one to be outdone took his hand and kissed the back of it. "Morning, sweetie"

"Ew, Draco!" Theo wiped his hand on his robes using exaggerated actions.

Draco just raised an eyebrow to him as Hermione laughed. "We are leaving from the study; these people are going to several different locations. They are trying to figure out who can adequately defend the homes they are being sent to, if by small chance they are attacked."

~oOo~

Severus walked in the study and nodded at Tom. "Samuel gouged his eyes out this morning, apparently the potion causes hallucinations and he was trying to stop them. The healer was able to cauterize both of the wounds and seal his eyelids. Fortunately, the removal of his eyes has not affected the progress of the potion, as he continues to have auditory and visual hallucinations. Pulchek, however, was not happy to be treating him again. She felt he should have been left to deal with his wounds on his own."

"Thank you, Severus. How much longer do you think he has?" Tom asked with a slight smile, the man gouged his own eyes out – can't be punishment much worse than that.

Severus shook his head, "The effects of the potion seem to be getting more intense. I don't see him lasting longer then two or maybe three hours."

Tom nodded. "We are waiting for Hermione now. I am sending Theo, Draco, and Hermione first. I want her to have a wand and I would like to be with her when she receives it. I did not have the chance to see her and Theo receive their first wand, so I am going to take the opportunity presented to me."

Severus nodded, and sat down to wait.

~oOo~

"Everyone, grab on we have thirty seconds." Snape directed the small group to a piece of parchment as soon as they arrived.

Draco put his arm around Hermione and his free hand on the parchment. As they were sucked into the worm hole Hermione could feel Draco's arm tighten around her and pull her closer to his side. She was amazed, she always thought tactile sensation would not exist within the portal – which was unrealistic since she was aware families with small children often preferred traveling by port-key; it's not like they would just toss a baby in the worm hole and hope for the best.

Draco securely held Hermione as they exited the portal, and gently assisted her in a smooth and graceful landing. Hermione beamed at him as their feet softly touched the ground – the memory of her painful landing the last time she traveled via port-key was still very fresh in her mind.

Before she even had a moment to get her bearings her grandfather looked at her with a small smile, "Welcome to Alyssa's Retreat." And with that the air around her seemed to distort and waver, it reminded her of watching hot air rise off of the road as the landscape seemed to bend behind the air. A large white house slowly appeared, it looked as if it was built into the mountain side, the back of the house extended many meters past the cliff, and she was sure if it wasn't for magic the home would tumble into the beautiful turquoise water below. Hermione gasped as she took in the scenery – retreat indeed.

Theo smiled at her, "This was mum's favorite vacation home. It was a muggle home that father was able to purchase fairly cheaply; since the previous owners were sure that it only had a few years until it crumbled into the sea. It's magically supported so that will not happen, but I wouldn't ask father about the conversion of the house - apparently it took a considerable amount of time and money to convert a muggle home into a magical one. He tends to go off a bit when asked about it."

Hermione smiled at him, and the proceeded up the stone path into the home. Tom misread his granddaughter wide-eyes as she looked around the large foyer. "It's fairly small compared to Malfoy Manor, there are only two wings. The family wing, which all of us will have rooms in, and the guest wing."

Hermione looked at him incredulously. Small!

Severus cut through Hermione's thoughts. "Hermione, how about you get settled in your room. I'll let your mother know that you are here, I'm sure you'll want to visit with her."

Hermione was calm when she responded, she knew she would have to see her mother eventually but decided she would put it off as long as possible. "Um… that's ok, I can see mum later. I really want to see Gregorovitch for a wand, and then train a bit. I am assuming there is a dueling room here."

Before Severus could respond Tom shot him a knowing look, and responded to Hermione, "Very well, dear. Theo will escort you to the study after you get settled in. You can call for Mipsy if you need anything."

~oOo~

Tom and Gregorovitch were already waiting in the study when Hermione arrived. The wand maker already had hundreds of wands spread throughout the room. Both Draco and Theo remained by the door quietly not wanting to disturb the selection process.

"Miss Nott, it's an honor to meet you." The little man had a deep gravelly voice, but appeared to be extremely cheerful. "I hear Olivander fitted you for your first wand, is that correct?"

She nodded at him and smiled, but didn't speak. She was overcome with the urge to run her hands over the wands. Anxiety bubbled up in her stomach as she slowly scanned the room with her eyes, she was listening, her wand was there and it was calling to her – she could feel its power strumming through her a dull humming coursing through her.

"That's it, dear, just take your time you can touch them if you need to." Gregorovitch encourage her.

She wanted to tell him to shut-up, he was making it difficult to listen; but instead she started walking around the small room. She didn't need to touch the wands to know that they were not calling to her, they seemed distasteful to her it was nauseating to even consider running her hands over them. It wasn't until she reached the far corner of the room, and saw the small bag on the floor that she knew. Her mind screamed out to her – Yes, Yes, Yes! That is it; in there, in there! Bending down she reached into the bag her hand brushing over several wand boxes. Her hand instantly froze when it grabbed onto the one her new wand was in, it was like the meeting of a positive and negative charge as a current of magic ran through her connecting her to the wand while it still laid within the box; she felt completed. She quickly took the wand from its old box and admired the craftsmanship; lovingly she caressed the length of it as she admired the ornate carvings of small daisy like flowers on the handle. Without asking for permission she turned to the fireplace and casted a nonverbal Incendio. She smiled as she watched the fire roar to life.

"Ah, yes, this is a fine wand, very powerful. It's made from hazel wood, ten inches, with a Pegasoi Aithiopes horn core. The Hazel tree is considered a tree of knowledge and is worshipped by the druids. The core is made from a beast that is thought to be extinct, however there have been many magical creatures that seem to disappear only to be found later. It looked much like a Pegacorn, the only difference being that they sometimes had more than one horn. That wand was made several generations ago; I was starting to believe I would never find its owner." Gregorovitch smiled brightly as he explained this to her.

Tom was still standing off to the side with a small smile playing on his lips. It may not be her first wand, but he could tell by the way she holding it with a delicate reverence that she would not miss her old wand a bit. "Theo, Draco, you are dismissed, we will meet you in the dueling chamber in an hour."

Both Theo and Draco looked a bit perplexed by the dismissal, but could both tell by Tom's tone not to question him. Tom looked over at the wand-maker as he offered his arm to his granddaughter, "Yassen, there will be more arrivals later this afternoon who will be in need of your services."

~oOo~

Hermione was lead into a small dining room where a tea service and some small finger sandwiches were laid out on the table. "Have a seat, dear; I want you to have something to eat before we begin training. Severus went to retrieve our guest."

A bit perplexed at whom their guest could be, she sat and helped herself to a sandwich and some tea, taking the time to poor some for her grandfather as well. Tom sat next to his granddaughter and helped himself to a sandwich. He had given Severus instructions to wait at least fifteen minutes before entering the room. He truly did want to make sure Hermione had something in her stomach and feared that once they forced the meeting with Isabella she would be put-off from her food. Hermione finished her second sandwich as a soft knock sounded from the door; Hermione looked up Severus entered with her mother in tow.

Hermione averted her eyes as soon as her mother walked in. She missed her mother's frown at the action. Isabella looked at the two men in the room and let out a sigh, she knew they meant well, but did they really think it would be helpful to have them in the room for this intimate conversation. Both her father and brother had a difficult time with tears, the gods knew she and Alyssa had used them on numerous occasions to get their way with the men. "Father, do you think Hermione and I could have a few minutes alone?"

"No, I want to make sure you two have a productive conversation." Her father responded looking as if she had made the most ridiculous request – honestly she asked for privacy, not for him to tap dance across the table.

Sighing when she looked at her daughter who was still diligently staring at the table, Isabella began in a soft voice. "Hermione, will you please look at me, and tell me what is bothering you." Isabella was well aware of what was bothering Hermione, but the mind healer had recommended encouraging Hermione to talk on her own. When Hermione looked up at her mother with her eyes filled with tears all of the Healers advice went out the window.

Isabella ran over to her daughter and wrapped her arms around her. "Oh, sweetie, please don't be upset." Isabella was gently rocking her daughter silently cursing the men as she awkwardly embraced her daughter from the chair next to Hermione's – what would make them think a dining room was a good room to have this type of conversation.

As Hermione sobbed Isabella was able to pick up the occasional I'm sorry and her fault. "Hermione none of this is your fault; you need to understand that. I did what any mother would do to protect her child." Her voice was soft but determined. She continued rocking Hermione gently, and quietly whispering reassuring words to her, "We are strong witches, Hermione, and we will get through this."

When Hermione finally quieted down her mother released her. Both women were teary eyed and Tom was regretting his decision to stay in the room at this point, but he did feel firmly that he needed to be aware of their mental states so he could help them accordingly. Although watching the women cry had him considering giving Samuel the antidote for the potion so he could start the man's punishment over.

"Hermione, you uncle was able to acquire the magical artifact Albus was using to bind your magic. We would like to release it now that you have your wand." Tom was eyeing her carefully, noticing she looked a bit confused.

"I thought it was released on my birthday." Her tone was questioning.

Tom shook his head. "No, the type of binding Albus used is an old type of voodoo; we knew we needed to find the artifact before we could release your magic. Forgive me, but we intentionally did not tell you of this we did not want to add to your stress."

Hermione looked to Severus, "How did you find it?"

Severus reached into his robes and pulled out a small doll, and Hermione couldn't help wondering if she stuck a pin it would it hurt her. "Professor McGonagall found it actually. Apparently Dumbledore forgot it when he made his hasty retreat last year. When I told Minerva who you truly are and what I was looking for she retrieved it from his office right away. She is also agreeing to ban Dumbledore from the school; she is furious and may prove to be a very useful ally."

Severus laid the doll on the table in front of Hermione to allow her to exam it. He knew the curious little witch would have to analyze the damn thing before they could proceed; he was anxious to get rid of it. He knew the object could not be used for anything other than binding her power, but still the thought of a magical object controlled by Dumbledore and tied to his kin did not settle well at all. Lucius had to stop him from destroying the object immediately; he was so angry with the old man he didn't stop to think of the effects the destruction could have on Hermione.

As Hermione analyzed the doll she couldn't help thinking how crude it looked. It seemed to be a simple clay model with three strings of hair tied around its head, which she could only assume were her own, and a thin cord wrapped around its chest three times. To think this little doll controlled her magic, it was – it was simply amazing really; she couldn't help but admire the simplicity of it.

Looking up at her grandfather she asked, "Could we do this to Dumbledore? I mean surely Lupin or even Harry could get some of his hair."

Tom smiled at his granddaughter she really did have a masterful mind. He was simply amazed at her ability to make an emotional one-eighty; if it wasn't for the fact that her eyes were still red he may have believed he imagined her minor break-down only moments before. "The hair and the model are only two components; there is also a complex spell that needs to be woven between the model and the intended. You were very young when this was done, and I imagine the old man did the spell weaving while you were sleeping."

Hermione scrunched her forehead in thought for a moment, "Why didn't you need the model to release mum's magic?"

Tom nodded at his granddaughters question, he was expecting this one. "Your mother's magic was bound using some very old dark magic. Since he was binding all of her magic indefinitely he did not need to go to the same extent. With you he was using it as a means to control you; slowly releasing your magic. I'm not sure what he was trying to accomplish in the long run."

"Well, why didn't he just bind all of my magic once mum and I escaped?"

Gheesh, Severus was not kidding when he said she questioned things incessantly. Tom looked to Severus a bit exasperated only to see Severus looking at him with a clearly amused expression. He looked back to his granddaughter figuring Severus was going to be no help. "Dumbledore can only unbind your magic with the model. In order to do that he would unwind the cord around it." He saw Hermione start to shake her head, and quickly continued before she could get another question out. "In order to re-bind your magic using this doll he would need you present in order to recast the spells, and yes this is something your mother says has been done in the past."

Hermione nodded her understanding, "Well, what are we waiting for, shouldn't we destroy it?"

Severus answered his eyes softened as he spoke to her, "We are waiting for Lucius and healer Pulchek. We are not sure what effects the destruction of the doll will have on you. From the information we were able to gather the effects can range from a mild discomfort to extreme pain. The first step is to unbind your magic. When the original binding was done the cord would have covered the entire doll, he would then unravel the cord slowly to release power. This should not cause you any discomfort and since the cord is only wound three times we do not expect to see the same volatile reaction that your mother had; we do however want to have a healer here just in case. The braking of the spells and untying of your hair is what may cause the pain." Hermione looked at him curiously trying as if she were trying to puzzle something out. Severus trying to avoid another onslaught of questions continued with his explanation.
"Albus unabashedly used this magic in a way it was never intended for; it was designed to bind the magic of the ill, there are some diseases that feed off of magic and it was often used while treating the mentally ill. This method has been replaced with potions in modern times. But, when this method was used two people would weave the spells that bound the model. It would only take one of them to unbind the model from their patient, it was a fail-safe – so if something happened to one of them the other would be available to do the unbinding. It was intentionally designed that only the casters could unbind the model, since in those days healing was done at home they could not risk the patient getting a hold of the model and unbinding their own magic. Since we cannot ask Albus to remove the hairs we have to do it ourselves." Hermione nodded feeling more than a bit apprehensive.

~oOo~

Lucius arrived outside of the dining room to find his son pacing furiously back and forth. Theo was taking turns staring at Draco with a concerned expression and then staring at the closed door with a concerned expression. "Draco?" Lucius questioned his son.

Draco looked up at his father with wild eyes. Lucius gasped at his son's ragged look and looked between Draco and Theo waiting for some explanation.

Theo broke the silence, "They have been in there quite a while, and apparently Hermione has been experiencing a torrent of emotions. We have no idea what's going on in there, and the only reason we haven't blasted down the door is because we know she is with my uncle and grandfather." At Lucius's confused look Theo added, "She is wearing the Malfoy wand cuff on her wrist."

"Bloody hell," Lucius mumbled under his breath, no wonder his son looked such a mess. "She's fine, Draco. They had her meet with Isabella." Draco seemed to relax a bit with his words, and Lucius lead him into the dining room not bothering to knock on the door.

As he entered the room Draco ignored the other occupants and strode over to Hermione. She was surprised at his abrupt appearance, but even more surprised at the look of fear and concern in his eyes. He ghosted his thumb over her cheek as he took in her red and swollen eyes. His eyes were penetrating her own she felt as if she could drown in the silvery-grey pools. "Are you okay," he asked in a quiet voice not caring that all of the occupants were staring at them. She nodded and gave him a small smile, and he dropped his hand and a pulled up a chair forcing it in-between Tom's and Hermione's.

Isabella smiled at the interplay between the two. Alex and Bella have been telling her how well the two of them were getting on, but to hear about it and see it first-hand was completely different.

Lucius addressed them, "Healer Pulchek had an emergency she needed to attend to. She gave me a sleeping draught in case her magic becomes volatile and this-" He held up what appeared to be a bottle of muggle spring water. "Apparently it is one-part water, one-part witch hazel, and one-part distilled white vinegar. She said to use this to dissolve the model and then cut the hair. Hermione will feel no discomfort as long as the model is dissolved first. She also asked me to tell you, Severus, and I quote 'It would seem that I know of a potion that you are not aware of'. She also cackled after she said that." Lucius made a distasteful look, but laughter could be seen in his eyes.

Severus huffed, "That's not a potion, it's a – it's a douche!"

Lucius looked at his son, "Draco, please put the cuff on her wand before we continue."

He nodded picking up Hermione's hand to remove the cuff. Hermione looked at him understanding dawning in her eyes – no wonder he seemed so upset. She handed him her wand after he removed the cuff from her wrist and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek – she felt awful that he was worrying over her. Even though it was a small kiss on the cheek Draco counted it as kiss number three she initiated, especially since it was done in front of her mother and grandfather.

Hermione watched as the rope was unwound from the doll. The entire room was tense with anticipation, and she noticed both Lucius and her uncle were watching her intently with their wands drawn; she wasn't sure if they were preparing to stun her or shield the others – maybe both. It wasn't until the last of the cord was unwound that she felt a surge of power. It tickled – it was exhilarating – and a large smile pulled at her cheeks as the glass in the room started shattering – this was – this was, wow. Feeling the power trying to forcefully expel itself from her body she started to wandlessly cast spells, nonverbal spells repairing the fractured china set. She put the fire out in the fireplace only to relight it moments later and in a peak of giddiness turned to Snape and changed his robes to a brilliant fuchsia. She sat back down as she felt her power settle but couldn't shake the feeling of sheer bliss, nor could she wipe the silly smile off her face.

Draco looked at her amused, reminded of the time in the safe house when she was under the influence of the pain potion. He took her hand and rubbed his thumb soothingly over the back of it.

Tom deciding not to wait until his granddaughter came down from her high, doused the clay model with the solution Lucius provided. The all watched as the doll melted into nothing, and Tom quickly broke the knot in the hair, his granddaughter watching with a smile. He was grateful that her smile did not falter at all.

Tom looked up to Lucius and Severus, "I trust you two will cast the spells to banish her hair." Both Lucius and Severus nodded.

Hermione looked wide-eyed at the group before her mother quietly whispered, "He meant stray hairs, Hermione, he does not want Dumbledore having the opportunity to use your hair again."

Hermione sagged with relief.

~oOo~

Hermione was in the dueling chamber standing across from her uncle. Theo and Draco had been instructed to give them an hour alone in order to assess Hermione's skill. Bowing to her uncle for what seemed like the hundredth time she acknowledged she was bored. She was following strict instructions to shield and cast – for a half-an-hour now she has been going at it. Shield – spell – shield – spell – shield – spell. Although the pace was furious the exercise was boring, and people did not stop to bow at each other when in battle. She knew better then to argue and continued with the exercise. Neither of them had gotten a single hit in, and she was pleased with herself since she was sure Snape was not going easy on her. Reaching the apex of her boredom she decided to change things up a bit. Shield – spell – spin left, she ignored that deep chuckle that sounded from the door. Shield – spell – spin right – shield – spell, and now for the finally – dodge and spell, and she watched as her nonverbal Incendio hit its mark.

Snape raised an eyebrow at her, "This is the second set of my robes you have seen fit to set on fire, Hermione."

Her eyes went wide for a moment before she shrugged a contrite look on her face.

Tom interrupted them, "you're doing wonderfully. Now, let's see how you do with a more realistic battle environment."

~oOo~

Bella, Rudolphus Lestrange, and Isabella stood with Lucius and Tom safely ensconced behind a multi-layered shield watching Snape and Hermione battle. Bella could see her husband's amused grin in her peripheral vision; she had to admit it was amusing to see the petite witch frustrating Snape so thoroughly.

Hermione was using her small frame to its fullest, tucking herself behind the smallest of the obstacles Tom had transfigured in the room to simulate a battle situation. It did not go unmissed that Tom had set the room up to resemble the Atrium at the Ministry. Hermione had taken a couple of stunners, and had gotten in a couple of hits of her own as well. She was surprised that her Uncle had not bothered to taunt her.

The door to the dueling chamber opened admitting Draco, Theo, Greg, and Blaise. Rudolphus took this to mean that the skill assessment was over and started taunting Snape. "Bloody hell, Snape, your letting a little imp run circles around you. You afraid she might get her pixie dust on you, do you have an allergy?"

He snickered a bit when Snape looked at him annoyed. Snape threw another stunner at Hermione and she did a side-roll to get out of its way; moving herself behind a large pillar while firing a string of stunners in rapid succession.

Tom called a halt to the duel. "Theo and Draco join Hermione. Lucius join Severus. Any nonverbal spells can be used as long as it can be healed with a charm or potion – a standard healing potion, Severus, nothing requiring something special to be brewed."

Tom, Bella and Rudolphus watched them battle for about five minutes. Bella was extremely annoyed with the young men; they were not dueling with Hermione – they were protecting her. She heard her husband quietly murmur to Tom, "Should I join them, give the little pixie something to do."

Tom shook his head, "Not yet."

The group watched on as the boys continued to protect Hermione, both Lucius and Severus were trying to hit her and include her in the battle, but were thwarted by the young men.

Putting her hand on her hip Hermione narrowed eyes. She bent down and scooped a handful of debris into her hand and focused on pile of rubble behind Lucius. She missed all of the gasps as she flashed out of sight, and reappeared a moment later behind Lucius. She cast a silent Incarcerous at Lucius, while throwing the debris in her hand at Snape. Snape screamed out in pain as the caustic dirt hit him; burning his skin wherever it made contact. Theo regained his sense quick enough to bind Snape as well.

Tom and Rudolphus clapped from the doorway. Tom called out "well done" – although his voice was drowned out by the interruption from the rest of the group.

"What the hell - was that - Bloody hell, - You can't apparate – Hermione – wards up." Theo, Draco, Lucius, and Severus were all talking over each other. Hermione looked over to her mother for help. Bella let out a loud masculine whistle to gather the attention of the men who continued to talk over each other.

Tom waved the group in. "Hermione, what spell was did you use to transport yourself? There are wards against apparating in this room."

Hermione shrugged, "It's not really a spell, more like a willing of movement. Edward taught me how to do it."

Severus rose an inquiring eyebrow, "Edward, as in the day-walker we had come speak to the defense classes?"

Draco cut in, "The arrogant git."

Hermione pursed her lips, "He was not arrogant, he was charming, and dashing, and – and gallant!"

Draco eyes narrowed, "Really, Hermione, opening a couple of doors for you does not make someone gallant."

Lucius couldn't help smirking at his son arrogant drawl; he really mastered that particular Malfoy trait spectacularly.

"Well, I think he was quite charming, and I would know since I was his escort and companion for the three days he spent at Hogwarts." Hermione had a smug look on her face.

Lucius decided it was best to intervene before his jealous son said or did something stupid. "Can you teach us?"

Hermione looked deep in thought for a moment before answering, "I'm not sure, I tried to teach Harry and Luna, but they couldn't do it. The thing is when I ask Edward if he could teach me he said yes, that he thought it was a skill I could master, but he didn't tell me why. I can't travel through walls or long distances like the vampires can, I can only manage it in an open area."

Severus nodded, "How long did it take you to master?"

"Only a couple of weeks." A slight blush appeared on her cheeks as she continued to explain. "But, Edward was able to help with the visualization."

Severus frowned a bit, he was well aware of the mind techniques vampires employed, and how it tended to have the affect of a mild aphrodisiac. Severus ignored Theo's and Draco's angry scowl asking Hermione, "Do you think you could teach us? It could give us a large advantage if even a small number of us were able to do it."

Hermione nodded, "I could try."

Tom clapped his hands together once to gain the groups attention, "Let's get back to training, Theo and Hermione you will be paired against Lucius, Severus and Rudolphus. Theo, you are a team I expect you to remember that. While the technique Hermione used was successful if this were a real battle situation she could have been put in even more danger by separating herself from the group."

Tom talked quietly with his daughter and Bella as he watched the mock battle in front of him. He was explaining to his daughter how upset he was the day Hermione had struck him with a blast of uncontrolled magic. He was more than shocked at his daughter's response, she looked a bit sad when she explained to him, "She has worked extremely hard in order to control her magic, even when she had bouts of uncontrolled magic she learned to channel it and direct it way from whatever was upsetting her – mainly so she could heal us when Samuel would give us grief. The fact that she let herself get that upset in front of you tells me she trust you."

Tom nodded; he really did not know how to respond to that. Bella looked over at Tom, "Theo is still protecting her." She canted her head in Theo's direction.

Rudolphus was relentless in his attack against Hermione. "What's a matter, little pixie? Having a hard time keeping up with the grown-ups?" He taunted her. Firing hex after hex at her. Even Snape and Lucius were getting a bit concerned as Rudolphus kept at it, taunting her even after his slicing hex grazed her cheek. "Come on, pixie, show me what you have."

Lucius took out Theo. Theo allowed a lapse in attention when Hermione was hit in the cheek. Theo moved over to Draco and both stood by the door watching the battle. Tom looked at Theo, "you'll have to trust her, you were completely focused on protecting her again." Theo nodded, he knew what he was doing he just couldn't seem to stop himself. Isabella took his hand and gave it a squeeze. The door to the chamber opened again admitting Luna Lovegood and Daphne Greengrass and Vincent Crabbe. Hermione was too engaged in battle to notice the entry of her friend.

Tom addressed Luna, "Miss Lovegood, I trust your travels were safe."

"Oh yes, Lord Riddle. Vincent saw us here safely." Luna answered her voice soft with a whimsical smile on her face. Luna looked at Isabella who was staring at the girl, "Miss Riddle, father says you were great friends with my mum."

Isabella nodded a fond smile on her lips, "We were, she was one of my first friends and even though we went to different schools we remained friends throughout the years. Your mother was a wonderful women and I am truly sorry that we lost her."

Luna nodded, her dazed smile never faltering. She looked at Draco and casually remarked, "Draco, you and Hermione will make such lovely babies together."

The comment caused Draco to choke on his own tongue; turning bright red as fought to regain his composure.

Theo laughed, "You better not be making babies anytime soon."

Tom smiled, as he watched his granddaughter battle three wizards who doubled her age and experience level. To be honest he did not expect her to still be fighting them. He was thoroughly impressed even though she was looking more than a bit frayed, and she had taken several more hits – she was still doing a fine job of holding her own, and showing her intellect once again by switching her battle strategy; efficiently hiding herself, and only showing herself when she had a clean shot.

Tom once again called the fighters in. As Hermione limped over and saw Luna she froze.

"Hello, Miss Nott." Luna smiled at her.

Hermione's eyes narrowed, but before she could say anything Luna began speaking in her characteristically light and airy way. "Now, Hermione, not all things are meant to be understood."

Hermione smiled at her friend and hugged her, "What are you doing here?"

"Your father saw fit to send for us, we were expecting him really. Professor Lupin had been by asking if we had heard from you. Thought it was funny since he knew where you were at, told him as much." Luna explained. "He was kind enough to reinforce our wards and give us emergency port-keys before leaving."

Hermione laughed, Luna takes a lot of getting used to, she would have loved to see Lupin's reaction to her.

Rudolphus pulled Hermione aside so he could heal her injuries, "Do you need some pepper-up?"

She shook her head in response. "I'm fine."

Rudolphus smiled at her, "You are doing well, little pixie." He smirked when she narrowed her eyes. "Don't be angry with me, it's throws wizards off when they encounter a petite powerful witch. There is no relation between size and magical power, but wizards tend to forget that. You used your size to your advantage and that's what matters. Although, you would do well to avoid physical altercations."

Hermione nodded at him in acknowledgement and she heard Draco snort. "I would watch your-self, uncle; she has a mean right hook, and no qualms with attacking the family jewels."

Rudolphus smiled, "A smart girl knows it's not how hard you hit but where you strike that counts."

Tom addressed them, "Lucius, Bella, Rudolphus, and Vincent. I would like to see you against Luna, Hermione, and Daphne."

They watched the girls fight and even though Luna and Hermione had no battle experience with Daphne they all seemed to work remarkable well with each other. Their main weakness seemed to be the amount of verbal communication they were having - giving the opponents – who have been dueling together for a long time, ample time to adjust to their moves. Tom looked at Severus and Isabella, "Hermione's holding back."

Severus nodded, "I thought the same. Maybe it is the lack of fear; she knows we are not going to hurt her."

Tom nodded agreeing with Severus's assessment. He waved his hand so puddles of water were added to the floor, only moments later Daphne slipped in the water and knocked herself out cold. Luna and Hermione responded in a flurry of activity which seemed to be rehearsed. Luna disillusioned herself as she made her way to Daphne – who still laid unmoving in the water. Simultaneously, Hermione put herself in clear view of her opponents while casting a shield charm in front of herself. Laying a hand to the ground while maintaining the shield she channeled her magic into the ground. The action in itself threw her opponents off, and when the ground in the room started violently shaking Luna seemed to be the only one prepared for it and maintained her balance as she pulled Daphne to safety. It only took Bella and the wizards a few moments to regain their sense but Hermione and Luna were back on the attack.

Tom once again called a halt to the proceeding. As the group gathered he quietly whispered something to Blaise who promptly left the room. Daphne was guided to a seat by Bella as Isabella handed her a vile of pepper-up potion. Looking at Luna and his granddaughter he asked, "Was that practiced?"

Both the girls nodded.

"Do you have many preplanned strategies?" Tom asked.

Hermione answered, "Not many, we do not have a lot of time alone to plan them out."

Tom nodded, "How did you manage that bit of magic."

Hermione shrugged and Luna answered for her, "Hermione seems to have a natural connection to the elements. I don't think she even realizes some of the things she does or manipulates is not the norm."

Severus interrupted, "Like the debris you threw at me? It actually burnt my skin."

Hermione shook her head, "No, I just cursed the debris before I threw it, making it acidic. I never tried it before but figured I could do the spell wandless, and as long as I threw it immediately; I would only suffer minimal damage to my own hand."

Severus raised an eyebrow, impressed with her knowledge and ability to think on her feet.

Tom looked to the group, "I would like to see Draco and Hermione against Bella and Rudolphus."

As they made their way back to the dueling area Tom called out, "Draco, she is your partner not your charge, remember that."

Draco just looked at Hermione and gave her a smile and winked, "Ready."

She nodded in return – Damn butterflies - launched an attack because of simple smile.

It took only two minutes of battle with his aunt and uncle for Draco to figure out he would not be able to simply defend Hermione, but he would need to rely on her skill as well. Bella and Rudolphus had up'd the game their attack and defense were relentless and flawless. Draco did a side roll putting himself behind the same obstruction Hermione had taken refuge behind.

"Alright, love?" She was crouched down behind the piled remain of a fireplace. Draco had positioned himself crouched behind her his knees spread fitting her easily between his thighs. She nodded in response to his question.

Putting a hand in her hip to help maintain his balance he whispered to her, "We go up the left, when we get close you shake the ground again and we will bind them."

Tom and Lucius watched the battle looking completely please. The two couples fought, their movements resembling that of a choreographed dance more than battle. Fluent and graceful movements, one hexed while the other blocked only to reverse positions seamlessly each anticipating their partners next move with no hints of communication other than a small look or short nod. All four of them had taken at least one hit at this point, which was no small feat for Draco and Hermione.

The door to the chamber opened Blaise had returned bringing Alex and Dolohov with him. The three men nodded at Tom and watched the training exercise.

Tom looked over to Blaise and Antonin, "If they successfully capture Bella and Rudolphus I want you two out there as soon as they are bound."

Blaise smiled, he loved dueling with Draco. Although, watching Draco and Hermione he was doubtful he would win. If noticed that while both the women seemed consistent with their spells and the strength of them, the men were becoming more agitated there spells becoming more wicked and their anger tangible. No, neither men seemed to appreciate their partners being hexed, training exercise or not.

Hermione was tucked behind a pillar when she kneeled down to touch her hand to the ground. Rudolphus arm went around Bella as she started to fall, and Hermione and Draco seized the opportunity to bind them.

Before the two of them had a chance to relax and celebrate their win Tom called out, "Reinforcements arrived." Blaise and Antonin made their way out from behind the shield.

Draco felt Hermione tense but he could never have anticipated her next sequence of events. Raising her wand at Dolohov Hermione shouted, "Sectumsempra!"

Dolohov was quick to block the spell, but before he had the chance to raise his hand Hermione reached her hand out to one of the torches on the wall. Closing her hand as she reached as if grabbing the fire she whipped her hand forward towards Dolohov.

The fire leapt from the wall momentarily engulfing the entire room in flames. Hermione's and Draco's hair was blown as the force of the fire whipped through the room.

The group behind the shield watched with morbid fascination their expressions a strange combination of horrified and awe.

The event was over almost as soon as it started, the fire quickly receding back to the controlled flame of a torch. Bella and Rudolphus remained bound but unharmed, wide eyes staring at Dolohov. Blaise was also frozen in place uninjured with wide-eyes uninjured at Antonin's badly burned form lying on the floor. The retched stench of burning flesh permeating the air.

Hermione was staring at the damage she inflicted on the man. She did not mean to do that, it just happened, she never had done anything like that before.

Draco came out of his stupor, and quickly made his way over to Hermione who was starting to tremble. Draco quickly wrapped his arms around Hermione, and turned her away from Antonin.

The tinkling sound of Luna's "Bloody hell," seemed to shake the rest of the group into action. Snape and Tom quickly making their way over to Antonin and started healing the man. Isabella released the binds on the Lestranges.

The burns on Antonin's skin healed as Bella applied the burn paste, Tom relaxed. Grateful that even though the fire was magically propelled it was still a natural fire and could be healed. Wounds caused by magical fires were typically difficult to heal, and he was sure the man's body was covered by enough burns that had they not be able to quickly heal them he would have died.

Hermione was crying into Draco's chest, and he was doing his best to soothe her. As he watched the burns on Dolohov body disappear he visible relaxed. "He's fine Hermione; he is going to be fine. Look." Draco gently titled her towards the now healed man. Severus was forcing hydrating potions down his throat, trying to prevent any form of shock from settling in.

Severus assisted Dolohov into a sitting position. Lucius sighed and went to his son who looked like he was supporting all of Hermione's weight. The girl had gone dreadfully pale and it was apparent – at least to Lucius – that she had never done anything like that before. He conjured and over-sized chair and help Draco settle in it with Hermione.

Oddly enough it was Dolohov who broke the tense silence, "I don't recall ever being beaten so quickly in my life." He smiled a bit at the frazzled girl. Severus was approaching her like a frightened animal, he wanted to give her a calming draught, but she looked like she was in quite a state. Lucius looked at him and rolled his eyes. Isabella walked over to her daughter who was tucked securely into Draco side. "Let's get your injuries taken care of, Hermione."

Tom looked to Hermione, "Am I right in that you have never done that before?"

She nodded.

"Do you know how you did that?" He continued.

She shook her head, "I just knew I could. I was angry and I wanted to keep him away from me, and the fire seemed to call to me. It's never been like that before, I have always needed to focus on the element I wish to manipulate, that was so natural I felt like I was part of the fire."

Tom nodded, "we unbound your magic. It would only make sense that at connection you had to the elements would be stronger." Make sense – he was not so sure, but it seemed a logical progression.

Tom made eye contact with Draco, "You will be paired with Hermione and Theo tomorrow." Draco nodded, as Tom continued, "You and Hermione can go relax, the rest of you will continue training."

Draco wasted no time pulling Hermione up from her seat and practically dragging her out the door. Theo and Blaise laughed at his hasty retreat, Tom and Bella were known for hasty changes to their training plans. Usually if you stayed in the room to watch you would end up dueling again.

~oOo~

That night dinner was… subdued. It seemed that most of their thoughts were preoccupied with the impending battle. Hermione in between Draco and Theo, and across from Luna and Blaise. Her grandfather was at the head of the table next to Theo with Alex on the opposite side of him. Severus was next to Blaise with Bella and Rudolphus next to him and across from them sat Cissa and Lucius. Hermione could not help wondering if the adults always sat intermingled with their children or was this seating arrangement because of her arrival.

More people were slowly trickling in, some new faces that Hermione did not recognize. Greyback, Lupin, and Sirius Black arrived; Hermione did her best not to make eye contact. She was not completely over her perceived betrayal from Black and Lupin. Sirius, being alerted to Hermione's feelings on the matter only frowned a bit deciding to wait until after dinner to talk with her. Isabella arrived and Hermione felt betrayed once more as her mother went over and hugged him, sobbing into his chest. She scowled, looking down at the table in front of her; both Theo and Draco watched her intently.

Hermione was fairly certain she had entered the tenth circle of the inferno when Rita Skeeter entered the room. The women instantly locked eyes with Hermione and visible flinched. "Miss Granger, what a… a surprise!" She squeaked out.

Tom quickly interrupted before Hermione could speak. He was well aware of the games Rita likes to play. "Nott, Rita, and I believe you have already been made aware of this." His tone made it clear that he expected no additional comments from her. He was well aware of the animosity between his granddaughter and Miss Skeeter. He never pushed for an explanation, but could tell Rita was torn between hatred and a grudging respect for the girl.

Rita's eyes narrowed on Hermione, "Well, I guess that makes you a bit more tolerable… Miss Nott."

Luna let out a very unladylike snort, as Draco leaned down to whisper in Hermione's ear. Draco murmured, "There is obviously a history here. Is this animosity from the Tri-Wizard tournament?"

Hermione nodded and turned her head to make eye contact with him. Rita's obnoxious voice cut through her before she could respond to Draco. "I see you've caught another one, Miss Nott."

Draco pushed his chair back only to have his motions stayed by Hermione's calming hand on his arm and a small shake of her head. Draco was staring at Rita with cold eyes. He could not believe Hermione would not let him defend her. All of the girls Draco has been with, they all wanted him to stand up for them, and make of show of how much he treasured them - of course he never cared enough before to get involved in their business – but, now he does – and she won't let him. He settled for pulling his wand and rolling between his fingers, at least Rita would know he was ready to hex her if she did not watch her tongue.

Draco was oblivious to the anger of the others in the room, particularly the men. Isabella looked as if she was ready to strike the women, and was being held-back by Sirius. Sirius was privy to the events that happened the summer of their fourth year and was interested to see how Hermione handled this. Tom was also eyeing his granddaughter and was barley reining in his anger. The only reason he had not lashed out at Rita was the fact that Hermione seemed calm and unaffected. Looking to Alex, Tom noticed he seemed angry and a bit contrite, and Lucius was wearing a similar expression. Severus was also carefully watching Hermione, waiting for her façade of calm to falter before he stepped in.

Hermione sat calmly and pulled out her wand; she smiled internally as Rita's eyes went wide. Silently she conjured a glass jar, and then waved her wand with a flourish as she quietly intoned, "Impervious." She could have casted the spell silently, but wanted to make sure Rita was well aware of what she had done. She placed the jar in front of her plate, and gave herself a slight nod of approval as she eyed her own work.

Luna let out a very unladylike snort.

Rita's jaw dropped as she watched Hermione, "Are you threatening me?" Rita asked in her high-pitched penetrating tone.

Hermione shook her head, "No, not threatening – forewarning… perhaps?" Before Rita had the chance to say anything else Hermione looked at Alex, "Daddy, I learned an interesting new spell last year." Her tone was entirely too enthusiastic for the current situation.

Alex raised an eyebrow to his daughter, although his heart swelled a bit at being called Daddy, he did realize that his daughter seemed to be laying out a net in which to catch Rita in. Raising an amused eyebrow to his daughter, he questioned, "A new spell, dear?"

Hermione set a winning smile on her father and nodded, "Oh yes, you see, it forces the Animagus change in those who have realized the potential in themselves. Fascinating, really. Very complex; and you can cause harm if not done correctly. But, I guess- "

"How dare you!" Rita's Shrill voice interrupted her.

Tom raised a hand to Rita, "That enough, Rita."

"But, my Lord, you don't understand-" Rita continued. Only to be interrupted by Hermione.

"Really, Rita, I do not believe this conversation makes for polite dinner conversation." Hermione tone was condescending.

Theo looked at the jar on the table and then to his sister, who was still quite calm and now seemed a bit smug. "I think it would make for fine dinner conversation, this beats uncomfortable silence."

Rita shrieked before she could be cut off again. "Lord Riddle, she is the one who blackmailed me! She's the reason I wrote that article for the quibbler! She's stuck me in a jar in my animangus form for and kept me hostage during her entire summer holiday!" Rita was panting by the time she was finished with her tirade. She could not believe they were going to allow her to get away with this.

Both Severus and Lucius choked and sputtered on their wine as they heard Hermione mumble, "Three weeks can hardly be considered the entire holiday."

Theo and Draco looked highly amused and Blaise was ecstatic to finally hear first-hand of Hermione's temper. He remembered the stories published in their fourth year, and he had to admit while he felt Rita's punishment was justifiable, he didn't think Hermione had it in her to blackmail the bug. Luna sat looking as if she was taking part in an entirely different conversation a small quirky smile playing on her lips.

Alex and Tom were looking at Hermione with torn expressions. They both felt a bit proud of Hermione, but then again they really could not condone holding someone hostage, because of some articles she was not happy with – animangi form or not.

Severus was looking at Alex and Lucius, his eyes narrowed. He had told them slandering the girl would not separate her from her friends, but they would not listen. They thought any young girl would be easily swayed by slander and gossip. Severus was well aware by the time Hermione was in her fourth year that she was not your typical young girl.

Tom addressed Hermione, "The article in the Quibbler was damaging to my cause."

Hermione shrugged and commented, "It was beneficial to mine."

He nodded, and had an amused look in his eyes.

Rita couldn't believe they were going to let this go unpunished. She seemed to forget she was dealing with Tom's granddaughter when she spoke out. "You're really not going to let her get away with this! Trapping people in jars, running around with all these wizards, she is shaming your family!"

Tom turned angry eyes on Rita, he was well aware of the innocent friendships Hermione had, and how Rita manipulated the situation to make Hermione look a bit promiscuous. Before anyone had a chance to open their mouths in her defense Hermione stood, while she appeared calm the quiet venom in her tone could not be missed, "Rita, I would keep in mind exactly what I was capable of in my fourth year, and take into consideration that was three years ago, and I have only grown in skill and power; before you try my patience. Although, it would be interesting experiment to see what would happen if I were to put you back in the unbreakable jar, only to reverse your form back to your natural state. Does glass expand?"

Most of the room grimaced at the thought. Bella looked at Hermione appraisingly and gave her a small nod when their eyes met. Rita's eyes went wide and she paled. Finding the nearest seat Rita dropped into it, she was not sure if Hermione had it in her to be that vicious, but decided the she did not want to be the one to try the girl's patience. Rita fought her battles with words, and while she was able to defend herself she did recognize that Hermione's skills in battle most likely out-shone her own.

Hermione sat back down when she realized she silenced Rita. Draco took her hand when she sat, and rubbed soothing circles on the back of it, as he watched her anger and tension ebb away.

Lucius and Cissa watched the interaction between Draco and Hermione. Lucius was please, he could easily see them developing into one of the most formidable couples of the future.

Blaise looked at Luna who was the only one who still looked amused, "Luna, you do not seemed at all perturbed about this."

Luna's smile only grew larger, her tone was as dreamy as ever when she spoke. "No, I'm not. Rita should learn to be quiet and then maybe - well, Hermione wouldn't have to put her back in the jar." Luna looked at Hermione thoughtfully for a moment before adding, "I think she would become like a jelly, she would have to become liquid to fit in the jar. But, I'm not sure what would happen to the excess Rita." Her eyebrows scrunched as she contemplated where the excess would go. Hermione looked at her friend amused, and Blaise looked at her in awe, who would have thought Looney Lovegood could be so malicious?

Alex looked at Hermione, "I feel I must apologize. Lucius and I thought having Rita drag your name through the mud a bit would have you pull away from your friends. Leaving the golden trio without a brain. However, you do understand that holding someone hostage because of some disparaging articles is not acceptable."

Hermione looked at her father, "Oh, I didn't hold her captive because of the articles, well not directly anyway. I captured her because she was using her unregistered animagus form to spy on me and Harry. The registry is a matter of public record and she should really be more careful on who spots her, you never know when one may accidently step on her."

Severus smirked at his niece, accidently indeed. It's a shame she was not sorted into Slytherin, the hat must have had a hell of a time sorting her.

Lucius looked at her appraisingly, "Hermione, how have you managed to maintain the impression of someone who follows the rules?"

She did not respond only smiled and flashed large innocent doe eyes at him. He smirked and Draco watched her amused.

As silence overtook the table Isabella was heard mumbling to Rita, "This is not over, I will read every article that you published about her, and determine if living in a jar is enough punishment."

Hermione looked down to her mother and scowled when she realized how close Sirius was sitting next to her; his hand still resting on her arm.

~oOo~

Draco and Hermione stood hand-in-hand in the drawing room. Some of the adults were milling about and Draco was not sure why Tom had detained. Blaise and Theo had decided to go down to the beach and have a fire; he was really hoping they did not have to stay long, who knew how long his friends would wait.

Severus approached them with Isabella and Sirius in tow – just lovely, they were going to upset Hermione before they went out to the beach.

The three of them stopped in front of Hermione and Sirius eyed her warily. "Hermione, it's lovely to see you."

Hermione looked at him and then down to the hand in which he clasped her mother's hand, "Lovely to see you as well, I'm glad that you're not dead. Now, if you'll excuse us."

She gave a gentle tug on Draco's hand, but before he had a chance to follow Severus addressed her. "Hermione, we have discussed this already. Neither Remus nor Black were in a position to discuss things with you, Black even more so then Lupin, Albus was already aware that Sirius betrayed him. I also think it would mean a lot to your mother if you forgave him."

"Fine, forgiven." She paused to look at her Uncle and then Sirius. "Why were you so mean to each other?"

Severus sighed, "It was part of the facade, Hermione. Carry over from a childhood rivalry, and it was not hard to fake the animosity either."

Sirius interrupted. "You see Hermione, I was engaged to your mother before we thought she was murdered. So, Severus was an extremely painful reminder of what I lost. It was very easy for me to direct my anger at him, and if I am not mistaken it was very easy for him to direct his anger at me as well." Sirius paused and smiled a bit. "Severus never thought I was good enough for his baby sister."

Hermione closed her eyes and audible sighed. "Fine, I will not hold any grudges, but you need to talk to Harry, and I am not calling you Uncle."

Sirius grabbed her in a bear hug, "That a girl, and Sirius will be fine."

Draco gently tugged on Hermione's hand as he nodded to the adults, "If you'll excuse us, we are headed to the beach."

The adults nodded and Draco and Hermione practically ran out the door before they could be called back by anyone else.

~oOo~

Blaise, Theo, Greg, Vincent, Daphne, Luna, Pansy, and Marietta Edgecombe waited on the side of the house for Draco and Hermione with brooms in hand. Luna looked over the cliff and commented, "Hermione is not going to like this."

Hermione and Draco looked walked over to the group and Hermione quickly noticed the brooms in their hand. Greg handed Draco a broom and smiled as Hermione took a step away from the group eyeing the edge of the cliff. "We are not going down there?" she asked as she pointed.

Draco smiled and nodded, " There is a nice beach down there and a little cove to swim in."

Hermione frowned a bit as Draco mounted his broom, "Don't you think it's a little too cool to swim?"

Draco snorted, "No, and we have wands if it gets chilly. Plus, Blaise will start a fire on the beach. Come on." He waved her over to his broom.

Hermione stood still. She really didn't mind flying with Draco, it was just the drop off of the back of the house that was bothering her. She did realize that the cliff was not any higher than they would normally fly – but just the way it was presented – no gradual incline, just straight out and then they had to go down.

Greg snorted drawing Hermione's attention, "Maybe you should take your shirt off, Draco."

Draco laughed and went to unbutton his shirt. Hermione huffed, "Fine, don't strip for my benefit." She was smiling as she walked over and mounted the broom in front of Draco. She shivered when Draco leaned down and whispered in her ear, "If you ever want me to strip all you need to do is ask." He placed a soft kiss on her neck as he kick off the ground and wrapped his arm tight around her waist.

The rest of the group landed in a matter of minutes, Draco flew Hermione out some distance over the water and quickly looked back to make sure they could not see him from the beach.

Hermione craned her neck to see him. "What are you doing?"

Draco quickly placed a kiss on her lips, "I wanted to be alone with you, and I believe the gods are working against me in that aspect."

Hermione smiled coyly, "Hmmm – and why do you want to be alone with me Mr. Malfoy?"

Draco smirked and quickly captured her lips in a searing kiss. As he deepened the kiss and both began to get lost in the sensations the other stirred within them only to hear someone clear their throat.

Draco groaned and looked up to see Pansy smiling at him, "Well, I would ask what the two of you are doing out here – but that seems a bit obvious."

Hermione smiled at Draco, he looked so disheartened. Draco sighed, "Pansy, we just want to be alone for a bit."

Hermione interrupted, "And every chance we have to be alone for a little bit seems to be interrupted by my brother."

Pansy giggled, "Theo's playing the over protective brother, I can probable help with that – keep him a bit occupied for a while. But, you should come back to the beach he was getting ready to come find you when I offered."

Hermione laughed as they made their way back to the beach, "So you and my brother, Pansy?"

Pansy shrugged, "Kind of, it's not official. But, I think that since you and Draco he will probable ask my father soon."

Draco laughed, "Theo has been in love with Pansy since he turned six. Well, that's when we figure anyway. At his sixth birthday party Greg put icing in Pansy's hair, and then Theo punched Greg for making Pansy cry."

Hermione laughed and looked at Pansy who couldn't wipe the goofy smile off of her face. Hermione commented, "That's adorable," which made Pansy's smile grow larger.

"Well, just make sure you take advantage if Theo and I leave the group. If he tries to look for you I will be extra loud and give you warning." Pansy instructed the two of them of her plan.

The three of them landed on the beach and took a seat with the rest of the group that was sitting by the fire. Draco laid his robes over the stony beach and sat, pulling Hermione down against him. Blaise handed Hermione glass of wine and Draco a glass of fire whiskey. Blaise smiled at Hermione's raised brow. "Don't ask where I got it Hermione."

She smiled in return, and settled back against Draco enjoying her glass of wine. Hermione was enjoying the night listening to the conversations around her. It took some time before she realized who Marietta was, and even more time to contemplate whether or not to say anything to her – really, would could she say… um, sorry I scarred you for life.

Finally Marietta spoke to Hermione, "I guess I should apologize for being a snitch back in fifth year. I'll have you know it took two healers, Professor Snape, and Lord Malfoy to get the 'Sneak' off of my head."

Hermione smiled, a bit proud of her skills, "I don't understand why you even joined the DA if you were not on our side."

Draco shifted so he could see Hermione's face, "Marietta and Alicia Spinet were told to join the groups, neither of them are on Dumbledore's side – but, most of the friendships with the people in the DA are real. Your grandfather wanted them watch to make sure the group of you didn't do anything foolish. Me, Greg, and Vincent were assigned to watch Umbridge. Umbridge is someone Dumbledore brought into the school thinking she would be easily controlled, but his plan backfired. She had her own agenda, and for as magically inept as she is she had a ton of artifacts protecting her from magic being used against her." Draco caressed her cheek and murmured into her ear, "You scared the magic out of us when we figured out you took her into the forbidden forest."

Blaise overhearing what Draco said commented, "Bloody hell, Hermione, you really tried to feed her to the centaurs?"

Hermione smiled and shook her head, "No, I was taking her to Hagrid's half-brother, I figured the giant could hold her while we get away. The centaurs showed up and she foolishly challenged and provoked them. I can't say I lost any sleep over it though."

The group snickered, and Blaise responded "No, I would imagine you didn't. The woman was bloody insane with that quill, a total miss use of what quills like that are designed for."

The group continued to quietly chatter on about everything and anything, school, fashion, brooms, quiditch, and friends. Blaise had cut everyone off from the alcohol with the exception of Pansy and Luna who would not be permitted to participate in the battle. Luna because she was not of age and Pansy because she was not a fighter. As Pansy's tongue loosened because of the wine she turned to Luna and asked, "Are you a seer?"

Luna looked stunned for a moment before regaining her serene composure. "Depends on how you mean."

Blaise was looking at Luna curiously and Hermione was looking concerned. No one in Hermione's knowledge ever asked her that flat-out. There were comments of course, but Luna never confirmed or denied anything. Hermione always assumed it was not something Luna wanted to talk about so she never pushed her to do so.

Hermione was surprised when Theo interrupted the conversation, "She means, do you know why Dumbledore was holding Hermione hostage?"

Hermione gasped. She noticed Pansy had taken Theo's hand and the sobering effect his serious tone had on her. She felt Draco's arm tighten around her waist. The group stared silently at Luna anticipating her response.

Luna sighed, "I do, but, you have to understand that it is done."

Draco practically growled at her, "What do you mean it is done?"

There was a prophecy through my mother the week before she died. It was predicted that a daughter would come and both sides would rally with her and bring back the age of old. I do not know the specifics. I was not allowed to know because of my exposure to Dumbledore, and I could never completely block my mind from him." She paused to look at Theo, "I do know that the way it was phrased left no doubt that it was Hermione the prophecy was speaking of. Something to do with your family tree and who it ties back to. I know it is complete because both Harry and Lord Riddle will stand with her." Luna's eyes turned hard and her entire composure change from the whimsical slightly off-balance girl they were all used to, to that of a powerful and determined women. For as many times as Hermione witnessed this shift in Luna's composure it was always slightly discomfiting. "Do not doubt Harry's loyalty to her, she has been the only one who always stayed loyal to him since their first year. Even when she opposed him she always made sure he knew it was because she cared."

Draco looked aggravated, "How can you say it's done, she is still a target!"

Luna's was back to her serene composure, "I agree she is a target, but, the fact remains that if anything happens to her, Harry, is going to hold Dumbledore accountable, and he knows who to approach for help. We do need to figure out how Dumbledore is altering Harry's perception, but things will fall into place now."

Greg thought to ask, "So, do you know how things are going to turn out?"

Luna shook her head, "I occasionally see the future, but my gift primarily lies in seeing the past."

Hermione gasped again, "Your mum."

She nodded and a watery-eyed Luna was pulled close to Blaise's side. Luna explained to them, "Dumbledore killed my mum, she had manipulated and stored the prophecy about Hermione before he could hear the whole thing. His source only had part of the information. Sirius Black and Bellatrix saved me and my father. My father has acted neutral all of these years waiting to provide whatever support you needed."

Hermione looked shocked for a moment, "So, you knew I was a Nott?"

Luna shook her head, "No, whatever Dumbledore did to hide your identity worked well. When you started telling me little things about not trusting Dumbledore and the Order, I started working with you." Luna paused and smiled. "It did all seem to come together when we did find out who you are."

Theo looked at Luna, "Have you told my father about this?"

Luna shook her head, "No, but I am sure my father did. They were all locked in the study for quite some time after the training session today."

Vincent looked at the group and decided to break the tension. "Who wants to go swimming?"

The entire group seemed to jump up at the idea. The girls quickly removed their outer robes and transfigure their clothing into bathing-suits. The boys stared for a moment before following their lead. Hermione smiled as she noticed everyone seemed to be paired off. Greg and Daphne, Vincent and Marietta, and Pansy and Theo all headed down to the water. Hermione smiled at Draco and cocked her had towards were Blaise was standing with a blushing Luna still holding her hand as they started to make their way down to the water. Draco smiled in return, who would have thought Zabini and Lovegood.

Hermione shivered and stopped walking as her toes hit the cold water. Draco looked at her amused with mischief in his eyes before he quickly scooped her up and ran into the water while she screamed, "Put me down! Put me down this instant, Draco Malfoy!"

Draco froze and laughed, "As you wish," and proceeded to drop her into the deep water and laugh as she went under.

She shot up from the water coughing and sputtering. She launched herself at him pushing down on his head trying her hardest to push him under the water. She huffed and settled with her arms around his neck when she realized he conveniently brought them out to far enough that she could not stand, but he still could.

Wrapping her legs around his waist she smiled and pressed a kiss to his lips, "I'm cold," she pouted.

Wrapping his arms around her he pulled her closer and rubbed his hands up and down her sides, "I'll warm you up."

He looked over to find Theo discovering that he was thoroughly occupied kissing Pansy, before he turned and captured Hermione's lips. They kissed passionately for several moments before he moved down to her neck. She moaned softly getting lost in the pleasurable sensation before she regained her senses, pushing her torso firmly into Draco she allowed her legs to drop hooking her feet behind his knees, she quickly pushed her heels into him taking out his legs in one foul swoop and pushed forward hard dunking him under the water. When he came up she was laughing hysterically, and quickly tightened her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck – the only way he was dunking her again if he was to go under with her.

He laughed at her, enjoying the innocent fun, "Okay, truce."

He felt her nodding against his shoulder. Hermione looked up at him and kissed him again the small smile still on her lips. Draco broke the kiss and stared at her with dark hungry eyes, "you're beautiful, you know that, right."

She smiled and blushed, she didn't bothering answering him deciding to just kiss him again. The truth was she really didn't know she was beautiful, but when Draco looked at her with eyes darkened with lust and adoration she couldn't help feeling like she was – at least to him, anyway.

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AN

Thank you to everyone who has reviewed and encouraged me to continue!

I read that Hermione's original wand was made from vine wood which was chosen because that is the wood associated with her birthday in Celtic lore, so since I changed her birthday I changed the wood accordingly. I ate a pound of hazel nuts when I read they bring great mystical knowledge – I was hoping to pick the winning lotto numbers – it didn't work I was skim reading and misread they are the symbol of mystical knowledge and they only bring stomach pain when eaten in large quantities.

I would like to be able to apologize for my delay in the update… but I can't – I went on a reading spree, that's what took so long… sorry, I just couldn't stop! I had a lot of stories to catch up on. 

Next is the battle and a Ball…