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Chapter Text

While sitting in the hallway of the Wizarding Examination Authority in the Ministry of Magic, Hermione Granger knew without a doubt she was going to Azkaban. How could she not?  This was definitely Dumbledore’s fault or Professor Mcgonagall’s… no thats not right, maybe Harry and Ron’s fault? No, this was her own doing. She had been warned but she could not stop herself from taking more elective classes then was possible. So much for being “brightest witch of her age.” 

The past year at Hogwarts had been her hardest one yet. Starting with the train ride. Ron had an immediate haterage of her new familiar Crookshanks, a half-kneazle cat. Kneazle known for their high intelligence, with his grumpy demeanor and squished face, Hermione immediately fell in love.

“Hermione, keep your evil beast away from Scabbers!” Ron yelled

“Really Ron!? Who has a rat as a familiar anyway?”

“I’m warning you! Ow, Scabbers you bit me” Ron dropped Scabbers and his rat ran out of the train compartment. Ron stormed out to retrieve Scabbers.

“Serves him right for talking badly about my baby, who’s a good boy? That’s right, you are Crookshanks.”

At her arrival to Hogwarts for the start of her third year, Hermione was shocked to find that her schedule had accommodated all 12 classes she had requested. Especially since multiple classes were scheduled at the same time. That was until she was summoned to Professor McGonagall's office that evening.

Hermione knocked on Professor McGonagall's door. The door swung open “Professor, you wanted to see me?” 

McGonagall rose from her desk to greet the girl, “Yes, yes do come in, Miss Granger. Please have a seat.” 

“Of course Professor.” Hermione scurried over to the seat in front of McGonagall.

McGonagall straightened her posture before proceeding “I would like to discuss your upcoming class schedule and accommodations. Based on your vast interests and exceptional academic record I have requested a tool from the Department of Mysteries. This will allow you to meet your rigorous schedule.”

Excitedly Hermione responded “Thank you Professor! I’m not sure I completely understand, unless the Department of Mysteries tool makes it possible for me to be in two places at once I’m not sure how it can help.”

“Miss Granger, have you ever heard of a Time Turner?”

Professor McGonagall had gone out of her way to request a Time Turner, a device that would allow Hermione to travel through time. She explained to Hermione rules of time travel and the grave consequences, there were many, potentially harming the traveler, causing the traveler non-existence, aging, and paradoxical situations. The Ministry heavily restricted time travel, they ensured that travelers could only go back in time at the most by 5 hours. Although there were many risks Hermione only had to follow three simple rules:

• Don't be seen
• Don't change the past
• Only use for academic purposes 

“Miss Granger, wizards who meddle with time can have dire consequences, can I trust that you will stick to the rules of the Time Turner?” McGonagall sighed

“Yes, Professor, I won't let you down.” Hermione promised.

“See that you don't…..and Miss Granger, it is best not to alert Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley to your tool, this is for Academic purposes only.” McGonagall puffed

That was day one of her school year. Hermione quickly mastered the Time Turner, sticking to the rules. Professor McGonagal checked in with her over the first month and once assured Hermione was being responsible she left Hermione to her own devices. Based on their calculations and first month use, Hermione would increase her overall age at most 2 months.  

In October, it started off innocently, an hour or two of extra studying here, a couple hours on the weekends of additional reading. Technically, she was using the Time Turner for academic purposes. 

The turning point was after Christmas. Harry had received a brand new Firebolt broom for Christmas, it was the first time that year she had seen him really smile. The broom was sent anonymously, but Hemione knew it was from Sirius Black. She now recognizes Sirius Black innocence. Back then she thought Harry's murderous Godfather sent the broom (which he did) and there was a high likelihood of it being jinxed to hurt or kill Harry. Hermione made the only logical choice, she told Professor McGonagall. 

“Mr. Potter, I require your Firebolt immediately.”

“Why Professor McGonagall? I don't see you taking any other students' Christmas presents.”

“It has come to my attention that you have received the broom from an unknown source and as an escaped convict is on the loose, I am taking the necessary precautions.”

Harry’s broom was immediately taken away to be checked for his safety. She had never seen Harry and Ron that mad. 

“You had no right Hermione!” Harry yelled 

“Harry it was for your own safety, there could be numerous curses or jinxes on the broom.”

“I don’t care! Leave me alone!” Harry screamed storming out of the common room.

“Hermione, you truly are the worst friend and Harry knows it now too. Not only are you costing us the Quidditch cup, your cat killed Scabbers. I will never forgive you!” Ron yelled following Harry. 

They blamed her for losing them the future Quidditch Cup, Harry blamed her for his only happiness taken from him and then they both stopped talking to her altogether. Hermione spent the rest of her Christmas Day wandering the castle. She kept thinking about how utterly and truly alone she was. Harry was like a brother to her, she would never abandon him. Even if he easily cast her aside. She would do anything to keep him safe regardless of the cost. Hermione wished she had a place to be herself and feel comfortable. Just then a door appeared, she hadn’t realized how far she had wandered or that she was on the 7th floor of the castle. As she opened the door she was greeted by the most beautiful library, floor to ceiling book cases, a table that could hold dozens of books, big comfy couches and arm chairs, and a roaring fireplace with soft rugs lining the floor. 

“The Room of Requirements, I thought it was a myth” she whispered to herself. This would be her escape.

In her previous muggle life, when Hermione didn't have friends she could always rely on books. They were her oasis, in the wizarding world it would be no different. If she wasn't going to have her friends speaking to her, she would gather as much knowledge as possible. She threw herself into her studies, everyday she went back to her secret library, there she would use her Time Turner for hours upon hours. In her library, she could relive the day in peace and surrounded by knowledge. She began to master magical theories and spells. By the first two weeks in January she had completed the basic requirements for 3rd and 4th years of studies. An idea began to blossom, if Harry and Ron were not going to forgive her, why would she want to stay at Hogwarts. Could she graduate early? She pulled out a new journal and started a plan. What would she need? 

Hermione Granger's requirements to graduate:

Year 1-5

Complete Core Curriculum 7 subjects minimum, ideally complete all 12.

End of Year 5

Complete and pass Ordinary Wizarding Levels standardized exam (O.W.L.s), pass with Outstanding (O)

Year 6-7

Based on O.W.L. results take N.E.W.T level Courses

End of Year 7

Complete and pass Nastily Exhausting Wizard Test (N.E.W.T) with all O’s and Graduate Hogwarts

Reviewing her plan Hermione knew she could be ready for her O.W.L’s by the end of this year. Before she could overthink it she took a piece of parchment and quill and wrote to the Ministry of Magic’s Wizarding Examination Authority Department requesting permission to take her O.W.L’s this year. 

As she dove deeper into her studies Hermione realized she would need to start practical application in all her academic areas. Luckily the Room of Requirements could transform into anything she needed. She focused on five of her favorite classes: potions, charms, transfigurations, arithmancy, and runes. Her secret library added rooms for her practical applications including a potion lab. Hermione spent her trips to Hogsmeade not spending her money on sugar quills and parchment but on rare ingredients. Once she mastered the course level potions through 5th year, she started experimenting to see if she could improve them. Due to her time focused on potions her hair suffered greatly causing it to frizz three times the size. Hermione didn’t care; she was singularly focused on her plan.

At breakfast in February, Professor McGonagall returned Harry’s broom.

“Mr. Potter!”

“Yes Professor?”

“I have run extensive tests, your broom is clear of any curses or jinxs. I’m returning it to you in hopes you can lead us to a winning Quidditch season.”

“I’ll do my best.”

“See that you do Mr. Potter, I would hate to lose out to Slytherin this year.”

As Ron finished his second plate of food he leaned over to Harry. “Have you seen Hermione’s hair? I always thought she was crazy. Now she looks insane too.”

Anger arose in Harry. “Shut up Ron!” Harry looked over to Hermione. Her hair was fizzy, larger than he had ever seen, she looked tired, lonely, stressed, and suffering. He realized her state was his fault. He missed his best friend and makeshift sister. Having lost almost two months with her, he would fix it. By the end of the week Hermione and Harry had made up. Ron however was still convinced her cat Crookshanks had killed his rat. Ron refused to fully mend the relationship with Hermione. 

Having her friends back did not deter Hermione’s plan, she continued to sneak to her library daily and relive hours of her day. Every year the adults in the school failed to protect Harry from near death experiences, Hermione would make it her mission to protect Harry because no one else would. With a mass murder after Harry she focused on her practical skills. She decided to make a plan for what would be needed to protect Harry. She took out her notebook.

Areas of focus to keep Harry Potter Alive:

Potions: Focus on Healing

• Blood replenishers
• Ditty
• Pain Relief
• Calming Drought
• Bruise Paste 

Charms: Communications, Go Bag, and Protection

• Extension Charm
• Books that communicate long distances 
• Sheilds 

Transfiguration: Communication and Stealth

• Animagus training 
• Protean Charm for communication 
• Body modification spells

Arithmancy

• Work on plans and test for probability of success
• Cursebreaking  

Runes 

• Enhance Charms and Transfiguration by layering in
• Magical Object creation, enchant objects

Teachers were noticing Hermione's new skills. She would master a spell or lesson in the fraction of the time her classmates would. During her potion class with professor Snape the class was to brew Wiggenweld a potion for healing magically induced sleep including those under Drought of Living Death. 

“The instructions are on the board. You have two hours to successfully brew Wiggenweld Potion. When finished promptly place three glass vials on my desk then you are dismissed.”

Hermione had mastered this potion months ago including modifying it to brew quicker and have a fresh minty taste. She figured those who had been asleep for so long would want a nice minty breathe. She would like to think if her parents weren’t muggles they would praise her for the improvement, seeing they are dentists. It took her less than 30 minutes to complete her professor's task.

“Miss Granger, are you not capable of completing the assignment?”

“No, professor, here are your three vitals, I will be on my way,”

“Do you mean to tell me you finished your potion in half the time the recipe demands?”

“No sir….I- I mean yes sir. I may have improved the recipe.”

“Miss Granger, you are to see me after class.”

“Yes, sir” Hermione said defeatedly 

Hermione cleaned up her station as she waited for the end of class. Time seemed to move slower as she watched her classmates skip steps and clumsily prepare ingredients. Didn't they know even the smallest action to an ingredient can impact the outcome of the potion? Amateurs. Once the last student left the classroom Hermione trudged up to professor Snape’s desk. 

“Professor, you wanted to see me?”

“Miss Granger I hate to admit it and if you repeat this I will deny it, your potion was perfect, more powerful than the original recipe.” He looked at her skeptically. “What are you up to? Have you been sneaking around the castle brewing illegal potions again?” He asked her.

“No sir, I have not been brewing in the bathrooms, dorm rooms, classrooms, or any of your potion labs. You’ll see nothing is missing from your storerooms. Please do not insinuate something you have no proof of.”

“What is the most efficient way to extract the juice of the sopophorous bean?” Professor Snape demanded.

“Crushing it of course”

Severus Snape raised his eyebrow at her. How did Hermione Granger become a competent brewer? None of his 7th years had been able to successfully brew more than one improvement into a potion. He hated that Granger had been the one to do so. Though he needed to be careful, Severus wanted to see with the right guidance how accomplished in potions she could get.

“Very well, you might find interest in the worn copy of “Advanced Potion-Making” in the cabinet in the back.” He waved, effectively dismissing her.

As she opened the most worn copy of Advanced Potion-Making she was immediately met by familiar notes in the margins. This was professor Snape's copy of the book! 

“Oh and Granger, make sure the book finds its way back before the end of the year.”

“Certainly” Hermione mumbled as walked out of the classroom as she devoured his priceless knowledge. 

Professor Snape’s book was Hermione’s bible. She took extensive notes copying each and every piece of knowledge. There was not just information on brewing techniques but also spells that look to be inventions of Snape’s, he was a genius as a teen. Though his spells looked to be very dark magic. Maybe he was an evil genius. Hermione didn’t care so long as it could protect Harry. 

By the end of the school year the shit hit the fan. Hermione had figured out her favorite professor was a werewolf. She had stormed out of Divination and dropped it from her schedule. The Ministry of Magic approved her O.W.L’s request with the stipulation she could not retake the exams.Then there was her use of a Time Turner to save Sirius Black.

In one night, Hermione with Harry’s assistance had used the Time Turner breaking all three of the time travel rules. Hermione had seen herself, she had changed the death sentence of Sirius Black and Buckbeak, and this was certainly not for academic purposes. She did not regret it especially when seeing the joy of Harry being reunited with his Godfather. She did regret casting “expelliarmus” on professor Snape, hopefully he would forgive her.

As Sirius said his goodbyes to Harry, not knowing when they could see each other again, Hermione had an idea. She pulled out a piece of scrap paper out of her dirt caked jeans and her favorite muggle pen.

18th, June 1994 

8 Heathgate, Hampstead Garden Suburb, London

7pm, come as Padfoot

As she said her goodbye to Sirius she slipped the note into his hand, then he flew away on Buckbeak's back. Hermione and Harry raced back to the hospital wing to complete the time loop. With Dumbledore’s knowing smirk Hermione knew she could no longer keep the Time Turner and she had a sneaking suspicion she could not fully trust her Headmaster. The next day she reluctantly returned the Time Turner to Mcgonagall before sitting for her first O.W.L. exam. 

Every night since Sirius left Hermione tried to speak with Headmaster Dumbledore. He evaded all of her attempts. Based on his instructions to travel back and save Sirius, Dumbledore knew Sirius was innocent. There must be something they can do to clear his name. Sirius had not been granted a trial, why was that? From what Hermione understood, Harry’s aunt and uncle were at minimum neglectful, more likely outright abusive. Dumbledore knew who the secret keeper was, he must have realized the Potters switched it to Pettigrew. Even with Peter Pettigrew still at large, there must be a way to clear Sirius's name. In turn reinstating Sirius as Harry’s rightful guardian. They both deserve a happy ending.

On the last day of school, June 17th Hermione arrived to breakfast relieved, she had her friends back, she had returned Snape’s book, completed her O.W.L’s and she no longer had the temptation on the Time Turner. She had yet to do the calculations but judging by what she saw in the mirror she had spent years not weeks using the Time Turner. As she pondered the consequences of her time travel a letter landed in front of her. 

Dear Miss Granger,

You are summoned to the Wizarding Examination Authority on Friday, June 17, 1994. Please arrive promptly at 11am to review your O.W.L’s results. Bring your magical guardian. Failure to comply will result in Troll’s in all subject matters as well as expulsion from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Griselda Marchbanks

Governor of the Wizarding Examination Authority

“Fuck, who’s my magical guardian?” 

“Hermione what’s wrong?” Harry asked

“Harry, do you know who your magical guardian is?”

“Umm… no idea, I know who mine should be.” Harry grumbled 

“Hey Ron! Who’s your magical guardian?” Hermione yelled over Harry’s shoulder.

“Obviously my mum and dad.”

“Ugh, you are no help.” Hermione puffed. She quickly casted a Tempus Spell to show it was already 8:30am. She ran out of the great hall to her dorm to pack, grab Crookshank and find Professor McGonagall. 

After finding her professor and explaining her situation she soon found herself alone seated across her Headmaster in his office.

“Headmaster, as you can see, I can’t possibly make it to my appointment at the Ministry if I take the train back. Is there any other way?”

Dumbledore chuckled, Hermione didn’t see the humor in her current predicament. “Of course Miss Granger, you are welcome to use my Floo directly to the Ministry. Let me cast Feather Light Charm on your trunk so you can bring all your belongings.”

As Dumbledore casts the spell, Hermione remembers her need to speak with the headmaster about Sirius. 

“Headmaster, there is something that I would like to discuss before I go.” He gave her a quizzical look.

“There is an innocent man, who has unjustly endured agony. At the same time there is a boy who is suffering under his negligent relatives. If the truth was brought to light they could live and heal happily together. Something must be done about it.”

“Miss Granger, the truth. It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with great caution. Now is not the time for action. Mr. Potter can not and will not leave the Dursley’s no matter the cost.”

“Sir, why? He is not safe there! This is not what his parents wanted. I can give my memories, we can clear Sir-” 

“ENOUGH! You must be on your way, goodbye Miss Granger”

“But…”

“My decision is final!”

Defeated, Hermione grabbed her belongings with her familiar and entered the floo.

“Ministry of Magic” she called out.

Chapter Text

Arthur Weasley was having the best work day of his life. First thing this morning Ludo Bagman floo-called him to investigate a magically possessed lawnmower. Not only was it an impressive feat of illegal magic on a muggle artifact, it was also incredibly educational on muggle lawns. He had no idea that there were over 10,000 species of grass nor the maintenance to keep a lawn green. It was fascinating. 

On top of doing a job well done, Ludo gave Arthur VIP Quidditch World Cup tickets for his entire family. Nothing could bring Arthur down, he was delighted to tell his family. The children were scheduled to be picked up at King Cross Station that evening and would share the exciting summer plans at dinner. 

As he rounded the corner at the Ministry of Magic he saw the most peculiar thing. Was that Hermione Granger? At this exact moment she should be on the Hogwarts Express with his own children. At second glance she was in her school uniform, was that a cat and school trunk? Something was not right.

“Hermione?”

“Huh? Mr. Weasley! Wh- what are you doing here?”

“My dear girl, I work here. Please tell me why you are here? You're not due back till this evening and it looks like you are in the Ministry of Magic alone, when you should be on the Hogwarts Express having fun with your friends.”

“Mr. Weasley,” tears began to fall down Hermione’s face “I-I think I’m in trouble.”

Hermione shared with Aurthur the summons she received that morning. 

“Hermione, these are extreme consequences. Does Dumbledore know about this?”

“I know. He does, I just came from his office.” 

“Do you have any idea why you received this?” Arthur asked

“Maybe… Do you know who my magical guardian would be? It’s the first time I have heard of having a different guardian than my parents.”

“Hmm….most wizarding children have at least one parent who is magical. Muggle-born either choose a magical guardian or Hogwarts will be the guardian for the duration of the school year, likely your head of house. With the school year ended today, I’m not sure who it would be.”

“Oh, okay, thank you Mr. Weasley.” she answered defeatedly.

“Hermione, I know I’m not your guardian and Molly would kill me if I took on another child. However, could I join your meeting? I work in the Ministry and I can say I’m representing your family.”

“I would love that. Please, Mr. Weasley.”

He might not be able to take on guardianship of Hermione but he would do his best to protect from the brutal bureaucracy of the Ministry. “Let me take the lead and if you are asked any questions, answer it as simply and short as possible.”

“Okay, I can do that.” 

A few minutes later the door to the Wizarding Examination Authority opened.

“Miss… Granger”

Arthur quickly stood up, plastered on his biggest smile, and greeted the woman. “Governor Marchbanks how good to see you again, Arthur Weasley, Department Misuse of Muggle Artifacts and this is Miss Hermione Granger.”

Sheepishly Hermione responded “It’s nice to meet you Governor.”

“Please come in, we have much to discuss.” Griselda Marchbanks responded.

As they entered the room it reminded Hermione of a muggle police interrogation room she had seen on TV. The room was small, with a single metal table in the center. The walls were pure white and the lights were far too bright. Seated at the table was an unspeakable, wearing their silver robe with black stitching, hood covering their face. Arthur froze as he entered.

“Why is there an unspeakable here? What does the Department of Mysteries have to do with O.W.L results?”

“Have a seat Mr. Weasley. As you can see Miss Granger is not surprised by their presence.” Arthur turned to Hermione, she was not shocked. What did the school do to her?

Griselda continued. “Before we begin there are a few measures we need to put into place. Mr. Weasley, we were not expecting you. You are not Miss Granger’s official Guardian, but as it is summer neither is Hogwarts. Miss Granger, do you want Mr. Weasley to be here?”

“Yes” Hermione nodded

“Very well, Mr. Weasley, due to the confidential nature of our discussion I will need you to make an unbreakable vow not to disclose anything spoken in this meeting, up till Hermione Granger's O.W.L’s results are disclosed.” 

What had Hermione gotten into? Arthur thought. Knowing the deadly consequences of an unbreakable vow, he reluctantly agreed and with the assistance of the unspeakable he took the vow. As the gold bands retreated into Arthur’s body Griselda proceeded.

“Miss Granger we will need you to swear on your magic that the answers you provide are truthfully. If you choose to lie you will lose your magic forever.”

Arthur was in total shock, what could be this serious that a 3rd year would lose their magic.

“Okay, I swear on my magic that the answers I provide are truthful.”Hermione felt a tingle settle in her core.

“Miss Granger, were you given use of a Time Turner?”

Hermione took a deep breath, she thought about Arthur’s advice of simple and short answers.

“Yes.”

“Were the rules of time travel and their consequences explained to you?”

“Yes.”

“What were the rules to follow while using the Time Turner?”

“Don't be seen, don't change the past, and only use it for academic purposes.”

“Did you break any of those rules?”

Hermione was unsure if she broke those rules. “Can you clarify the definition of “academic purpose” in regards to the Department of Mysteries?”

For the first time the unspeakable spoke. “Academic purposes would be defined as activities centered around learning, research, and teaching, specifically within the educational context. We would also add any assignments given to you from your Professors or Headmaster.”

All eyes were on her. She thought long and hard. 

Had she been seen? During their rescue of Sirius, she had a feeling that her future self was there but she had not directly seen herself.

Had she changed the past? She never took the time to fully debrief with herself about that night. The events of the night were a closed loop, in turn there were no paradoxes. Meaning she never changed the past, she did what had already happened.

Had she only used the Time Turner for academic purposes? Minus that night, yes based on the definition she only used it to learn, research, and refine her academic skills. Dumbledore had told her to save two lives she needed only to make the turns of the Time Turner; she considered that an assignment from the Headmaster.

“I did not break any of the rules.” Hermione whispered.

“Did you use the Time Turner to take your O.W.L’s more than once or change your scores?” 

“No, I returned the Time Turner to Professor Mcgonagall before the first O.W.L assessment. She can verify that.”

“Did you cheat on your O.W.L’s”

“No, but I think…..I think I spent years not months using the Timer Turner and gained extensive knowledge. I haven’t done the calculation yet to determine the exact amount of time.”

The unspeakable took out their wand and cast a spell silently. Above Hermione a royal blue arithmancy equation burst, after a moment they spoke. “On your birthday this year, you will turn 17. Your use of the Time Turner is confidential and as such only myself and Governor Marchbanks will be aware of your use.”

“That concludes our questions, Mr. Weasley, the rest of this conversation may be shared freely.”

Arthur Weasley gulped. How could Hermione’s teachers give her a Time Turner, she spent 3 years in one year. This was unacceptable and there was nothing he could say or do about. Arthur vowed he would take better care of Hermione and build a relationship with her parents. Did they know anything that had happened at Hogwarts? With the twins alone he received monthly notices of their behavior. With the basilisk they received a communication of each petrified incidence. Did they know Hermione spent weeks petrified?  

Proudly Griselda stated, “Hermione Granger, you took your O.W.L’s at age 16 which would have been your age in 5th year. You have not broken any examination rules, we have certified your results. We are happy to share that you received the highest marks among all students this year. You received O’s in all 12 subject areas, furthermore you had the highest results in history of the O.W.L’s in Potions, Charms, and Transfiguration.”

“What! I’m not in trouble?” Hermione asked in a state of shock

“No Miss Granger, because of your test results we are offering you the opportunity to take your N.E.W.T.’s at the end of your next school year. In the areas of Potions, Charms, and Transfiguration you are welcome to test out of the curriculum pending permission from your professors and begin apprenticeships with mentors of your choosing at the beginning of the term.”

“Okay” 

“Finally, I have a gift from the Minister of Magic, each year the student with the highest O.W.L’s score receives a gift. Here are four tickets to the Minister of Magic’s Box at the Quidditch World Cup, congratulations Miss Granger.”

“Th-Thank you.”

The unspeakable stood. “Miss Granger, this is likely the last time we will meet before your next school year. With your age not matching your birth date, in September, you will be an adult in the eyes of the Ministry.” 

The unspeakable conjured a piece of Ministry official paperwork. “If you will sign here and have Mr. Weasley act as your witness, I will take the ‘Trace’ off you and your wand.” 

The trace is a magical monitoring charm placed on all underage wixen. It tracks magic done in the vicinity of wizarding children and alerts the Ministry. With the Trace lifted Hermione would be able to practice magic during the summer, especially because the trace is only tracked by the Ministry when magic is used in the muggle world. Hermione quickly signed and passed the paperwork work to Arthur to sign as a witness.

“Can I have a copy of the paperwork?” Hermione asked.

With a quick “Geminio” the unspeakable copied and passed Hermione the signed document. They asked for Hermione to take out her wand and place it on the table. Then the unspeakable stood up pointing their wand at Hermione’s wand with a slow upwards sweep and tight figure eight they murmured “Eximio Vestigium.”

“Stand, Miss Granger.” Hermione complied. The unspeakable pointed their wand directly at Hermione’s chest and repeated ‘Eximio Vestigium’ and the wand movements. 

“Miss Granger, you are now free of the Trace, as you live in the muggle world it is imperative you are responsible and limit your magic use, especially in public.”

“Thank you, I will.”

“With your extensive use of time travel and impeccable test scores the Department of Mysteries is very interested in your future endeavors. I would be remiss if I did not extend an offer to join the unspeakables, post graduation. I am Unspeakable 21, write if you want to take us up on our offer.” Unspeakable 21 then took their leave.

“Miss Granger, here are your official O.W.L results as well as your tickets to the Quidditch World Cup. Let me see both you and Mr. Weasley out.” Griselda said proudly

“Thank you Governor” Hermione responded in a daze

“You are welcome, I look forward to reviewing your N.E.W.T results next June.” She shook Hermione's hand and then turned to Arthur nodded. “Mr. Weasley.”

With a sigh of relief Hermione exited. In the hallway of the Ministry, Hermione collected her belongings and Crookshanks. She turned to Mr. Weasley.

“Arthur, thank you for your assistance, I don't think I would have been successful without you.”

Arthur looked around the hallway not wanting witnesses to their current conversation. “Hermione, can I escort you home?”

Hermione nodded, silently they exited the Ministry of Magic and apparated to Hermione’s home. 

Chapter Text

In the living room of the Granger’s home, Arthur Weasley paced across the large white rug, his eyes wandering over the space. The room was impeccably clean, its walls lined with bookshelves crammed not with tomes, but with well worn classics, thick reference volumes, and glossy travel guides. Sunlight poured through a tall window, where a cushioned nook hinted at the many hours Hermione spent curled up with a book long before she ever set foot in Hogwarts. The house itself was big, beautiful, and bright, warm in a way that spoke of care and comfort rather than extravagance. 

As Hermione made tea, Arthur was having an extensional crisis. He had trusted Hogwarts as well as Dumbledore unwaveringly, that meeting just tipped everything he knew on its axis. The school had let a 13 year old have a Time Turner, a dangerous device, for Merlin’s sake she could have destabilized the timeline or unmade herself. They had clearly left her unmonitored. It troubled him to learn that muggle students do not understand magical guardianship, how much of the previous school years did the Granger’s know about? Had anyone alerted her parents about being petrified by the basilisk the previous year? 

“Mr. Weasley, how do you take your tea?” Hermione interrupted his thoughts as she returned to the room. Arthur froze in place, smiled, and returned to sit in the chair across from Hermione.

“Just sugar for me please.”

As they drank their tea a deafening silence spread through the room. Arthur knew he did not have unlimited time, better to dive right in.

“Hermione, what do your parents know about Hogwarts?”

“Oh, well, they know it is a wizarding school, that I get good marks, and that I’m friends with Harry and Ron. Mum and dad know Hogwarts is different from my last school. Unfortunately, they are not allowed to visit so their understanding can be limited, especially being muggles”

“I don’t want to make you uncomfortable but do they know the things that happen to you at Hogwarts? Do they know about Harry’s history or the basilisk or any of the dangerous situations you have been in?” His voice slowly rises with his emotions.

Arthur could see Hermione’s defeated form, her parents didn’t know anything about the increased dangers she had faced and the likely war brewing in the wizarding world. She was carrying the whole world on her shoulders, protecting her parents, Harry, definitely his own son, and likely all the adults in her life. Arthur would do better.

“No, they…”

The door to the Granger house swung open “Richard, we only have a couple hours before we pick up Hermione, we have to hurry!” Cassie commanded.

“Cassie, she’s a teenager, she doesn’t want decorations or a celebration for finishing another school year” Richard laughed.

Hermione shrieked with joy, “Mum! Dad!”

“Hermione! What are you doing at home!?” Cassie howled. Her parents ran over to give Hermione hugs and kisses. 

“We missed you so much darling. What are you doing home early, we could have picked you up. Richard, look how much she’s grown!”

Arthur watched Hermione’s loving parents embrace their daughter. He didn’t want to ruin their moment but he wanted to alert them of his presence in the room. He coughed to get their attention. “Mr. and Mrs. Granger, it is wonderful to see you again. I just escorted Hermione back from the Ministry of Magic. She received such exciting news, I don’t want to ruin her surprise, so I will let her tell you.”

Richard went to shake Arthur’s hand “Arthur, it is great to see you! Please call me Richard and my wife Cassie. Thank you for bringing Hermione home. Please have a seat, Hermione, what's this news?”

Hermione explained to her parents about taking all the classes offered at Hogwarts, how she had a falling out with her friends during winter and focused on her studies so much that she did her 5th year testing two years early. She conveniently skipped over the Time Turner use or her aging. Even thinking about divulging that information to her parents caused a burning sensation in Arthur’s wrist, blasted vow. Hermione ended with explaining receiving the top marks out of all the students, breaking records in subjects, and being offered to complete her Hogwarts education next year and start her mastery studies.

“Sweetheart, we are so incredibly proud of you, We must celebrate! Arthur, will you join us for dinner tonight?” Cassie asked

“Thank you for the offer but I must be leaving soon to get Molly and then pick up our children from the station. Can I water check for another day? I would be delighted to schedule dinner in the future or for you to come have dinner at the Borrow.”

Cassie laughed, “do you mean rain check?”

“Yes, yes, I thought I had the right muggle slang, my apologies.” Arthur blushed

“We are excited for you and Molly to join us for dinner, let us know your schedule.”

“Magnificent! I’ll owl you early next week.”

Arthur turned to Hermione. “Hermione I was going to have Ron send a letter but since I have you both here.” He turned his attention back to the Grangers. “I wanted to invite Hermione to the Quidditch World, I received tickets this morning and we are planning on bringing all of our children and Harry.” 

“What’s quidditch?” Richard inquired

“Dad, it is a wizarding sport, I can explain in detail later, basically it is the equivalent to the wizard Olympics, it only happens every 4 years and is extremely challenging to get tickets. I actually also received tickets for my test score. I would like to go, can I?”

“Of course darling.” Richard answered

“Splendid, it’s at the end of August so I can pick up Hermione here and my family can bring her to Hogwarts after the World Cup.”

“Thank you Mr. Weasley, I would like to offer you the other 3 tickets for the Ministry Box, I think it could be a great opportunity for you. I appreciate all your help today.”

“It was my pleasure, I would love to be in the Ministry Box, how thrilling! Cassie, Richard, it was wonderful seeing you. I must be off, got to get those children of mine. I will owl with details.” Arthur sped off humming to himself. He would finish his conversation with Hermione another day.

As Hermione unpacked her belongings in her room she reflected on the last 8 hours. She was grateful for Arthur Weasley, had he not stepped in she was unsure she would be walking away from the Ministry unscathed. Moreover, Hermione left with unpresented O.W.L’s scores,  the ability to freely practise magic outside of school, and Quidditch World Cup tickets, not that she liked quidditch, the opportunity to see multiple wizarding cultures was one she couldn’t miss. However, after her interactions with Arthur, he was not going to let what he learned go or her lack of transparency for the wizarding world towards her parents. 

As a parent he has always been loving, supportive, and protective. Hermione wished she could have those things, her parents wouldn’t and could not understand what she had gone through and even if they could Hermione had a sneaking suspicion they would pull her from school if they knew. Though with the current unknowns about Wizarding Guardianship she was not sure if they could actually make that decision. 

Even with all that happened today Hermione had to focus. She had 24 hours until Sirius Black  arrived at her home. In other circumstances, Hermione would be able to explain to her parents, in fact she was dying to tell her parents everything but harboring a fugitive, a magical one no less seemed outside her comfort zone.  

“Hermione, it’s time for dinner, takeaway is here!” Cassie yelled up the stairs

“Coming mum” she responded.

Walking down the stairs Hermione could smell the delicious Chinese food from her favorite takeaway restaurant. Entering the kitchen Hermione was bombarded with colorful balloons and streamers.

“Suprise!” her parents yelled

Hermione giggled. “Thank mum and dad. You didn’t have to do this.” She felt lucky to have such loving parents. Looking in the bag, “Did you get me eggrolls by chance?”

“Yes sweetheart, I will never forget them.” her father replied, kissing the top of her head.

“Hermione, your father and I have been thinking. We are so proud of your academic achievements. We want to get you a gift for all your hard work. Is there anything you would like?”

“Thank you! Can I think about it and let you know?”

“Of course darling, now let's eat.”

They had had an amazing dinner filled with laughter and stories. Her parents regaled her with dental stories, from challenging tooth extractions to complicated gum disease cases. Hermione explained her love of charms and potions. How she learned different types of magic subjects and was looking forward to layering them together. It was a perfect night with her parents, it felt good to be home. 

Crookshank jumped on Hermione’s bed before curling into the perfect sleeping form. As she closed her eyes to sleep, Hermione finalized her plans for Sirius. “Crooks, will you help me tomorrow?” Crookshank purred deeply, giving all the affirmation she needed.

Hermione paced the length of the house. She had lied to her parents this morning, it was eating away at her. This morning she woke up and told them Crookshank was missing. Cassie and Richard immediately sprung into action.

“Cassie, I'll walk the neighborhood and see if anyone has seen our cat. Hermione, he couldn’t have gotten far, sit tight love.” Richard scrambled out of the house to save the day.

All morning long Hermione pouted and whined that Crookshank was gone forever, little did her parents know he was safely in his cat carrier hidden under a disillusionment charm. Hermione was singularly focused on safely securing a home for Sirius, regardless of the guilt she felt. Once Sirius was settled in the family she could start phase 2 of clearing his name. In the last two days one thing was clear to Hermione: Sirius and Harry deserved to be happy together and Hermione was the only one willing and able to do something about it.

Richard returned empty handed. He went to hug Hermione. “I’m sorry sweetheart, I looked everywhere, no one has seen him yet. I have to go to the office for an emergency root canal this afternoon. How about we make fliers this evening if he is not back and we can post them around the neighborhood first thing tomorrow morning?.”

“Umm… thanks dad, that sounds great. I love you so much, thank you for looking.” Hermione tightly hugged him back. 

At 6:59pm Hermione went outside pretending to look for Crookshanks for the millionth time that day. As she opened the door to her backyard Hermione was tackled to the ground by an excited Padfoot, Sirius' large black dog animagus form. 

“Padfoot! I have a plan” Padfoot enthusiastically wagged his tail. Hermione put her hands on her hips and gave him a stern look. “You have to follow my instructions. Do you think you can do that?”

Padfoot sat on the ground in front of Hermione and nodded his head. 

“I need you to go roll in the dirt behind that tree. I’m going to go get my mum. When we come outside you are going to fake a limp and walk with Crookshank to the house. I can’t stress this enough, look pathetic and docile.” 

Hermione took off the disillusionment charm on Crookshanks carrier and let him free to reunite with Padfoot. Crookshank ran to Padfoot, nuzzling his squished face to the back leg of his favorite furry friend. Hermione smiled and opened the door to the house.

“Mum!!! Mum, come here quickly, I need your help. You have to see this!” Hermione yelled

Chapter Text

Sirius was on the brink of madness, ready to scream into the eternal void. Spending 12 years rotting in Azkaban would do that to you. Remus, his best friend and first love, believed him to be a Death Eater and capable of betraying Jame Potter, his brother in all ways except blood. It made him nauseous thinking about it, nothing made sense. That is how he found himself in his third fleabath of the evening.

“Hermione, I think one more round of shampoo will do it. Where did Crooks find this fleabag?”

Sirius whined, it was not his proudest moment. Hermione had convinced her spitfire mother that Crookshanks had found a friend in need, using moral righteousness to get him in the house.  Despite the embarrassment of being bathed by his godson's best friend, it felt remarkable to be cared for the first time in over a decade. 

“Oh she doesn’t mean it, you are such a good boy.” Hermione scratched behind his ears. “Mum be nice, it looks like he has been through a lot. Can I keep him?” Padfoot let out a bark in agreement.

Cassie poured shampoo on Padfoot back working suds into his thick coat. “He is cheeky isn't he? I don’t know Honey, can you even bring him to school with you?”

Hermione huffed. “No, he can’t come to Hogwarts with me.” She gave him a pointed look. Message received.  “But you and dad said you wanted to get me a gift. He is spectacular and I already love him." 

“Hermione, your father and I are at the office all day, that's no life for a dog, to be trapped for hours indoors all alone.” 

It did sound like an upgrade from the last 12 years, no dementors sucking the last ounce of joy out of him, no bitter cold that knocks your lungs, making you wonder if it is your last breath. He closed his eyes as warm water droplets began rinsing off the fourth round of flea medication. It was the cleanest he had felt in years. 

“Let’s compromise, give me the summer to make a care plan for Snuffles here. If you object to the plan I’ll find him another home.”

Cassie gave a full belly laugh “Snuffles? That’s a terrible name.” Cassie petted his head, he felt love radiate inside his bones from the touch. “I’ll speak with your father. He is going to hate it but I’ll work my magic, if this is what you truly want.”

“Thank you mum. I can finish up cleaning Snuffles while you talk to dad.”

Cassie gave her daughter a hug while she was eyeing him, before taking her leave.

“Sirius, why don’t I give you some space to take a shower in your human form. Then we can sort out some food, I bet you would fancy one of the juicy steaks in the fridge.”

At that Sirius couldn't contain his joy he leaped on to Hermione licking her face. He had been living off scraps, rats, and garbage for the better part of a year.  

“Alright, alright, I’m happy you're here too.” she laughed and gave him another pat. 

As the bathroom door clicked, Sirius transformed back to his human form, peeled off the tattered prison uniform banishing them to the abyss. Slowly he fell to the floor of the shower, silently crying. It was all too much. His last year had gone to shit, he had two missions: keep Harry safe and kill Peter Pettigrew, he cocked both up. At least Harry knows the truth now. While calming his mind he reconstructed his mental shields. Sirius made a decision, he would trust Hermione and whatever plan she had, this witch was clearly the brains of the operation. She had accomplished something no adult since Lily Potter had done, keeping Harry Potter safe.

After Richard's initial shock at Padfoot's sheer size, Hermione had been able to get her parents to agree to keep her ‘Snuffles,’ under the conditions that he was well cared for and her responsibility. Soon Hermione was transforming a throw pillow into an additional bed for Sirius. 

“Muffilato. Colloportus.” Hermione placed locking and silencing spells on her room. “You can change back, Sirius.” Padfoot whimpered. “Not ready yet? Come on then.” Hermione slid under the fluffy purple comforter, sighing in relief. Patting the top of her blanket, Padfoot took the invitation jumping up on the bed circling twice before curling up to Hermione. She absentmindedly caressed his fur. As Hermione dozed off she whispered “I’m glad you are home.”

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Sunday morning was filled with delicious smells of a full English breakfast, Hermione sneaking bacon and sausage under the table to Padfoot. Sirius had not turned back to his human form yet, with it being the weekend Hermione wouldn’t push. Tomorrow she would. She began mentally cataloging what she would need. Shopping was top off the list, Sirius had been running around in a prison uniform for a year! Unacceptable. This past year the muggle news had been reporting on the mass murderer Sirius Black, his escape, and the wizarding world had even set up a hotline for tips. It was a risk to bring him in public, nonetheless Sirius needed exposure therapy. Taking out her favorite notebook she compiled their shopping list.

Sirius 

• Clothing 
• Alcohol
• Dogwalker/ alternative home

Padfoot 

• Water and food dishes
• Collar
• Leash

Goodness, something told her Sirius was going to make unending bondage jokes. She would need tomes on wizarding law, mentally adding a trip to Diagon this week.  

The rest of the day was spent between running around the small backyard, playing hide and seek with Padfoot and lounging in her cushioned nook, letting the sun kiss her face as she read the worn copy of Pride and Prejudice. Padfoot stayed within reach, allowing her to lazily pet his soft fur, making Hermione feel cared for and guarded.

Monday morning came crashing in. “Sweetheart! Dad and I are off.” Cassie yelled up to Hermione.

“Bye mum!” Hermione called down. 

The front door clicked shut. Hermione turned to Padfoot giving him a pointed look. Hands on her hips and aggressively tapping her foot, she took a deep breath centering herself for the inevitable conflict. “Sirius. Change. Back. Now.” Padfoot didn't budge. “SIRIUS ORION BLACK THE THIRD!” Hermione shrieked, sliding her wand into her hand.

“Brachiabindo.” Invisible cords burst forth wrapping around Padfoot's limbs, incapacitating the large hound. 

“Bloody hell, you hellion harpy, release me.” A naked Sirius complained

 Blush crept up her cheeks, Hermione turned, wordlessly dropping the bindings. “Honestly, Sirius get dressed, we have errands to run.” she huffed

Once dressed Hermione casted Capillaris Mutatio transfiguring Sirius jet black curly hair to a rich chestnut matching her own. His shag curls shortened to a Hoxton Fin. Wordlessly, she casted multiple Faciem Muta changing Sirius face, smoothing his sharp features, morphing his tumultuous grey eye to honey, complementing her own. Taking a step back admiring the transformation, not bad if she did say so herself. He looked so much like her own mother, anyone seeing them out in the world would assume Sirius was her father or uncle, it was perfection. 

“Sirius, I don’t have to take you, are you going to be on your best behavior?” Hermione taking no nonsense.

“Never… but for you, brightest witch of your age, I will try not to mess this up.” and he meant it both for their first outing as well as joining the Grangers family.

“Your alias is Cassian White, my uncle on my mum's side, you have been traveling the world, a bit of a recluse. I made you an identification card just in case.”

“You really do think of everything,” Sirius smiled. 

Walking the streets of London was the most fun Hermione had in years. Sirius gave her a verbal history of all the muggle spots he had frequented. Their first stop had been the local pet shop. 

“A leash darling, do you want to tie me up?” Sirius winked at her.

Hermione laughed at his antics. Next they journeyed to the secondhand shops, every store was Sirius' personal fashion montage, strutting like a peacock out of the dressing rooms. They giggled, choosing multiple outfits, Sirius even scoped out leather jackets something he felt every person needed. Taking a ginormous whiff “Do you smell that? Leather, rich history, adventure and home. We are each getting one, no arguing love.” Hermione tried on a ridiculous bubble gum pink leather jacket, looking in the floor length mirror, it did not fit the bossy bushy haired swot that had been her entire persona. Reflecting back to the last year that Hermione was gone. The hardened woman in front of her was preparing for the numerous battles to come and would do so with the people she loved. She wore the jacket out the store. 

Every great shopping trip required a trip to the Bound & Found bookstore. Hermione loved the wizarding world, yet she had never been fully welcome being muggleborn. Bert and Olive Hall’s bookstore had been her refuge since she was a little girl, when her peers tore her down. Always counting on books to build fantastical worlds with happy endings.  

“Hermione, you’re back. Let me see you.” Olive embraced Hermione into a grandmotherly hug. The nearly 70 year old had spent as much time with her as her own parents. 

“Oh I have missed you young lady, or should I say young women, you have grown so much, what is that school feeding you?” 

“Hi Olive, I have missed you too.” Hermione responded cheerfully.

Olive surveyed Sirius, “and who is this?”

“I’m Si- Cassian White, Hermione’s uncle. Who is this stunning woman?” Sirius placed a kiss on Olive's hand.

“Ahem, that is my wife,” Bert answered, coming from the backroom.

“Apologies my dear sir.” Sirius bowed.

Hermione stepped in “Cassian this is my favorite bookstore owners Olive and Bert Hall.”

“Welcome back Hermione” Bert gave her a side hug. “We have missed our favorite bookworm. I think I peaked your chair in the back corner free, we can catch up later.” Bert gave her a wink, knowing she would rather be curled up with a book. 

“Unfortunately, we don't have enough time to stay today. You know me, I couldn't resist the pull of your shop. I’ll be back later this week, I can’t wait to hear how your year has been. ”

Thirty minutes later Hermione was checking out her precarious stacked collection of books. Hugging both Bert and Olive once more before heading to their last stop of the morning.

“What are we doing here love?” Sirius gave her a skeptical look.

“Don’t be an arse, go in there, get a large bottle of whiskey, and for the love of Merlin don’t ask me any questions.” Refusing to make eye contact she shoved cash into Sirius's hand. Accepting the money he silently followed through with his task.