Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Ellie ran, panting for breath alongside her best friend. They knew they wouldn’t make it, they knew they would die. But they just needed a little more time. The precious bundles in their arms would stand a chance, hopefully. Finally, they skidded to a halt.

“Ellie-” Ellie transferred Holly, their baby girl, into Hermione's arms. Their son, Jean, stared around with wide eyes, but didn’t make a sound. Ellie drew up the strongest wards she could, but knew they wouldn't last long under the onslaught they were expecting. A special portkey awaited before them, a safe drop. It would take some time to activate, but Ellie and Hermione were more than willing to buy that time. They laid the children on the portkey.

“Ready?”

“Ready.”

“Regrets?” Hermione asked. Ellie barked a short laugh.

“None. I love you.”

“I love you, too. I’ll see you on the other side.”

They held hands as they started to move their wands in sync, tracing intricate patterns in the air, the runes hastily carved into a tree behind them ready for activation. Together they put their hands on the runes, their blood, magic, and love willingly given to protect those that they loved.

The Death Eaters crashed into the gaps in the trees. All their attention focused on the two witches, who had finished their spells, and now simply allowed their magic to power the runes. The Death Eaters flung spells, the wards deflecting them for now. Magic permeated the air and wind whipped around the clearing, tossing the girls’ loose hair as their eyes took on an unearthly glow.

Rodolphus Lestrange stepped forward, his whole face contorted with hatred.

“You,” he hissed. “You foolish girls, thought you could get away? After all you’ve done?”

“Do it then. Do what your precious Dark Lord could never do!” Hermione snarled.

“After this, I will be a Dark Lord in my own right!”

“Not if you don’t have the guts to finish this yourself,” Ellie challenged. Several of the Death Eaters snarled, and were ready to charge forward, before Rodolphus flung out a hand, stopping them.

“Foolish girl. All you’ve fought for will be for nothing!” The Killing Curse shot towards them, almost in slow motion. As the magic for the ritual reached a massive concentration, and the green light of the Killing Curse enveloped them, they finally heard a slight pop as the portkey activated. The last thing either of them felt was the warmth of their clasped hands.

Ellie didn’t know what she was expecting when she died. The whole King’s Cross thing had been something…in between. And something to do with the Horcrux that had been in her. But now, it was different. She had actually died, and after that, she really didn’t know what to expect. But she certainly wasn’t expecting a lovely garden stretching out every way she could see. Portions of the garden looked more like entire forests, while others were clustered together in smaller groves. Flowerbeds dotted the area, showcasing a neatly manicured park, surrounding a sparkling lake upon which blooming lilies bobbed. Really, just about every type of plant was there, in every type of garden imaginable. And it was absolutely beautiful.

Yet what really caught her attention were several figures standing by the lake. One of whom was her best friend, girlfriend, and would-be fiancée.

“Mione!” Ellie cried out.

“Ellie!” They charged towards each other, embracing the other tightly. They each drank in their lover's presence, letting the stress of what had happened fade just a bit. It was a strategy they had used many times over the years.

“Do you know where we are?” Ellie asked. Hermionie shook her head. Before they could begin to investigate, the remaining three people by the lake made themselves known.

“The Lady’s garden,” spoke a tall, gentle faced man. His jet black hair matched the accents decorating his finely pressed, dark grey suit, which should have been at odds with the mystical robes draped over his shoulders, and yet the outfit could've belonged in either the Mundane or Wixen worlds. Power radiated from him. The lady standing next to him had a regal look to her face, yet her eyes remained kind. She was adorned in an elegant, pale dove grey dress with cream accents that accented her looks perfectly. A cloaked and hooded figure beside them stood drastically apart from their more striking appearances. The figure's cloak was a medium gray, their face completely androgynous.

“Who…” Hermione began.

The woman inclined her head. “Ah. Eleanor Heather Potter, Hermione Jean Granger. I am Hecate, Lady of Magic. This is Zirnitra, my husband and Lord of Magic. Death is also here, for you, Eleanor, have become their Mistress.” Ellie’s eyes widened, and Hermione gasped. Their hands tightened in their embrace.

“The tale of the Hallows is completely true then?” Hermione asked.

“Indeed. And you, my lady, have possessed all three at the same time,” Death confirmed. Their voice was not just one single voice, nor male or female, but rather the voices of all the people the two girls had ever known.

“I…I never wanted to possess them all. I only hoped that Voldemort wouldn't. Then I realized he didn’t really believe, he just wanted the Elder Wand,” Ellie protested.

“That is correct. But you have earned the title because you gathered all three Hallows and used their power without greed or ambition in your heart.”

“What…what does that mean?”

“I shall explain later. There are other things that must be explained first.”

“Like what? We’re dead, obviously. And if we’re in your gardens, that should be that. Why are we talking to you instead?” Hermione asked.

“Because of what should have been, if you had been allowed to live your lives freely. We have a choice to offer you. You may stay here, waiting for your children and your few loved ones that remain living to join you. Or, you could go back in time,” Hecate offered.

“Why do you offer this choice? What happens to our children?” Ellie demanded, terrified that she would be seeing Holly and Jean all too soon. Zirnitra held up his hands in a soothing manner.

“They will be safe with the goblins for some time, before your remaining family and friends take them in. Yet the wixen world remains in chaos for decades to come. It is bad enough that the wixen world is decimated worldwide, exposed to the mundane world, and nearly all magic is gone within the next two centuries.”

Shocked, both young women stood silent for a moment, processing the disaster that lay ahead of their world. “Why?” Hermione choked out. Hearing all of this was just…awful.

“We’ve both studied history, Mione. I’m guessing no one could get along and everything just fell apart,” Ellie told her lover numbly.

“Unfortunately correct, Eleanor,” confirmed Death softly.

“So many would die from the loss of magic. Not just wixen who are sensitive, but all magical creatures. Everything just…gone,” Ellie whispered, grieving for her children and the world they left behind. Hermione took a shaky breath, their hands tightening on each other’s once again. Hecate and Zirnitra studied the two solemnly.

“We wish to prevent this travesty. Have you heard of Sentinels and Guides?”

“They’re protectors in the mundane world. They’ve often taken military positions, especially during wars, but when things are calmer, they have the freedom to pursue other careers. Yet it’s usually in some sort of service to the public,” Hermione reeled off easily. Ellie hid a smile at Hermione’s encyclopedic knowledge.

“Very good. And in the magical world?”

“I…I don’t know. That’s odd. Between Grindelwald, Voldemort, and Rodolphus, you’d expect there to be plenty awoken, both in Britain and worldwide.”

“There’s a reason, isn’t there,” Ellie guessed.

“Sentinels and Guides were killed in large numbers during the First World War, and even more so during the Second World War, and the war with Grindelwald. Entire bloodlines were exterminated. Afterwards, those in Britain never reappeared.”

“But why?”

Zirnitra sighed heavily. “Dumbledore decided that Sentinels and Guides were not needed, and so had the Hogwarts house elves put a very illegal potion in the food of the Opening Feast every year. It’s known as Mordred’s Bane, and blocks the Sentinel and Guide gifts from ever awakening.” Both girls’ jaws dropped.

“What? That’s outrageous! With how much chaos both worlds were in, and then the rise of Voldemort, how can he have justified that?” Hermione demanded angrily.

“He wanted to look good. He cultivated a persona of a knowledgeable old man, but…I saw breaks in that facade, whenever something unexpected happened. Which was rare, but it still occasionally happened,” Ellie mused thoughtfully. Hermione frowned, then sighed.

“You would know better than I.”

“Dumbledore is not a Lord of the Light, as he would have the magical world believe,” Hecate scoffed. “He’s a manipulative, power-hungry man. He’s ruined lives, including yours, without the victims ever knowing it.”

“Besides, no one can truly claim to be a Lord of a type of magic unless they were chosen by us,” Zirnitra added. “Wait, you would choose even Dark lords?” Ellie protested. “They caused so much harm!” Hecate held up a hand.

“The Dark is simply another facet of magic. You know of magical cores?”

“It’s the way our magic leans.”

“Basically, yes. Someone with a dark core might simply be better at curses and jinxes. A gray core is typically more suited to healing and defense. A light core is best suited to things like charms. Of course, those are broad, basic examples. The exact talent within that spectrum depends on the person.”

“So…”

“The only things that determines if someone has squandered my Gift is either complete disrespect, by which someone intends to subjugate a type of people with magic, or if someone decides to involve themselves with the Infernal,” Hecate explained further. Both girls had to take a moment as their entire view on magical theory was overturned by Mistress Magic herself.

“In any case, if you agree to go back in time, we have a plan for you to help free the Sentinels and Guides in the magical world. You two would be Alpha Sentinel and Guide Prime of Britain. Specifically, Eleanor would be the Alpha Prime Sentinel, while Hermione would be the Alpha Prime Guide.” Ellie and Hermione exchanged looks. The determination was clear in both their eyes.

“We can’t let magic disappear. And we need to stop Voldemort earlier, save as many lives as we can,” Ellie said firmly.

“Very well then. Then there are others who have been waiting for you. They have already agreed to go back, pending your agreement of course,” Zirnitra said.

“Who?” Hermione asked curiously. Hecate merely snapped her fingers, and four more people appeared.

“Ginny! Luna! Neville!” Ellie cried out. She and Hermione rushed their friends, and fell onto the grass as they all clutched at each other.

“Merlin’s pants, we’ve missed you,” Neville gasped out.

“We did too. But time flows differently in the Lady’s garden. So I don’t think we had to wait as long,” Luna added happily. Ellie glanced over at the last person, to see her longtime rival, Draco Malfoy.

“Malfoy?”

“Um. Hello.” Malfoy’s lack of a pureblood mask made Ellie smile. She gestured to him.

“Get over here. Our disputes in school don’t matter now, not with how much you and your mother helped us in the end.”

“I wasn’t sure. Everything seems so petty now.” Mal- no, he was Draco now, joined in gingerly on the group hug, but slowly melted into them.

“So…who’s a Guide and who’s a Sentinel? Were you even told yet?” Hermione asked.

“Guide. Ginny’s, specifically.” Draco admitted, a bit shyly.

Luna smiled dreamily. “I’m Neville’s Guide.” The boy blushed as all eyes turned to him.

“You sure about this?” Ellie asked them. Ginny gave her a firm look.

“Of course! We know the stakes.”

“I want to make up for all the harm I did,” Draco's gaze was sincere, before turning sour. “Even though I don’t regret Dumbledore’s death, knowing what I do now.”

“No kidding,” Neville muttered.

Hecate waved her hand, releasing a wave of pure magic that tugged their attention back to her. “Now that you are all here, we will explain what we know you missed out on, how things were changed for you, and your pasts and futures, so that you have a full understanding of each other.”

By the time all of those explanations had finished, the newly-formed pack was all on the ground, holding onto each other tightly, and crying.

“That’s it. We are so going back. What else do we need to be aware of?” Hermione asked.

“Ginevra Molly Weasley and Draco Lucius Malfoy will be your Shadows, the pair who work behind the scenes when the Prime pair cannot. Luna Scamander Lovegood and Neville Frank Longbottom will be the other key pair in your pack. Others will join you, and while we cannot foresee everything, we do know that they will be important,” Zirnitra explained.

“When will we be sent back?” Luna asked.

“When you were all relatively untainted, before you started Hogwarts.”

“But if untainted means without Infernal magic, I would still have the Horcrux in my scar,” Ellie said worriedly. Hecate, Zirnitra, and Death all smiled.

“Worry not. The goblins have cleansing rituals that you and your most trusted must undergo. They will rid you of all compulsions, potions, and curses. Line tests will also be in order, since We are unsure just how much of all of your abilities were blocked.” Ellie smiled at the Beings in relief.

“Thank you.”

“Of course. I think sending you all back on…hmm. Hermione, you happen to be the eldest of this group. What if We sent all of you back shortly before your tenth birthday? That would give all of you at least two years to prepare for Hogwarts. Luna, Ginevra, that will give the two of you three years.”

“Why then?” Hermione questioned.

“Again, we cannot foresee everything. We simply know that you will need time before you all start school.”

The pack exchanged glances, before deferring to Ellie and Hermione's leadership. The pair smiled at each other, before giving their assent to the plan.

“Very well. Now, We know you will need allies, and going back to that point in your lives will be difficult for you. Draco, we advise talking to your mother. Narcissa will be able to help all of you, and you are technically cousins with Neville, Eleanor, and Ginevra.”

“Ugh. Pureblood politics,” Hermione groaned.

“No, in this case, it’s ugh, certain pureblood beliefs, Granger,” Draco corrected.

“Hm. True.”

“Wait, I need to mark this in history. Hermione agreed with Draco,” Ginny teased.

“Very funny,” Draco snarked back.

“At least none of us are first cousins,” Neville offered. Hermione and Ellie shuddered.

“Very, very true.”

“Regardless. Since Eleanor’s blood adopted godfather, Sirius Orion Black, will be in Azkaban when you get back, Eleanor will need someone else as a magical guardian,” Hecate told them.

“And hopefully a place to stay. I don’t want to be with the Dursleys longer than I have to,” Ellie grumbled. Hermione's expression switched to what her friends had named her 'Plotting Face', and everyone shuddered and decided not to question what she had in store for the Mundane family.

“You know you’d always be welcome at the Burrow,” Ginny offered. Ellie grimaced.

“I know. But Ginny, Ron…wasn’t the best of friends. And Molly was…overbearing.”

“Molly is also very loyal to Dumbledore,” Zirnitra added.

“Oh. I can see why you wouldn’t want to be there.”

“I’d offer my place, but Father wouldn’t be the best for you,” Draco mused.

“Gran might be willing,” Neville offered. “And Hermione, you’d be welcome too.”

“Thanks, but I do want to stay with my parents when I can. I…I need to redeem myself too. How I treated my parents…was awful,” Hermione said quietly. The others gave her confused looks, but didn’t ask her to elaborate, while Ellie knocked their shoulders together in comfort.

“I think that would work, Neville. She helped out a lot during the last couple years of school,” Ellie told him. Neville smiled.

“Oh, I nearly forgot. If we can explain things to Mother, I bet she can get you in touch with other Black family members. Lord Arcturus Black, the patriarch, would still be alive. And Aunt Cassie was awesome. I think they’d look after you, Eleanor,” Draco offered. Ellie nodded.

“I certainly wouldn’t mind, but one thing at a time. Speaking of which, is there any way to get me out of the Dursley’s clutches any faster?” Draco’s eyes lit up.

“I…might have a way. Eleanor, will you trust us to get you out of there?”

“Yes. As long as you make it fast.”

“Wonderful.” Draco started whispering furiously to Neville, who’s expression turned into one of surprise, before grinning. The two started quietly going back and forth, making some sort of plan. The girls looked at each other, a little weirded out. Even if they had all made their peace with Draco, it was still strange to see him and Neville plotting together.

“Will we be Awakened as Sentinels and Guides when we get back?” Hermione asked. Zirnitra smiled.

“Yes. Do not perform any magic when you first get back, and head to Gringotts as fast as you can. They’ll be able to help you considerably.”

“Okay. Okay.” Ellie took a fortifying breath. “In that case…now what?” Hecate smiled.

“Now, we wish you good luck. Oh, and we will be visiting you all in dreams.” Before any of the pack could question that new information, the Lady of Magic waved her hand, and everything went black.

Chapter Text

Draco jerked awake, moaning. His head was absolutely pounding. Falling into his mindscape using his Occlumency training, he found it a mess. Given what had happened, he wasn’t really surprised. He set to work rectifying it, sorting through his memories and storing the more private ones behind impenetrable walls. By the time he had done so, the sun was just starting to rise. He still had a headache, but that was due to the emotions he could sense. He could now sense the peaceful auras coming from his parents’ room, and the calm, yet busy minds of the house elves. The house elves felt very different from his parents, but then again, they were different species. He didn’t know if his Occlumency shields would be good for shielding for his Guide gifts, since Occlumency was partially meant to hide emotions. Researching that and asking further questions would have to wait until later. Until then, he’d deal with it the best he could.

He dressed and headed down to the small private dining room he and his parents preferred to use when they didn’t have company. Purebloods they might be, but their public personas were very different from the close knit family they were in private. Draco bit his lip as food appeared in front of him. He hadn’t been sure that Eleanor would have truly believed that. And his father had done some more…questionable things in the other timeline. He’d take it slow with his father, but his mother was a different story.

Just as he finished eating, his mother came into the room.

“Draco. You’re up early. Everything alright?”

“I’m…mostly fine, Mother. I have a bad headache that woke me up.” Narcissa placed a hand on Draco’s forehead.

“You seem to be alright. Have you asked for a headache potion?”

“No. I know this might sound strange Mother, but please look with Legilimency into my mind. I have a lot to explain.” Narcissa did so, paling a little when she realized just how strong Draco’s shields were. They were far stronger than they should be, considering she had just started training him in Occlumency. Looking through his memories, she paled further, before pulling out as gently as she could and embracing her son tightly.

“Oh, Draco. I know there’s more you’re not telling me yet, but…”

“I know it’s a lot, Mother. But I need your help. There’s one of my future pack members in danger. I won’t say much more right now, but I want to talk to the goblins,” Draco told her, embracing her back. He would treasure every moment with her, considering how quickly after the second war he had lost her.

“Of course. Let me get something to eat, and we’ll go. I wanted to do some shopping anyway.”

It didn’t take too long for them to arrive in the alley, then walk up the street to Gringotts. Early as it was, barely anyone was around. Narcissa swiftly got an appointment with Stormfang, the Malfoy account manager, and both mother and son were seated in front of the goblin within ten minutes.

“Lady Malfoy, Heir Malfoy. May your gold pile high and enemies fear your wrath.”

“May you grow wealthy at the expense of those who anger you, Manager Stormfang,” Narcissa replied smoothly.

“This is unexpected. What can I do for you?” Stormfang asked, lacing his fingers together. Narcissa glanced at Draco.

“First of all, I ask that you raise the privacy wards on your office to the highest level you are able to.” Stormfang looked intrigued, and snapped his fingers. “I swear on my magic that everything I am about to tell you is true. This morning, I arrived into my younger self, courtesy of the Lord and Lady of Magic. In my previous timeline, the magical world was in absolute chaos, and all magic was swiftly draining from the world. I was killed earlier on in the war, along with Mother and Father. The Lord and Lady of Magic saw an opportunity with a select group of people who should have been Sentinels and Guides, to go back in time and fix as much as we can.” Draco then continued to explain briefly the previous timeline, grateful that his mother and Stormfang didn’t interrupt.

“I can tell you are telling the truth, Heir Malfoy. No one invokes the Lady and Lord lightly, and you still have your magic. How much can you tell me about your future pack? Are you to be one of the Primes?”

“No. I know who is meant to be the Primes, though. We spent some time talking to the Lady and Lord before we were all sent back. However, I don’t want to infringe too much on the privacy of my future pack,” Draco explained. Stormfang gave him a sharp nod.

“Commendable. Tell us what you can, then.”

“We were all awakened when we were sent back. I know I am a Guide, and that I am meant to be the Shadow Guide of the Primes.”

“Shadow?” Narcissa asked.

“In our records, the Shadows of the Primes are meant to take care of darker aspects of the pack’s duties that the Primes may not be able to tend to,” Stormfang mused. Draco nodded.

“Given some of the plans we made, I can at least tell you who the other pack members are. Ginevra Weasely is my Sentinel, and the Shadow Sentinel. Luna Lovegood is a Guide to Heir Neville Longbottom. Eleanor Potter is to be Sentinel Prime and her Guide is Hermione Granger, a mundane born. I expect that Neville will be coming in as soon as he can. I think Luna and Ginny will as well, but at the moment, I need Neville and the Dowager Longbottom’s help.”

“With what precisely?” Narcissa asked curiously.

“I know for a fact that Eleanor Potter is in danger. She was put into the care of her abusive relatives when her parents were killed, despite the fact that Sirius Black is her legal, magical, and blood adopted guardian.”

Narcissa frowned. “Sirius betrayed—”

“No, he didn’t. He was sent to Azkaban without a trial, and without full evidence. The investigation, or rather lack of one, was completely bungled. Eleanor can tell you more. But in any case, I want her to get to a safe place, and where she is currently living isn’t safe.”

“How much did she give you leave to explain? The more details we have…”

“Lady Lily Potter’s mundane sister, Petunia Dursley, and her husband Vernon Dursley, are magic haters. Eleanor has said she’s been punished for multiple things, even if she didn’t cause them. She was hunted by her cousin Dudley and bullied. She’s treated worse than a house elf and forced to do all the chores and cooking. She’s forced to sleep in a cupboard under the stairs.”

“Of all the horrible things—” Narcissa was cut off by a deep snarl from Stormfang.

“You are sure of all this, Heir Malfoy?”

“Yes.”

“If you will both wait, I need to alert Ragnok and the Potter and Black account managers. The sheer amount of treaties that are being broken…” Stormfang growled, standing. Before he could leave, Narcissa stopped him with a request for quill and parchment.

“I wish to write to Lord Black, Cassiopeia Black, and Augusta Longbottom.” Stormfang snapped his fingers, summoning the writing implements in front of her, then swept out of the room. Draco turned to Narcissa.

“Mother…”

“Simply in the matter of Sirius for Lord Black and Cassiopeia. Augusta with a request to meet us here. From your explanations, Neville will have more to tell, and you could most likely use cleansing rituals,” Narcissa reassured him, already writing.

“Ah, I almost forgot. The Lady and Lord suggested we all get them. And…It might be time to call in Father. I’d at least like to tell him about me being a Guide. And since Dumbledore is the one who put the potion in the food…you and Father might want to get cleansing rituals too.” Narcissa gave her son a startled look, then nodded.

“Very well.”

Narcissa had finished with her messages to Lucius, Lord Black, and Cassiopeia, and sent them off with a house elf. She had just started on her message to Augusta when Stormfang returned.

“Lady Malfoy, the Dowager Longbottom and Heir Longbottom are already here. I have also heard that the Lovegoods are on their way, and that Ginevra Weasley and her father are as well.”

“In that case, can we get a conference room for everyone with high wards? Lord Black has also sent a reply back already that he is on his way with Cassiopeia and my husband should be arriving soon as well. Draco and I would like cleansing rituals for everyone. Draco suspects that some of us should have been Sentinels and Guides as well.”

“That can be arranged. Ragnok has also contacted Filius Flitwick and Minerva McGonagall. They are both trusted by the Horde, and they will be retrieving Eleanor Potter and Hermione Granger.”

“Thank you, Stormfang.”

“In the matter of Sirius Black, Amelia Bones will be contacted soon. She is one of the few Ministry officials that are decent.”

“Indeed she is,” Narcissa told the goblin dryly, matching his tone. Draco suppressed a snort. The Ministry really was a mess.

The group moved to a large conference room and sat, soon joined by the Longbottoms.

“Hi, Draco,” Neville said.

“Hello, Neville. You moved fast.”

“So did you.”

“Yeah well, fellow pack member in danger, and we need all the support on the Wizengamot that we can get,” Draco murmured.

“True.” The door opened, and Lucius swept in.

“Narcissa. Draco. What’s going on?”

“A lot, Father. We’re waiting for…quite a few others. But in the meantime, I have something to tell you.” All three Malfoys retreated to a corner to talk in some privacy.

“Is something wrong?” Lucius asked.

“Not exactly. Just a lot going on. But I’ve awakened as a Guide,” Draco explained, a bit nervously.

“A Guide?” Lucius whispered. Draco nodded. He was incredibly surprised when his father’s pureblood mask slipped, and he went down on his knee to fully embrace Draco. “I am proud of you, son. I just wish you had said something sooner. There’s some… currently forbidden books on Guides and Sentinels in the manor library.”

“Really?”

“There were a few of them in the Malfoy line. My father heartily disproved, and made sure that his children didn’t awaken the ‘abomination’ as he called it.” Draco was speechless. He had never thought this was possible. He wondered just how much of the pureblood mask his father had on in the previous timeline, even at home. It seemed like quite a bit. As the family settled themselves back at the table, the door opened again, welcoming two graceful figures into the room.

“Narcissa,” The tall, silvered haired man greeted. The silver haired woman at his side inclined her head.

Narcissa replied in kind. “Lord Black. Aunt Cassiopeia.”

“It’s good to see you, my dear,” Cassiopeia smiled.

“Your letter was very interesting. I suspect I’ve stepped back from family affairs for far too long. Especially with the gathering I see here.”

“A great deal will be explained soon, Great Uncle,” Narcissa promised.

“I hope so.” The door opened once again, letting in three redheads. The eldest hesitated, seeing the people in the room.

“Ah…” he started. One of the goblins waved at him and the other redheads, one of which was Ginny, the other probably an elder brother.

“You’re expected, Mr. Weasley. Have a seat.” Ginny flashed Draco a grin, and sat next to her father and elder brother. The Lovegoods came in last, with Xenophilius and Pandora appearing mildly curious, and Luna being her usual dreamy self. Hermione and Eleanor weren’t there, but they would be. The Horde had explained that they had instructed McGonagall and Flitwick to give the girls the full mundane-born introduction, before bringing them to the bank.

“We’re still technically awaiting a few more people, but we can start,” Ragnok, Chieftain of the Horde, announced as everyone sat. “As of this morning, the Pack and Pride of Avalon has been reestablished after more than eighty years. Our new Primes aren’t here yet, but the rest of the pack is. We will do a round of full introductions. I am Ragnok, Chieftan of the Horde. This is Stormfang, account manager of the Noble House of Malfoy; Grimjaw, account manager of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black; Longaxe, account manager of the Most Ancient House of Longbottom; and Steelshard, account manager of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Potter.

“Then, we have Lord Arcturus Black, Lady Cassiopeia Black, Lord Lucius Malfoy, Lady Narcissa Malfoy, Heir Draco Malfoy, Dowager Augusta Longbottom, and Heir Neville Longbottom. Xenophilius Lovegood and Pandora Lovegood, authors of the magazine the Quibbler, and their daughter Luna Lovegood. Finally, Arthur Weasley, Head of the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Office, with his eldest son, William Weasley, a curse breaker for Gringotts, and his daughter Ginevra Weasley.”

“I assume we’re all here because we’re related to the Sentinel and Guide pack?” Pandora asked calmly.

“Correct. Heir Malfoy came in with his mother at eight this morning to discuss business, and mentioned that he had been feeling others’ emotions. At eight-thirty, Heir Longbottom and his grandmother arrived, with Heir Longbottom experiencing sensory overload. They knew who their Sentinel and Guide were, respectively, and also who are meant to be the Sentinel and Guide Primes.

“You are all here, as the reformed pack’s guardians, to aid in getting the Avalon Pride fully reinstated. You are also here because of the influence you hold in the world, which will be needed, for multiple reasons. Finally, everyone is here due to the suddenness and severity of the symptoms of Heir Malfoy and Heir Longbottom. We have been advised to do cleansing rituals and full line tests for all of you. All of that will be covered by the Monmouth Accords, one of the treaties that the Horde has with the Sentinel and Guide Consortium. We can get started on those right away,” Ragnok reeled off. Silence followed, almost everyone there stunned by the news the goblin Chieftain had delivered.

“Thank you. But who are the Primes, and who are Neville and Heir Malfoy’s partners?” Augusta asked primly.

“I’m Neville’s Guide. Ginny is Draco’s Sentinel,” Luna said happily.

“Luna has the gift of Sight. I’m not surprised she knows more about this than we do,” Xenophilius stated proudly.

“Do you know who the Primes are?” Cassiopeia asked.

“Of course. Hermione Granger will be Guide Prime and Eleanor Potter will be Sentinel Prime,” the girl replied. The room was in uproar at that, and the two Guides and two Sentinels just sat back and watched. The goblins were also rather amused.

“Do you know where these two are? Eleanor Potter was supposed to be raised knowing all about our world, but no one knows where she is. No one’s heard from her or seen her for nearly a decade,” Arthur asked.

“In that case, how did all those book deals and things get made without her consent? Who’s her guardian?” Augusta added.

“Sirius was supposed to be, but he’s been in Azkaban for the last eight years!” Narcissa told them.

“They put a Black in prison? Why didn’t I hear about my grandson’s trial?” Lord Black demanded.

“There was no trial, Lord Black,” Grimjaw said.

“What?” Arcturus growled out. Cassiopeia scowled.

“Ladies and gentlemen! We are working to rectify the many mishaps we have found in the course of this morning. In order to officially form the Pack and Pride of Avalon, we do need the Primes. We have people currently working to find and inform the future Primes of the wixen world,” Ragnok reassured the humans in the room. It worked to a point, but once again, the adults were outraged by the lies they had been told.

“Eleanor Potter was raised by muggles?” Augusta asked stiffly.

“But-“

“Dumbledore,” Cassiopeia snarled.

“Oh, we are going to have words for him!” Arthur grumbled.

“Might I suggest being positively Slytherin about this. I think I can guarantee that it will be far more satisfying,” Lucius drawled. The adults glanced at each other, then nodded.

“We can plan for revenge later,” Arcturus agreed.

“In any case, the Pride and Pack of Avalon will need support in the Wizengamot,” Ragnok said.

“You can count on us,” promised Augusta. The others on the Wizengamot added their agreement. Ragnok smiled toothily.

“Good.”

“Chieftain, I suspect all the cleansing and tests we need to do will take some time. If more planning needs to wait, would it not be best to use that time productively?” Narcissa suggested.

“Indeed. Testing for cleansing first, for we need to know how deep we must go. The children first, since their tests should go the fastest.” It took a while for the tests to be prepared, but once they were, the actual testing went fairly quickly. Line tests would be done after any cleansing, just in case.

Draco was clear, for which he was relieved. Luna was similarly clear. Ginny had a couple of subtle compulsions and potions on her, much to Arthur and Bill’s fury. Their fury only increased when they realized that they had been placed by Dumbledore.

“We don’t know if Molly Weasley knew of this and permitted it, or not. It might be safer to check all of your children,” Stormfang suggested. Arthur sat back thinking.

“There should be enough time to test the children before the beginning of the school year.”

“I’ll send Charlie a letter, but he can come in whenever he takes a break from work,” Bill added. Arthur nodded.

“Sounds good.” Thankfully, due to the faintness of the compulsions on Ginny, she’d only need a mild cleanse.

Neville had blocks on his magic, preventing a good chunk of the usual accidental magic that should have occurred. The blocks also prevented many of his natural magical abilities from being accessed. Again, the magical signature of Dumbledore was present. Augusta was beyond furious. She was also furious to learn that Neville had been subtly potioned by his great-uncle Algie in attempts to force Neville’s magic out. The combination of the potion and the multiple blocks on Neville’s core had not reacted well, resulting in fractures in the core and a subtle drain on his magic in order to prevent it from completely imploding. Thankfully, the damage could be reversed. Augusta swore that Algie would be disowned from the family for his actions. She also apologized to Neville for all of her doubt and scolding over the years. Neville hugged her, easily accepting the apology. Due to the combination of potions and blocks, Neville would need a deeper cleanse than Ginny. He would also need healing.

The two were sent off to the ritual chambers with another goblin, as Bill and the parents started getting their own tests. Augusta, Arcturus, and Cassiopeia would be going last due to their more advanced ages. Bill’s test finished up first, and he discovered that he only had one block on his system.

“It says here that I have something called Mordred’s Bane in my system.” As one, the goblins snarled. Quite a few of the adults and the remaining children flinched. Goblins were terrifying when angry.

“That is a Class Seven banned potion!” Grimjaw snarled.

“What does it do? I’ve never heard of it,” Bill asked. Draco had to marvel at the oldest Weasley boy’s composure, but then…wasn’t he a curse breaker? That might have done it if he was used to goblins.

“It blocks the gifts of Sentinels and Guides. The potion we used should have identified if you were meant to be a Sentinel or Guide,” Ragnok explained.

Bill checked the scroll. “Guide.”

“A deep cleanse for you, Mr. Weasley. It’s the only thing that will be able to get rid of that potion. Please head straight to the ritual chambers.”

“Yes sir.” Bill left swiftly, led by yet another goblin.

“I have Mordred’s Bane listed as well. Though no Sentinel or Guide noted,” Arthur announced.

“Mordred’s Bane is harmless to anything else in your body. It is up to you if you wish to undergo the cleansing or not,” Stormfang informed him.

“Does the potion block the gift from being passed on?”

“It does not.”

“Then I will pass at this date.”

“Very well. Mr. and Mrs. Lovegood?”

“We both have it listed as well. It also mentions that I’m meant to be a Sentinel, and Xeno a Guide,” Pandora answered the account manager.

“Deep cleanses for the two of you, if you wish.”

“Will we know if we are meant to be each other’s?” Xeno asked.

“Not until you are cleansed.”

“Then we’ll work out what happens after that,” Pandora promised her husband, clutching his hand. Draco glanced at Luna who looked completely serene. He had a feeling that the Lovegoods were a match for each other.

“I would advise you to wait for the time being. At least until Heir-Sentinel Longbottom, Sentinel Weasley, and Guide Weasley are finished,” Longaxe told them.

“Of course.”

“Mordred’s Bane is listed on our results too. Along with Sentinel for myself, and Guide for Lucius.” Narcissa noted.

“Again, I would advise waiting,” Longaxe repeated dryly.

Finally, Augusta, Arcturus, and Cassiopeia received their test results. Augusta was clean, but Cassiopeia and Arcturus were not. The temperature in the room dropped as the famous Black temper made itself known. It turned out while neither of the two Blacks had Mordred’s Bane in their systems, both were being slowly and subtly poisoned. The goblins advised deep cleanses for both of them, and that they would prepare protections for the two.

“The Pride vaults should still have many protections for Sentinels and Guides available. I would also advise updating Lord and Heir rings, as well as arranging for betrothal agreements for those who know they will be bonded. That will give them extra protections,” Ragnok informed them all.

“Molly will never accept it,” Arthur said, looking a bit warily at Lucius and Narcissa.

“With your consent and the next head of the family, and Ginevra’s consent, we can make a legal betrothal contract,” Stormfang suggested. Arthur nodded.

“Oh and Lord Malfoy. I, Arthur Septimius Weasley, head of the family of Weasley, do formally apologize for any offense my family might have given yours, in the past or present. So mote it be!”

“Apology accepted, Weasley. May the blood feud between our families now be over. So mote it be!”

“Seen and witnessed,” Stormfang said crisply.

“Thank you, Account Manager Stormfang.”

The two sets of parents went to the ritual chambers, while Bill, Neville, and Ginny recovered. Soon enough, Ginny had returned to the conference chamber, followed perhaps an hour or so later by Neville, who was a bit tired, but looked far better. They set about making juvenile bonds with their mates, and forming their pack bonds. Their pack bonds wouldn’t be complete until Hermione and Ellie joined, but they all hoped it would be soon. In the meantime, the goblins provided everyone with tea and lunch. Finally, at three in the afternoon, Hermione arrived with her parents. Everyone who had gone through the cleansing was either back in the room, or finishing recovering.

“Hello, everyone. My name is Hermione Granger, and these are my parents, Dr. Jean Granger, and Dr. Helen Granger. It’s a pleasure to meet all of you,” The nine year old greeted everyone politely.

“Well met, Ms. Granger. Greetings to you, and your parents. How are you handling the wixen world so far?” Ragnok replied, pleased with the girl’s manners.

“A little overwhelming, but amazing.”

“It was extremely kind of Professor McGonagall to inform us a few years early. We have time to get used to things,” Helen replied.

“Ah, that was our doing. We have heard that you are meant to be Alpha Prime Guide?” Ragnok checked.

“Yes sir.”

“As Chieftain of the Horde, I wish to inform you that your daughter holds a very important position as Guide Prime. Yet the magical Sentinels, Guides, and Primes have not appeared in over eighty years, so once we found out about Ms. Granger’s position, we wanted to make sure she, and yourselves are protected. The Horde has longstanding treaties with the Sentinel and Guide Consortium. Part of that is to protect and support any Sentinels and Guides we find.”

“Thank you very much sir.”

“As part of those protections, we wish to test Hermione for any magical effects on her. Then, due to the fact that most mundane born have magical ancestry, we would like to perform a Line test.”

“Really?” Jean asked. Ragnok gave them a fierce smile.

“Despite what many wixen believe, mundane born witches and wizards do not simply pop up randomly. There is magic in their family, even if it has skipped many generations.”

“Oh.”

“I know many mundane born can be a bit put off by our methods. The goblins have a…hm.” Draco hesitated, before looking at the others. “Does anyone know how to explain this?”

“It’s a special solution made, that when you put blood into it, it shows what’s in your body. It’s very, very detailed,” Luna suggested. Ginny flashed the girl a smile. Draco was impressed. He still didn’t know much about mundane sciences, but it seemed that a few of the others did.

“Why blood? How much?” Jean asked.

“Just a few drops. Blood can be very important in the wixen world, because it travels through every part of your body, and as such, has a great deal of information about your body,” Ragnok reassured the two doctors.

“Oh, so it’s basically DNA testing through chemical solutions,” Jean concluded.

“I think so.”

“How often do these solutions need blood?” Helen asked.

“Only a few. But it is complicated to explain. I suggest getting A Beginner’s Guide to Potions to start learning more. I think once you start learning more about our methods, you’d understand things more easily,” Neville offered. “And we can start reading about your methods, so that we understand things how you understand them.

“I will happily follow that advice. And I think we can make book suggestions for you. Hermione loves reading, so it shouldn’t be a problem,” Helen promised. Hermione then provided the blood for the test, and they waited for it to process. Just as it did, Lucius and Narcissa entered.

“You are all clear Ms. Granger. And…ah, Lord and Lady Malfoy, you’ve returned. Excellent.”

“We are each other’s match!” Narcissa announced happily, breaking her pureblood mask to smile at her husband.

“So are we. We do hope to..” Xeno broke off, considering the kids in the room.

“Ah. Then, if I may offer a suggestion?” Stormfang asked.

“Of course.”

“If you wish to go home and bond, you may.” Narcissa and Lucius exchanged glances.

“I would be happy to take everyone to Blackmoor Hall. This early on, I would not wish to separate the various pairs,” Arcturus offered.

“Very wise, Lord Black,” Grimjaw told the older wizard.

“Wait, lords?” Jean asked. “Just as there is nobility in the mundane world, there is nobility in the magical world as well,” Augusta told them.

“Ah. We were simply given the basics…” Jean murmured, exchanging a look with his wife.

Cassiopeia exchanged a look with her cousin, then said, “You are more than welcome to join us as well. There are many things that we can help you learn.”

The mundane parents smiled. “Thank you. I guess we will join you after Hermione does whatever she is needed for.”

“Thank you for taking care of Draco, Great Uncle.”

“Of course, Narcissa. Now, go and bond with your mate.”

“Thank you as well Lord Black,” Pandora added. Arcturus inclined his head, and Narcissa, Lucius, Xeno, and Pandora left fairly quickly after that.

“Next, would be the Line tests,” Ragnok informed everyone.

“Let’s get started,” Draco said, trying to hide his impatience. He was curious, just to see what would happen. A few more drops of blood in a different potion base, and everyone was awaiting their results.

“Hector Dagworth Granger?” Hermione asked, with her parents reading over her shoulder. Jean looked surprised.

“That’s your great-great grandfather’s name. I’m not sure when the Dagworth was dropped.”

“Ah, may I?” Steelshard asked, extending a hand. Hermione handed over her results.

“The Dagworth Grangers have a few vaults. A more minor noble title, but it still gives you the status of half blood, since you have magical ancestry, though we don’t particularly care about blood status. You also have a seat on the Wizengamot. We’ll have to get the lordship rings and have you tested.”

“Lordship?” Hermione asked.

“The head of a family when talking about seats or rings is colloquially known as heirship or lordship,” Draco explained.

“And since you are the first in many generations to have magic, you automatically qualify for the lordship, as opposed to the heir position,” Steelshard added. “Although…how old are you?”

“Nine, sir. My birthday is in a few weeks.”

“Then you do need the heir ring. You won’t be able to wear the lord ring until you are eleven.”

“Why is that?” Jean asked.

“It has to do with maturity. There’s multiple requirements to be able to serve on the Wizengamot, but in the case of lordship and heirship rings, the first time a lord would be accepted is at age eleven. That’s when one’s magical core is finally expanded and mature enough, not to mention powerful enough, to be able to channel magic properly, through instruments such as wands. Thus, they are capable of more responsibility, including being able to handle Family Magics,” Steelshard explained.

“Think of Family Magics kind of like a crest. It’s individual to each family, and holds a lot of information,” Draco explained quickly, anticipating the question forming on Helen’s lips. She laughed.

“Oh, thank you.”

“There’s more of course, but that was a very good way to summarize it,” Arcturus told his great-great nephew approvingly. Draco smiled.

“The heirship rings can be tried for the first time at age seven. That is the first growth spurt for a magical core, and when it is able to handle a bit more power and control. So, Ms. Granger will certainly be able to try for the lordship ring in a couple of years, but for now, she must try the heirship ring.” Steelshard finished.

Quickly enough, the ring was brought up, and Hermione was tested by the Family Magics. She was accepted, which didn’t really surprise anyone.

“There should be family heirlooms and gold in those vaults. I will look into if there are any account managers for those vaults, and if not, you will have to choose one. You will also have to ask for help with the Wizengamot, but I believe the Malfoys, Longbottoms, and Blacks will assist you,” Steelshard told her.

“Thank you, sir.” The various line tests for everyone else were actually nearly as interesting as Hermione’s. Draco certainly knew about his abilities, though it was interesting to see them fully laid out. He hadn’t realized that he had natural Occlumency and Legilimency abilities. That explained how he had taken to them so easily in the previous timeline. Ragnok received an urgent message shortly after, and excused himself, with a promise that he’d return.

Neville had made a small squeaking noise at one point, but then explained that it was nice to see just how much green magic he had, and how much magic he had in general. Draco knew the boy still struggled with self-doubt, but this had to go a long way in restoring his confidence. Soon after, Neville made another squeaking noise.

“Heir of Hufflepuff?” He gasped out. Augusta straightened.

“What?”

“It says…I’m the Longbottom heir, but also the Hufflepuff heir.” Longaxe held out a hand for Neville’s parchment, and the boy handed it over, still in shock. Longaxe looked it over, before making a pleased noise.

“Ah, yes. That line has been dormant for some time. It is a pleasure to welcome one of the Founders’ heirs back.”

“But then does that mean…does that mean that Mum and Dad…” Neville whispered, eyes wide.

“Yes. Your parents might be Lord and Lady Hufflepuff. Magic herself chooses the lords and heirs for the Founders, so we would have to perform lineage tests for both of them to make sure,” Longaxe informed the heir.

“Longaxe, do you know of any other places we could send Frank and Alice? It’s been ten years, and not a thing has changed,” Augusta asked, struggling to keep her composure. Neville squeezed his grandmother’s hand.

“I will look into it,” the goblin promised.

“Thank you.” Ginny and Luna knew their abilities as well, but Luna had yet another surprise in store for her.

“I’m the heir of Ravenclaw,” She stated happily, not phased in the slightest, before handing her parchment to Longaxe without prompting.

“It is a pleasure to welcome you as well. Once your parents are done bonding, then we shall perform the lineage test for them. I expect that they might be the Lord and Lady of Ravenclaw.”

Everyone cleaned up, with the goblins making copies of all of their results, and keeping the originals while giving the copies to the others.

Yet at this point, they were all starting to get twitchy. It was after five by now, and Ellie still hadn’t shown up.

“Chieftain Ragnok, I am sorry to disturb you sir, but weren’t we expecting Eleanor?” Draco asked, as politely as he could when the goblin chief came back into the room.

“It’s still summer. She shouldn’t have had to worry about school,” Hermione added worriedly, glancing at her father’s watch. Ragnok merely nodded.

“She is here. But Filius brought her in unconscious after several beatings at the hands of her cousin, his friends, and her uncle getting home early. She’s currently in the healer’s ward. She already went through her own cleansing ritual, but due to her injuries, and the ritual effects, it will be some time before she wakes up.” He was expecting the shock and fury of everyone, but was actually quite impressed by the snarls Eleanor’s pack mates let out. Those were nearly worthy of a snarl a goblin could make. It took a few minutes to calm the young Sentinels and Guides down.

“Should we go then?” Arcturus asked. Grimjaw had informed him that according to the Horde’s records, Sirius had blood adopted Eleanor, which made her his great-granddaughter. He knew full well that the goblin healers would take care of Eleanor, but he still wanted to meet his great-granddaughter.

“We can send for you when she wakes,” Ragnok promised.

“We still have work tomorrow, Lord Black. We typically bring Hermione with us to the office,” Jean said. Arcturus nodded.

“Very well. You can have dinner with us, and then we will get you back home. Though Hermione is welcome to stay, and you are certainly welcome to visit. We’ll be able to make arrangements during dinner.”

“Thank you.”

Dinner was actually a lot of fun. Draco got to know Lord Black a lot better, bond with his pack mates, and help teach the Grangers about the magical world. Hermione already knew a great deal of course, but there were many aspects that she had never learned properly about, or didn’t know at all. Finally, close to eight, the Grangers were escorted home, with a schedule figured out. During summers, and other breaks, Hermione would come over every other day, joined by her parents once they were done with work. The weekends, the entire family stayed at Blackmoor Hall. During the school year, the family would come over after school and work were finished, and would continue to stay at Blackmoor Hall during the weekends. Of course, if the Grangers had plans, then they wouldn’t come. The wixen wanted the Grangers to feel integrated, but still have their own lives.

“Draco. Gather your friends and come with me,” Arcturus ordered the boy, once the Grangers were gone and Bill, Arthur, Augusta, and Cassiopeia were talking with each other.

“Yes sir.” It didn’t take Draco too long to get Luna, Neville, and Ginny. They all nervously followed Arcturus to his study, and sat only when he indicated that they could. He fixed them all with a stern stare.

“You know more than you’ve let on. I was watching you all today, and you didn’t react how I expected.” A quick glance at his pack mates, and Draco came to a decision.

“We will explain, sir. But I ask that you raise the highest wards over the room that you can. I also promise we are telling the truth.” From there, Draco, Luna, Ginny, and Neville explained what had happened, and what they knew. By the end of their tale, Arcturus was pacing, and cursing in several languages.

“Eleanor will not live any longer with those sorry excuses for muggles. No, as the goddaughter of my heir, if she wishes, she will live here. Cassiopeia and I can take care of her until Sirius is free and healed. That poor child.”

“Ellie will most likely have a lot of trauma, sir. We all do, from our memories of the previous timeline,” Neville told him. Arcturus shot them a thoughtful look.

“Do you want to see mind healers?”

“We’re being very choosy about whom we trust right now, sir. We’re letting our instincts guide that more than anything. So no, a healer wouldn’t be the best right now,” Draco explained.

“Sentinels do process things differently, so that might help Ellie when she wakes up,” Ginny noted.

“Hm. Pack bonds as well, I suppose.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Very well. If there are any other treatments, let me know. It may be useful for Sirius as well.”

“He should be cleansed and tested when he’s free,” Luna mused. Arcturus waved a hand.

“Don’t worry about that too much. Several plans were made this afternoon. We have the Horde’s full support, and they have a lot of resources.”

“Neville? Where are you?” Augusta’s voice came floating through the air, not too far away. Arthur’s voice soon joined in.

“Ginny?” All four of the children looked a bit sheepish. They hadn’t actually told the adults where they were going, they had just left.

“Oops.”

“Go on. Remind your guardians that everyone may stay here for the night. We’ll make more plans later.” Arcturus promised, only chuckling at the various Slytherin aspects in each of them, yet the forgetfulness of children showing up, once they had all left his office. Oh yes, the next several years were going to be quite interesting.

Chapter Text

Ellie woke with a start, yet kept her eyes closed. Crap, she had overslept! Aunt Petunia was surely furious! Any minute now she’d hear an angry rapping at the door, and she’d be getting another beating. They had been getting so much worse lately….

“Eleanor.” A male voice called her name. Oh no. It was even worse! Uncle Vernon had come instead. She couldn’t stop the involuntary flinch and curled into herself, trying to protect herself as much as possible. She braced her body for the first blow, but…it didn’t come.

“Child, you are safe. If you are ready to be awake, the healers would like to see how you are.” Another male voice, this one a bit gravelly. Healers? And that voice…it wasn’t Uncle Vernon. Wasn’t Dudley’s either. Maybe….or maybe this was a nice dream. She’d like to be safe, and happy. She only was that way in her dreams. She’d like it to last longer if it was. Her dreams had been so strange lately.

“Lady Potter, if you would be so kind as to open your eyes, you will see the truth,” the second voice said, not unkindly.

“But then the dream will end,” she mumbled. And she was no lady. Just an orphan who was an absolute burden on her only relatives.

“It won’t, I assure you.” Ellie sighed. She was awake… and it probably was time to get up anyway. She still expected a rapping at the door and a beating. Cautiously, she opened her eyes a bit, before they flew wide open in shock. She was in an underground cavern, lit by glowing crystal formations and intricate lanterns. The air smelled…so nice. Rich, but not unpleasant. And the beings standing in front of her…memories came rushing back. She moaned at the sudden headache, and at her sheer exhaustion. She took only a few seconds to take a breath and gather her wits.

“Chieftain Ragnok. May your wealth overflow and your enemies tremble at your wrath,” she addressed the goblin chief at the foot of her bed, sitting up and bowing as properly as she could. Oh, that hurt a lot though. And tired her out more than she wanted to admit. Ragnok gave her a pleased smile.

“Ah, very good, Lady Potter. May you grow rich at your enemies’ expense. Your pack mates have already mostly explained things to myself, the trusted account managers of the Black, Malfoy, Longbottom, and Potter accounts, Lady Narcissa Malfoy, and Lord Arcturus Black, who is waiting for the healers to check you over. You were rescued from your aunt, uncle, and cousin over two weeks ago. You’ve been in a magically induced coma ever since. You needed to heal from your injuries, in addition to an extremely deep cleansing ritual to remove all the blocks on your system. It’s a miracle you haven’t died, with everything that was in your system. In fact, you would have, if you hadn’t been in the coma.”

“Thank you,” Ellie told him gratefully. It would be expensive to pay for that, but it was a price she would gladly pay.

“Of course. No youngling should be abused. What those…people were thinking…” Ragnok snarled.

“They hate magic,” Ellie supplied. Ragnok’s scowl deepened.

“Oh, we know. But I am even more furious with the ones who placed you in that despicable place.”

“Thank you, again. Whatever debt…”

“There is no debt, Lady Potter. Not with our personal beliefs, and not with pacts between the Sentinel and Guide Consortium and the Horde.”

“Oh.”

“Now again, the healers will check you, and we can discuss things further.”

The goblin healers were stern, but nice enough. Noting her small flinches when they first started to check her, they started to explain everything they were doing as they did it. They also told her what they had found. Malnutrition, broken bones, poor eyesight from her time at the Dursleys. Not to mention the mental scars. Magical wise… There had been compulsion and submission potions in her system for years. They were to make her obedient to the Dursleys. Loyalty potions to Gryffindor House and to Dumbledore. Hatred potions towards Slytherin House and dark magic. Glamours, to make her look exactly like her father, except with her mother's eyes. Blocks and leeches on her magic, memory, and intelligence. A potion blocking her Sentinel gifts. And to top it all off, the corrupting effects of the Horcrux on her as well. Ellie clenched her fists. So much had been taken from her!

“You are all cleansed now, so the effects of the potions and spells are gone, as is the Horcrux. Your eyesight and bones have also been healed. The malnutrition and mental scars will take longer to recover from, but in time they will be gone as well,” the lead healer told her.

“Thank you.” Ellie yawned. All of that listening and getting checked over…It had taken too much out of her. The instant her head hit the pillow, she was asleep. Strange dreams filled her slumber. She had her nightmares, the usual ones of her parents dying, of seeing so many dementors. Of her friends dying in the wars, the brutal fighting. This time, however, they soon shifted. She heard pleading, whispering, sensations of strange things reaching out to her. Things that she didn’t understand at all, and didn’t know if she liked. Whispering, moving, blackness, glimpses of a garden. So many sensations that she could hear, taste, smell, feel, all overwhelming. She whimpered. She didn’t like this. Too much, too much! Closing all around her, in this blackness! No! Leave her alone!

“A ward, immediately. Heir Black?”

“Ellie. I’m here.” A feeling of belonging. Of familiarity. She sighed, turned into that feeling, and fell into a restful sleep, at last.

Ellie woke again, feeling exhausted, but not as fearful. She remembered talking briefly with Ragnok. That feeling of familiarity was still there. She stretched, then moaned as the pain hit her. All of her muscles ached terribly, and felt so heavy.

“She’s awake,” someone murmured, close by.

“Ah, good.” Ellie slowly opened her eyes, blinking sleepily to see the lead goblin healer come around the partition.

“Lady Potter, we are glad you are awake again. I will check how you are doing once more.”

“Can you tell me what you’re doing again? That helped,” Ellie asked shyly. The healer gave a brisk nod. “I will.” The goblin healer led her through the examination, step by step, until it was finally finished, clearing her for only a little movement. She was officially on bedrest for the next few days at least. At her sigh, the goblin healer looked at her sternly.

“You are still recovering from the various rituals we had to perform to save you. It will be some time before you are fully recovered.”

“I understand.”

“Have hope, child. You will heal fully. You have the word of the Horde.”

“Thank you.” The healer left, and just moments later a man came around the partition, and Ellie blinked. He had gray hair turning silver, a regal looking face, and gray eyes. He almost looked like an older version of Sirius, if her godfather had gotten the chance to get old.

“Eleanor. It is a pleasure to meet you.” Ellie blinked again.

“You were here when I first woke up.”

“Yes child, I was. I am Arcturus Black, Sirius’ grandfather. That makes you my great granddaughter.”

“Really?”

“Sirius blood adopted you during his godfather ritual. You are his magic and blood sworn goddaughter, so you are a Black, as much as a Potter. I will, of course, be encouraging him to fully adopt you as his daughter and heir by blood and magic.”

“Ragnok said you had been fully filled in. Is Sirius…” Ellie asked hesitantly.

“Right here sweetheart.” Sirius’ baritone voice, well remembered from the previous timeline, came from right next to her. Her head whipped around, to see her godfather sitting up in his own bed, looking exhausted, pale, underweight and a bit messy overall, but still very, very happy.

“Sirius!” Ellie crawled out of her bed straight onto Sirius’ bed, grateful the two had been pushed together. Sirius engulfed her in a hug, and she breathed in his scent. Mostly just the underground cavern and potions, but a hint of dog, and spices. And familiarity. So he had been the one who had helped her sleep!

“Hello. It’s so good to see you again. I thought...well. You’ve grown so much!” Sirius whispered into her thick hair.

“You look…exhausted.” Ellie told him. He chuckled.

“I’m not surprised. The goblin healers have been seeing to me, but I’ve only been out for… I think shortly after you were brought here.”

“You’ve been in a coma too?” Ellie asked curiously.

“For a few days. Between Azkaban and all the potions, spells, and such I was under, I needed that time to heal. But you’ve been in one since you got here. Now, what did you mean by the fact Grandfather was filled in? How do you know Ragnok?”

“I will be happy to answer those questions, in a short time.” Ragnok’s wry voice came from Ellie’s other side, and she twisted, before hissing in pain. “Lady Potter, if you would carefully make yourself comfortable, I would appreciate it. I have no wish to risk the healer’s wrath, nor should you.” Ellie grimaced, then settled herself more carefully in Sirius’ lap. He didn’t mind one bit, gently stroking her hair. It felt amazing, and Ellie couldn't help but nuzzle into it. The men in the room all carefully hid their smiles at the adorable sight. Arcturus settled himself in a chair at the foot of the bed so that both of them could see him clearly, while Ragnok did the same.

“Heir Black, as you’re currently incapable of caring for Lady Potter, Lord Black has offered to take care of her. In no way will she ever be sent to live with those people again.”

“I have no problem with that. I know a lot has... negatively affected me and Ellie, and a stable influence will do a lot of good for both of us,” Sirius admitted.

“Excellent. Now then, I believe that both of you need to hear the full story of what has happened in the past few weeks. Lady Potter, if there is something I have not been told, I request that you fill us in. I promise to erect privacy wards.”

“Okay.” Ellie shivered as she felt the wards go up. That was…something. Ragnok quickly explained the events of the past timeline to Sirius, which made the younger Black furious, sorrowful, and proud. He hugged her closer. Arcturus, who had actually only been given the basics by her pack mates, gave her a proud look.

“You are a true Black, Eleanor. Despite your suffering, you held your head up high and did what needed to be done.” Ellie ducked her head. “Don’t be bashful, child. I give praise when it is earned, and you have certainly earned it.” Ellie gave her great grandfather a shy smile.

“Now, Lady Potter, your pack mates have been very busy in their short time back.” Ellie laughed.

“I’m not surprised. What’s all happened?”

“Your pack was very swift in coming to the bank, explaining their full story to key people, and making us aware that Dumbledore is certainly not to be trusted, that the one known as Voldemort is not dead yet, and that you were in considerable danger from your relatives and needed to be removed. We tested and cleansed anyone who needed it, before performing line tests. Any potions, blocks, compulsions, spells, and such were removed. You might be interested to note that during this process, we discovered that Mr. William Weasley was a Guide, Lord Malfoy was a Guide, Lady Malfoy was a Sentinel, Mrs. Lovegood was a Sentinel, and Mr. Lovegood was a Guide.”

“Really?” Ellie’s mind raced. She hadn’t been expecting that at all. She had only expected her pack mates…now the question was, did they include the adults in their pack, or would the adults form their own pack and maybe act in an advisory capacity?

“Yes. I have a feeling that all of you will work out pack relations later, but now you are aware. In Heir Black’s cleansing and tests, it was discovered that he is a Sentinel.”

“I would guess that the potion known as Mordred’s Bane was administered to all of them,” Ellie growled.

“Yes. Mr. Weasley was tested as well, and he has promised that the rest of the family will be tested by the end of the summer holidays.”

“Alright. But the younger kids… what year is it?”

“August 17, 1989,” Arcturus informed her.

“Thank you. But Fred, George, and Ron shouldn’t have had the potion yet.”

“No, they have not. But it was a precaution. Among your pack mates, Ginevra Weasley and Heir Longbottom were found to have various potions, compulsions, and blocks between the two of them. That is why we are double checking the rest of the Weasley family. And we have taken action to ensure that Lord Frank Longbottom and Lady Alice Longbottom receive proper care.”

“Oh, good.”

“Indeed. In addition to these things, we will have Pettigrew in custody by Yule, or sooner. We also already have four Horcruxes in our possession, contained safely.” Ellie blew out a sigh of relief, echoed by Sirius.

“Which ones are they?”

“A diary that was given to Lord Malfoy by Voldemort. A cup that was found in the Lestrange vault, when Lord Black gave us permission to audit the various Black vaults. A locket, found in a Black family home. The one, removed from you.”

“I’ll be calling a family meeting soon,” Arcturus promised, looking at the two family members in front of him. He’d have to make sure that Eleanor was accepted into the Black Family magics, as well as correct some mistakes that had escaped his notice until recently.

“Good idea.”

“Do you know where the others are?” Ragnok asked. Ellie nodded. “You already took care of the one inside of me. Thank you for that.”

“Of course.”

“There should be a ring hidden in the Gaunt shack. It’s a small shack on the outskirts of Little Hangleton. I know there’s powerful curses tied to both the shack and the ring itself. In the other timeline, Dumbledore lost the use of his arm, and the curse was slowly killing him.”

“We will retrieve it, and take all proper precautions.”

“And…there’s one in Hogwarts, contained in the Diadem of Ravenclaw. It’s hidden in the Room of Requirement, up on the seventh floor by the tapestry of trolls learning ballet. I bet the house elves might be able to help with that. I don’t know if there’s any curses on that one. When Voldemort returned, he made his snake, Nagini, into a Horcrux. I don’t know where that snake is now. But that’s all the ones I know about.”

“We can make plans to retrieve that as well. The wards on Hogwarts haven’t been updated for centuries, and are no doubt incredibly weak. Lord Black, we will need the support of the Wizengamot to push that through.”

“It shouldn’t be a problem,” Arcturus promised. “We need to get that pushed through within the next year and a half. I have no intention of letting my granddaughter and her pack go to school that is not protected adequately.” Ragnok gave the Black lord a fierce grin.

“Good. Now, Lady Granger got introduced to the magical world ‘early’, and has been visiting Lord Black every other day along with her parents for more in depth lessons on the magical world.”

“They stay over for weekends. The others have been attending those lessons as well. I expect you’ll enjoy them quite a bit,” Arcturus added. Ellie perked up. That meant she’d be able to see her pack and Guide more easily.

“Great!”

“Another thing that we’ll need the Wizengamot for is unsealing the Potter will. Perhaps Amelia can maneuver to do so?” Sirius mused.

“Perhaps. We’ll have to play that carefully,” Arcturus agreed.

“During their line tests, Heir Longbottom discovered that he was the Heir of Hufflepuff, and Ms. Lovegood discovered that she was the Heir of Ravenclaw. Her mother is Lady Ravenclaw. Lady Granger discovered that the Dagworth Grangers are her relatives, and that she is now the Lady of that family.”

“I’m guessing I haven’t had mine yet.”

“No. But we can do that now.”

Quickly enough, Ellie had her parchment in front of her. It had flashed gold initially, which had caught Ragnok’s attention. But he merely told her to read the results. Her eyes widened as she went down the list.

“This…this can’t be right.”

“I assure you it is. Blood never lies,” Ragnok told her.

“But…”

“It’s different from what you experienced previously?” Sirius guessed, looking at the list over her shoulder. Arcturus had come around to look too.

“Very.”

“You did have an insane amount of blocks on you,” Arcturus grumbled. “I have a copy of those results.” Ellie nodded absently.

“The lead healer told me what was done to me. But…there might have been things he didn’t go into.” Ragnok held out a hand for the parchment and she handed it to him. His eyebrows raised.

“I admit, I was not expecting this. Lady Potter, secondary heir to the house of Black, that would be through your blood and magic adoption by Heir Black in his godfather ritual. Lady Slytherin, by right of conquest, Lady Gryffindor, by blood, your mother’s side specifically. Lady Le Fay. Again, your mother’s side. Mistress of Death. Parselmage and Parselmouth.”

“But I thought that was due to the Horcrux,” Ellie protested. Sirius stroked her hair.

“No, sweetheart. It’s an ability that’s passed down through the generations on James’ side of the family. The Potter family immigrated from India, and there’s a lot of wild magic there.”

“Oh.”

Ragnok continued through the list. “Lady Peverell, through your father. You also have Mage Sight, and are a Metamorphmagus.”

“But…”

“I blood adopted you, Ellie. Even if you’re just my goddaughter right now, you still have blood ties to the Black family. I think you may have gotten that gift from my family.”

“He’s right. That particular gift had been lost, until Nymphadora gained the abilities, and now, you,” Arcturus added.

“You might be interested to know that some of the blocks placed on you interfered with your photographic memory and intelligence. Here’s the full list of what we found on you. It is truly a miracle that you are alive,” Ragnok added, snapping his fingers and giving her another parchment. It listed the various potions, blocks, spells, compulsions, and any other effects she had been under. Also included were the results of her physical, with injuries and malnutrition and affected eyesight added. Ellie snarled. It was one thing to have experienced it and been told what had been done to her, but somehow, seeing this list laid out so clearly, and with the hindsight of an adult, was almost worse.

“Just who the hell does shit like that? I’m a kid right now, and I’ve been treated like nothing more than a slave and a tool! Why is shit like this allowed to exist at all?” Sirius coughed, surprised to hear language like that coming from a nine year old’s mouth. Arcturus raised an eyebrow, then started chuckling.

“Normally granddaughter, I’d scold you for language like that, since it is hardly proper for a young lady of your station to be speaking that way.” Ellie turned her glare on him, and he smiled. “However, given the circumstances, I will not. Your emotions are certainly understandable, and I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but the temperature has dropped. It seems you inherited more than some looks and your Metamorphmagus abilities from Sirius. You’ve also inherited the famous Black temper.”

“With a bit of Potter flair,” Sirius added.

“We are already building quite a case against Dumbledore,” Ragnok reassured her.

“I won’t say don’t worry about it, but we do have things under control for the time being. When you arrive at Hogwarts, being Lords and heirs of the Founders will give you considerable sway with the house elves. You should be able to persuade them to not put anything extra into students’ food or drink, unless they’ve already been approved by a medical person.”

Ellie huffed and settled back against Sirius. “Fine.”

“Now, I think that is all for now. Rest. We’ll clear you to go home soon.”

“I can still visit Sirius, right?” Ellie said hopefully. Sirius chuckled.

“Sweetheart, I’ll be coming home with you. Grandfather has already made arrangements with the Horde so that we have proper medical care, and Andromeda has also agreed to help out.”

“Okay.”

“Now, sleep.” Ellie snuggled in closer to Sirius, and it didn’t take too long, despite her racing brain, to fall back into a restful, healing sleep.

A week or so later, Ellie stood next to Sirius and Arcturus in the entry of Blackmoor Hall. It almost looked more like a castle with thick stonework and walls, but Arcturus had informed her that that was not the case. Apparently, Blackmoor had started out as literally just a hall; a shelter and temporary place of residence for the Black family. But then one of their ancestors had really taken a liking to it, and started fixing it up and adding more to it. Eventually, it had become bigger and more protected than just a manor house, and had eventually become the main residence for the head of the family. The name ‘hall’ had just stuck throughout the centuries.

“Ah, there you are.” Ellie saw an older, elegant woman sweeping towards them.

“Eleanor, this is Cassiopeia Black, a cousin. Her sister was Dorea, your grandmother. She’s helping me get through the mess that our house has become.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Eleanor. I also thought you might become a bit overwhelmed by all the males in the Hall, so I’m here for that too.” Cassiopeia told Ellie.

“Oi!” Sirius said, affronted. Ellie started giggling. Cassiopeia only gave Sirius a measuring look.

“Ready to see your room?” Arcturus asked. Ellie glanced up at him shyly.

“You picked one out for me?”

“I did, although Cassiopeia had quite an influence. Though if you wish to change rooms or redecorate, I won’t mind too much.” Ellie, now thoroughly curious, followed her grandfather and aunt up the stairs. They moved slowly, since she and Sirius still got tired easily. She shivered as they came to a landing. Arcturus, noticing her reaction, let slip a small, proud smile.

“Ah, I see that you have noticed the ward lines. Good. Being magically sensitive will serve you well, although we will need to work on controlling your sensitivity at will. Otherwise, heavily warded places such as the Ministry and even Hogwarts, outdated as it may be, will stun if not blind you.”

“What sort of wards were those?” Ellie asked.

“We’ve passed into the Family's Wing. Only family may access the rooms up here. There’s bedrooms, offices, a library, sitting rooms, and a small dining room,” Cassiopeia explained.

“I think you’ll like exploring, Ellie. I haven’t been here since I was about your age,” Sirius added, looking around curiously.

“Sirius, the same conditions apply for your room as they do Eleanor’s,” Arcturus told him. The group stopped at a doorway, and Arcturus opened the door. Sirius gasped, and Ellie’s eyes widened. The room was beautiful. Walls done in a cool, yet darker blue. Ceiling a pale silvery gray, with a pale wood for flooring. The bed frame was wrought iron, with silver touches. The bed itself was made up with lighter blues, still in the cooler spectrum. A soft looking matching rug rested on the floor. Pale gray chairs sat near a set of French doors that opened onto a balcony, and all other wood was darker than the floor, yet still light overall.

“I originally picked this suite for you, Sirius. Though seeing your reactions, there might be a fight,” Arcturus mused.

“We would hardly be able to pick, when we have yet to see the other room,” Ellie protested. Arcturus gave her a brief smile.

“Very true granddaughter, and quite intelligent of you. This way.”

“This suite is mine,” Cassiopeia said, gesturing to the door further down the hallway, on the opposite side. It was set in between the first suite, and another door on the same side as the first suite, which Arcturus opened. Once again, Sirius gasped, and Ellie’s eyes widened. This room was also beautiful. The walls were a pale turquoise, with a cream ceiling, and with medium brown, leaning towards darker brown floors. The wrought iron bed frame was actually all silver, as were any other iron accents or items in the room. The bedspread was pale gray, and so was the rug. The other furniture was lighter than the floors, but still complimented it. The sitting area was pale blue. And there was another set of French doors leading out onto a balcony, but also other windows, giving the entire room a light and airy feel.

“I thought you might enjoy this room, Eleanor. Whichever room you two choose, it will be specially warded for your Sentinel senses so that you can always have a safe spot in the house. I’ve already requested that the Horde check the wards and upgrade them, in addition to adding new ones so that any Sentinels and Guides might feel comfortable here.” Ellie thought for a moment. She had a deep fear of dark, enclosed spaces that had only increased upon finding herself in her cupboard when she had first arrived back. She had never spoken about it to others in her previous life, and had so many compulsions on her that she had been forced to go where she rather would have avoided. Hesitating, the girl glanced at her family members in front of her. And what a concept, family. Something she had only ever dreamt about, as a child in her past life. She had had to fight to build a family when she arrived at Hogwarts, shedding blood, sweat, and tears (although, mostly blood, to be honest. She's pretty sure she visited the infirmary more times than all of her graduating class combined) to bond with and protect the friends that she now called family. And now, there she was, beginning a new life, in a (new? old?) past time, and already she had a family with her. Not only that, but they cared about her, wanted to protect and provide for her! Sure, she had Sirius in her past life stand up for her at times, and protect her when it mattered most (at the Ministry, after which he had to go die like an idiot, stupid Padfoot) but this time she was getting him right away, and he was safe, and looking healthier every day. Arcturus seemed to feel responsible over her, wanted to welcome her into his House and protect her from the scheming masses wishing to use her as they had in her past life. She may have only just met Cassiopeia, but the woman clearly had a core of steel to put up with the male Blacks and still come out on top. Ellie had a feeling that the woman could be as vicious as Bellatrix to her enemies but as gentle as Luna to her loved ones. Maybe... maybe she could trust them with this? Let go of some of the darkness pent up inside of her, that she had suffered alone with for all her life, except for the rare moment with Hermione, huddled terrified and alone in a tent, whispering dark truths and old secrets to each other. Maybe this time, she could unload some of her fears so she wouldn't feel quite so alone. After all, as that mundane saying went, 'A burden shared is a burden halved'.

“I like both rooms, Grandfather, but I think this would suit me better,” Ellie said softly. She could see the curiosity in their eyes and decided to take the plunge. “I’m….I really don’t like dark enclosed spaces,” she whispered, not meeting their eyes. “I get all shaky, and sometimes I even forget I have magic and can just create a light, and I stop breathing, and-”

“Oh, pup,” Sirius went to embrace her, but she flinched. She couldn’t stand being touched at the moment, and to her relief, the man backed off.

“Hmm. Your pack mates mentioned that you’d all need help. But they also warned me that mind healers would be tricky, considering your past. What can we do to help?” Arcturus asked, softly.

“I…I don’t know. I don’t know who or what might cause me to…to have flashbacks, or feel unsafe. I don’t know…how being a Sentinel now might… if the potions and stuff aren’t affecting me anymore…” Ellie started crying. There was just so much! And it was true that she had no idea how being a Sentinel might impact her triggers, and all of a sudden everything seemed so overwhelming and even though she knew she was safe she felt like she was crawling out of her skin-

“Shhh.” Sirius soothed, petting her hair. She didn’t back away this time, or flinch. He’d keep doing that then. Over Ellie’s head, Sirius glanced at his grandfather. Arcturus meanwhile, was equal parts concerned, and furious. He had seen the medical reports of course, but to have such deep mental scars… regardless, he’d discuss options with the Horde and Eleanor later. Right now, with her emotions so out of control…the Grangers were set to arrive soon. He quietly called for a house elf, and requested that the Grangers come as soon as possible. Cassiopeia went to meet them. Five minutes later, they arrived. Hermione, being bonded to Ellie, could get past the wards, and hurried into Ellie’s room, where the girl was curled up with Sirius on the bed, face buried in his side. Once inside, she immediately took her place on the other side of her mate, and silently started rubbing soothing circles on Ellie’s back. Ellie relaxed, and then blinked.

“Mione?”

“I’m here, El.” Ellie turned to her Guide and the two girls embraced tightly. Arcturus nodded in satisfaction. He had done quite a bit of reading lately, and he had suspected that Eleanor having her Guide nearby would help. Now, for helping with other problems….

“Eleanor.” Arcturus greeted his granddaughter gently, having received an alert from an elf that she was awake. She had fallen asleep as soon as Hermione had helped her Sentinel’s emotions and senses calm down. Hermione was curled up next to her mate, still sleeping.

“Grandfather,” Eleanor whispered, looking a bit ashamed.

“How do you feel?”

“Exhausted. But Mione’s helped a lot.” Eleanor squeezed her mate a bit closer and Hermione let out a contented sigh.

“Mm. I thought she might. I’ve been thinking, and talking to Jean and Helen. They don’t know about your time travel, but they have been informed of the basics of your time at the Dursley’s. They suggested mind healers.”

“But…”

“I haven’t finished child.” Arcturus told her, raising an admonishing hand. Eleanor closed her mouth at the gentle rebuke, eyes wide, and flinching away at the raised hand. Arcturus carefully lowered his hand, and Eleanor didn’t relax until it was in his lap. But it confirmed his suspicions.

“A mind healer could be told say…about your abuse at the Dursley’s, but not about your time travel. Then, I suggest you start practicing the Olde Ways. There’s rituals that I believe would help settle your magic and focus more. Cassiopeia knows more about some of those than I do.”

“Oh.” Eleanor thought for a while. “Will it make it all go away?” Arcturus sighed heavily.

“I doubt it. I am no expert, but I know experiences such as yours will stay with you forever. Yet their impact can decrease with time.”

“I don’t want to be scared all the time,” Eleanor whispered, drawing her knees up to her chest. “Maybe... I could talk a bit to someone? I- I know I'm not alone anymore, and I can rely on all of you, but there's some things that... that I just can't talk to any of you about.”

“That is okay, Eleanor. Just try, for a bit, and see if it helps.”

“You should, Ellie.” Hermione muttered sleepily. “Maybe an international Guide or Sentinel healer.”

“Good idea.”

“Okay,” Eleanor agreed, her mate's support having sealed her decision. Arcturus smiled, and left to make plans.

Over the next couple of weeks, Arcturus quietly arranged for a Guide and Sentinel set of healers to come to Blackmoor, to start seeing his family. Andromeda and the Horde had the more physical side of things covered for everyone, and had no problem sharing duties with more healers that would be able to help even more than they could. Arcturus quietly explained to the pair what had happened to Eleanor and Sirius, and that his granddaughter was also part of a pack that had all just discovered their gifts, so everyone was getting used to things. The healers, Cora and Liam, were horrified.

“Azkaban is even worse for Sentinels and Guides! How could they dare send him there? That’s not even counting the politics and family situations involved!” Cora hissed, outraged. Arcturus briefly felt the Guide’s emotions before she got them under control. He scowled.

“I didn’t know it was worse for Sentinels and Guides, but it makes sense. However, Sirius was not awakened to his gifts until after he had gotten out.”

“Yes, and that is strange. Azkaban is notorious for making our people go dormant,” Cora mentioned.

“Then, there is the situation with Eleanor. I am shocked that she didn’t awaken her gifts earlier considering the torment she went through. Abuse is one of the primary things that will awaken a younger Sentinel or Guide,” Liam added.

“Everyone got cleansing rituals and tests through the Horde. I will not discuss everything here, but be aware that most of them were blocked from their gifts until very recently.” The pair’s eyes narrowed, then Liam gave a short nod.

“We should bring this to the attention of the Sentinel and Guide Consortium representatives on the ICW, but…we shall wait. Given your tone, we can tell there’s a lot more to this matter.”

“Get me in touch with those representatives, and with a member of the Horde present, I think we can negotiate a deal to keep them updated on things,” Arcturus promised. The Sentinel-Guide pair exchanged a look, then nodded.

“We can do that. And we can also make them aware that the new pack, or possibly packs, given the ages of those involved, will all need training.”

“Perfect, and thank you. Now, if you would like to meet my great-granddaughter?”

“Of course.”

Eleanor liked the Sentinel-Guide pair, especially after Liam offered her a small stuffed horse.

“Having something soft to hold onto with this can help a lot,” The older Sentinel told her.

“And chocolate is also wonderful.” Eleanor giggled when Cora mentioned that, and nodded her agreement.

“Call an elf if you have need, Eleanor,” Arcturus told her. Eleanor nodded, and Arcturus left her to her session.

A month into her sessions, and Arcturus was amazed. While still shy, and with the occasional emotional and accompanying magical outburst, and while she still had that fear of dark enclosed spaces, she was slowly gaining confidence, her emotions slowly evening out as she came to terms with her abuse at the Dursley’s. The healers had noticed blocked off portions in her mind, and asked him about it, but he had shook his head and told them not yet. If Eleanor came to trust them fully, then they could help with that. He also had to reassure them that those memories weren’t anything that would immediately hurt her.

Sirius, meanwhile, was showing just as much improvement, his emotions stabilizing quickly. Liam was happy to explain when Arcturus had asked

“Being Sentinels does help them in many ways. They still process emotions, of course, but it’s different. It’s…sort of like an old emotion. For example, Sirius’ anger at being thrown into prison unlawfully, is certainly still there. And there will be days that it shows more than others. Yet his Sentinel side sees that people are working to rectify matters, and it makes it easier to accept what happened in the past. So it is an old anger, smoothed away with time and acceptance.”

“So the emotions aren’t dulled?”

“No. Just processed differently, perhaps a bit faster. Sentinels can’t necessarily dwell on the past in a situation, or consider the 'what ifs’ of the future. They need to be focused on what is happening around them, when there is need to. So emotions are processed a bit faster. It’s even easier in Ellie’s case, since she’s bonded to a Guide. Her Guide helps her through those emotions even faster, dulls them down if need be, and then there’s the stability that comes from being bonded.”

“I see.”

“It’s a complex field to be honest, Lord Black, just like any medicinal field.” The Sentinel told him wryly. “And the mind in particular is complicated. And as individuals, Ellie and Sirius have different ways of processing things, just like everyone else. But as long as they are not suppressing their emotions, then they will be fine.”

Chapter Text

“Very good, Eleanor.” Ellie turned at the sound of Aunt Cassie’s voice, smiling at the elegant women. Her piano lessons, along with other instruments and voice lessons, were a lot of fun, and soothing for her.

“I like the music lessons. The etiquette lessons are interesting, if occasionally tedious.” Cassiopeia smiled, and gestured for her to follow. Ellie did so. They headed out to a balcony, enjoying the beautiful, slightly crisp autumn air.

“Etiquette is necessary for a lady of your station.”

“I know. And it’s interesting just how in-depth things can get.”

“Well, I for one, am grateful that you don’t complain. It’s quite refreshing.”

“Who else have you taught?” Ellie asked curiously. Cassiopeia smiled.

“I assisted with Walburga’s lessons, along with Lucretia, since both of their mothers married in.The girls needed to be taught proper Black family behavior by another Black, preferably female. Dorea helped out some with Lucretia, who’s a wonderful girl. Arcturus always knew how to raise his children properly. Never favored Lucretia or Orion over one another, and both of them were close. Walburga on the other hand was an absolute beast, even back then. I also helped teach Bellatrix, Andromeda, and Narcissa. Those girls were so close when they were younger, and what happened to all of them was a tragedy.”

“Why is it that family history is also family gossip?” Ellie wondered. Cassiopeia laughed.

“That’s because it is. Family gossip is key to keeping up with the various branches of the family, and as the marriages lately have had such an impact on politics, it really does blend.”

“You said what happened to Bellatrix, Aunt Andy, and Aunt Cissa was a tragedy. Can you tell me more about that?”

“I won’t get into all the sordid details, since some things are very private for Andromeda and Narcissa, but certainly!” She was interrupted before she could launch into the tale, however.

“It will have to wait,” Arcturus’ amused tone came from the doorway. “I’ve called a Black family meeting, so we can make things completely official about you being a Black, and so I can rectify several mistakes.” Arcturus’ amused tone came from the doorway. Both of them turned to see Arcturus and Sirius standing just inside, not actually crossing the threshold.

“When is it?” Cassiopeia asked, her eyes slightly narrowed.

“This evening. Those who thought they were disowned are going to start arriving in an hour or so.” Arcturus replied evenly, only the slight tensing of his body showing his wariness. Ellie watched wide-eyed.

“Arcturus! That’s hardly enough time to get ready! When are the others arriving?” Cassiopeia snapped.

“By five.”

“Come with me, Eleanor. We need to get you ready.” Ellie hurried quickly after her aunt, far more willing to obey the woman than risk her wrath. As it was, both males were subject to wandless stinging hexes as the females passed. Sirius wisely said nothing, but disappeared to his own suite to likewise prepare. Arcturus sighed. Lady save him from vindictive women. Then again, he had deserved that, and his late wife would have agreed. No one, except at their own peril, gave late warning to a major meeting to women.

An hour and a half later, Ellie sat patiently as one of the house elves finished with her hair, listening to Cassiopeia as she listed all of the Black family members who would be attending.

“All those who are still living, including those who married into, or out of the family, their spouses, and children will be coming. It will amount to quite a few people, despite the amount of deaths and imprisonments there’s been.

“So, starting with Arcturus’ branch of the family; his daughter, Lucretia Prewett, will be coming. Unfortunately, her husband Ignatius died a couple years ago, and they didn’t have children, so it’ll just be her. Orion died over a decade ago, as did Regulus, Sirius’ younger brother. So then it’s just Sirius. You, of course, as his blood- and magic-sworn goddaughter, and soon to be magic- and blood-sworn daughter.

“Now, for my branch of the family, my older brother Pollux will be coming, as will Walburga, who’s his daughter. Pollux and I are at least on civil terms, but I highly disapprove of how Walburga and Cygnus turned out. Cygnus and his wife Druella will also be here. Their children, of course, are Bellatrix, Andromeda, and Narcissa.”

“Bellatrix won’t be here.” Ellie pointed out. Cassiopeia gave a most unladylike snort.

“No, she won’t! But Andromeda, Edward, and Nymphadora will all be here, if they aren’t already. Andromeda was cast out by Cygnus, but Arcturus wants to welcome her back.”

“Good! I like Aunt Andy, Uncle Ted, and Dora.”

“Andromeda is a formidable woman, and a good role model. If you ever want to get into healing, talk to her, as she is an amazing healer. Narcissa, Lucius, and Draco you already know of course. I daresay it will be good to have at least one member of your pack present.” “It will. I know I see Draco fairly often, but still.”

“Now, moving on. My younger brother Marius…I don’t know if he’ll come, despite the summons.”

“Why not?”

“He was born a Squib, and despite having…subtle passive magic, he always was very good at cooking, he was cast out by our parents. Even Arcturus isn’t sure about Squibs.”

“But they still have magic, and they’re still people. It’s not fair to be treated like that!” Ellie protested.

“I know. We always got on well enough as children, so when he was forced out…we were in secret contact for years. I haven’t heard from him recently, so I honestly don’t know what’s happened to him.”

“It’s not right.”

“Well then, perhaps you should take up the matter with Arcturus,” Cassiopeia told her, twitching a fold of the semi-formal robes Ellie wore so that it lay properly.

“I might.”

“Good for you. We Blacks are rather proud of being trendsetters.”

“Is there anyone else?”

“Yes. Cedrella Weasley, mother of Arthur Weasley will be here, as will Arthur. Septimus Weasley passed away, and Arthur’s brothers were killed during the previous war.”

“What about the Longbottom branch?” Ellie wondered, since she knew she was distantly related to Neville.

“The ones who would have been invited are all dead,” Sirius explained from the open doorway. He waited for Cassiopeia’s permission to come in, and the house elf, whom Ellie thanked, popped away, done with her hair.

“Oh.”

“The wars took quite a toll on the family, Ellie. From multiple sides.” Her godfather told her, carefully embracing her so as not to muss her hair or robes. Cassiopeia would have his head if he did.

“I know. It’s just so sad.”

“It is. But that is why we must keep our heads up, and our hearts true. We are of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Black, and as such, we are strong.” Cassiopeia stated proudly before leaving, knowing that guests were starting to arrive. Ellie and Sirius stayed put. They didn’t need to meet the others until later that evening, when they would do the ritual to fully adopt her into the Black family. Ellie was relieved, despite knowing that she’d still have to mingle a bit later. The longer she could avoid the others, the better in her opinion.

“I’m nervous,” She admitted in a whisper. Sirius squeezed her hand.

“I’ll be with you, sweetheart. Let’s go to the gardens near the standing stones to wait.”

“Lord Black. Are Sirius and Ellie okay?” Andromeda asked while she, Ted, and Nymphadora sat in a sitting room. Arcturus raised a hand.

“They’re fine. I asked you here before the Family Meeting to formally ask you to rejoin the Black family. You were never truly disowned, as that is a command that can only come from me. Andromeda, yourself, your daughter, and your husband are all invited.”

“I…we accept. Thank you.” Andromeda agreed, after a quick look with her husband and daughter. Nymphadora looked like she didn’t quite get fully what was going on. Then again, Arcturus was sure that because Andromeda thought she had been disowned, she hadn’t taught her daughter about the full Black traditions. He’d have to get Cassiopeia on that to help.

“So may it be that you are all recognized as full Black family members again.” He swore, and the Black Family Magics washed over the three in front of him.

“You’ve already done this with Sirius?” Andromeda asked, still looking slightly shocked.

“I have. And he was fully accepted by the heir rings. Also, I have done this with any other family members who were supposedly disowned. You were the last ones.”

“Thank you, again.”

“Of course. Follow me.” Arcturus led the way to a small ballroom in the Hall, where there was plenty of room for everyone. They sat arranged by their seniority in the family. Andromeda, Ted, and Nymphadora took their seats, and Arcturus waited for silence. He got it without much trouble. Still, he gave it another few seconds, doing a headcount. Everyone was there, including Marius. Good. He and Cassiopeia had had several conversations about that matter, and Cassiopeia had informed him of her and Eleanor’s conversation on squibs. He admitted he still wasn’t sure, but they both made compelling arguments. He’d have to talk to them more, and Marius himself, later. And…ah, good. He was here too. But per the agreement, Arcturus would not draw attention to him. He was in the corner there, in the shadows. Still present to listen. Very good.

“You are here tonight, to take care of matters of important business. Everything that happens tonight is under a Family Secret.” The waves of magic washed out, sealing everyone’s mind, even the younger minds, from revealing anything that was spoken of that night.

“What sort of important business?” Lucretia asked.

“For one, to address the truly horrible state this family has fallen into. There are only two direct male heirs to the family after several wars in the past century. Not to mention, that so many members are in prison, or supported the Infernal. It’s disgraceful.”

“But the family motto!” Pollux protested.

“'Toujours pur'. Yes, I know. It doesn’t mean that purebloods should be superior. It means that we should always be true to magic, to Avalon, and to the House of Black. Very few have done this.”

“This is outrageous. We’ve always—” Cygnus started snobbishly. Arcturus cut him off with a sharp look.

“No. I have stepped back for too long, let this family degrade far too long. I am fully stepping back into my rightful place as Lord of this family. As such this family will no longer walk the path of the Infernal. My heir will ensure this.”

“Who’s your heir?” Lucretia asked curiously. She had declined when her father had offered the position to her years ago, even if she had been qualified. She simply hadn’t wanted to, preferring a life away from politics.

“I have named Sirius as my heir, and the heirship rings easily accepted him.”

“My worthless spawn of a son would hardly make a worthy heir,” Walburga scoffed.

“Walburga, that is enough. You had no right or power to disown Sirius. I have rectified that, along with any others who believed they were disowned. Now it is my turn to disown some members of the family.

“I, Lord Arcturus of the Black family, officially disown Bellatrix Lestrange, nee Black. She is no longer part of this family, so may it be!” Far, far away, Bellatrix, and Rodolphus let out a low keening moan. They raged against the loss of the family magics. With such a loss, they would be dead within a few months. Arcturus would receive a notice a few weeks after the fact, and note their passing with a vicious satisfaction. Now Bellatrix would not kill Sirius, and Rodolphus wouldn’t kill Eleanor.

“Walburga, what you did to both your sons is disgraceful, and for that, you are subjected to house arrest for the rest of your life.”

“Regulus was the perfect son!”

“He was pressured to be that way, and it cost him everything,” Arcturus told her coldly. He turned his gaze away from her.

“Now, the final item for tonight. We are also here to fully welcome a new family member into the fold. We shall all go to the standing stones for the ceremony.” Everyone rose, and made their way outside.

Sirius and Eleanor were waiting for them, Eleanor half hidden behind Sirius.

“Sirius Orion, present your heir.”

“I, Sirius Orion Black present Eleanor Heather Potter, my blood- and magic-sworn goddaughter to be my heir, and blood- and magic-sworn daughter as is my duty since her parents, Lord James Fleamont Potter, and Lady Lily Marie Potter have died.”

“Do you vow to care for her as if she were your natural born heir and daughter, to teach her in the ways of her birth family and ours? Do you promise to raise her to be a credit to Avalon and her families?” “I do.” “And do you vow that even if you have natural born children in the future that you won’t cast her aside in their favor?”

“I do.”

“Eleanor, do you promise to uphold the Potter family values, and the Black family values?”

“I do.” Arcturus took a silver ritual knife from his dimensional store, and ran the blade along Sirius’ free hand, cutting his thumb. Sirius pressed his thumb to Eleanor’s forehead, leaving a red mark. Arcturus did the same.

“Nymphadora, Narcissa, Cassiopeia; maiden, mother, matron. Will you welcome another Daughter of the House of Black?” Arcturus called.

“Of course.” Narcissa vowed warmly. One by one, each of them gave their blood to the marks that Sirius and Arcturus had already given Eleanor. The magic, which had been growing for some time, now surged. The blood faded into Eleanor’s skin, and golden light enveloped the younger girl, before rippling outward. The magic touched all of the family, even Bellatrix and Rodolphus, which stripped their magic even further, hastening their deaths.

“All stand witness as I, Arcturus Black, Lord of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Black, formally welcome Eleanor Heather Potter into the Black family. So mote it be!” Arcturus called. The golden light pulsed, then sank back into Eleanor, who stood straight and proud. Her features had shifted, gaining the slightly sharper jawline and cheekbones of the Black family; her hair, still a beautiful black with dark red undertones laying just a little smoother, and a gray ring around the outside of her vibrant green eyes, which were now more jade than emerald. Her overall body proportion shifted, becoming more lithe. After that, with permission from Arcturus, most of the family left, with Lucius and Narcissa and Draco having a quick word with Ellie about pack matters. The adults had decided to form their own pack, not wanting to interfere with the prime pack. Lucius and Narcissa were head of the small pack, and Bill had opted to join them. With the reveal that Percy and the Weasley twins had Sentinel and Guide gifts, Percy had opted to join the older pack, given his age difference, but the twins had opted to join hers. Still, they were all close friends and allies.

Finally, only the ones who lived in Blackmoor were left.

“How do you feel Eleanor?” Cassiopeia asked. Ellie let out a yawn.

“I’m…fine. It just feels a bit different, that’s all.”

“More family magics?” Sirius asked. Ellie nodded, leaning against him.

“Yes.”

“Are you up to meeting one more person?” Arcturus asked.

“Hmm? Oh. I guess. I thought everyone had gone home…”

“If Grandfather is willing, I wouldn’t mind making this my home,” A quiet tenor voice agreed.

“Who—” Sirius asked, turning so quickly Ellie let out a small startled squeak.

“Regulus?” Cassiopeia gasped. Ellie blinked and turned to see a smaller, but still regal looking man who looked near identical to Sirius, except for slightly sharper cheekbones and a more lithe build.

“Sorry for staying missing,” Regulus told them.

“Missing? I thought you were dead! You absolute bastard!” Sirius roared, rising to his feet.

“I did it for a good reason. If you’ll just give me a minute to explain…” Regulus pleaded, raising his hands. Yet his dark gray eyes showed no fear. Sirius sat back down with a huff, and Regulus told the tale that Sirius, Arcturus, and Ellie knew, but Cassiopeia didn’t. Still the area where it differed…

“Kreacher disobeyed you?” Sirius asked.

“He did, but I don’t mind. It was a delusional request, done under the influence of that wretched potion. He recognized that, and took it in his own hands to save my life. Turns out house elves can apparate through most anti-apparition wards, and he took me with him.” Regulus explained.

“I would like to reward that elf. How would you like it if he were assigned as your personal elf?” Arcturus asked.

“I think we would both like that very much. He’s had to serve mother for far too long.”

“Kreacher!”

The elf cracked into view and croaked a greeting. “Lord Black is calling?” He didn’t look quite as old as Ellie had thought he would, nor as miserable.

“Yes. I have heard how you rescued Regulus from a certain death situation. Now that he is able to rejoin us openly, I am extremely grateful and would like to reward you by assigning you to serve Regulus as his personal elf.”

“I be liking that very much Lord.”

“Then it shall be done.” Arcturus promised. Kreacher bowed, then quickly bonded with Regulus, before disappearing with a crack. Sirius sighed.

“Reg…”

“We can talk more later, Siri. And probably throw a few curses at each other,” Regulus promised.

“As long as it’s nothing permanent and you clean up all damage, then I don’t care. Regulus, if you wish to live here, you’re more than welcome,” Arcturus told them.

“Thank you Grandfather. I think Siri and I have some steam to work off first.” “Go on then.”

“Eleanor, it was a pleasure to meet you and welcome you into the family,” Regulus told Ellie, rising. Ellie nodded.

“You too.”

Ellie yawned as she stumbled into the kitchen the next morning. The late night, and the feeling of magic settling had left her exhausted, and she had slept soundly through the night. She still felt tired, and after the previous night, not wanting to deal with people. So, when she saw the unfamiliar person at the table, she froze. They looked up, and smiled gently.

“Ah, I’m sorry. I didn’t think anyone else would be up this early,” Regulus told her. Ellie felt the calmer emotions being projected, and relaxed, before blinking, and looking at her uncle sharply. Carefully, she mentally reached out like she would with Hermione, seeking out to introduce herself to a Guide. Regulus himself tilted his head.

“Oh? Now this is interesting.”

“And just what do you mean by that?” Ellie felt Sirius’ familiar presence, and relaxed a bit into his grip on her shoulder. He let out a nearly subvocal growl, and Ellie gave her now father a slight purr to reassure him. Regulus studied both of them.

“I mean, that Eleanor recognized me as a Guide. I was not expecting that. And, she did so as a Sentinel would. You two also just reassured each other as Sentinels would. In Britain, I certainly wasn’t expecting that.” Sirius let out a long sigh, and Ellie glanced up to see him pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Misty.” The elf popped into view in front of them. “Please wake up Grandfather and Aunt Cassie. It seems that my darling little brother has much more explaining to do.”

“Shall I be telling the kitchen elves to prepare strong tea?”

“And coffee. Please.” Perhaps fifteen minutes later, Cassiopeia and Arcturus entered the kitchen.

“What happened now?” Arcturus asked crisply, studying the two tense brothers. Sirius glared at his younger brother.

“Regulus is apparently a Guide. And he recognized Ellie as a Sentinel when she reached out to check.”

“I see.”

Tea, and coffee appeared then on the table, along with rolls, fruit, and a few pastries. Ellie sat in between Arcturus and Sirius, feeling the safest between them. Cassiopeia sat on Sirius’ other side, leaving Regulus directly facing his older brother. The kitchen table was round, allowing for less formal dining than what was needed at other times. Ellie took her tea, sniffing appreciatively at the spices. Sirius had already been telling her about her parents, and introducing her to her Indian heritage. Chai tea had apparently been a favorite of James, and Lily had liked it too. She was experimenting with the spice blends. Today was a softer blend, with the traditional ingredients of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and black peppercorns. But it was blended carefully, and had sweetener added with a healthy dose of milk, so that the spices only kicked in at the end of the sip. Ellie sighed happily. This, was her favorite blend so far. She’d happily experiment with this one to see what other results could happen. Cassiopeia had her traditional English breakfast tea, without any milk, and only a little bit of honey. Arcturus actually preferred something a bit sweeter, a mix between English black tea, and French black tea, with some vanilla and caramel, and a dash of milk. Sirius was the coffee snob of the group, a rich Italian coffee in his mug that woke him up rather quickly. He drained nearly half his cup quickly before setting it down rather sharply, and focusing on Regulus.

“Right. How do you know about Sentinels and Guides?” Arcturus quietly passed Ellie a plate of her favorite fruit and a warm buttered roll. She’d happily snack on those until the house elves were done preparing them all a full breakfast. Besides, the elves were used to providing her small amounts of food periodically throughout the day to help her get used to eating more. She was getting better.

“I traveled quite a bit after Kreacher rescued me and we had both recovered. I learned about them then. I also went through a fairly strong cleanse after the potion I drank. That’s when I discovered my own abilities,” Regulus explained. He sipped his own coffee, diluted with milk, but no sweetener. Silence fell for a few minutes as they all ate the food available. Regulus eyed them all with a calm, but curious gaze.

“And now, please, your turn. I was under the impression that I was the only Guide left in Britain.”

“A girl who seems to have the gift of the Sight had dreams one night about Sentinels and Guides, and sought aide from Gringotts. Others had been having dreams, and instructions from the Lord and Lady of Magic. They all came in, and knew they were meant to be pack. But not all of them were present. Those who weren’t were sought out. It turned out Ellie was one of them, and she had been abused horribly by muggles that she was placed with. She was rescued and given a full purge.” Regulus hissed, and his eyes snapped to Arcturus. He, in turn glanced at Ellie. She gave a slight shrug, not sure if she wanted Regulus to know the full details behind her abuse yet. But as a Guide, there was information that her uncle should know.

“We also discovered that I was meant to be Prime Sentinel. So, that led to a lot of questions being asked. We don’t know why Sentinels and Guides disappeared from Britain. Just that they shouldn’t have. The families of my pack went through purges to make sure they were safe, and now we have two packs,” She summarized quietly. Regulus nodded thoughtfully.

“So more were discovered.”

“Yes.” By this time, the house elves provided hashbrowns, eggs, sausage, and bacon. Everyone dug in, silence falling for a time as they all ate. When everyone was on seconds, Regulus spoke again.

“While Guides and Sentinels reemerging is a good thing, how secret are we keeping this?”

“Just the two packs, actually. And Andromeda, because she’s been helping see to Sirius and Eleanor’s health and recovery,” Arcturus answered.

“And the Horde, of course.” Sirius added. Arcturus waved a hand.

“Well, yes. But they’ve got numerous treaties with the International Consortium as well as the Pack and Pride of Avalon, so any Sentinels and Guides are protected, and their secrets kept if necessary under those treaties.” Regulus nodded in understanding.

“Good.” The tension that had been present, eased.

“So just what other earth shattering secret might you need or want to share with the family?” Sirius asked his brother with a smirk. Regulus took another bite of food, not quite meeting Sirius’ eyes.

“Well…” Sirius nearly choked on his coffee.

“I was joking!”

“I’m not. I told you last night that I had discovered that Voldemort managed to protect himself from death. He did that through a Horcrux. The locket I retrieved is his. I’m not sure how to destroy it, I’ve been researching it, but knowledge on such a dark magic is tricky, even through pureblood resources,” Regulus admitted. Arcturus, Sirius, and Cassiopeia exchanged a look. Arcturus then glanced at his youngest grandson, humming thoughtfully.

“It’s a good thing we have more.”

“You know?” Regulus asked, eyes wide.

“Part of Eleanor’s purge revealed she had a soul shard inside of her. A Horcrux. It was removed, and the Horde has been tracking the others, for the soul shard itself was much too small to have been made from a whole soul.”

“And the signature?”

“The one that belongs to Tom Marvolo Riddle, also known as Voldemort.”

“He made more than one. That’s not good.”

“If you were to talk to the Horde, they’d appreciate having another piece contained, and joint research on where the others might be would likely be to everyone’s benefit,” Cassiopeia said. Regulus nodded.

“I will.”

About a week later saw most of Ellie’s and Narcissa’s packs standing in the floo room at Blackmoor. Regulus had chosen to stay close to family, and happily joined the adult pack. Right now, they were all waiting for the remainders of the packs to join them, and to take a Portkey to France to meet with the Delacours, who had offered training.

“Am I the last one?” Hermione asked, coming through the floo and brushing ash off herself.

“Not quite yet. We’re still waiting on the Weasleys,” Sirius replied.

Narcissa tutted. “Patience. It won’t be long.” She was right; five minutes later, Bill, Percy, Fred, and George tumbled out of the Floo.

“Sorry we’re late! It was a bit of a chaotic morning already,” Bill said.

Pandora laughed. “Somehow that doesn’t surprise me.”

“Since we’re all here now, let’s go. The international Portkey to our French property is ready to go,” Regulus said, holding out a long rope.

“Excellent.” A whirl of movement later, with only slight disorientation for the Sentinels as the Black family had invested in Sentinel-friendly Portkeys, and they landed. Bright sunlight streamed in through large windows in the entrance hall, illuminating intricately carved stone columns, a grand staircase, and beautiful paintings and tapestries that hung on the walls.

“Oh, wow!”

“Black properties certainly are something,” Draco agreed.

“Right. Give the luggage to the house elves. We’re expected at the Delacours in about fifteen minutes,” Sirius told everyone.

“Does that give us enough time to pick rooms?” Ginny asked. Sirius grinned.

“It does. Ten minute limit though.”

“Okay!” The younger children all dashed off, with the older children following behind only a little bit more slowly. The adults amusedly watched them go. There were plenty of rooms for everyone to have their own, but each bonded pair would likely share. None of the parents minded, as the bonds were all platonic right now. And, a few gentle ground rules had been set down as well. Hermione would be with Ellie, Sirius, and Regulus up on the family floor. Arcturus and Cassiopeia had remained behind in England, for this was a bonding and training trip for all the Sentinels and Guides. Draco and Ginny chose a room, as did Neville and Luna. Fred and George, who were a bonded sibling pair, easily chose their room, after teasing some of the younger pairs. Yet the younger pairs gave as good as they got, and it would have turned into a bit of an impromptu wrestling match if the adult Sentinels hadn’t warned them about their meeting in a few minutes. Bill and Percy each ended up getting their own rooms, as neither of them were bonded, and they certainly didn’t mind having their own room. It was the same situation that Sirius and Regulus had upstairs. Lucius and Narcissa had their own room, as did Pandora and Xeno. The two sets of parents took a room on each floor that the children had taken.

“Five minutes!” Narcissa called, her voice carrying through the house.

“Coming!” Everyone met in the entrance hall, where another Portkey waited.

“Everyone accounted for? Good. We’re meeting the Delacours in the Paris Consortium building,” Regulus told the packs. Another whirl of color and movement, then they landed. A Guide waited in the lobby of another building, and inclined their head in greeting.

“Ah, are you the group from England we’ve been expecting?”

“Yes. Two packs, the Pack and Pride of Avalon, and another pack that was discovered around the same time. We’re here for training.” Sirius said.

“Of course. The Delacours are waiting. They want to meet all of you, but they will directly be training the Avalon Pack. The other pack will receive training from a few alphas here.”

“Thank you.” They were guided to another room, where a tall woman with silver blonde hair, who was as elegant as they came. A shorter man, with neat, black hair and a short pointed goatee stood by the woman. At their side were two young girls, both with silver blonde hair. The older girl was probably just around school age, while the younger girl was a toddler, on the lap of the older girl.

“Bonjour, tout le monde. It’s wonderful to meet you all,” The woman greeted.

“I am Prime Sentinel of France, Jean Delacour. This is Prime Guide of France, my beautiful mate, Apolline Delacour. These are our daughters, Fleur, our eldest, and Gabrielle, our youngest. Fleur is about to start her second year at Beauxbatons this fall,” The man greeted them all cheerfully. Ellie took a breath, then stepped forward, holding onto Hermione’s hand for comfort. New scents and new people were exciting, but also scary.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Eleanor Potter-Black, Prime Sentinel of England, and this is my mate Hermione Granger, Prime Guide of England. This is Draco Malfoy, Shadow Guide, and his mate Ginervra Weasley, Shadow Sentinel. Neville Longbottom, Sentinel, and his mate Luna Lovegood, Guide. Finally, this is Fred Weasley, Sentinel, and his Guide and twin brother, George Weasley.” Each member stepped forward when Ellie called their name.

“That’s a good sized pack,” Apolline said approvingly.

“We’ll have to call in our own Shadows so they can properly train you, and the rest of the pack as well. We’ll send a message as soon as introductions are over.”

“Thank you.”

“I am Guide Lucius Malfoy, and this is my lovely wife and mate, Sentinel Narcissa Malfoy. We’re the alpha pair leading the other pack. Draco is our son. These are our seconds, Guide Xenophilius Lovegood, and Sentinel Pandora Lovegood. Luna is their daughter. Here we have Sentinel Sirius Black, whose daughter is Ellie. His brother, Guide Regulus Black. Finally, we have William Weasley, Guide, and Percival Weasley, also a Guide.” Lucius introduced. Fleur blinked a little and leaned forward.

“Maman? Je peut… Il, me sens très bon.”

“Le garçon qui est le plus grand?”

“Oui.” Around the same time, a few of the English Guides glanced a bit worriedly at Bill.

“Bill, are your…your shields are fluctuating.” Regulus said a bit cautiously. Apolline smiled.

“I think I know why that is. Come forward, please.” Bill did so, but mostly had eyes only for Fleur.

“Hello.”

“Bonjour. My name is Fleur.” The girl smiled at the boy, and the hint of a blush started on the oldest boy’s face.

“Bill. Are you a Sentinel?” Bill asked. Fleur nodded.

“Would…would you like to be my Sentinel?” Fleur treated the oldest Weasley boy to a brilliant smile, and the blush grew.

“Yes!”

“Fleur was likely to be a Sentinel or a Guide, considering they run in the family. It seems since she has met her Guide, she is starting to awaken fully. I request that you two get to know each other, and that you help Fleur with her senses as she awakens.” Jean said, running a hair though his elder daughter’s hair proudly.

“Of course,” Bill agreed happily.

“Right. We shall send a message off to the shadows of our pack, and tell others within the consortium that everyone is ready for training, except the newly discovered pair.” Jean said.

Training was intense, but worth every migraine and sore muscle. The Sentinels were taken to sealed rooms, and various stimuli for the senses were gradually introduced. For instance, scents would start with something familiar, like chocolate. Then, another scent, usually strong. Strong and familiar scents first, to get used to the exercise. Soon less and less familiar scents were introduced, along with less strong scents. Slowly, the amount of scents would be increased, and the Sentinel had to distinguish as many as they could. Training their hearing was a similar exercise, as was touch. Sight was a bit different, and it was more like a find an object game. At close range, at distance, with and without distractions. Taste was different again, and mostly consisted of taste testing many different foods with nicreasing levels of flavor while blindfolded. A large part of the sense training were to become as familiar as they could with as many things as they could.

For the Guides, they were given lessons in how to build up and develop their shields, as well as introductions to empathetic scans and healing. They were also given emotion identification lessons, with one person, then a few more, and then an entire crowd.

All of them received physical training in defense, and in shielding themselves from Legimency. It wasn’t quite Occlumency, as that was very dangerous for Guides since part of it dealt with suppressing emotions. There were similar techniques, however, that were much more Guide friendly. There were lessons on the bonds between all of them, how they could reinforce and soothe those bonds; lessons on different types of packs; lessons on hierarchy, and Sentinel and Guide politics, both local, and international. Basic guidelines of what the Prime pack would need to do. The support the various treaties all around the world gave them. It was slightly overwhelming, and only the beginning!

The packs ended up staying for two weeks, every single day filled with training, bonding, and fun. Arrangements were made to come back during future holiday breaks to continue training, and measure the progress they made. Not to mention for Bill and Fleur to deepen their bond. The mates had taken time every day to get to know each other and spend together. It was always interesting, when the others checked in on them. Bill didn’t know French, and Fleur knew very little English. A lot of their time was language learning. They learned through telling each other about themselves, and seeing what the other understood, or didn’t. Through it, Fleur learned about Bill’s job, and became slightly awestruck. Apparently, being a curse breaker was ‘très cool’ a phrase that mixed both French and English that the two had come up with. In turn, Bill was fascinated by all the things the young French girl was learning at Beauxbatons. The curriculum there was much more expansive than Hogwarts. Each day they thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company and their bond was slowly strengthening. Fleur hadn’t fully awakened quite yet, but she was close. They figured by Yule she would be. Since Fleur would be in school, and Bill in work, communication mirrors were established, so they could still see and talk to each other. Bill also mentioned seeing if he could transfer to the French Gringotts branch so he could visit a bit more easily.

During their visit, Ellie and Hermione were taken aside by Jean and Apolline, a more serious look on the French Primes’ faces.

“We have been aware of the…lack of Sentinels or Guides in Britain for some time. It’s scared the Consortium, and the ones who are sensitive enough to the psionic plane were aware of the Primes returning, and quietly informed others. We…have guessed that something is wrong given such a long period between yourselves and the last Primes. So, please be extra careful, and if anything is wrong, if you are in danger in any way, get to safety. Come here if you can. We can give any who need it refuge,” Jean told the two girls. Ellie hesitated, and Hermione reached out to comfort her.

“Thank you. Just…how much is word spreading?”

“Only within the Consortium itself, and among those, it’s pretty much just the primes of the different countries. We protect our own,” Jean reassured her.

“And the ICW?”

“This is a Sentinel and Guide matter at the moment. We don’t have to inform them of anything at the moment. As for your duties to the Consortium, you can have a point of contact through us, that should keep you a bit safer.”

“Thank you,” Hermione said, while Ellie breathed a sigh of relief.

“Of course.” Ellie took a big breath.

“Um…I’ve been seeing two healers from the Consortium for the trauma I went through before I was rescued. Sirius too,” She admitted quietly.

“Which healers?” Apolline asked.

“Liam and Cora.”

“Ah, good. They’re some of the best healers in the Consortium. But you…suffered abuse?”

“I…I did. And…Sirius was in Azkaban for a while for a crime he didn’t commit. From what I understand, there is…necessary reporting?” Apolline frowned, and nodded.

“Yes. But…”

“Grandfather asked them not to tell anyone just yet. Not until we knew who we could trust.”

“I see.”

“I…I think we can give them the all clear. But the situation is…complicated. Where will they report it?” Ellie asked.

“If you want, they can pass the report along to us. As your training Primes, we have a little more power in the international community for now, and can pass it along the proper channels so that you aren’t revealed in Britain, but something still gets done. Abuse of a Sentinel or Guide is an extremely serious international crime. That has to be dealt with,” Apolline said firmly. This time, Hermione breathed a sigh of relief along with Ellie.

“Keep me updated?”

“Of course. And Sirius as well.”

“Thank you.”

Finally, the day of their departure came. It was only about two weeks until the school semester started up, so everyone had to prepare for that, even if not all of them were school age. There were fond goodbyes all around, as everyone had enjoyed the past few weeks. Bill and Fleur in particular took a long while to say goodbye, not looking forward to being separated for a longer period of time. Both were incredibly grateful that the approval for Bill’s transfer had come through. That made things at least a little easier. Bill also had a standing invitation to the Delacour household, so hopefully they could see each other a bit more often.

“And remember, owl us any time, for anything. Visit when you can.” Jean said.

Everyone happily agreed. Just before they were portkeyed away, the children all exclaimed together, “Thank you!” And with that, they were gone.

Chapter Text

“Ah, Lady Potter, Lord Black, Heir Black. Welcome,” Grimjaw greeted the family. All three wore heavier robes and cloaks more suited for fall, since October had come with quite the cold snap.

“Why are we here? Sirius and Eleanor have been healing well, and this doesn’t sound like an update on our treasure hunt. Or, anything to do with Sirius’ reparations,” Arcturus asked. His grandson had been officially cleared of all charges during the Wizengamot’s trial day in September, shortly after Bill had caught Pettigrew with his Guide gifts at home. Amelia Bones had ruthlessly questioned both men, and taken the Ministry to task quite thoroughly. Arcturus had received full reparations for the mishandling of Sirius’ case, and gleefully shared his memories of the trial. Several ministry members were now out of jobs, and Amelia was leading several investigations into governmental corruption. The Black family was following all of it with great entertainment.

“No, this has to do with Lady Potter’s line test. Follow me.” Grimjaw led them to Ragnok’s office, knocked on the beautiful doors, and received permission to enter. Ragnok sat at his desk with Steelshard in a nearby chair, and were joined by three others, two men and one woman.

“Chieftain, Account Manager.” Arcturus greeted. Ragnok and Steelshard nodded their own greetings as Grimjaw sat by them.

“Good, please sit.”

“This is about Ellie’s line test?” Sirius asked.

“Yes. We will perform it one more time, with all of the witnesses needed. This is Lord Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, Lord Myrddin Emrys, and Lady Sarah Percy, Duchess of Northumberland. Lords, Lady, this is Lord Arcturus Black, his Heir, Sirius Black, and Lady Eleanor Potter.” Again, Ellie provided the blood for the line test, and again, the parchment flashed gold.

“Ah, it is verified. You of course, already verified it Chieftain.” Lord Somerset said, pleased. Lord Emrys smiled, and Lady Northumberland nodded.

“What’s this about?” Arcturus asked. “Just why are you so interested in my great-granddaughter?” While Arcturus and Sirius were worried and suspicious, Ellie was observing. She felt oddly content, her eyes kept being drawn to Lord Emrys. There was something…

“It’s a bit of a long story. I promise we will explain in full, however, the short of it is this; Eleanor Potter-Black has been chosen by magic as an heir to the throne of Magical Britain,” Lord Emrys explained. Both of Ellie’s guardians sat back, while she blinked.

“What?” She gasped.

“A bit of a history and context lesson is needed,” Lady Northumberland told Lord Emrys reproachfully. He simply smiled.

“Of course. There is far more detail than this, but I think a simple summary is best at this moment. According to Eleanor’s line test, she is head of the Ancient House Le Fey. While that may appear to be fairly straight forward, what most do not know is that Morgana Le Fey was also a Pendragon.”

“But Arthur was the Pendragon, and Morgana’s enemy?” Sirius asked. All three of the other nobles sighed, and the goblins let out a low growl.

“No. It is a pity that Hogwarts has so little of actual history taught,” Lord Somerset said.

“Yet we have access to the Black library of course, and that includes far more expansive books,” Arcturus told them flatly.

“I don’t doubt you Lord Black, yet information can still get confused through the centuries,” Lady Northumberland sighed. Lord Emrys nodded.

“Arthur acknowledged Morgana as a Pendragon, and as his sister. They of course had fights and disagreements, but nothing like what the so called history books have made them out to be. For the most part, they really did get along. And throughout Arthur’s battles, when push came to shove, Morgana sided with him. Finally, after Mordred—”

“Mordred? Isn’t that the name of the potion that can block Sentinel and Guide gifts?” Ellie asked curiously. Could it be related, or sheer chance? All three of the other nobles gave her wide smiles.

“Ah, excellent! You know of that. Yes, Mordred was the one to create that potion, because he had the gifts, and was afraid of them. Taking the potion was ultimately part of his downfall, and he was also the first so called Dark Lord,” Lady Northumberland told them.

“Moving on. Britain at the time had problems with the magical people not trusting a ruler without magic. So, the arrangement was made that Arthur would rule over the non magical people, and Morgana would rule over the magical. Lady Magic herself was called to bear witness and judge the validity of their deal. Obviously, it was accepted,” Lord Emrys finished.

“I thought the magical royal family was all killed centuries ago, that the bloodline was extinct?” Arcturus mused.

“Not so. Most were killed, but the youngest prince escaped into the Mundane world with the help of a mundane-born servant. The Horde, who has treaties with both royal families, helped to arrange it so that the Prince was given shelter by the Mundane royal family. The Queen at that time, Queen Anne, gave the young Prince shelter, and he was placed into the custody of the Lord Somerset at the time. Given the sheer amount of chaos at the time, it wasn’t safe to let Prince William into the magical world, yet when he was of age, he was told of what was happening. Feeling it was better to remain outside, and safer, Prince William requested the Horde’s assistance in hiding. None of his descendants felt they had any right to rule over the magical world when they hadn’t been part of it, even if they at least learned to control their magic. My family protected them up until the two world wars, when multiple attacks occurred, both mundane and magical, and it was thought that the royal family was wiped out,” Lord Somerset explained.

“Yet, there was a survivor, and the young boy had lost his memory, and his ability to use magic. He was raised by the family who adopted him, the Evans family,” Lady Northumberland added. Ellie’s eyes grew huge. Besides her, Sirius leaned forward, his eyes shining with unshed tears.

“So…”

“Lily would have been a princess, but never discovered her heritage,” Lord Emrys confirmed. A minute of silence followed, giving Arcturus, Ellie, and Sirius time to absorb everything and take a quiet moment to grieve.

“Now, Eleanor has discovered her heritage due to the line tests, and is a Princess of the magical royal family. Currently, the only one if our research is correct,” Ragnok said.

“And if there are others out there?” Arcturus asked. Ragnok shrugged.

“Then there are other Princes or Princesses. However, Princess Eleanor is old enough to claim heirship, and so, may undergo the test that would tell us if she is to be the Crown Princess or not. That is something only Magic can do. If she is claimed, then any others we find would only be prince or princess, though Princess Eleanor would have the choice to abdicate in favor of someone else. If she is not claimed, then it is still possible for someone else to inherit, but she still retains the title and honor of Princess.”

“Ellie?” Sirius asked softly. She hesitated, not wanting to reveal everything yet.

“I’ve only been part of the magical world for a bit. Do I really have the right?”

“Ah, Princess Eleanor. If you would be so kind as to explain your actual situation to the room?” Ragnok asked. Ellie blinked, then felt a strange nudge on her magic. A whisper almost, of ‘it’s ok.’ She had a feeling she would have very interesting dreams that night. Regardless, she explained what had happened to her, and her pack mates. Ragnok, Arcturus, and Sirius had all heard the full tale before, but the account managers and the others had not. By the end, those previously not in the know where clutching cups of tea, flabbergasted.

“Princess Eleanor, with this, I suspect that you have been selected for many great things,” Lady Northumberland mused.

“I hate being called the ‘chosen one,’” Ellie mumbled.

“That is not our intent. Nor is it our intent to cause you discomfort. I apologize for any we might have caused you,” Lady Northumberland hastened to tell her.

“As do I. However, with your experience, I would say you are very much part of the magical world, and do have the right, if you choose, to see if you are chosen for heirship,” Lord Somerset added.

Sirius ran a comforting hand through his daughter’s curly locks. “You won’t be alone sweetheart. We’ll help you.”

“Indeed. You have many powerful allies,” Arcturus added. At that, Ellie couldn’t help but smile. She did, honestly. She knew her immediate and extended family would certainly look after her and help her, not to mention the positions they held. And then…then there was the other positions she herself held.

“Will the various lordships I hold have any affect on this?”

“No. There are a few rules and such for you simply as a princess to follow regarding your seats, but you don’t have to give anything up. Those are your seats by blood and magic, as much as your position as princess is the same,” Lord Emyrs explained. “You could, of course, decide to give seats up, but it’s all up to you.”

“Oh.”

“Now that’s interesting,” Arcturus muttered.

Ellie took a moment to mull it over, before making her decision. “I wouldn’t mind trying, I guess.”

“If you would please follow me,” Ragnok ordered. He, Grimjaw, and Steelshard led the way, with Arcturus, Sirius, and Ellie in the middle, and Lord Somerset, Lady Northumberland, and Lord Emrys bringing up the end. “Gringotts was built over several key ley lines, and we have kept them safe, as per our agreement with both the royal family and the Lord and Lady of Magic.” They traveled deeper and deeper into the earth, finally reaching a door. Ragnok opened it, and all the humans let out a gasp. The dark stone walls of the natural cavern were embedded with shining jewels, but that wasn’t the impressive part. The impressive part was the small channels flowing through the floor, holding something that seemed to be water, but glowed. Ellie’s senses told her that whatever was in the channels, it wasn’t water, but something far more powerful.

“Wow.”

“Indeed. We have kept this cavern secret and safe for centuries. The channels you see are filled with liquid, pure magic. They supply a shallow pool in the next cavern,” Ragnok explained, leading the way again. “What do I have to do?” Ellie asked nervously, standing in front of the pool, the others keeping a respectful distance.

“Simple lay down in the middle of the pool. Magic will do the rest.” Ellie did so, feeling extremely nervous and self-conscious. As soon as she laid down, her fears dissipated as she felt herself sinking into the magic. Next thing she knew, she was standing in the Lady’s gardens again. Hecate, with Zirnitra at her side, was smiling. Death also looked pleased, as much as the being could. A trio of people caught her attention, and she felt in her bones that it was Morgana, Arthur, and Merlin. Yet Merlin…looked vaguely familiar.

Then, four more people. Ellie’s eyes widened. She cautiously greeted all present with the manners Cassiopeia had been teaching her, but then, her eyes were drawn back to the quartet.

“Mum? Dad?” She whispered. The young woman with dark red hair, and the young man with messy black hair beamed. Ellie didn’t wait any longer before launching herself into their arms. Within minutes, two more sets of arms embraced her.

“Sweetie, we are so proud of you!” Lily told her.

“You’ve done amazing, and we can’t wait to see what else you do!” James added enthusiastically. Ellie giggled. Another moment, and her mum and dad, and the two others let go.

“Ellie, this is Fleamont, your grandfather, and Euphemia, your grandmother,” James explained, gesturing to the others in the quartet.

“You are truly living up to your multiple legacies, my dear,” Fleamont said, eyes twinkling.

“And we will always watch over you and be proud of you, darling,” Euphemia added.

“Thank you. It’s…hard right now,” Ellie admitted, a few tears leaking down. Lily brushed them out of the way.

“I know. But Sirius is doing well. Tell him hello from all of us.”

“I will. Grandfather Arcturus and Aunt Cassie are pretty cool too.”

“Yes, they are. Learn from them well.”

“Also tell that mutt to get his tail out from between his legs and seek out Remus. They’ve left things alone for far too long,” James added. Ellie giggled. She had heard a few stories.

“I will.”

“You should properly meet the others,” Euphemia said, giving her a last hug, as did Fleamont, James, and Lily. Ellie walked over to the trio.

“Welcome, Eleanor. I am Morgana, the first Queen accepted by Lady Magic. It is a pleasure to meet my heir,” The dark haired regal woman said, with a smile that had an aristocratic tilt to it. Her eyes were bright green, very similar to Ellie’s.

“I am Arthur, Morgana’s brother. You’ve been through much, young one, but you are strong.” The noble looking man with blond hair and deep blue eyes spoke next. The last man bowed his dark hair shining, his dark blue eyes twinkling.

“And I am Merlin Emrys, emissary in between the magical and mundane realms.”

“You were at the bank!” Ellie cried, connecting the pieces. Merlin laughed.

“Part of me, much like you, is connected to this plane. The Lord, Lady, and Death, have all blessed me and allowed me to live an immensely long life, so that I may serve the Ruler of Avalon.”

“Oh. Doesn’t it get lonely? Or hard?” Ellie wondered.

“It can at times, but I am looking forward to advising you. And I have a Sentinel, who was given the same long life as I was. So you see, it’s not fully lonely.”

“I’m glad.” Ellie’s attention turned to Death, Hecate, and Zirnitra.

“You’ve already met us,” Zirnitra told her with a smile.

“Yes…” Ellie hesitated.

“Something you wish to say?” Hecate prompted.

“I…I am sorry if I am rude, but, I honestly thought it would just be Sentinels and Guides I had to worry about, along with Voldemort and Dumbledore. But…this happened. Why?”

“Eleanor, I believe we told you that we cannot predict everything. Even when you had died, you were muted to us. We knew a few things, but not much. Now that you are fully free, we can truly see what you are meant to become,” Zirnitra explained. Ellie blinked. That was interesting.

“We truly believe that you have the strength, courage, intelligence, wit, cunning, loyalty, kindness, and spirit to rule over Magical Britain. Britain is in absolute chaos, filled with corruption and betrayal. That’s not even counting the threats that Voldemort and Dumbledore pose on the world. But you, especially with your guardians, pack, and allies, can change all that. I, Hecate, Lady of Magic, give you my blessing to rule magical Britain as her Queen, and Prime Sentinel.” Hecate said, kissing Ellie on her forehead. A warm rush of magic filled her, and Ellie breathed in deeply. Wild, yet warm, strong and gentle all at once.

“I, Zirnitra, Lord of Magic, give you my blessing to rule magical Britain as Queen, and encourage you to make use of your Sentinel gifts. They will serve you well,” Zirinitra added, kissing her in the same spot. A slightly different rush of magic filled her, this time, more like feelings of protection, love, and courage, compassion. Death stepped forward, and put their hand on her head. This rush of magic was different yet again, light and dark, hot and cold, but nothing unpleasant.

“Eleanor, you are already my Mistress. But I too, give you blessings. You will have my support against all your enemies. And a long, natural life. If you choose to pursue something like the Philosopher’s Stone, and that you succeed in making one yourself, I will not mind, for you would have proven your talents many times over. I ask though, that you don’t stay on the throne forever.”

“I think that would honestly be a nightmare. I don’t want one job forever, and new ideas need to be injected, so that wouldn’t happen if I stayed put.” Ellie protested. Death’s lips curved into an amused smirk.

“Correct.”

“You will have our advice. You will have access to the royal vaults and properties, and we have portraits,” Morgana promised.

“You’ll find portraits of us too in the Potter vaults. And Samhain rituals will allow you to communicate with us,” Fleamont reminded her. Ellie nodded. She had gotten several lessons about Samhain from her family members, and was looking forward to see what it was like.

“You’ll always be loved,” James and Lily promised together. Ellie smiled.

“Thank you all.”

“It’s time to go back, Eleanor. We will speak with you later,” Hecate promised. Before she was whisked away by magic once again, Ellie made sure to engrave in her memory the image of her parents and grandparents standing arm in arm beside her stalwart protectors and supporters, the very deities of the magical world, and though parting with them filled her with a sense of melancholy, she was able to do so with a smile.

Chapter Text

In the cavern, the esteemed witnesses watched the small girl, along with her guardians, and the accompanying goblins with concern. The goblins had taken a liking to the young girl, for her fighting spirit, and for her polite mannerisms. It was quite refreshing to have a member of the wixen community show them respect and courtesy. Also, her standing of a sentinel, and her determination to help gave her a lot of respect in their eyes.

The liquid magic started to swirl, then wrapped around the young girl. Sirius cried out, and had to be restrained by Arcturus, his grandfather's magic snapping along the surface of his skin.

“Patience. We have records of this happening before. She won’t be harmed,” Ragnok said calmly.

“But!” Sirius protested.

“Patience.”

The magic completely enveloped Ellie, then, slowly streamed off her, lingering around her head, neck, and wrists. Ellie shifted and sat up, blinking at the people around her. The magic solidified into vambraces, a necklace, a circlet, and a crown. The vambraces were goblin-wrought silver and gold, lined with a fine soft black leather. Ellie rotated her wrists and found they were surprisingly comfortable and flexible, almost as if she were wearing long sleeves instead. Studying them, she could see a phoenix, the crest of the Royal Family, etched in the metal in exquisite detail. The design was in full color, with a few small jewels inset that added more dimension to the image.

Turning her attention to the other magical accessories that had appeared, Ellie studied the small pendant hanging around her neck. The chain was pure gold, although it hang lighter than she would've expected from such a heavy metal. The pendant itself consisted of a diamond inlaid in gold, in the shape of a teardrop. Tiny runes were etched into the gold, and she made a note to ask about their purpose. Next were the circlet and crown, into which the majority of the magic had gone. The circlet was simple, braided silver and gold. The crown was fancier, elegant yet not ostentatious. The base was silver, with fine golden points creating height in the front, with more silver linking the points. Diamonds, pearls, sapphires, and emeralds were arranged tastefully along the entire crown.

As she stood, a bit shakily, everyone in the room bowed, though Ragnok’s was more of an incline of his head, one ruler to another.

“Welcome, Crown Princess Eleanor,” Lord Emrys said.

“Was not expecting that. . .” Ellie muttered, stepping out of the pool and into the embrace of Sirius and Arcturus.

Sirius fussed over like a mother hen. “Are you alright?”

“I think so.”

Finally satisfied that she was unharmed, the man settled a hand on her shoulder and gave her a comforting squeeze. “Well Ellie, I don’t think you ever expected your life to change this much, or to be this interesting.” He, of course, had never expected any of this.

“Different levels of interesting, papa.” Ellie blinked, then gave Sirius a shy look. “Is it okay if I call you papa?”

The man pulled her into a proper hug, blinking away tears. “Of course, sweetheart.”

Ellie enjoyed the embrace for a moment, before drawing back. “Oh! I spoke with mum, dad, grandmum, and grandad. They all say hello.”

“You saw lost relatives?” Ragnok asked, intrigued.

“Yes. They. . .they told me that I’m loved and that they’ll always watch over me, and that they’re proud. They also said you need to go see Remus,” she looked up at Sirius. He started chuckling, before full out laughing.

“Hm. Something tells me that James and Lily said that a little less politely, but I will.”

“We have much more to discuss, and we can do it in my office. I will put up the highest level of privacy wards when we are settled,” Ragnok promised.

Once they had made their way from the ritual chamber and into the king's large office, settling in elegant yet comfortable chairs and recieving a large lunch and tea service that had been prepared while they were gone, they got to talking. Merlin admitted his true identity and role to Arcturus and Sirius, laughing a bit at their flabbergasted expressions. Lady Northumberland and Lord Somerset explained that they were both wixen, and that his primary position was informing the mundane Queen of the goings on in the magical world. He also held the title of ‘The Queen’s Wizard’, though given the recent wars, that had been kept quieter. And, he was the one who mostly met with the highest ranking officials of the mundane government, and kept them apprised of the magical world.

Lady Northumberland was actually part of MI6. She was not only a liaison in between the mundane and magical sections of the agency, but also one of the top officials in the magical side. Both she and Lord Somerset were historians on the side, Lord Somerset with a focus on both of the British royal families, and Lady Northumberland with a focus on global history. Ellie learned a lot more about the role of the royal family that day, with a promise of lessons every day going forward.

“You, or at least your families, really do have just about everything covered in terms of keeping an eye on things,” Ellie observed.

“It’s been our duty for centuries. But yes, it is also set up in a certain way, as you noticed, for exactly that reason,” Lady Northumberland admitted.

Merlin spoke up. “Speaking of which, we need to plan for the Wizengamot.”

“The next session is in a few weeks,” Arcturus mused, frowning.

“Correct. Now, traditionally, the trial for heirship would have been on Princess Eleanor’s seventh birthday. Obviously, we’re working with unusual conditions. In any case, if the Crown Prince or Princess doesn’t want their identity known, and they’re underage, then the tradition is to let four to six months pass before announcing that there is an heir, so that a birthday is not connected with the announcement. In your case, since your birthday is in summer, and you just took the tests now, there’s no suspicion of who the Crown Princess might be, even if it’s a little early in tradition,” Merlin explained.

“There was no knowledge until today that there even was a Princess,” Lord Somerset noted, amused. Merlin inclined his head.

“True.”

“If you will stop beating around the bush?” Lady Northumberland scolded. When both of the men looked ashamed, but didn’t start explaining, she sighed.

“Crown Princess Eleanor, what these two are trying to say is that during the next Wizengamot session, the existence of the royal family will be revealed. Or, if you wish to wait until at least the four months has passed, it would be at the December session. However, your identity doesn’t have to be announced. You can send someone to act as your secretary, observing and reporting back on everything that happens.”

“Would I need to appoint a proxy for when I’m eleven?” Ellie asked.

“No. This process is a bit different than your other titles. We can go over it later,” Lord Somerset promised. “Have you already taken care of proxies for your other seats?”

“Yes. I didn’t want Dumbledore to try to use votes he technically had no right to. Aunt Cassiopeia Black agreed to be my proxy for the Le Fay seats, papa for the Potter seats, and Aunt Narcissa Malfoy for the Slytherin seats. Oh, and Aunt Andromeda Tonks for the Gryffindor seats.”

“Strong choices, for all,” Lady Northumberland approved. Ellie ducked her head shyly.

“Grandfather has been helping.”

“Now, the main question for the moment is, who do you want to be your secretary for the royal box?” Lord Somerset asked.

Ellie sat back, thinking, before turning to her first choice. “Merlin, how well are you known, in terms of being involved in the wixen community today?”

“Not at all. I’ve kept my position secret for centuries, preferring to let most believe what they want. The Horde has been generous with aiding me with disguises and identities.”

“Hm. And how familiar are you with the current state of things and, modern laws?”

“Fairly. If you’re seeking to ask me to be your secretary, you may, of course. There is always a slight risk of someone finding out, but I doubt it will happen.”

“Lord Somerset, Lady Northumberland, I’m guessing that you are both busy?”

“I usually am, but am occasionally available for meetings. However, that time is usually inconsistent at best,” Lady Northumberland admitted.

Lord Somerset nodded. “I have more time, and can arrange for Wizengamot meetings if you wish.” Ellie sat back and thought. Memories from her previous life, and some of the political training Arcturus had started her on, helped her to decide, along with the descriptions of jobs the nobles had given her.

“Please correct me if I’m wrong. . .but you would serve the magical royal family in a similar capacity, keeping them apprised of what’s going on in the mundane world, and serving as a liaison between both governments, Lord Somerset.”

“Yes, that would be correct.”

“And you, Lady Northumberland, would keep the magical royal family informed of the goings on of MI6?” “Because of my connections, yes. Though, you would also be working with the actual head of the magical MI6, Silence, who is head of the Unspeakables and the Department of Mysteries.” Ellie blinked, she had not expected that. Next to her, both Sirius and Arcturus startled a little.

“Really?”

“Yes.”

Her papa and great-grandfather exchanged a look. “I never knew they did that. Huh.”

“The department does many things, including working with us,” Lady Northumberland explained further.

“And Merlin, you mainly serve as an advisor to the royal family?” Ellie asked, refocusing for now.

“Correct. That role has shifted in its parameters over the centuries, as each ruler is different.”

“So, following logical division of powers and duties, and the fact that an advisor would have to be well informed. . .if you didn’t mind, Merlin, I would appreciate it if you were my secretary, please. Though, if something comes up, I’d ask Lord Somerset to fill in, as he is the next most available person. Lady Northumberland, you would of course follow if neither of them could fill the position.”

“You’re not mentioning any of your own family members,” Lord Somerset noted curiously.

“Of course not. They all have their own duties, and this is as much for their protection, as it is mine. Blacks, of course, can handle themselves, but I believe we’re seeking to protect the royal family for as long as possible, which means keeping exactly who is in it secret for as long as possible. Giving a Black the seat puts a target on their back, and also lets enemies and opponents have a clue on who they might be connected to. None of you, currently, are well known in the magical world, as far as I’m aware. Most wixen believe Merlin has been dead for centuries, and the other titles come from the mundane world, not magical. So there’s less for people to track down. However, some will be determined, and would be able to track down at least some information about the two of you. Your titles are prominent in the mundane world, and have a long history, so it likely wouldn’t take too much digging to find out a bit more about your current jobs. Merlin, if he is given a new identity, would be a complete unknown. Not only would there be no information, protecting everyone involved, but it would also throw my enemies into chaos and uncertainty. Their frantic scramble for information will make them more likely to slip up, and expose themselves.” All of the adults, and Ragnock stared at the nine year old, before Sirius started to laugh, soon breaking into all out guffaws. Arcturus chuckled, while Ragnock gave Ellie a vicious grin.

“Quite the plan, Crown Princess. Clever, devious, all very, very good.”

“You, Ellie, are showing your Black. I love it!” chortled Sirius, before going back to full on belly laughs, though they were quieter now.

Arcturus sent a proud look Ellie's way, a mischievous glint in his eye. “That political training is coming along quite nicely. Good. We may have to fast-track your lessons if you’re picking them up that fast.”

“Logical, well thought out, protective, and a way to start getting revenge. Very nice,” Lord Somerset approved.

“I know you traveled in time, but this certainly. . .I would never have expected something this devious.” Lady Northumberland said, shaking her head, though smiling.

“I will be happy to serve as your secretary, Crown Princess. I look forward to seeing some of this chaos you anticipate.” Merlin agreed.

“Merlin, if you wish to reuse an old identity, I believe we can arrange that,” Ragnok said dryly, as everyone started to calm down.

“We didn’t recognize the name you first introduced yourself as,” Sirius offered.

“Ah, my original name. I don’t see why we can’t use that one, especially since I can be known primarily as Lord Emrys.”

“That won’t be an issue.” Ragnok promised.

“Good!”

“Oh, I’ve been wondering. If I can keep my identity secret, I really would like that, but if I have to wear these all the time, won’t that give it away?” Ellie asked, gesturing to her new accessories.

“You don’t have to wear all of that all the time. The crown is only for formal occasions. Things such as state dinners, diplomatic visits, that sort of thing. For more semi-formal events, just the circlet will do. Informal meetings between other royal families, for example. Outside of those occasions, you don’t need to wear the crown or circlet. The vambraces on the other hand, are essentially equivalent to an heir ring. They give you protections, and can serve as dimensional stores. The pendant, I’m honestly not sure.” Lord Somerset explained.

“There’s runes around the edge,” Ellie offered, the length of the chain magically extending so that Merlin could see. He leaned forward to read, then nodded.

“Ah, I understand now. The pendant serves as extra help for regulating your Sentinel senses, when your Guide isn’t able to. With the addition of protections specifically for Sentinels.”

“It’s been some time since there was a member of the Royal Family, muggle or magical, that was a Sentinel or Guide,” Lord Somerset mused. “This should be very interesting.”

“Now, I’m sure you’re getting plenty of lessons already, but we’ll work things out,” Lady Northumberland promised.

“Okay. Thank you.”

Merlin smiled and tilted his head in deference. “Our pleasure, Crown Princess Eleanor.”

Chapter Text

Merlin walked into the ministry early on the day of the December session, not wishing to be seen by anyone. He also wanted to make sure the chamber had time to recognize his claim. Eleanor had decided to wait, wanting to learn a bit more about her role as the Crown Princess before she announced the return of the royal family. Everyone had thought that her decision was fair, and set about teaching her about her new duties. Now, she was ready to start shaking up British magical society.

It didn’t take long for him to reach the Wizengamot chamber, and he stepped inside, sighing contentedly as he felt the magic of the chamber. The ancient ward stones, set by himself, Morgana, and Arthur, were incredibly powerful, tied to the land and the Royal Family. Before this room had become the seat of the Wizengamot, it had been the seat of the Wizard’s Council. Interestingly enough, the Blacks had been a founding family of the Council. Nevertheless, the room had powerful, ancient magic permeating everything from the stones to the very air. Closing the door, he strode to the center of the room.

“I, Myrddin Emrys, announce the return of the Royal Family of Avalon. I have been requested to act as their observer in the Wizengamot.” He placed the royal crest he had been given by Eleanor, with a drop of her blood and his, on the floor in the center of the room. It took a few seconds for the magic of the chamber to activate, but when it did, it felt like coming home after a long journey.

The oval chamber rearranged itself, with several new boxed seats being added, the royal box sitting in the highest position on one end. Across the room and slightly below it was the box for the Alpha Primes and other high ranking members of the pack, underneath which were the boxes for the four Founders, arranged evenly around the chamber. Next came the esteemed magical Families, starting with the Most Ancient And Most Noble Families at the highest tier. Following them were the Most Ancient Families and the Most Noble Families, which shared a level (Myrddin winced when he thought of the year in which deciding where those Families should be seated were on the agenda. The petty bickering between the two sides had been unbearable, so it had been decided that in order to not show favoritism they would both be placed on the same level.) Below them were Ancient And Noble Families, followed by another tier shared by Ancient Families and Noble Families. Underneath these were Lesser Nobles, then a dais just above the floor where new magical Families that had just earned a place in the Wizengamot sat. These, of course, had already been arranged as such and hadn’t changed for several hundred years. Nor were there changes in the already present seating for underage heirs and reporters, located in the ground-level tier in the middle of the oval room, on both sides. Myrddin smiled, picked up the crest, and headed to his seat.

The royal box was further split up in different levels. The highest, of course, was the throne. That platform could be enlarged to supply seating for a consort. A little lower and to the right was the heir’s seat. That would be the one Eleanor would sit in if she attended a session before coming of age. Slightly below the heir’s seat was a small desk for a Crown-appointed proxy, and a few other seats for advisors. The lowest level of the royal box was meant for important guests, aides, and lower-ranking royals such as visiting royals, cousins, and siblings.

Myrddin settled in the desk area, feeling the lingering effects of the Wizengamot resizing. Barely a minute or so after he had sat, a group of Unspeakables rushed into the room led by one in a dark blue cloak, instead of the usual grays or black. So Silence had come personally, which wasn’t that surprising all things considered. They looked around, observing the changes, and noticed him. Briefly freezing in surprise, the Head Unspeakable had a brief discussion with the others, before splitting off and making their way up to the box.

“You speak for the Royal Family?” Silence asked, hands folded into sleeves.

“I am currently acting as observer of the Wizengamot, and advisor to the Crown, yes. I will be acting in this capacity until the Crown Princess is of age,” Myrddin acknowledged.

“Very well then. It is an honor to welcome the Royal Family back, as well as yourself, Myrddin Emrys,” Silence told him.

Myrddin smiled, pleased. “Ah, your department has kept up with things. Very good.”

“It is our business to do so, after all. The members of the Wizengamot will not be expecting any of these changes, and will be asking many questions. One of my Unspeakables will remain here, to help answer those questions.” Silence gestured minutely, and an Unspeakable in a black cloak stepped forward. Myrddin knew enough about the Department of Mysteries that he knew it was a more senior Unspeakable that would be remaining with him.

The figured bowed. “I am Unspeakable Onyx.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you. I’m sure there are many things we can discuss while we wait for everyone else to arrive.”

“Indeed there are.” With that, Silence gave them a nod, and led the other Unspeakables out of the room.

Two hours passed pleasantly in discussion for the two wixen before the doors to the chamber opened. First inside were Arcturus and Sirius. Eleanor, Myrddin knew, was in the care of Lord Somerset and Lady Northumberland for the day. Cassiopeia, Narcissa, Lucius, Andromeda, and Augusta arrived shortly afterwards. Myrddin smiled at the sight of Eleanor’s allies being the first in the room to present a united front. These allies would stay with her, no matter what happened. Other lords, ladies, heirs, and proxies trickled in, almost all of them stopping and staring in shock at the changed chamber. Finally Dumbledore, the Recorder of Sessions, the Minister, and the minister’s secretary arrived. Each of them stopped in shock, even if Dumbledore only paused for a moment. Myrddin smirked. The ‘great’ Albus Dumbledore, surprised. Good.

The meeting opened, with any items from the last meeting being addressed swiftly. The nice thing about the December meeting was that everyone wanted to get home to their families, so the session typically went faster. Myrddin anticipated a slightly different outcome this time, but unusual circumstances and all that. The only question at this point was who would raise the question first? The answer turned out to be Fudge.

“Unspeakable. Is there any answer you can give us as to why the chamber has changed? And who is that with you?”

“The chamber has changed in recognition of the return of a Family, which has happened from time to time over the past centuries. Quite recently, it changed in response to the return of the Founders’ lines. This time, the family in question is the magical Royal Family of Britain,” The Unspeakable explained. Utter chaos reigned as gasps, protests, and pure disbelief sounded from every corner of the chamber.

Albus thought furiously. The royal family had returned? But everyone knew that they had died out over a century ago. So theoretically, this could be a fluke. Yet, the magic of the chamber itself had recognized the claim. The magic of the chamber was absolutely ancient, and powerful, and couldn’t be fooled. Yet, because it was ancient, it was possible that the magic had degraded. . .but he really doubted that. Ancient magic such as the chamber’s was usually tied into the land, and magic itself, and as such, was impossible to manipulate. Which meant that somehow, the royal family truly had survived.

“Unspeakable, for those of us who don’t fully understand the circumstances, could you please explain how the Royal Family survived? It has been said that they were all killed during the Dark Lord Deverill’s reign,” Amelia Bones, Regent for the Bones seat, asked.

“Most of the Royal Family was killed, yes,” The Unspeakable agreed. “But a nanny managed to get the youngest, Prince William, to safety. With all the chaos of the time, it was safer for him and his family to remain in hiding.”

“The selfish lot of them!” Lord Avery spat.

“Would you willingly put your loved ones in danger when you knew they had targets on their backs, Avery?” Lord Macmillan snapped. Lord Avery subsided, grumbling.

“Why did they not return when things calmed down?” Amelia asked.

“By then, a lot of time had passed. By going completely into hiding, they cut themselves off from the magical world, and so, felt they had no right to rule it.” Murmurs sounded at that, most thoughtful.

Albus sighed. He knew now that most of the Wizengamot wouldn’t view the royal family negatively after that. Or at least, they were going to be more neutral about the situation. He would have to play this very, very carefully. Even if he would have preferred not to have the royal family back as it was just one more player in this long game, he could make it work. Get control of them, or their advisors, make them look up to him, have them see him as the wise old man, a grandfatherly role that he played to the rest of the world. Unfortunately, he knew of several others who wanted the same thing. Black and Malfoy in particular would want to have control over the royal family. Especially since Black had been attending sessions regularly, something he hadn’t done for a few years. Gossip had run rampant, but Dumbledore knew the base reason Black had returned was to get something. This seemed like a perfect opportunity for all of them. So how to get there first?

“So who are you, and why are you here?” Ah, there was Delores. She always did have a rather blunt way about her when she was annoyed. At the moment, she was standing, glaring at the second man in the box. That man stood.

“I am Lord Emrys. I currently serve as an observer to the Crown Princess, who just recently took her heirship tests. She isn’t old enough to sit in these chambers yet, so I am here to keep track of where this government is going, which I will report back to her.” Oh, now that was interesting, and a useful bit of information. The Crown Princess was just a child, somewhere between the ages of seven and eleven. That made several things a lot easier.

“What business does this girl have in knowing about our government?” Fudge spluttered.

“The Crown Princess, just like any other magical citizen, deserves to know the basics of what the government does and how it works, not to mention how policies and laws impact everyday living. Yet I will digress on that matter. More importantly, much like the muggle world, the Crown Princess will one day be Queen, and thus become the head of the government.”

Protests, mostly from Fudge and his people, erupted. They didn’t want just anyone interfering in the government, and Albus agreed. The way things were now, he had a great deal of influence and power, and he wanted it to stay that way. But there were a few others in the chamber who wanted no part in someone ruling over them.

“These are ancient laws. Those who don’t like them can forfeit their position in these chambers. Open rebellion against the Royal Family is treason, and the Crown Princess will act accordingly,” Lord Emrys said firmly.

“I think you have made your point, Lord Emrys. However, as you said earlier, the Princess must be given a proper education. She needs to understand how things are run nowadays. So, where is she?” Albus said.

“She is living in a secured manor, the location of which is a secret. This is for her and her family’s safety,” Lord Emrys said. He hid it well, but that had been said far more cautiously than other statements.

“Surely you can allow a few members of this body to know of the location? We must ensure she is raised properly,” Delores simpered.

Lord Emrys did not falter. “You cannot and will not enforce your will on the Crown Princess. She outranks everyone here, as you should all know. The only ones who actually have a say in how she’s raised is her family.”

“Come now, Lord Emrys. As future allies, we have the right to at least speak with the Princess,” Albus tried, with a fake smile and a twinkle in his eyes.

“No, you don’t. Given the chaos of the past century, the Crown Princess has decided to stay anonymous for now. She has no wish to be in full view of the public until she is older.”

“What of her education? You never did answer that earlier,” Lucius asked.

“Her education rests upon her family, and the tutors that they have brought in. Whether or not she attends Hogwarts will be her decision, and her decision only.” Shocked whispers filled the chamber.

“What?”

“Surely, as the Crown Princess of Britain, she must go to school within the country?” Lord Shacklebolt inquired.

“There is no law that requires that. In the past, it was perfectly acceptable for a prince or princess of this country to get a foreign education, and vice versa,” The Unspeakable spoke up.

“Please, there hasn’t been an exchange program since the last Triwizard Tournament,” scoffed Lord Nott.

At this, the Unspeakable spoke up again, sternly. “That is not entirely true. The royal families around the world sponsored one another if they wished to go to a different school, and the individual in question would become a ward of whichever country they were going to school in, for the duration of their education. It’s still ongoing today. As for the Triwizard Tournament, everyone here knows that the tournament was canceled due to the high death toll, unfortunately ending the exchange program.”

“So you’re saying we’ll have to accept foreigners in the school?” Delores shrieked.

“It will be the Crown Princess’s decision if she wishes to reinstate relations with other royal families.”

“This is completely ridiculous!” Delores shrieked again. Albus hoped that someone would shut her up soon. She never knew when to quit.

“It is what it is. These are our ancient customs and laws, and must be followed. Now, any more questions can be directed to either myself, or the Department of Mysteries. They have knowledge of all of those magic-based laws and customs.” Lord Emrys sat down, and Albus scowled. Clearly, no more answers would be forthcoming. At least, nothing clear or more revealing. He’d have to some digging. No matter what he or the Unspeakable said, Albus had to find out who the Crown Princess was. He needed to make sure she would be malleable to his plans. Anything that the ministry might do toward finding out who she was, and how they might go about controlling her, he needed to stay on top of.

“Well, that went rather well,” Myrddin muttered quietly, after activating the privacy wards. He was pleased at the chaos he had created, with Unspeakable Onyx’s help. The wixen in question chuckled.

“I would say it did.”

They watched the meeting continue. Every so often they would receive questioning or angry glances, but no one said anything more. Taxes, proposed bills, budgets, and other future issues were all being bickered over. Myrddin couldn’t help but chuckle.

“What’s amusing?” Unspeakable Onyx asked.

“Over eight centuries of governing, changes, supposed evolution, and yet, those in charge still bicker like small children.”

Unspeakable Onyx let out their own chuckle at that. “I may not be as old as you, but from what I’ve seen and heard, I believe you’re right.”

Finally, after four hours, the meeting ended. Myrddin’s companion stood quickly, muttering a quiet “Come.” He followed the Unspeakable, slipping away before anyone could ask them questions. He was led into the Department of Mysteries, and to Silence’s office.

“Hello. I do hope that the meeting went well,” Silence greeted, waving Myrddin to a seat.

“Very, though I have no doubt that some will be trying to stick their noses into things.”

“As is usual. We have our own ways of discouraging that, as I’m sure you do. Now, I’m aware you remember that we directly serve Magic, and Magic’s appointed representatives. If at all possible, we, the Department of Mysteries, would like to have a liaison between us and the Royal Family. If the Crown Princess is willing, of course. She is undoubtedly being cautious, but we only wish to aid her.”

“I will ask her,” Myrddin promised.

“Thank you.”

“Myrddin, I already heard you made a ruckus, but please, tell me, or show me, what you did!” Ellie said eagerly, running to meet him at the entrance to Lord Somerset’s home. Close behind her was Sirius, grinning like crazy. He and Arcturus had already arrived at Edward’s home, where she had been having lessons from the man and Sarah. Both of her guardians had refused to tell her more than the meeting had been interesting.

“Of course, Princess.” Myrddin told her. Ellie frowned.

“Stop calling me that all the time!”

“But it’s your title, and who you are. I could call you Your Highness.”

“That’s even worse!”

“Then, if you would simply be willing to put up with me? I have lived a long life after all, and many of my ancient manners are hard to break habits,” Myrddin said. That brought Ellie up short. She hadn’t considered things like that.

“Oh. Then. . .I suppose I can compromise. Princess will work, I guess. If you can’t call me Eleanor.”

“Thank you.”

“Now can you please tell me about the session?”

“Very well,” Myrddin agreed, amused. Sometimes, it was wonderful to see Ellie acting her actual age.

“I have a Pensive, if you wish to watch,” Edward called, amused himself. Ellie turned and smiled.

“Yes, please!” She and Myrddin set to it, while the adults talked amongst themselves. When she and Myrddin came back up from viewing the memories, Ellie sat back, thoughtful.

“I’ve been learning a lot, but it’s hard to believe that as Queen, I’ll actually have that much power.”

“Technically, you have that power now. Some things aren’t official yet, but still,” Myrddin corrected. Ellie’s eyes widened. Then, she glanced back to the Pensive.

“I know the Ministry will be a mess for a while after this, and try to take control. Will they be able to?”

“Technically, no. They can pass all the laws they want, but it doesn’t mean that it’s actually lawful, or that you can’t overturn them. Or that your allies can’t prevent certain measures. Your allies do hold a considerable amount of power.” Ellie laughed. That much was true.

“Although. . .I’d like to meet one of the Unspeakables you spoke with. I’m sure Silence is busy, and they did mention a liaison. So. . .maybe Unspeakable Onyx? They seemed considerate and I wouldn’t mind knowing more about the Department of Mysteries. I trust them, after a fashion, because they helped out previously.”

“I think arrangements can be made.” 


It took a couple of weeks for schedules and proper arrangements to align. Ellie was involved in a learning capacity. She was to observe the logistics of everything, and understand how she might go about arranging a meeting with a relatively important person (she had learned that the Department of Mysteries actually directly served Magic, and the ruler of magical Britain, seeing the ruler as a direct representation of the Lady and Lord of Magic. That, had been absolutely fascinating to learn.) It was very interesting, since she wanted to actually meet the person Myrddin had conversed with, not just a person from the department. She didn’t want to just demand things, so along with the request, she sent an explanation; that she had admired the poise of the Unspeakable, the fact that they had handled the intense questioning from the Wizengamot so well, and the professional yet friendly demeanor they showed Myrddin. She also added that of course, she was interested in a relationship between the department and the Royal Family. In addition, she sent a thank you for the Unspeakables’ discretion.

The reply, from Silence of course, was very courteous, and they were more than happy to enter into a working relationship with her. They also appreciated her explanation and had no problem with her wanting to talk to Unspeakable Onyx. If the meeting went well, they would become the main liaison between her and the department. If it didn’t go well, further negotiations would take place. Right now, they all wanted to have people that they could actually work with, since this relationship was so new.

On the day of the meeting, Lady Northumberland met her and Cassiopeia at eight in the morning, five hours before her meeting.

“Good morning, Eleanor. Good morning, Cassiopeia. Let’s get you ready.” Between the two women, Ellie had been slowly been building up a more royal wardrobe. Myrddin had provided memories of past styles, which had assisted.

Today’s outfit was going to be a beautiful forest green dress, with long sleeves that came to an elegant point at her wrist. Embroidery in gold dressed up the cuffs a bit. The skirt reached down to her ankles, with tasteful embroidery done in silver. The neckline was in the shape of a ‘v’ with a small jewel at the point. The bodice had a mix of gold and silver embroidery, yet nothing too extravagant. In all, it was elegant, tasteful, and timeless. Ellie sighed in happiness as she slipped into the dress. It was so soft! Made of acromantula silk, which she had never even touched before.

Her hair was done with tiny braids going around the crown of her head, flowing into a twist that fell artfully over one shoulder, held in place by glittering pins. Since it was a somewhat formal meeting, Ellie had to wear her circlet. Her pendant lay securely in place, and her vambraces were snug on top of the long sleeves of the dress, magically shifting so they lay smoother. It was so weird to be in such luxurious materials, and she felt a stab of guilt.

“Eleanor?” Cassiopeia asked. Ellie shook her head.

“Sorry.”

“What’s wrong?”

“I just. . .I’m so lucky, and so many people aren’t. And I’m. . . I’m not really used to this sort of thing. I just. . .made do. Survived.”

“Eleanor, even if you weren’t the Crown Princess, we still love you and care for you. You know that, right?” Cassiopeia told her. Ellie didn’t meet her aunt’s eyes. “

Yes. I mean. . .I didn’t even find out about all this until pretty recently. . .”

“And it’s alright to still not be recovered from the awful place you were in. It’s going to take time. That’s why you speak to Cora and Liam.”

“What. . .what about those who don’t have even a fraction of this? I feel bad to be like this, when they’re not. Especially since I know what it’s like not to have all this. . .this luxury.”

“I see no reason why you can’t help them. For instance, you’re going to grow out of this dress eventually. Why not donate it?”

“I like that idea.”

“We can work out a system later,” Cassiopeia promised. Ellie felt better after that, and started to work on getting herself into a more ‘royal’ mindset. She had been coached, but it was still very different from how she usually acted.

“There! You look lovely,” Cassiopeia said, helping the house elves and Lady Northumberland put the very final touches on.

“And like a proper crown princess, too!” Lady Northumberland added. Ellie smiled.

“Thank you.”

“Now, an early lunch, and last minute instructions.”

Unspeakable Onyx glanced at the clock in their office. It was nearly time to go to meet the Crown Princess. They had to admit, they were a bit nervous. Who wouldn’t be, if your department directly served Magic, and a chosen Hand of Magic reappeared after nearly three centuries. And, they had been asked for personally by the Crown Princess. Apparently, they had made an impression on her representative during the Wizengamot session. They were also very curious as to just who the Crown Princess was, and how old she might be. The department honestly had no more clue on those questions than the rest of the British magical world. However, the department had no wish to control her, like everyone else did. The answers they were seeking were more curiosities, and useful information in order to make any future interactions a bit smoother.

Finally, at twenty minutes to one in the afternoon, Unspeakable Onyx stood, activated the floo, and traveled to the address they had been given. They stepped out into a beautiful and ornate receiving room, and with a bit of wandless magic, got rid of any residual soot on their robes. A house elf in a smart looking shirt and trousers popped into being.

“Are you the Unspeakable that is expected?”

“I am. I am Unspeakable Onyx.”

“Wait here.” Unspeakable Onyx did so, waiting quite patiently. They were early, after all, but it was better to be early, rather than late. Within a minute or so, the elf popped back. “Follow me.” Unspeakable Onyx once again did as they were told, following the elf along several corridors and up a few flights of stairs before reaching a set of double doors. The elf snapped their fingers and the doors opened.

“Unspeakable Onyx is here.”

“Let them in.” A young, calm voice answered. Unspeakable Onyx stepped into the room. It was a well lit, airy study, filled with books and comfortable looking chairs and tables. A woman sat at one of the desks, filled with paperwork and an ink pot, quill, with her wand to the side. She didn’t look up from her work, but Unspeakable Onyx had no doubt she had noticed their entry. Myrddin sat at another desk, a bit closer to the windows. He also had paperwork at his desk, though he had paused to acknowledge their presence. And finally, closest to the windows, sitting in a window seat with a book on her lap, sat the young Crown Princess.

“Crown Princess Eleanor, may I present Unspeakable Onyx, from the Department of Mysteries,” Myrddin told her.

Unspeakable Onyx felt their jaw drop. Thankfully, their hood and the spells on it hid that reaction. Getting over their shock, they approached, stopping perhaps ten feet away and bowed deeply.

“Your Highness.”

“Unspeakable Onyx. It’s a pleasure to meet you face to face. Myrddin was kind enough to show me his memories of the Wizengamot session, and I was impressed by your ability to handle people and politics alike. Please, sit.” Unspeakable Onyx did so, feeling the calm, yet curious gaze of Eleanor on them.

“My superior had mentioned that I was asked for specifically,” they ventured. Eleanor’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

“May I assume they didn’t tell you why?”

“No. I had assumed that there was simply a request for me.” A slight frown was all that signaled her displeasure.

“I see. I sent my explanation along with my request. I don’t see a need to simply demand things without reason. There are exceptions, of course, but in this case, I would rather you know why you were sent for. As I said previously, your handling of both people and politics was quite impressive.”

“Very courteous of you, Your Highness,” Unspeakable Onyx told her, inclining their head.

“Thank you. Now, as I understand it, and please correct me if I’m wrong, but the Department of Mysteries actually doesn’t serve the Ministry of Magic. They might assist, and give information if the situation calls for it, but their first priority is to serve the Lady and Lord of Magic, and by extension, any of those specifically chosen by Magic, such as the heir to the throne.”

“That is correct, your highness.”

“Good. I wanted to make sure we were on the same page. Now, may I ask what some of those duties might be?” Unspeakable Onyx leaned back slightly. They had expected this.

“For one, we act as a bit of a spy and research network, as well as historians.”

“Lady Northumberland mentioned that the head of the Unspeakables was also the head of the magical part of MI6. Just how closely does the Department of Mysteries work with the mundane world’s government?” Eleanor asked curiously. Unspeakable Onyx inclined their head. They had not anticipated that question, but answered it regardless.

“In some cases, quite closely. It does depend on the situation. Usually, we will exchange information, and if there’s a case or situation that involves magic, we will handle it. But we will go even deeper undercover than most in MI6, if needed. For the research, we study just about everything, including any magical history we can get our hands on. Information, in any situation, is vital. We keep records of everything we find. We also deal with the more. . .nebulous aspects of magic and life. We study time, prophecies, even death.”

“This is a broad overview of your duties, I assume.”

“Correct. And since we technically serve you, if there was a particular project you had in mind, we could potentially look into it.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, thank you. Now, I think I have heard enough to make a decision. Would you be willing to serve as my liaison between the Royal Family and the Department of Mysteries? You would be giving me information, and transferring it, working with a few higher ups within MI6, and relating any requests I might have to the department.”

“I would be honored to do so, Your Highness,” Unspeakable Onyx replied, surprised but pleased.

“Then, please sign this contract.” Eleanor handed them a contract, and they read through it. It contained secrecy clauses, honesty clauses, a couple of contingencies, but also held a large degree of freedom and flexibility. And of course, it didn’t invalidate the one that they already had with their department.

“It’s very clear. I commend you for drawing up a contract like this,” they complimented, though they did wonder if the goblins had a hand in this. Certainly Eleanor’s advisors did.

“It is not my area of expertise,” Eleanor admitted.

“Yet it is a good sign that you know your limitations.”

“Thank you.”

“If I may be frank, Your Highness?”

“Yes. I hope one day all of my advisors can be friends with me.”

“I think I would like that. But I wasn’t expecting the crown princess to be, well, you,” Unspeakable Onyx said carefully. Eleanor smiled.

“I wasn’t expecting it either.”

“In this case, I wish you to know my full identity, your highness.”

“Are you sure, Unspeakable Onyx? I’m aware that your identity must be protected.”

“I am sure,” they confirmed, lowering their hood. He smiled gently at his niece’s shocked expression. Honestly, probably the only reason he hadn’t known of her position was because he had been at work a lot, and was still working on moving into Blackmoor, to keep everything discreet. The shock on Ellie’s face then swiftly changed to anger.

“You. . .how much have you told your superiors? How many of my secrets have been spread? And how far?” Ellie asked, standing sharply. Regulus was very aware of both Myrddin and the woman standing tensely behind him, wands drawn and raised. He braced himself for spell fire, but before anyone could act, Ellie held up a hand, stopping both adults in their tracks. Her icy gaze never left Regulus’s face. “Explain yourself,” she snapped. Her sharp glare told Regulus he had better make it fast. That degree of iciness she definitely inherited from the Blacks.

“I do want to protect you. The issue of Sentinels and Guides having vanished from Britain is one that we’ve been looking into for quite some time. All I told the others was that the Prime pack was back. We have a working relationship with the ICW and the International Consortium. They’ve been concerned over Britain’s situation, and when my gifts were discovered, the rest of the department also got checked. There’s been a few Sentinels and Guides discovered, and we suspect foul play, but it’s much too dangerous to give out details yet. So only the Consortium is aware that the Prime pack is back, and that fact is all the Department of Mysteries is aware of, too. I wouldn’t dare betray a family member, much less a minor.”

“So our identities. . .” Ellie started. Regulus nodded.

“Are unknown. My colleagues believe I was simply able to find out more information through family connections.”

“And the other pack?”

“Also unknown. The DOM is aware there is another pack besides the Prime, but the Consortium does not.”

“And. . . and the other matter?” Ellie asked hesitantly.

“Again, they believe I received a lead through family connections. I went personally to the Horde to make a few requests and exchange information. The treasure hunt has been something I’ve been looking into, since I was the one who brought the locket in.”

“Okay. I. . .okay.” Ellie took several breaths, relaxing a bit.

“Ellie, for right now, we’re not in a meeting. No titles. Just uncle and niece. Let me help,” Regulus told her gently. Ellie went to him and collapsed in his arms, crying. Regulus soothed her, projecting love, calm, peace, safety, and reassurance. He still sensed the wary presences of Myrddin and the woman behind him, but not interfering. When Ellie had calmed, he carefully probed again, knowing that she was hiding something, and had been from when they had first met.

“You’re still stressed. I know you’ve been keeping some things locked up. Want to talk to me about it?”

Ellie took several deep breaths. “As long as you promise not to tell anyone else.”

“I won’t tell anyone, unless you give me explicit permission,” he promised. Ellie’s eyes flicked over his shoulder. “He’s safe.” The two other adults returned to their desks, but still watched the pair carefully. Regulus listened with growing amazement as Ellie told him everything. Her previous life, the arrangement made, her arrival back in time. At that, he had to laugh.

“What?”

“Those who study time have been driven nuts. They’re completely perplexed as to why the time fields were in flux for a while, and other things I barely understand. Time, is not my specialty.”

“But you won’t tell?”

“No. I promised, and I will keep that promise.” Ellie looked somewhat reassured, but still a bit worried.

“And. . . and how much do they. . .” Regulus understood her thoughts then.

“They have a few theories. Most prominent is that someone was messing around with a time turner far too often. Especially since things have since died down. There’s not really anything that points back to you and your pack.”

Ellie breathed a sigh of relief. “Good.”

“Now, continue, please,” he requested. Ellie finished her story, and Regulus shook his head at the end of her explanation, amazed and in awe of what his niece had accomplished. “Grandfather was right. You have been through so much and the way you’ve handled yourself is amazing.”

“Thank you. I think. . .it just came crashing down on me. That happens sometimes. So many things have changed.”

“They have. Have you thought about informing Aunt Cassie? And letting the guardians of the others know?”

“Just haven’t had time. And we wanted to make sure we could actually trust the adults,” Ellie muttered, with a sigh.

“Completely fair,” Regulus agreed. After a few more minutes, Ellie stood back up, and brushed out the wrinkles in her dress. She sat with a long sigh on the window seat again, and Regulus stood, understanding they were back to business, even if they hadn’t fully gone back to their roles yet.

“Why show me your identity?” She asked.

“Apart from the level of trust that you needed, a few different reasons. I wanted you to know now, rather than later. Grandfather mentioned you seemed sensitive to magic, and had Mage Sight. Not to mention your Sentinel abilities, though the Unspeakables have updated our policies with their resurgence. You’d recognize me sooner or later.” Ellie nodded.

“That makes sense. Though I don’t have full control over my abilities yet.”

“Princess?” Myrddin asked, a bit cautiously. He and the woman were still watching the pair, tense and worried. Ellie smiled at them, though it was slightly strained.

“It’s fine. Myrddin, Lady Sarah Northumberland, this is my uncle, Regulus Black.”

“I’m sorry, did you say Lady Northumberland?” Regulus asked, studying the woman with renewed interest.

“Yes. Is something wrong?”

“No, just that it’s quite a small world. She’s one of the officials in MI6 that we deal with.”

“Hmm. Have we dealt directly together?” Lady Northumberland asked. Regulus studied her, then shook his head.

“No, I don’t believe so. I have met a few of your subordinates, but not you. But I know others in the department have worked with you.”

“Yes, I thought so. I’ve met several Unspeakables, but I didn’t know if you were one or not. You don’t always give your names, after all,” Lady Northumberland said dryly. Regulus smiled at the jab, then turned back to Ellie.

“I have already signed the contract. How do you want to proceed?” Ellie hesitated, thinking.

“I can see how this might be convenient. But I don’t want to abuse my power. Is it possible that we sort of keep the roles separate? That when you and I meet, in our official roles, we keep it to Unspeakable Onyx and Princess? I made a compromise with Myrddin that he wouldn’t call me Your Highness, instead simply calling me Princess.”

“I think that would work. Otherwise we would be simply uncle and niece.”

“Right. Unless something really urgent came up, but we can deal with that when it comes.”

“Agreed.”

“A good compromise, Princess,” Myrddin approved.

“Thank you.”

“And please, Ellie, for now, I don’t wish the family to know about my position as an Unspeakable. Grandfather is the only other one who knows. I’m sure Sirius might catch on, with his own gifts, and that no secrets should be in the packs, but let’s allow things to calm down again before another surprise.”

“I won’t, I promise. It was a pleasure to meet you, Unspeakable Onyx. Please convey my greetings and thanks to the Department of Mysteries. I look forward to working with you and the department in the future,” Eleanor, the Crown Princess was back in a few seconds, and Regulus smiled as he drew up his hood again.

“As do I. Good afternoon, Princess.”

Chapter Text

“Myrddin, Sarah, Edward, I’ve been thinking,” Ellie mused, leaning back in her chair. She had been finishing the ‘homework’ Lady Northumberland had given her in her office at Blackmoor Hall. It was more like a matching game, really, to learn the names and faces of ministry officials both magical and mundane. For the magical side, she was also to learn their magical signatures. That endeavor had resulted in several field trips under her metamorphagus abilities into the ministry. Sometimes with Regulus, where she got to know the other Unspeakables. The wards and spells surrounding the department prevented her from fully remembering everything she witnessed down there, but she didn’t mention it. She knew better than that.

On other occasions, she had gone to the Ministry with Sirius, when he went to file his and Arcturus’ paperwork for the Wizengamot. Sirius had also gotten his old job back as a hit wizard, but this time, he wasn’t with the ministry. Oh, people thought he was, but he actually worked for the ICW, and was on semi-permanent assignment to keep an eye on the British ministry’s actions. Amelia knew, as did a couple of other key aurors and hit wixen.

Ellie had occasionally visited when Sirius was on desk rotation. Other times, she would accompany friends or family members who knew about her, such as Arthur. The Weasley didn’t mind showing her around his department, and she had asked why he and Perkins were so overlooked. Wasn’t their job very important, and essential for keeping the Statute of Secrecy? Arthur had told her that it was, but with the current attitude towards muggles, most in the ministry didn’t care. Additionally, their department struggled because education on modern muggle society for pureblood and halfblood wixen raised in the magical world was horrible. Ellie had raised the possibility of hiring a muggleborn to his staff, and Arthur had brightened at the idea. Two weeks later, his department was doing better than ever at their jobs, even if most of the ministry still looked down on them.

After all her visits, Ellie reckoned she actually knew the ministry layout pretty well by now. She had also used all of those visits to carefully gather information. There had been multiple visits to the Department of Education, or at least their records room, and she hadn’t been happy with what she had found.

“What about?” Sarah asked.

“The exchange program that used to exist. Hogwarts used to be so enriched by foreign students, and now it’s not. To say nothing of the classes that have been gotten rid of over the years. Hogwarts is one of the lowest ranked schools on the ICW lists. Apprenticeships and sponsorships for mundane-born were both taken away. I want to start fixing some of that, but…I know I can’t do everything. I’d at least like to start reaching out to various royal families, hopefully to restart some semblance of the exchange programs.”

“I think that’s a good idea, building magical allies,” Sarah approved. “Returning Hogwarts to the ranking it once had is a noble goal. Hard work, but a good idea.”

“Ah, but anything worth doing always takes hard work,” Edward teased.

“True enough.” Ellie smiled at her advisors, who had slowly relaxed into being her friends when not in official discussions. She loved listening to them banter amongst themselves, and she actually learned quite a bit through those occasions.

“In this case, I believe this will be a perfect time for a geography and magical world lesson,” Myrddin added.

“Did I hear 'magical world lesson'?” A familiar baritone voice asked cheerfully. Ellie looked to the doorway, and smiled.

“Uncle Reg! Grandfather! Papa!” All three men enjoyed the hugs she gave them, before she returned to her chair and they sat on a comfortable sofa she kept for guests.

“What is the subject of this lesson?” Regulus asked curiously.

“Eleanor wants to reach out to the other magical royal families. She likes the idea of the exchange programs that used to exist. As such, Myrddin suggested a lesson on geography, and the wider magical world,” Sarah explained.

Arcturus smiled slowly, a glint in his eye. “Ah. Then in that case, follow me.” Ellie did so happily, followed by her advisors, Sirius, and Regulus. Arcturus led them all to the library, and summoned several books, scrolls, and large folded pieces of parchment. Ellie unfolded one of them to reveal an intricate map of the entire magical world.

“Wow.”

“Actually, I think this would be a very good lesson for your pack mates to sit in on,” Sirius suggested.

Ellie lit up. “That would be awesome! Would you three stay, since the pack knows about my status?” she requested, turning to her advisors.

Edward smiled. “I suppose it is not something you could keep easily from Sentinels and Guides. Very well.”

It took barely fifteen minutes for the entire pack to arrive, since they often came to Blackmoor Hall for lessons and to spend time together.

“Hi Ellie!” Ginny chirped, one of the first to arrive in the library. Fred and George were on her tail, and bounded forward to cheerfully mess up her hair, while loudly greeting her. Ellie grinned. Winter break was awesome, since the twins could actually visit. The twins knew about the time travel, since the pack had all agreed on no secrets. It had only strengthened their bonds. Luna followed after with a peaceful smile and gentle hug. The boys had arrived earlier in the day, but had been kept busy with other lessons before they could join her. Finally, Hermione showed up, with a quick apology. Her parents had asked if she could stay at Blackmoor, for they were going to a convention to exchange techniques with other dentists. Arcturus had of course agreed, so Hermione had needed to pack.

“It’s so good to see you all!” Ellie said happily, keeping a hold on her Guide’s hand. She had been so busy lately that she hadn't been able to spend as much time with Hermione as she wished, so she took every chance she had to hold her close.

“What are we learning about today?” Neville asked eagerly. Lessons with the entire pack were often more fun and interesting than individual lessons.

“Magical geography,” Regulus answered, indicating the maps. Before they could actually start the lesson, Sirius strode over to the group, a grin on his face.

“Ellie, your lesson needs to wait a minute. There’s someone I want you to meet.” Sirius led her to the Floo receiving room, where a young, shabby-looking man was standing. Ellie recognized him at once. “Ellie, meet my friend, Remus Lupin. Remus, this is Ellie.”

“I’ve heard so many stories! Papa says you were the most sane of the Mauraders,” Ellie told the werewolf eagerly. And even more than that, she simply loved seeing him again. She had missed him almost as much as Sirius when he had died. She couldn’t help but imprint on as many senses as she could. After all, Remus was family.

The man looked a little startled, but after a quick glance at Sirius, he started to smile. “That’s a high compliment. I got into plenty of mischief alongside them.”

“I know. I look forward to getting to know you better. Papa says you’re a really good teacher, and I’d love to learn from you, or be able to ask you for help.” Remus’ eyes widened, and he looked at Sirius in shock.

“Sirius?”

“I’ll explain. There’s a lot we have to catch up on, Moony old friend,” Sirius promised. “In the meantime, Ellie’s got a lesson upstairs in the library with some friends of hers. It should prove interesting, so feel free to come and watch.” Ellie smiled again, then raced back to the library, eager to get back to her pack.

“Okay…” Remus agreed warily. He followed Sirius up to the massive library, to see a rather large group. Ellie, easily recognizable by her dark hair, sat on comfortable cushions on the floor with seven other children around her age. She sat closest to a girl with bushy dark brown hair. There was a red-haired girl with freckles in the group, likely a Weasley. Two more redheads, identical looking boys, and undoubtedly the girl’s brothers. Another girl with white-blond hair, but none of the aristocratic features of a Malfoy. There was, however, a Malfoy boy in the group, who, unbelievably, was sitting closest to the Weasley girl. And the Weasley brothers were unbothered by it. Finally, there was a brown-haired boy that reminded him of Alice. Probably her son, Neville. Most of the adults in the room, he didn’t recognize, but he could guess that the older man with silver hair was Sirius’ grandfather, and the younger black-haired man was…no, that couldn’t be…

“Everyone, this is an old friend of mine, Remus Lupin. Remus, this is my grandfather Arcturus, my aunt Cassiopeia, you remember Regulus—yes, that’s part of the long story,” Sirius told him, catching the werewolf’s expression. “Then we have a few new friends; Sarah, Edward, and Myrddin. Ellie’s friends are Hermione, Draco, Neville, Luna, Ginny, Fred, and George.”

“Quite a group,” Remus managed, before sitting in a chair that Sirius had offered to him. Sirius just grinned.

“Right. Reg, you taking this?”

“No, Grandfather is.”

Arcturus stood, and waved his wand. A beautifully intricate map of the entire world rose to float in front of everyone. “Alright. Now as you all know, there are wixen around the world. Britain often likes to ignore that fact, thinking that we are superior, but you know full well that’s not true.”

“How did Britain get so…” The girl with bushy hair, Hermione asked.

“Xenophobic?” Luna finished. Hermione hesitated.

“Well that’s only one part of it…”

“Arrogant?” Ginny asked, sending a teasing smirk over to Draco. He only raised an eyebrow.

“That’s too simple,” Hermione sighed.

“But kinda accurate!” Ginny protested. Arcturus sighed, and let out a small burst of light and sound with his wand. Ellie, Neville, Fred, and Ginny winced a little, but Arcturus knew that it hadn’t been too loud or bright for them. Remus watched the interaction with interest, so many questions running through his head. Last he knew, there was a blood feud between the Malfoys and the Weasleys, so how was the small group in front of him getting along so well? What had been with the winces?

“Britain has a long imperialistic history that both the wixen and mundane worlds share. With them conquering and ruling so many countries around the world, they viewed any culture as lesser than theirs. That attitude still sticks around today, to the extent that it makes the magical side blind to the achievements of others. The mundane world is better about that attitude these days, but not by much.”

A collective “ohh” raised from the kids.

“That’s not right,” Ellie grumbled.

“And that is why international connections and travel are so important,” Regulus chimed in. Ellie flashed a smile at him.

“Can we all travel as a group this summer then?” Neville asked, a little hesitantly. Immediately, all of the kids lit up.

Arcturus chuckled. “I don’t see why not. We’ll start talking to your families and see what we can arrange.”

“Yes!” The kids exchanged triumphant high fives, with the adults watching in amusement.

“Moving on. There are, of course, magical schools around the world to help teach wixen. Who knows the names and rough locations?”

“Hogwarts in the Scottish Highlands,” Hermione said promptly. Arcturus nodded, and flicked his wand to mark the location on the map.

“Beauxbatons is somewhere in France,” Ellie added.

“Beauxbatons is in the Pyrenees Mountains, which make up the border between France and Spain.” Draco blushed at the various surprised looks his friends gave him. “What? The Malfoy family originated in France, and so I’ve had a lot of lessons about the country.” The staring lasted a little longer, before Ginny started to grin, and poked him.

“That…explains so much, pretty boy.”

“Hey!” The two engaged in a quick poking war, and Remus had to cover his laughter. The Weasley twins didn’t bother, and were outright cackling at their little sister’s game. He had never expected a Malfoy to be so…well, un-aristocratic. Arcturus had to let out another burst of light and sound to get the two to pay attention again.

“Durmstrang is the other major school in Europe, somewhere in the far north,” Luna offered. Arcturus nodded again.

“Not bad. Durmstrang is somewhere in the furthest northern reaches of Norway. Most people don’t know that, but when you have a library such as the Blacks do…”

“And you’re one of the longest-lived families…” Regulus added with a smirk.

All the kids except Ellie sighed, and Draco grumbled, “Ellie, you’re so lucky.” Ellie raised her eyebrows at all of them.

“Hey, you guys technically have access to all of this too. So we’re all lucky.”

Draco huffed again. “True.”

“Not too surprising that you know of the schools in Europe. Any others?” Arcturus continued.

“There’s Castelobruxo in Brazil. Bill told us about a pen pal he had there. It’s somewhere in the Amazon rainforest,” Ginny said. Arcturus nodded again.

“Well done.” Silence followed for a while. Remus was surprised once again. He had not expected such a lesson from Arcturus Black of all people. He also hadn’t expected this group of children to have such knowledge of schools outside of Hogwarts.

“Nothing else?” Arcturus asked. A couple of them shook their heads. Remus looked over the four circles with labels on the map. They really hadn’t done badly.

“Those four schools can’t cover the entire world, so—”

“— There has to be more schools located in strategic spots around the world.”

“Most likely at least one in Africa—”

“—And Asia. Even if we don’t know where they are,” the twins concluded. Arcturus nodded in approval.

“Very well reasoned. There is a school, Ilvermorny, in the United States. It is in the state of Massachusetts on the eastern coast of the country. Then there is Koldovstoretz, in Russia, Mahoutokoro in Minami Iwo Jima Japan, and Uagadou in the Mountains of the Moon, located in Uganda. In China, there is Mófa Xuéxiào located close to Xi’an, and in the Taurus Mountains in Turkey there is Büyü Okulu. Finally, Madjedbebe in the Northern Territory of Australia.” Again, Arcturus marked each location.

“That…seems like a lot?” Ellie ventured, looking very thoughtful.

“It’s actually not. Those are just the eleven major schools fully accredited by the ICW. Though as we’ve discussed, Hogwarts is on the brink of losing its accreditation. There are many smaller schools scattered around the world, and many countries choose to have their magical population educated at home,” Sirius piped up for the first time. Ellie looked back at him, then at the other adults in the room.

“Do those schools take students only from the country that they’re located in, and maybe neighboring countries?” For this, Arcturus glanced at Regulus who smiled and sat forward.

“Not completely. Some countries or regions are so big that a school only serves that particular nation. For example, Koldovstoretz serves only students in Russia, and Madjedbebe serves Australia and the closest islands. Oh, and Mahoutokoro serves only students in Japan. Other schools, such as Ilvermorny, Castelobruxo, and Uagadou serve an entire continent. Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, Durmstrang, Mófa Xuéxiào, and Büyü Okulu serve multiple countries.”

“I thought Beauxbatons only was a French school!” exclaimed Draco.

“Nope. They take students from France, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Belgium. Also a few other countries in the area, I think.” Draco nodded at the new information, deep in thought.

Hermione spoke up in the silence that followed. “If Durmstrang is in Norway, do they pull from more Northern European countries?”

Regulus nodded in approval. “They also accept students from Eastern Europe. Mófa Xuéxiào pulls students from pretty much all of Southern and Southeast Asia. Büyü Okulu takes students from the entire Middle East region.”

“Do all the schools accept international or exchange students?” Ellie asked. There seemed to be something else underlying that question, especially when she glanced at the three adults who were seated on the other side of the kids.

“They used to. Nowadays, most stick to regional areas,” Sarah answered. Ellie sighed again.

“The world seems so far apart.”

“That is what multiple wars in both the mundane and magical worlds will do. The mundane world has been in some sort of conflict almost nonstop for centuries. Honestly, the magical world isn’t much better. But the last two centuries have been particularly brutal,” one of the men (Remus couldn't recall his name) said, a bit grimly. None of the children looked truly surprised.

“So the same thing that happened to Britain also happened to the other communities,” Neville concluded.

“Unfortunately, yes. And contrary to what many wixen think, the mundane world’s events can affect us, and vice versa,” confirmed Sarah. After that, the kids seemed to settle into a thoughtful, if slightly somber, silence.

Remus looked at the one person in the room that he knew well and raised his eyebrows questioningly. Sirius cocked his head, as if to say, 'What?' and in response Remus just narrowed his eyes and then rolled them, conveying 'Really? You have to ask?' His friend smothered a grin, and it struck Remus that this was the first time since...well, probably since before the war that the two of them had been able to hold one of their infamous silent conversations. Warmth suffused him, but he forced his smile down. He still didn't know what was going on, and while he trusted Sirius with his life, years of believing him to be guilty of betraying James and Lily left him hesitant to relax (even though he'd been proven innocent, without Remus' help, because of course Remus was useless and had completely let his best friend down and left him trapped in hell for eight years without even putting up a fight—what kind of friend was he, how could he let down his pack—)

Remus took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. He noticed the kids, Regulus, and the man whose name he couldn't recall glancing at him, and prayed to Merlin that no one had noticed his spiral. Before anyone could say anything, Sirius clapped his hands together.

“I’m going to catch up with Remus for a while. See you later!” Remus rose to follow his friend, grateful for the reprieve. Sirius led them through Blackmoor Hall to an office that Remus immediately knew was his own. The room was covered in Sirius' scent, from the large, ornately carved wooden desk (was that a mundane swivel chair?) to the small sitting area that included a leather couch and, of all things, a mundane-style reclining chair. Clutter covered the surfaces available in the office, and Remus spotted a record player, a wixen wireless, origami animals and flowers, and a small, somehow wilting cactus. The walls were dotted with posters of quidditch players and mundane bands that Lily had introduced them to back in Hogwarts, as well as wixen photographs of Sirius and Ellie at various locations, sometimes accompanied by Ellie's friends; some showing a peaceful scene of the two of them cuddling, and several of Ellie or Sirius chasing after the other, covered in the remains of one prank or another.

“The cactus was a gag gift from Ellie when we finally chose our offices. The recliner was my idea, against the wishes of my grandfather, of course. I'm still trying to convince him it's amazingly comfortable and he needs to give it a try before judging it.” Startled out of his examination of the room, Remus looked at where Sirius had settled onto the couch. The Black flashed him a smile, and Remus' heart panged at the familiarity of the expression. He had missed that smile; more of a smirk, really, but softer than the look Sirius would get after a successful prank or particularly witty joke. A smile that had been reserved only for his closest friends. Sirius patted the cushion beside him, and Remus tentatively made his way over and sat. For a moment, all was quiet while Sirius seemed to study his face, his smile turning to something more melancholy. Remus tried not to miss it too much. “You okay there, Moony? You seem a little lost in your head.”

“I'm fine,” he said automatically. At his friend's raised brow, he winced. “It's just been a lot. It's…really good to see you, Sirius.”

“It's good to see you too, Remus,” Sirius replied softly. They stared at each other for a moment, until Sirius cleared his throat and nodded his head decisively. “So Moony, what did you think of the lesson?”

Remus took a bit to respond, trying to get his thoughts in order. “It was unexpected, that's for sure. The international geography lesson itself, the fact that Arcturus and your younger brother, who is supposed to be dead, were teaching, the fact that Ellie has such a diverse group of friends…speaking of which, just where has she been? Dumbledore assured everyone that she was safe and being brought up properly, yet somehow I don’t think he would have considered Blacks and Malfoys to be part of that.”

“About that…Dumbledore isn’t the great wizard everyone thinks he is,” Sirius said, his voice going hard. That brought Remus up short. He had always held Dumbledore in high regard, the man had let him attend Hogwarts after all. Yet…no other werewolves had been asked to join. That…still bothered him.

“What do you mean?”

“Moony, his idea of 'safe' was in the house of Lily’s sister and her husband, known magic haters.”

“He didn’t!” Remus growled. Ellie was his cub, he might not like his nature, but he had never minded the pack bonds that had come with it.

“He did. The night that I went to Godric’s Hollow, and let Hagrid have my motorbike? He absolutely swore that Dumbledore had a place for her. I planned to fight that, but wanted to make sure that things were a bit safer for Ellie, and I trusted Dumbledore at the time, so I hunted down Peter. And you know how that ended.” Remus winced. Through their letters, they had already discussed Sirius’ wrongful imprisonment, and how he was seeing healers. But this…Remus knew full well that Sirius would give anything to make sure his loved ones were safe and happy.

“Merlin, Sirius, I’m sorry. How bad was it?”

“Physical, mental, and emotional abuse from the time that she was left on the doorstep, to the time she was rescued. Nearly eight years, Moony.” The temperature dropped as Remus growled.

“How did you even find her?”

“The goblins, and Hermione. Ellie awakened as a Sentinel because of all the abuse, and Hermione knew her Sentinel was in trouble. Couple of targeting spells later, and they found her. Goblin magic is quite different, so any of the spells put on Ellie to prevent her from being found were rendered null.”

That brought Remus up short. “Sentinel?”

Sirius grinned wryly. “Yep. Gone to the bank like I asked in my letters yet?”

“Not yet. I wanted to speak with you first.” Unspoken yet still clearly heard was that he had also simply wanted more information.

“Do it soon,” Sirius advised. “Others also awakened, and the goblins tested those who came in, as well as their families, for potions and compulsions. It wasn’t pretty.”

Remus sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose. “This is a lot to take in, Padfoot.”

“I know, Moony. But I assure you it’s real,” Sirius took his hand and squeezed comfortingly. Remus was glad to feel that his body was naturally slightly warm. In their letters, Sirius had mentioned that his body ran cold after Azkaban, and he'd been going through treatment to try and restore the natural order of his body after years of close proximity to dementors.

“I trust you, and Dumbledore certainly isn’t a friend of mine after what he did to Ellie. But things are still hard.”

“I’ve been talking with Reg and Grandfather to see what we might be able to do. You’re not the only creature who has been suffering.”

“That’s another thing. I thought Regulus was dead, and I thought you didn’t like your family,” Remus pointed out. Sirius chuckled, a bit ruefully.

“Most of them, I still don’t like. But I was under a lot of compulsions too. So I’ve made up with the ones I do like. As for Reg, one of the Black family elves saved him. He kept that a secret for years to protect the family.”

“Something tells me there’s more to all of this,” Remus said, searching his best friend’s face. Sirius just shrugged.

“I can’t tell you anymore. Family secrets, among others.”

“Got it. I think I’m going to head to the bank now.”

“Keep in touch, Moony, and visit often. Ellie wants to get to know her Uncle Moony.”

“She really thinks of me that way?” Remus asked hesitantly.

“Remus, we had a brother bond between the four of us. Ellie knows this. She also knows Peter betrayed us. And, I’ve blood and magically adopted her, so I am one of her parents. So with all of that….yeah, she sees you as an uncle.”

“I…”

“You’ve just got a furry problem. You’re still a person. Oh, and the goblins might have something to help with your condition. Think about it,” Sirius told him, clapping him on the shoulder.

“I…I will. I’m going to get going.”

“See you.” Sirius waited until his friend had completely vanished into the green flames. He had imprinted on sight, sound, touch, and smell almost automatically. Yet what should have been a familial-like imprinting…felt like it was something more. Something resonating deep inside himself. He needed to do more research on Sentinels to find out what that all meant. In the meantime, he headed back to the heartbeats he had kept an ear on. When Sirius got back to the library, he found the entire pack pouring over the previous map Arcturus had, along with a general world map, with a few countries highlighted, and then, a list floating in midair.

“What did I miss?”

“We discussed the location of the schools a bit more. And the countries they serve,” Luna answered dreamily.

“Sarah has a list of royal families around the world, both mundane and magical. Some of them are actually the same!” Ellie added on happily. That threw Sirius for a bit of a loop.

“Okay…” Ellie glanced up, and smiled.

“Well, if exchange programs are possible, then I want to know who the other royal families are, where their mundane counterparts are, and what schools they might be going to.”

“Smart. So, what do you have?”

“Well, there’s twenty-seven mundane monarchies around the world right now. Most of them have magical counterparts, but some don’t.”

“Which ones don’t?” Sirius asked curiously.

“The Vatican, headed by the Pope, doesn’t. But that also makes sense because the Pope is the head of the Catholic Church, which is a mundane religion,” Hermione explained, pointing to a name that was crossed off.

Sirius snorted. “Imagine inviting the Pope to Hogwarts as part of an exchange program.” The kids all snickered along with him.

“Malaysia also doesn’t have a counterpart, their mundane monarch is elected every five years.” Neville answered once everyone had calmed down a bit.

“Wait, seriously?” Ginny asked, interested.

“I’m Sirius!” Sirius protested. Ellie groaned.

“Papa!”

“You still have it. Nice,” Regulus told him, giving him a high five and a grin.

“Back to the matter at hand. The United Arab Emirates also does not have a magical counterpart, since each province essentially has its own monarch,” Ellie explained, pointing to another name on the list that was crossed off.

“Huh. Mundane politics really has gotten interesting,” Sirius mused. He’d have to look into it more. He heard a laugh from both Sarah and Edward.

“And that is why it’s wisest to keep a foot in the mundane world so at least you know what’s going on,” Edward said, eyes laughing still.

“Cambodia’s mundane political situation is rather in chaos right now. They do have a magical counterpart, but that’s a country where the mundane and magical worlds affect each other more strongly. The magical royal family is currently in hiding,” Sarah told Ellie, tapping another point on the list. Ellie hesitated.

“Is there any way I can help them?”

“Sorry princess, but that’s not in your best interests right now. You’re practically building Britain’s monarchy from the ground up, and it’ll take years to get back to a strong position. You need all the resources you have,” Myrddin told her gently.

Ellie sighed. “That…unfortunately makes sense.”

“You have a kind heart Eleanor. When you have a bit better footing, then you might be able to reach out to them. And, sometimes situations have a way of resolving themselves, if you’re a little patient,” Cassiopeia advised. She had been simply watching everything before, but now moved closer to the young girl.

“Okay.”

“So that leaves…” Hermione muttered.

“Belgium, Denmark, Britain, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Sweden in Europe. Then Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia in the Middle East. And Bhutan, Brunei, Japan, and Thailand in Asia. Lesotho, Morocco, and Swaziland in Africa. And finally, Tonga in Oceania,” Draco reeled off. Arcturus nodded thoughtfully.

“Two dozen magical monarchies, not including Cambodia’s because they’re currently in hiding. Very interesting.”

“It gets even more interesting. Japan’s and Swaziland’s magical families are also the mundane royal family!” Ellie said, perusing the notes that Sarah had added to the papers spread out.

“Si—I mean, that’s different,” Neville hastily corrected, looking warily at Sirius. Sirius simply grinned, and ruffled the boy’s hair. Neville yelped slightly, and retreated closer to where Luna was, who put a comforting hand on his arm.

“It didn’t use to be. Many countries in Africa and Asia, along with the island nations, had their monarchs rule over both worlds. Again, the relationship between the worlds is different depending on the culture,” Sarah explained.

“But what about the Statute of Secrecy?” Hermione asked. Edward shrugged.

“It’s still kept. It’s just that the percentage of knowledgeable mundanes is higher. Besides, Sentinels and Guides in the Mundane world know about the magical world simply because it would have been impossible to hide things from their senses. So the percentage of people in the know in most countries is actually higher than most think.”

“In most countries, you have the Sentinel and Guide population, families or guardians of the mundane-born, and key people in the mundane government who all know about the magical world. Of course the general population of the magical world is smaller than the mundane, and the Consortium has its own treaties and arrangements with the magical world. So over the entire population of the world, the much larger percentage of people have no clue that magic exists,” Sarah mused. “Sentinels and Guides are actually really key in that, and an excellent middle ground. Mundane know about Sentinels and Guides, so the thought that someone has a little extra ability is normal. And relations and equality are better than they have been in some time. But, mundane Sentinels and Guides don’t quite have the same abilities as wixen, so they are aware that there’s something more out there. The Consortium often serves as a bridge if needed, and aids us with keeping our secrets, and in turn if society turns on them, we can offer them shelter.”

“Oh, and the Alpha Primes of each country often work closely with their mundane counterparts and the governments, both magical and mundane.” Edward added.

“Huh.”

“It really is all intertwined and balanced, isn’t it?” Luna said, pleased.

“Yes, it is. But as you all already know, tip the balance too far one way or another, disaster often strikes,” Myrddin told them. The time travelers all went quiet at that reminder, turning to pack bonds and each other to soothe the awful memories. The adults, all aware of their history, stayed nearby in case any of the kids needed them. Thankfully, the combination of their gifts and therapy for all of them had helped enormously, and it was easier to work through the memories.

“So do all of the magical royal families attend the magical schools?” Ginny asked, changing the subject.

“Tonga doesn’t. That nation is one of the ones that prefers to homeschool their people. Brunei is the same way, along with Liechtenstein, Bahrain, and Qatar,” Sarah told her.

“A lot of the smaller countries choose to homeschool their populations, and it also depends on geography. Yes, magic can help, but the countries in the Middle East still have to deal with incredibly high temperatures, and the desert. The island nations have to deal with typhoons. And sometimes, that means that it’s easier, and safer, to keep families together,” Regulus added.

Ginny asked, “So which families have school age children?”

“Bhutan, Japan, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Swaziland, Sweden, and Thailand.” Sarah pulled another page of notes out. Ellie took it to look over them.

“Hm. We’ve got family properties close to quite a few of those places,” Draco mused.

Sirius nodded in agreement, “I think we do too.”

"We do," Arcturus confirmed. 

“I’m not sure about my family. I think most of our homes are just in Britain,” Neville added. “Gran would know, I can ask her.”

“Um.” Hermione hesitated, and Ellie looked up, before smiling at her Guide.

“A tour? That might be a good idea.”

“Building allies is always important. And making connections with those your own age and in a similar position is a very good idea,” Cassiopeia agreed.

“We need to take care of one matter before this can happen,” Myrddin interjected.

“Apart from the vast amount of work that needs to go into getting Hogwarts standards back up?” Ellie asked dryly, thinking of the bills and vast amount of paperwork she was working on with the help of her Wizengamot allies. They were planning on introducing several of them during the next session, along with the issue that was Hogwarts.

“Yes, apart from that.”

“Oh?”

“The goblins have been investigating what happened to the royal family residences, and they found them. Princess Eleanor needs to claim the master wardstone, and the vaults,” Myrddin explained, teasing Ellie just a bit. Ellie drooped just a bit before Myrddin’s words fully registered and she perked back up. “It wouldn’t hurt to visit the properties either,” Myrddin finished. The entire pack lit up.

“Alright.”

Just a week later, Ellie stood in front of a large parcel of land, in the north of England. Mountains and lakes surrounded them. The ocean was to the west, not too far away. The Mundanes had named this place the Lake District, and a national park. Unknown to them, however, deep within was an area completely warded against them, and it was in this space that the primary residence for the royal family lay. Other residences were all over the country, but as the primary residence, Myrddin had insisted on unlocking this one first. Now, he stood beside her.

“Nervous, princess?”

“A bit. Aren’t you?”

“Hm. Perhaps a little. But it is also like coming home.” Ellie nodded. That made plenty of sense. Now, she needed to unlock the wards. She was very curious to see what the royal estates were like. She stepped across the ward line, knowing she’d have to find the keystone. The wards tested her, initially feeling hot against her senses, before shifting to a warm and comforting caress. Past the wards lay the estate. Ellie gasped. It was massive! And that was just from the outside! A collection of buildings were around the base of the hill, not too far from her position on the main path. A full town, possibly, though she’d have to get closer and explore. Or ask Myrddin, but where was the fun in that? Beyond the town, was a large, almost palace like structure, which was likely the royal residence. Higher on the hill, lay some manor houses, very nice ones. In different styles, too. That was interesting, and she wasn’t sure what their purpose was. Near the crown of the hill was a single house, that was fancier than the manor houses, but not obnoxiously so. Her skin prickled at the sheer amount of ambient magic in this valley, and a quick look with her mage sight revealed that the magic was…sleepy. Waiting, in a sense. A series of pops startled her, and she tensed, getting into a defensive position. Magic swirled in front of her, left over from…a series of house elves that had appeared.

“Ah, our apologies miss. We didn’t mean to startle you!” one of the elves apologized. Ellie blinked a bit, but then smiled.

“It’s alright. I thought everything in this valley would be completely dormant. I didn’t expect house elves to be here.”

“We have our own magic, and made sure the valley was kept up for the day that the royal family returned.”

“Thank you, so much. That must have been a lot of hard work.”

“It was, but it is a job we proudly do! Now miss, very few can cross the ward lines. Would you happen to be a member of the royal family?”

“I am. I am Crown Princess Eleanor, and I’m here to reclaim the ward stones.” The house elves were happy, very happy. A couple of them were nearly quivering in excitement.

“It is a pleasure to welcome you, Princess Eleanor,” the lead elf said, bowing deeply. The other elves followed suit.

“It’s wonderful to meet you all. I look forward to getting to know all of you better, and your roles here. Right now though, I’m here to claim the master ward stone.”

“Ah, that is not unexpected. Would you like to be popped directly to the wardstone, or walk through the town?”

“A walk, please.” Ellie requested. “While more exploring can wait, I’d like to at least get a proper look at the town.”

“Of course! This way please.” The lead elf remained as the others popped away.

“What’s your name?” Ellie asked as they started walking. The elf beamed.

“My name is Coby, Princess Eleanor. I am the head of all the elves for the royal family.”

“Thank you for all of your hard work, Coby.”

“Oh it has been our pleasure! We are thrilled to welcome the royal family back home!” Ellie honestly loved the town, it had a cozy feeling, but less…hmm. It was almost like an entirely new magical community, but it was one that…that seemed ready for change. She would certainly have to investigate more later. To her surprise, they walked past the palace.

“Excuse me…”

“Yes Princess Eleanor?”

“What exactly is the palace?”

“Oh, that is the school princess! It was a choice for the royal family to go to any school around the world they wanted, including the royal school.”

“Wow. I didn’t know about that!” They continued further up the hill, into a courtyard in the uppermost manor. Ellie gasped as she could feel the potent magic in the air, and the large stones inscribed with thousands of runes, reminding her a bit of the standing stones at Blackmoor. Except these were even older, and had an even bigger presence.

“The wardstones are here, Princess Eleanor.” Ellie stepped up to them, still amazed by everything she had seen. It turned out the topmost manor house on the hill was the Royal residence, and the wardstones were within the innermost courtyard of that house. And it was all so beautiful! She shook her head briefly, refocusing. With blood and magic, she claimed the wardstones. For the first time, she got a full picture of the few other residences around the country, and the properties, and just how many house elves took care of everything. It was…a lot. She sighed, she knew she had allies, and her pack, but it was all…so, so much. She thanked the royal elves again when they popped in, and went to let Myrddin into the wards. She just had to take things one step at a time.

Chapter Text

Ellie let her head thump onto her desk. She was exhausted, there was so much work to do! She may have proxies for her various seats in the Wizengamot, but she still needed to be informed of the goings-on there. There were a lot of bills that they were checking over from the last few decades, and they had caught quite a few highly suspicious additions. Now it was about wording new bills to wipe out the other ones. She couldn’t technically exercise full veto power until she was actually Queen, but at least as Crown Princess she could review and highly recommend which laws and bills needed to be edited or revoked. Unfortunately, since the Wizengamot and Ministry were wrangling for power and all trying to counter each other, and they knew she wasn’t even of school age yet (or at least the smart ones did), they often disregarded her suggestions. Therefore, it was easier to use her voting seats, and her allies to get things passed or reviewed.

That was another thing, all the training she was going through! Oh it was all necessary, and informative, and she was essentially catching up on what other heirs had the chance to learn over several years in the span of a few months at this point. She probably could have handled just the heir training on its own. But it was the royal training on top of that, and Sentinel and Guide training and politics and paperwork as well. She was staying up later than she should be, but lately she’d been getting more nightmares, and. . .she didn’t want to face them. So, she worked and studied instead. She made sure to have a few snacks and something to drink, the elves kept her supplied and at the correct temperature. She often fell asleep at her desk, waking to find her head cushioned by a pillow and a blanket over her shoulders.

Ellie glanced at the window, seeing how dark it was, and checked the clock. Midnight, and she still wasn’t sure if she wanted to try to sleep, but in the meantime she could stretch and get a snack. The girl made her way to the kitchen and peeked into the pantry, yawning all the while. She settled herself at the table with a bit of bread, fruit, and water, just mulling over what she still had to do. Suddenly snapping completely awake upon sensing an intruder nearby, the girl reached for a wand she no longer had. Growling quietly, she guided her magic to shield her, then registered who was in the room, and remembered that she was in a safe place.

“Nightmares again?” Sirius looked at her sadly from the doorway of the kitchen.

“Not...not really? I was trying to get things done, and came to get a snack. I guess I fell asleep, but I don’t remember any dreams exactly?”

Sirius sighed. “Ellie, you can’t keep working yourself to exhaustion like this. I know you wanted to catch up, and I also figured if you couldn’t sleep, then working wasn’t a bad way to pass the time. But now you’re barely sleeping at all. The bags under your eyes are so deep. When was the last time you got a full, good meal?”

“I’ve been eating! And drinking!”

“I know, sweetheart. But not enough.” Ellie flinched. “Ah, Ellie, I’m not…” Sirius cursed under his breath. “I’m just worried. I want you to be healthy, to be happy, but this…you’re not taking care of yourself properly. So I’m worried about you.”

Ellie bit her lip. “It's just, everything is just...a lot.”

“Tell me?” Her papa asked quietly.

Ellie shrugged. “It’s a lot of training, a lot of work. I don’t mind working hard, and I like making things better, and I like learning things! I’m just tired.”

“You know you can take a break. And that you have proxies.”

“But I still have to catch up on things! And I still have to keep informed!”

Sirius studied her. “I won’t say that you don’t, though you have caught up on a lot of things. But you don’t have to do all the work alone.”

Ellie gave a bitter laugh. “That’s a new one. And rarely true.” Then Ellie blinked and groaned. “I’m sorry papa, I just—”

“You have issues trusting adults to actually do their jobs. Because those morons in the past always depended on an underage witch without the necessary skills and knowledge to save their hides.” Ellie bit her lip again, but didn’t say anything. Which of course, confirmed it. Sirius hummed thoughtfully.

“Tils.” One of the kitchen house elves popped in.

“You's up early Master Sirius!”

“I know Tils. Could you bring some coffee for me, a soft chai blend for Ellie, and a bit of fruit out to the gazebo by the standing stones?”

“I will.” Sirius led Ellie to the gazebo, drawing his wand to dry off the damp bench, and to cast warming charms so they were comfortable out in the snow. A few minutes later, Tils popped in with their drinks and snacks, and also heavy, warm winter cloaks.

“You's likely to be out here a long time. You's not be getting colds on our watch!”

“Thank you, Tils.” The elf popped away, leaving the two to sit in comfortable silence. Sirius sipped at his coffee, eyeing his daughter who simply held her mug. He sighed.

“Ellie, I don’t blame you for having the mistrust you do. It makes complete sense. And, as a Black, a good dose of paranoia is a good thing. So. What can I, can we, do to help? How can we ease your burdens so that you’re not working yourself so hard? This isn’t the Dursley’s, we don’t need you to work until you drop and then some. You won’t get punished if things have to wait, or if you need a break. And we need you to stay healthy. You’ve lost a bit of weight, and your healers aren’t going to be happy about that. If you need more sessions with Liam and Cora, that’s okay. Actually, I insist on an extra session to address your nightmares and sleeping issues.” Sirius took a deep breath. “Tell me how I can help Ellie.”

Ellie said nothing for several minutes. “I honestly don’t know. I trust the family, but at the same time…”

“Even though you’ve been doing really well, I’d be shocked if there weren’t setbacks. We, and I do mean we, can work through them.”

“You have your own problems, though.”

“Yeah, I do. And I have a pushy brother, aunt, grandfather, and healer cousin who make sure I take extra care of myself when I do. It’s not the easiest.” Sirius looked over the grounds, over the sun rising over the standing stones. “Yeah, I was under some compulsions and potions. But there’s still a lot of aspects of the family I genuinely don’t really like. Grandfather has done a lot, asking how he can help make me feel more comfortable with the family. There’s members that are forbidden from having contact with me. Properties I refuse to step foot in. I continue to talk with Liam and Cora, and Andy sees that I’m physically fit. But I still have nightmares too. With how cold it's been lately, I keep thinking I’m back in Azkaban. I shift into Padfoot a lot.”

Ellie leaned against him. “I miss Hedwig. And Crookshanks.”

“Tell me about them.”

“Hedwig was my owl. I got her on my eleventh birthday, Hagrid bought her for me. She was gorgeous, a snowy owl. She loved to be spoiled, and was a bit of a drama queen. Very, very loyal. Went after anyone who dared to try to hurt me, and hated the Dursley’s as much as I did. She was my only companion in the summers, and we went through a lot together. She was hurt in fifth year, when Umbridge tried to get a letter off of her. The toad didn’t succeed, but Hedwig took a while to heal. She always loved to fly, to be free if she could. So whenever she was in her cage, she hated it. Especially when she was forced to, for longer periods of time. Again, summers. Well. Not all of them. You were a pretty effective deterrent. Summer before fourth year was probably the best,” a small grin crossed her lips and she reminisced, before falling into something sadder. “And then…then Hedwig died from a Killing Curse while we were making our escape from Private Drive shortly before I turned seventeen. In the long run, considering that was the year we went Horcrux hunting, it…it was probably the best. Although she would have stayed with someone I trusted.” Ellie snorted. “That list was pretty short at the time. And many would have been put in more danger if she was with them.”

Ellie sighed, and finally took a sip of her tea before continuing. “Crookshanks was Hermione’s cat. She got him the summer before we started third year. He was very, very smart. Hated Ron’s rat, which we learned later was Pettigrew. Got along with you rather well though. Ron hated Crookshanks most of third year, and gradually grew to tolerate him later. Crookshanks was left with Hermione’s parents when we went Horcrux hunting, and Hermione…well. We didn’t really have the chance to go find them. We were too busy going back to school, and trying to help British society heal, and then the third blood war started, and we had to go on the run again. But Crookshanks was also very loyal and protective, and a great hunter. Nearly caught Pettigrew several times. I know Hermione misses him.”

“I wonder if they were your familiars.”

“I don’t know. Hermione and I didn’t know enough to really tell.”

“That’s okay. You know now. And we can see about tracking the animals down. I bet it would help.”

Ellie's eyes widened, and she looked up at Sirius hopefully. “Really?”

“Yep. And if it would help, I can spend more time with you as Padfoot.”

“I think I’d like that.” The two sat in silence again, leaning against each other and sipping their drinks, before Sirius sighed.

“But…it still doesn’t solve your other issues.”

“Nope.” The Black chuckled. Then, a thought occurred to him. “Ellie, you and Hermione are already bonded, and we’re planning on drawing up a betrothal agreement when you’re both eleven. Hermione is working on learning about her own duties, which has mainly been her position on the Wizengamot and her Prime Guide duties. Has she started on learning about her consort duties?”

“Not yet. Myrddin says even though we are bonded, we have to be officially betrothed before she can do that.”

“Hmm. Well as far as I’m aware, she wouldn’t have to wait to help with paperwork.”

“Huh?”

“Hermione is your mate, and a Lady in her own right. She could help with some of the work for your titles.”

Ellie’s eyes widened. “Papa, that’s brilliant! Hermione’s an excellent researcher and a hard worker, and I know if she helped with the work she’d give me a really good summary, and have a list for things I want more details on. And it would be all really organized. Plus, I trust Hermione completely! This would also help her parents a bit, they were a bit worried about the imbalance between Hermione and I, and we had a conversation the last time I was over at her place. They wanted to make sure I wouldn’t take advantage of her or anything like that, which obviously I wouldn't! But it’s something I’ve been worrying about for a while now. This…this might solve a lot! I’ve got to talk to Hermione about this!” The girl started chugging her chai, preparing to run off that moment.

Sirius laughed. “And you can, after you get some more rest and something to eat. No going into your office for at least a few hours. I'm going to ask the elves to seal it just to make sure.”

Ellie sighed ruefully. “Then can I at least talk to Liam and Cora? And maybe reach out to Aunt Andy?”

“Yes. That, you can do. And perhaps, we both talk to grandfather about getting a few animals around the house, hm?”

“I’d like that,” Ellie smiled up at her papa.

The next few days were just as busy for Ellie, but in a different way. Finally, she was communicating with her loved ones and getting the help she needed. By now, Cora and Liam were aware of Ellie’s time travel, and were slowly working on helping her through that trauma as well. They were relieved to be able to help more. They worked through Ellie’s current lack of sleep, along with her frustration of not being able to fully defend herself, and her workload. They encouraged her to delegate, and suggested some more defense lessons with the Delacours. There was an upcoming visit in a day or so while winter break was still going on, so that issue could be solved. Not to mention, considering there was no support network in Britain for Sentinels and Guides, much less for a Prime pair, maybe the Delacours could help with that a bit more as well.

Meanwhile, Andromeda ran a health check on her after she had her session with the mind healers, and sighed.

“You’ve lost weight Ellie, though thankfully not enough to be unhealthy. And you need more sleep, and more steady meals or snacks. Even if you don’t consume full meals, try more routine snacks.”

Ellie huffed. “I have been trying to eat and stay hydrated.”

“I know you have. That’s why you haven’t lost more weight. But it’s still only been a few months, Ellie. This could set you back a few weeks at least on your physical recovery. Even if it’s short cat naps, I know you have issues with nightmares. You are working with your mind healers?”

“I am.”

“Good. Then the other thing I suggest is to reduce your stress. Long term high stress is more dangerous than short term high stress, but neither are good for you.”

“Yes, Aunt Andy.”

The Healer raised a single, elegant eyebrow. “You can only tell me that if you actually have a plan to start fixing it.”

Ellie crossed her arms and stuck her nose in the air, taking on the pompous air of a true Black. “I do, actually, thank you very much.” The two stared at each other, stony faced, before Ellie broke into giggles and Andromeda's severe expression eased into a gentle smile.

“Good. I’ll be checking in a bit more frequently over the next few weeks, to keep an eye on your nutrition and sleeping requirements. I know none of this is easy and you’re still used to other things. But please try, Ellie.”

“I will, promise.”

Andromeda ruffled her hair affectionately. “Go take a nap Ellie. And get a snack.” Ellie obeyed. Later, she had to admit, the shorter nap Andy had suggested was really nice. She even managed to rest without any nightmares. The elves had a snack prepared right when she woke up, too. Seemed like they were going to be more vigilant for a while.

The next day was one that Ellie had eagerly been waiting for. She sat in the sitting room of her suite, working on some light reading, or at least trying to. Her eyes kept flicking to the door, until finally she sensed the approach of her expected visitor, and she shot to her feet.

“Hermione!” The girls embraced, filling their senses with each other and feeling immediately soothed.

“You’re feeling more cheerful Ellie. I’ve been worried.”

“Sorry. I had flashbacks, sort of. Ingrained behaviors.”

Hermioned immediately understood what she wasn't saying, and pursed her lips with worry, before letting out a sigh.

“But you talked to Liam and Cora?”

“I did. And honestly, if the others need to, they really should as well. I know I'm not the only one struggling with everything.”

“We’ll check in with them when we go to the Delacours.”

The girls settled into one of the cozy couches in the room, leaning against each other and basking in the comfort of the other's presence. Ellie allowed them a moment to enjoy it before speaking up.

“Hey Hermione, remember the conversation we had with your parents?”

Hermioned rolled her eyes. “Yes, as if I could forget. I appreciate them looking out for me, and I know there's historical precedent of royalty taking advantage of their consorts, both in the magical and non magical worlds, like with Henry VIII—” the girl cut herself off when she noticed her mate gazing at her fondly, and cleared her throat. “Anyay, I'm guessing you have an idea?”

“I do. Well, actually Papa was the one who came up with it. Apparently, there’s no reason, since we’re already bonded, that you couldn’t help with some of my paperwork.”

Hermione's eyes widened. “For the Wizengamot. Of course! It’s so obvious!” She delved into muttering how she had missed a very logical conclusion, and Ellie giggled.

“Mione, as you so like to remind me all the time, you can’t control everything.”

“No, you’re right. Unfortunately,” she muttered.

“I’ve been banned from my office until I had gotten a few thins resolved, and I don’t know if they’ll let me back yet. But if they do, I’d at least like your help in organizing a few things.”

“Of course!”

The girls set off to find one of Ellie's guardians, and were pleased to find out since she had napped, snacked, gotten seen to by healers, and wasn’t coming to her office alone, she was allowed in.

Hermione took one look at the stacks of paperwork, and sighed. “Ellie, please tell me you’ve organized some of it.”

“Initially, yes. I do try to keep my titles separate. But when I was feverishly trying to get something, anything done? No guarantee.”

“Let’s sort and make sure your paperwork is separated, then we’ll work out a system. You need a priority system at the very least, and it wouldn’t hurt to also sort by subject. Color coding, drawers, and shelves?”

“Boxes too maybe. Oh, and crests.”

“That’s a really good idea.”

The girl set to work, easily flowing around each other, practically finishing each other's sentences as they worked to get the chaos more organized. It took only an hour or so before they had the titles separated. Hermione studied the neater stacks of paper, then startled a little bit as Ellie pressed a small sandwich into her hand.

“Thanks. So your royal paperwork, I can’t help with yet. Let’s set that to the side for now. You should be able to use the same system for everything…next title?”

“We both have Alpha Prime things.”

“Yes, I can handle the Guide aspects. I know you’ve been keeping an eye on things, I've been doing the same just to stay informed, but leave everything else to me.”

Ellie laughed. “You are the Guide, so that makes sense.”

“Exactly! Next?”

“Founders. I have Gryffindor for sure, but not Slytherin because that’s conquest rights and I have to pass the tests when I’m eleven to get full access.”

“So we don’t worry about that for now. You have both Le Fay and Peverell, correct?”

“Yep. Most Ancient and Most Noble, those ancestors were part of the Wizards Council, same as the Black family.”

“But you don’t have to worry about the Blacks, because Arcturus and Sirius have that covered. Which leaves just the Potter title, right?”

“Yep. Funny, your title actually outranks the Potter title.”

“Only because they’ve been around longer. The Potter family was just starting to emerge as a prominent family when the Dagworth-Grangers got their title.”

“True.” Ellie loved seeing Hermione light up about her family history, history that she had never known about before. Hermione, as usual, had devoured everything she could get her hands on. Her parents had been pretty similar, eager to learn more about the magical world.

“Right.” Hermione frowned briefly. “Ellie, isn’t Sirius the Potter Regent? So isn't he working on some of the Potter estate too?”

“He is, but he’s also been letting me do a lot of the heir work because it won't be long until I can claim lordship. And the Potter title is the one I’ll be the most known for. Though for the past few days I know he's taken back more work so I can rest.”

“So it’s a little more imperative that you know exactly what’s going on with that. Got it.” Hermione hummed for a minute, then clapped her hands together.

“Right! Let’s start with basics. I recommend a large shelf, or more than one, marked with the crest of the family, for each title. Maybe the shelves are organized in the level that it sits at in the Wizengamot chamber? And then things within the title are organized by color, with a color for finances, properties, charters, that sort of thing. Best to keep the colors consistent across all your titles.” Ellie stared at Hermione, having flashbacks to color coded study schedules, but then she started to grin as she thought about the system her wonderful, intelligent mate had suggested. “What?”

“You are absolutely brilliant. And I love you for it.” Hermione blushed bright red, but looked rather pleased.

“I’m glad you like it. Come on, I’ll help you sort.”

By the time dinner rolled around, they had Ellie’s office completely organized, and the elves cheerfully kicked her and Hermione out to go eat and rest. Ellie was actually able to sleep that night, and then it was off to the Delacours to train the next day. Ellie requested more defense training, and they obliged, in addition to the usual training and testing they went through. They were also more than happy to take up a bit of the administration side of things for the magical British Sentinel and Guide population when they heard how much Ellie was trying to balance with her other titles. Ellie sighed in relief as another weight was lifted off her shoulders. She'd be getting a summary each month from the Delacours about what they were doing, but for now, she didn't have to worry about anything except her own pack and training, especially since Lucius and Narcissa promised to let her and Hermione know if there was anything they needed from the Prime pack. They stayed until it was time for Fred, George, and Percy to go back to school, and then Ellie contemplated her newly organized office.

The January session was in just a week, and while there were plans to bring up the issues in Hogwarts classes, or rather the ranking of the school, there was hopefully more that they would be able to investigate following this. But she also wanted to be prepared. So how to go about that? She was so deep in thought that she didn't notice who was behind her until they spoke.

“Ellie?” The girl whirled around, delighted.

“Mione! I wasn’t expecting you quite yet. Isn’t it still school time?”

“School ended early, bad weather. So we came here. Doing a bit better?” Hermione scanned her over, clearly looking for signs that Ellie hadn't been taking care of herself.

“Yes, and I’m so glad I’m more organized, and that I have a bit less to do, but there’s still the matter of well…all of it. And…if you’re willing to help…”

“Always.”

“Well, I’m trying to figure out how to divy things up. And I’m also thinking about the next Wizengamot session, and while we are planning on bringing up things relating to Hogwarts, there’s just so much…”

Hermione let out a contemplative 'hmm', scanning over the pile of documents regarding the upcoming session. “You know, I have been curious about the differences between the schools and Arcturus has been helping research some of that. And I have asked the Delacours about what it’s like at Beauxbatons. I wouldn’t mind seeing just what the ICW requires for accredited schools and how we might improve Hogwarts.”

“Would you look into that side of things? That would help so much.”

“Of course, El. And I’ll give you a detailed summary of the results.”

“Thank the Lady that you love research. Oh! Percy likes research too. Maybe he can help with what is currently going on at Hogwarts?”

“Sure! I’ll write to him.”

“You’re the absolute best, Mione.” Ellie grabbed her mate's hand and held it between her own. Hermione's eyes crinkled as she smiled and squeezed her hand back.

“How would you ever survive without me?”

“I wouldn’t,” Ellie admitted.

“Yes, you would. Not easily, but you would. You’re a survivor El. You’d find a way,” Hermione promised.

“Mm. But this is a much nicer alternative.”

“That it is.”