Chapter 20 – Year two end

A/N: Sorry for the long delay. I was on holiday and took a break. Without further delay I give you chapter 20 and all reviews will be answered at the end of this chapter.

8th March 1993

Hogwarts Gryffindor dorm

It was Monday morning. Almost four days after the Chamber of Secrets incident. Everything was returning to normal or as normal could be.

Hermione was ecstatic, her best friend Tsukiko would be discharged in the afternoon. Best of all, classes would be back on schedule tomorrow. She was looking forward to the lessons and home work tomorrow.

Hermione tried her best to be positive. A lot had happened over the past few days. There was much to think about. The most pressing of all were Dumbledore. She hadn't told anyone about what had happened between her and the head master, how he tried to use Legilimency on her. With that thought, she wondered was that the reason why Tsukiko taught her Occlumency, did she foresaw this event?

Hermione was distracted from her thought when professor McGonagall approached her. "Miss Granger. A moment of your time please."

Hermione smiled and said. "Yes professor?"

McGonagall said to her. "Professor Dumbledore will like to see you. Come along."

Hermione froze, she did not want to see Dumbledore, especially not alone. Hermione said with dread. "Professor McGonagall. Why does Dumbledore want to see me?"

Professor McGonagall raised an eyebrow at her inquiry. "I know not Miss Granger. I was told to escort you and take you to him. Now come along."

Hermione said. "Ma'am. Will you be present at this meeting?"

Professor McGonagall said with slight concern. "No. I will not."

Hermione said quickly. "Can I ask Rin Tohsaka to come with me..."

Professor McGonagall said with annoyance. "No you may not. Professor Dumbledore asked for you and you alone... Miss Granger. What is the matter with you? Is there something I should know about?"

Hermione wondered if professor McGonagall would believe her. Hermione was about to tell her what had happened, when Percy Weasley said to professor McGonagall. "Professor. Pardon my interruption. I cannot help overhearing your conversation with Miss Granger. And I must point out Hogwarts chapter twenty-four line two-hundred and thirty-seven. Students may refuse a private meeting with a member of staff and request an adult to be present at their meeting. They can be another member of staff or others they specify. As you know this rule was established to prevent..."

Professor McGonagall cut Percy off. "Percy! I know! I was there during that... incident! I do not need to be reminded of that."

Professor McGonagall looked to Hermione. "Miss Granger, are you requesting for a guardian for this meeting? If so, I must remind you, that individual must be a witch or a wizard and must not be a student."

Hermione thought for a moment and said. "I will like Sacch... I mean Satsuki Yumizuka to oversee this meeting. I don't want to meet Dumbledore alone... Ma'am."

Hermione cringed at McGonagall's tone of disappointment. "I will inform professor Dumbledore of your decision. Good day, Miss Granger."

Hermione visibly relaxed when professor McGonagall left. Percy patted her on the shoulder and said. "Don't worry Miss Granger. Professor McGonagall won't hold anything against you on this. Although she might hold it against me for that unpleasant reminder."

Hermione said to Percy. "Thank you, Percy. And please call me Hermione. You really saved me there, but why would professor McGonagall hold anything against you?"

Percy smiled painfully. "Because the victim was a friend of hers. McGonagall really lost it back then and hexed the teacher, before the Aurors got to him. It was quite a mess from what my dad told me. They almost send McGonagall to Azkaban for using some really dark magic on her former teacher."

Hermione didn't know what to say. She always looked up to McGonagall, so much so that she had forgotten that her teacher were only human. However now, she held even more respect for professor McGonagall.

Percy said to her. "If you need any help. Don't hesitate to come to me."

Hermione nodded and said. "Thank you Percy."

As Percy left, Hermione sought out Rin and explained her situation.

(Line break)

It was late afternoon when Tsukiko returned to the dorm. Hermione gave her best friend a hug and welcomed her back before anyone else.

There were many people that were concerned about Tsukiko. Hermione thought back to her conversation with Rin and her reassurance that Satsuki would be her guardian during any future meeting she might have.

However Hermione could not shake the feeling that Rin was very cold towards her. It almost felt like she was judging her every move.

Hermione was brought out of her thoughts when Ron approached Rin. Hermione fully expected Ron to start accusing Rin or antagonise her. Thus she was surprised when Ron said. "Miss Tohsaka. I like to say I'm sorry. I'm sorry for sneaking into your room and accuse you of being the heir of Slytherin. I know better now."

Hermione was not the only one surprised by this. Almost everyone in the dorm were surprised. Rin said in a polite tone. "Thank you Mr Weasley. I accept your apologies."

Hermione didn't know if Ron was being sincere, but she knew Rin was being strange. Rin was never this polite to them, let alone Ron.

Hermione was right to be concerned. As soon as no one was looking. Look of pure hatred returned to Ron's expression.

After that little get together. Hermione along with Rin, Arturia and Tsukiko returned to their dorm. Hermione immediately rounded on Tsukiko and said with concern. "Tsukiko-chan, are you really all right? You're not bottling everything up again, are you? You know you can tell me anything. You know that, right? Tsukiko-chan."

Hermione knew she sounded like a mother hen right now, but she cared deeply about Tsukiko. Tsukiko said to her with a genuine smile. "I'm fine Hermione-chan. Don't worry so much."

Rin interrupted with a smile. "Do you two need some time alone to kiss and make up. I won't judge." Rin's smile grew lecherous as she continued. "I even have some 'toys' that will help things along. I'm more then happy..."

Hermione's face turned bright red. "Rin! I only asked because Tsukiko-chan and Lance-san didn't part on the best circumstance! He was really angry and scary. I wasn't trying to hit on Tsukiko-chan, and I MOST certainly wasn't thinking about what you and Arturia-san get up to behind close door or those whips and pink... I'm digging my own grave here, aren't I?"

Rin snickered while Arturia turned tomato red. "You most certainly are. But you're right, Tsukiko-chan. How are things between you and..."

Hermione along with Rin were confused when Tsukiko turned very red and looked away from them. Tsukiko said with a squeak. "F...fine! W... we're fine! Really!"

Rin said with concern. "Tsukiko-chan. What's wrong? Tell me."

Tsukiko became even redder and said quickly. "We're really all right. Me and Lance made up three days ago. It was during my first night in the infirmary. He came and saw me. He held me in his arms, I was really happy, Lance was ever so gentle with me..."

Hermione was in shock. How did this happen!? How did Tsukiko become a woman before her!? Hermione's face became bright red as her imagination ran wild, imagining Lance did this and that to Tsukiko.

Hermione was brought out of her fantasy, when she felt deathly cold chill ran down her spine.

Hermione almost screamed in fear as Arturia's jade colour eyes turned amber, her skin turned alabaster white and her hair lost their lustrous cold. However it was her aura that scared her the most. Their room darkened and filled to the brim with malicious intent.

Arturia snarled. "Lancer! You black guard! Prepare to meet thou maker!"

Hermione realized no one were in any position to stop Arturia. Rin and Tsukiko held onto each other in fear, all colour drained from their faces.

Arturia stormed out with murderous intent. It took only a moment for Tsukiko to recover and chase after Arturia. Tsukiko shouted. "Arturia-oneesan! Wait! It's not what you think!"

Hermione looked towards Rin and said. "Do I even want to know what happened there?"

Rin visibly tried to gather her courage and said to her. "There are something that are better left alone, undiscovered and forever locked in the deepest recess of the abyss."

Lancer was fortunate that Tsukiko was able to clear up Arturia's misunderstanding. However despite her best effort, it did not stop the rumour mill. Many ghosts of Hogwarts claimed to have witnessed an angry Mordred storming through Hogwarts, dragging an innocent maiden to a horrid fate.

(Line break)

9th March 1993

Hogwarts corridor

It was Tuesday morning, getting close to lunch time. Draco only just found out that his father was meeting Dumbledore over the recent basilisk attack and it's demise.

Draco had tried to contact his father since Christmas, he tried to meet him privately, but was rebuffed at every turn. Draco knew he and his father were not on the best term. He had disappointed his father greatly. It was only natural that he was punished, and it was his duty to redeem himself in his father's eyes.

Draco soon saw his father with Dobby shuffling behind him. There was no one else in the corridor with them. Draco straightened himself up and said with formality. "Father, can I have a moment of your time."

His father only glanced at him once then walked passed him. Draco felt hurt being ignored like this, but he had to be strong. This was far too important to ignore or put aside due to his fear.

Draco said once again. "Father. Please listen to me. It's about our grand-mother and great grand-mother. They are..."

Draco was interrupted when his father struck him, a loud slap resounded within the silent corridor.

Draco could not believe his father had struck him, for the first time in his life. And it truly hurts, both emotionally and physically. Draco tried to keep in control of his demeanour, his cheek stung and despite his best effort, he could feel tears welled up in his eyes.

His father hissed at him. "Draco. You will NEVER speak about your grand-mother and your great grand-mother. Do I make myself clear."

Draco did his best to keep his emotion in check. He stammered. "Y-Yes. Father."

His father sneered. "Good. Now get out of my sight."

Draco wasted no time and quickly left.

After a moment of silence. Rin said to Lucius. "That was a bit harsh, was that really necessary?"

Rin step out into the corridor from the shadow. Lucius growled and said with a sneer. "Tohsaka. How I treat my son is none of your business. Now why are you here?"

Rin smirked. "Now now. No need to be so hostile. Despite that cruel and heartless display. I know you care for your son very much. After all if that was not the case, why devote so much time and resource in breaking the contract he signed with Tsukiko Potter. You are not as heartless as you pretended to be. Lucius Malfoy."

Lucius replied coldly. "I could say the same to you, Miss Tohsaka. Unlike the old fool. I know you are the true leader of house Tohsaka. You are not the only one who has 'good' relation with the goblins. So I will say it again. What do you want?"

Rin had a fake smile on and said sweetly. "I'm just trying to have a civilized conversation with you." Lucius openly sneered at her. "But lets get to the purpose of this meeting. I want to make a deal." Rin brought out Tom Riddle's diary. "I will return this to you in exchange for that house elf."

Lucius snorted. "Return? I have no idea what you are talking about, Tohsaka."

Rin feinted surprise. "Oh, is that so? This diary possess some truly fascinating insight to one Ton Marvolo Riddle. A half blood born from a muggle father, a squib mother. He wrote so much about himself. It all came to light when you dispelled the dark magic within the book. I wonder what the pure blood will think of their dark lord when this comes to light. Specially when I mention how the Malfoy brought this to..."

Lucius interrupted as he quickly drew his wand. "And pray do tell, what made you think I won't just take the diary by force. You made a big mistake blackmailing..."

Sounds of humming could be heard from all around him. Lucius spun on the spot and saw a clockwork avian dove. He spun again and saw he was surrounded by four of those contraptions.

Rin smiled maliciously and said with an acidic tone. "Because the moment you pronounce the first syllable of your spell, you will be reduce to nothing more then a pile of ashes. Did you really think I will come here unprepared."

Lucius lowered his wand and took out his handkerchief. He threw the handkerchief to Dobby and said. "Your service are no longer required. Seek your employment with the Tohsaka."

Rin threw the diary into Lucius hands. Rin said smugly. "It's a pleasure doing business with you Malfoy. Have a pleasant day."

Lucius stormed off angrily.

Rin looked down at a nervous Dobby. He looked up with big dinner plate eyes, with look of uncertainty and fear. He said fearfully. "How may Dobby serve mistress."

Rin raised an eyebrow and said with disinterest. "You won't be serving me. Tsukiko will decide that."

Dobby's eyes widened in joy. He said in jubilation. "I will be serving the great Tsukiko Potter!? Dobby is most happy and unworthy. Mistress is most kind, most kind indeed."

Rin was glad not being the one responsible for Dobby. It was Tsukiko's idea to free Dobby from the Malfoy, when she managed to uncover who Dobby was working for. Rin had reservation on Dobby. He did almost cause grave injury to Tsukiko with that Bludger stunt.

However Tsukiko's habit on picking up strays had won out, and she decided to bring Dobby in. Now Dobby was slobbering all over her robe with snots and tears of gratitude, as he sung praises of her.

Rin pulled her robe away and said with as much patience as she could muster. "Dobby calm down! I will take you to Tsukiko, then we can decide on what you can do."

Dobby said with excitement. "Dobby is most helpful! Can do dishes, can clean, can cook, can do many things."

Rin replied blandly. "Good to hear. Although you might find many competition for those jobs. I think the Tachikomas already covered almost everything..."

Rin was surprised when Dobby actually shouted in righteous fury. "Blasphemy! Dobby will do better job, much better!"

Rin was once again very glad, she didn't have to deal with this nonsense.

(Line break)

14th March 1993

Forbidden forest's hidden path

It was Sunday morning. It was also shaping up to be a beautiful day, if one could see through the thick canopy above. The path led deep into the forbidden forest, so deep that the path itself was once thought to be lost.

Luna walked slowly through the hearts of this dangerous place. She thought back to how it had all began.

(Flash back)

Luna was glad to have met Tsukiko Potter on the train, specially when she offered to fix her eyes. Her sight cleared dramatically, no more Wracksputs... No, they became even clearer, she could see something else. A vision suddenly slammed into her mind like a runaway Hogwarts express.

A vision of mourning... so many students died... the twins... Miss Clearwater... Ginny Weasley, her best friend. Blame were thrown left and right. Basilisk killed... Tohsaka expelled... Dumbledore fired from his position as headmaster, along with many other teachers.

Luna fell onto her knees as the vision subsided. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she felt the emotional impact of the tragedy before her. She refused to accept such future, she wanted to change it's outcome...

Another vision fills her mind. Not of the future, but paths leading to them. Luna saw various divergence of those path, each led to a different outcome.

On one of those path, she saw herself talking to Tsukiko. She said to Luna. "Mystic eye of 'Precognition' and mystic eye of 'Actualized methods'. I'm glad you came to me as soon as you did."

A bright blue light shinned in the peripheral of her vision. The scene changed before her. Tsukiko held a clip board, they were within a room filled with medical equipments. Tsukiko looked at her with concern in her eyes. "Luna. Those eyes are causing massive cerebral haemorrhaging to your Occipital Lobe, along with your Frontal Lobe and Dorsolateral Prefrontal."

Tsukiko continued with tears in her eyes. "All those variable reality, visions and outcomes are pushing your mind and body beyond their limit. Your brain cannot handle such massive quantity of information all at once, it's killing you. I'm so sorry... I should have... I will fix this, I..."

Another flash of bright light engulfed her vision for a moment. She was back on the path once more. It was then she noticed a crucial detail, all those variable outcome ended with her death, she never lived beyond the end of her first year.

Her death effected a lot of people. Most of all Tsukiko, along with her own father. Her death scarred Tsukiko. Luna knew she was not to blame, Tsukiko couldn't have known this would happen. Of all the Mystic eyes, she gained the one's not meant for mortals.

Luna's hearts broke when she saw how devoid of life her father became, he lost all will to live. It was then she understood how her mother must have felt, when death took her. No one wanted to leave a love one behind, whether they were living or dead. Even the dead could regret leaving someone dear to them behind.

Luna focused on all the path before her. She must find an alternative.

She must convince the sorting hat to move her into Gryffindor instead of Ravenclaw.

On Halloween, move the mirror and use it to intercept the basilisk.

Use Colin to stop the basilisk from confronting Rin and Arturia.

On the day of the car-boot sale, purposely push Tsukiko into a certain stand with Caboose's broach.

Use Hermione Granger to create the desire situation. A situation where Tsukiko would be alone. Then convince her to fight the basilisk by herself, and inform her how to save Rin from being expelled.

Get the basilisk to eat the Tachikoma and arrange for headless Nick to shield the students from being killed by the basilisk's gaze.

Reveal the location of the Chamber of Secrets to Lockhart and the way to open the passage.

Her eyes showed her everything she must do, to save everyone. Everything that needed to be done for a perfect ending.

(Flash back)

Luna done it, she saved her best friend, she saved everyone. Now she would save her father and Tsukiko by disappearing.

Luna knew her father would look for her. He would scour the end of the world to find her. It was better that way, then to see him broken.

Luna smiled as blood trickled down her nose, the throbbing pain in her head had been building for days now. Luna knew her end was near, she also knew Tsukiko would not be burdened by her death. It was thanks to her that she was able to save Ginny and so many others.

Luna came to a stop as two Acromantula blocked her path. This would be the end of her, no one would ever find her body. This was where her life would end in her vision, anything after, was what she assume she saw in her afterlife.

The Acromantulas screeched as they leaped at her. Luna felt her legs gone weak, she braced for the inevitable pain... that never came. The Acromantulas burst into motes of white light.

Luna also never fell to the ground as she felt someone caught her and held her gently.

Luna looked up and beheld a surreal and beautiful man with ruby red eyes and silky black hair. Luna was confused, she didn't foresee this event. This person was not within any of the possibility she saw. Luna's eyes fell onto the man's silver cross earring.

Torrents of visions filled her mind. It was not the vision of the future or the present, it was of the past. There was so much, impossible amount of information flooded her mind. However she was able to make sense of it all, she understood everything, his past, his origin, his mission, his desire.

Tears welled up in Luna's eyes, as she understood his pain and sorrow. She reached up and gently caressed his face. There was no need for words, not for him. He understood her, just as she understood him.

Luna said with barely restraint sorrow. "I see now. I see everything. That's why she is so important to you. Tsukiko... she is your..."

Luna lost consciousness as exhaustion took hold.

The man gently rested his right hand over Luna's forehead. A golden light enveloped her, the blood that was running down her nose vanished. Her pained and laboured breath became normal once more.

"I knew I would find you here." A young girl with fox ears and tail appeared before the man. The girl's name was Eria, the Elin Oracle. She continued with a fond smile. "But you wanted me to find you, do you not?"

On the surface, the being did not utter a word as he smiled at Eria. However Eria was able to understand what he said. Eria felt him reached into her mind. Instead of words or language, it's almost like she simply understood what he wanted or wished from her.

Eria almost thought she imagined the whole thing. She asked. "You wish me to take care of the child in your arms. You removed the power of 'Actualize method' from her eye and left the mystic eye of 'Precognition'. And she need someone like me to help her... Why are you helping her?"

Eria felt his message, more so then heard or saw them. She looked at the child and smiled. "I see. She's a very brave and heroic little girl."

Eria approached them and kneeled down next to the girl and took the child from him. "I will take care of her. You have my words as an Oracle and daughter of Elinu."

The being stood up and smile. He began to glow in pure white light. Eria said in haste. "Wait! Can you tell me your name. Who are you?"

The being smiled fondly at her. Then she heard his voice, his actual voice. Eria smiled happily. "Such an elegant and flawless name. Truly befitting of a being such as yourself. It's a honour to have met you."

The being vanished in motes of white light. Eria held Luna's hand and said. "You are a very fortunate and lucky girl. Time to get you home."

Both vanished soon after via teleportation.

(Line break)

19th June 1993

Time flew for Hermione and everyone else. Everyone in Gryffindor were worried for Luna when news of her hospitalization came. Since that day, Luna stopped coming to Hogwarts.

The lessons and time in Hogwarts came and went peacefully compare to the past few months. Hermione stopped dreaming altogether as she took dreamless potion every night. She was scared, she knew the nightmare would return if she stop taking the potion, she knew that horrid man would haunt her again and again.

Hermione also noticed Rin was less friendly towards her, very rarely she would even talk to Hermione. She felt Rin was judging her constantly, watching her every move and weighing her every decision. Hermione assumed Rin was still angry with her, for what she almost did to Tsukiko.

Hermione knew she was very fortunate to have Tsukiko as a friend, her best friend. Even after she almost used a cutting curse on her. Hermione's hearts ache every time when she thought of what she almost did.

It was almost the end of school term and she thanked Merlin, that Dumbledore had stopped trying to see her alone. Everyone that was petrified were cured. Every thing was going to be all right, the madness was behind her. She would be able to rest as soon as she left platform 9 ¾.

However it was not to be. Before Hermione got off the train. Rin handed her a letter and told her to read it when she got home.

(Line break)

20th June 1993

46a Craigdarragh road

Rin was glad to be home, for once it felt like a real holiday, being away from Hogwarts and all it's madness.

Whom ever wished to go back to their childhood again were idiots, dealing with educators, brats and puberty was NOT fun. Especially if you threw in magic, manipulative old fools, a root forsaken basilisk and a fragment of a megalomaniac self-proclaim dark lord.

Rin was really glad to be done with this year... or so she though. Just as she walked into the living room, the door was slammed shut behind her. Tsukiko stood before her with a folder under her arm, a look of cold fury on her face.

Rin caught the folder before it hit her face. Tsukiko growled at her. "Why!? Why did you keep something like this from me? I have the right to know!"

Rin took a quick glance at the folder and sighed. It was a detail report on a list of Vernon Dursley's victims. One's they had uncovered from the Obliviator working for the old fool.

Rin was not pleased that Tsukiko found out about this, even less so that Tsukiko was throwing a tantrum at her. Rin stood by her decision, it was right to keep Tsukiko in the dark and she has nothing to apologies for.

Rin said with a dismissive tone. "Rights? You think it was your 'right' to know this? Why is that?"

Tsukiko glared at her. "Why!? I..."

Rin cut her off. "Let me guess. It's your responsibility. It's your mess. You should handle everything, because it's all your fault. News flash Tsukiko. You're twelve years old, going to thirteen this year. You're a child..."

Tsukiko interrupted angrily. "I am NOT a child! I am a Magus!"

Rin became more and more irritated by Tsukiko's behaviour. She shouted angrily. "You are a sorry excuse of a magus! You're as much as a magus as Shirou are! You are a unstable and petulant child with a mere handful of talents and magic!"

Rin could see flash of hurt on Tsukiko's expression... 'Good, it will stop her from witnessing what those girls had gone through and save her from future heat ache.' Rin thought.

Rin continued her onslaught. "You are too emotional. You lose sight of everything around you when you are distraught or angry. How many times have you placed yourself in danger in the past year? Let me tell you. One too many!"

The thought of Tsukiko getting hurt haunted Rin. She could not stand it, if she lose Tsukiko... she refuse to lose another important person in her life.

Rin did not notice Lancer came into the living room, wondering what all the shouting was about. Rin continued. "You are a child playing at being a magus. Go play in your lab and leave the adult matters to adults."

Tsukiko was obviously upset by what Rin said. She shouted angrily. "Stop it! Stop treating me like this! Stop treating me like Sakura!"

Rin saw red, she grabbed Tsukiko by her collar with her left hand, he right hand raised to slap her. Before Rin could hit Tsukiko, Lancer grabbed Rin's right arm and said with shock. "Rin! Calm down!"

Tsukiko was visibly shaking, tears streaked down her face. Tsukiko looked her in the eyes and said with as much calm as she could muster. "Are you going to hit me now? I'm not some fragile little girl that need protecting all the time. I'm not going to break over this. I'm not Sa..."

Rin growled. "Shut up! Don't you ever say her name!"

Rin pushed Tsukiko away with her left arm and yanked her right arm free from Lancer's grasp. She made her way toward the exit, then glared at Tsukiko. "That was low of you, Tsukiko. You should have known better. Do what ever the hell you want."

Rin stormed out of the room.

21st June 1993

Epping Forest's café. London

It was mid afternoon, Hermione came to this café at Rin's instruction. She ordered some tea and biscuit, then waited for the appointed time.

Hermione wondered why Rin wanted to see her. The letter never explained why, only that it was important and related to Tsukiko. It was not easy for her to travel here alone, specially without her parents consent.

Just as the time ticked by, everyone around her suddenly stood up and left, it was a bit unnerving. It was then Rin came to her table with a cup of coffee and chocolate cake.

Rin sat down opposite of her and said. "I always find chocolate to be very soothing, specially in stressful time. And this café makes wonderful triple chocolate cake."

Hermione was not comfortable with Rin. Now that she was alone with her, it made her even more uncomfortable. Hermione fidgeted as she tried to think of what to say. She stammered. "Is there something wrong... I- I mean you said stressful time. S-so something must be wrong."

Rin looked at her with a raised eyebrow. She took a sip of her coffee. "Something wrong. Everything has been wrong for a very long time. A lot of things are wrong, specially with Tsukiko."

Hermione thoughts immediately focused on that. "What's wrong with Tsukiko-chan! I will help..."

Rin's tone sharpened like a knife edge. "You've help enough."

Hermione immediately clamped up at Rin's hostility. Rin continued. "Don't think I've forgotten or forgiven what you almost did to Tsukiko."

Hermione felt tears welled up in her eyes. She looked away from Rin's eyes. Rin sighed. "I'm sorry for snapping at you like that. Yesterday was very difficult for both Tsukiko and myself."

Hermione gathered her courage and asked. "Why did you want to see me?"

Rin said to her. "To tell you about Tsukiko's situation and everything else that's connected to her. Hermione, remember when I ask you, what it meant to be a magus. Remember your answer?"

Hermione recited. "To be a magus is to walk with death. I said I was ready."

Rin looked her in the eyes. "Do you know why I rebuffed you?"

Hermione shook her head, she honestly didn't know why. Rin said to her. "It's not just your death you have to deal with, but also those closes to you, friends, lover... family. The danger of being a magus does not just isolate to you and you alone. It has a way of spilling over to other people. Just like it did for you."

Hermione's face paled at that revelation. Then she came to realized what that meant for Tsukiko. Hermione said angrily. "Are you saying it's Tsukiko-chan's fault that I died. That's stupid! It's not her fault! It's all that mons..."

Rin interrupted her. "Try telling that to Tsukiko. She blamed herself for your near death and all the bad things that has happened to 'his' victims. That stupid little girl should have left everything to Lancer and Satsuki."

Hermione felt sick and said. "Others? What do you mean others!? And why does Tsukiko-chan think she's responsible!? That make no sense!"

What Rin said next made Hermione's legs felt weak. "The 'man' that attacked you was Tsukiko's uncle and appointed legal guardian by Albus Dumbledore. He attacked you because he couldn't have Tsukiko. He attacked many other girls because Dumbledore and his faction have Obliviated his victims and the law enforcement."

Hermione felt sick to her stomach. "Why? Why would Dumbledore do that!? How can they let that monster get away with hurting so many people!? How... can they... do this... it's not fair..."

Hermione felt her throat close up as she cried. 'This is all wrong. What is wrong with Dumbledore!? The Ministry!? The wizard world!?' Hermione thought in despair. Her mind ran in circles.

Another thought hit Hermione like a freight train. 'What is Tsukiko doing now? Why is Rin so angry at her?' Hermione managed to put the pieces together and said. "Rin. Where is Tsukiko? What is she doing?"

Hermione dreaded the answer. Rin said to her. "Tsukiko is out fixing the mess left behind by that monster. She's visiting each victims, using Legilimency to find any mistake the Obliviator left behind. After that, she will make sure no memories of their abuse will ever surface. And finally she will create false memories and fix any other damage that was carelessly left behind."

Hermione once again felt her stomach turned in mortification. She read up on Legilimency, how it worked. Hermione knew Tsukiko must have seen everything, if she planned to fix those girls with false memories and leaving no blank memories or time gap. Hermione understood why Tsukiko did that, why she took the burden. But she would never agree with it, not when her best friend was hurting in unimaginable ways.

Hermione said with as much calm as possible. "So that's why you're angry at Tsukiko-chan. So what do you want me to do?"

"Nothing." Rin said. "There is nothing you can do, or ever be able to do. For now just listen. I'm going to tell you everything there is to know about Tsukiko. What Albus Dumbledore, the 'old goat' did to her. What her life was like before we found her. Then you will make a choice, the right choice."

Rin told Hermione about Tsukiko's life, her abuse at the hand's of the Dursley, what her uncle really was and what he would have done to Tsukiko if she had stayed with that horrid family. How Dumbledore had a hand in all this and his constant attempt to either place Tsukiko back with the Dursley, until that fateful day when Tsukiko killed her uncle to save Hermione. Even after the Dursley was no more, Dumbledore was still attempting to have Tsukiko taken away from the Tohsaka.

Rin left out how they actually met Tsukiko. Zelretch's mysterious plan. There was only so much Hermione could take. And a lightly edited version of Tsukiko's life was more then enough.

After Hermione heard the whole story. She became physically sick, she rushed to the closes dust bin and threw up.

Hermione could not handle what she heard from Rin. If she was placed in the same situation as Tsukiko, she knew she would never be happy again. Which made her wondered how strong Tsukiko must be. How she was able to be happy and smile like she always did.

Hermione never would have guessed that Tsukiko was abused in such a horrid way, or that Albus Dumbledore would try and place her with such horrid peo... NO! They were monsters. There was no other way of describing them. Whatever shred of respect she had for the headmaster died there and then.

Rin gently patted her back. "Let it all out. I know it's a bit much to take in."

Hermione thought sarcastically. 'A bit much!? It's a god damn nightmare!'

However what had sickened Hermione more was the thought that she might have blindly followed Dumbledore, before he tried to use Legilimency on her. She might have even thought it was justified because of his reputation as a greatest wizard since Merlin.

It was a horrifying revelation. How blind she had been, how ignorant she was of everything. How much of a child she was.

Rin said to her with a soothing tone. "Hermione. I want you to listen to me carefully. I will never train you to be a magus. And what's more, I want you to stop being a witch."

Hermione looked at Rin with disbelief. "Why? I can help. I want..."

"No you can't. You're a liability." Hermione felt her hearts sank. "What is happening between you and Dumbledore is only the beginning. He will use you to get to Tsukiko. He will use any mean to get Tsukiko on his 'side', even if he has to use Imperius curse. And that's not all."

Rin helped Hermione up and continued. "You and your parents will become targets for death eaters and their ilk. They will target you and those you love to get at Tsukiko. And if anything happens to you. It will break Tsukiko, you know it will."

Hermione felt despair at her helplessness. Rin was right, if the death eaters attacked her, she wouldn't stand a chance. Let alone anything Albus Dumbledore might try. She said weakly. "Then let me be a magus. Teach me how to fight. Teach me..."

"No." Rin said sternly. "This is what I want you to do. You and your parents will move to America. You will be given a new identity, everything will be sorted out for you, where you live, which school you attend. Everything."

Hermione looked at Rin with desperate eyes. "Rin. Please. I want..."

Rin cut her off. "What you want is not what is best for Tsukiko. If you feel that is too difficult for you. If Tsukiko's friendship is holding you back. I will make it easy for you, I can Obliviate you and your parents."

Hermione shouted angrily. "Don't you dare! Don't you dare mess with my memory! Specially one's of me and Tsukiko!"

Hermione felt tears in her eyes as she glared at Rin. "I am not going to run away. I will become stronger, smarter and much much more! You said Tsukiko will break if something happens to me. She won't, because I will never allow it. Even if I have to become stronger then Merlin himself, then so be it!"

Rin retorted with equal anger. "You stubborn little brat! And how will you do that? You don't have a clue or the resolve to back up what you said! To be a magus is to walk with death. Are you ready to kill another to prove your point!"

Hermione said coldly. "If that's what it takes to protect Tsukiko, then I will..."

"Don't you dare finish that sentence. You selfish brat! Think about my offer. I expect a favourable answer within a week, Hermione. This isn't just about you!"

Rin stormed off after that.

A moment went by before Hermione shouted at Rin in anger and frustration. "Rin Tohsaka! You are a fucking Bitch!" Hermione cried in frustration after that outburst.

(Line break)

Much later in the afternoon, Hermione returned home with puffy red eyes and was completely exhausted.

Hermione was glad her parents were working late today. She rather not explain why she was crying for what felt like hours.

Hermione slumped lifelessly onto her bed, both her mind and body exhausted from that unpleasant meeting with Rin.

Hermione soon fell asleep. In her exhausted state, she had completely forgotten to take her dreamless potion. Her nightmare returned in full.

Despite what people might speculate about dreams and nightmares. For Hermione, nothing could possibly be worse then what had actually happened.

Hermione was helpless against that man, his large arms wrapped around her small body, his hand around her mouth, muffling her scream for help. He blamed her for his broken nose, he blamed her for messing up his chance. He blamed her and all the freaks that had made his life miserable. He was going to take it all out on her body.

Hermione felt sick to her stomach and knew what was about to happen to her. Her mum told her about what some men would do to girls like her, what evil things they would do. Her mum told her to run and scream for help and never be alone with them.

Hermione really wished she had her wand with her. Why did she have to follow rules and leave it at home. She was scared. She was absolutely terrified.

It was then Tsukiko burst into the abandon house, like a heroine out of a comic book. She was going to be saved. Everything would be all right.

Then she felt as if someone punched her in the chest, everything felt cold. The look of shock and pain on Tsukiko's expression. She saw the knife in her chest, blood flowed freely from her, so much blood.

Everything was so confusing for her, next she saw the man fell dead before her, soon after her legs gave out and she fell too, but Tsukiko caught her.

Everything looked distorted to her. Her hearing muffled, the edge of her vision blurred. Only Tsukiko was in focus, she was crying, shouting for her to stay.

Hermione hated this, she hate to see her friend cry like this. She saw the desperation on Tsukiko's expression and she wished with all her hearts to make everything right again. She loved her too much to see her hurt like this.

It was then Hermione realized, she love Tsukiko. She knew without a doubt, she love her just as much as she love her parents. Darkness encroached on her vision. 'I want to stay. I want to live. I want to be with Tsukiko.' Hermione thought desperately.

Hermione was surrounded by an impenetrable darkness. This was where her dream ends. Hermione cried as she knew what Rin said was true. She would be a liability to Tsukiko. Without help, she would always be a helpless bookworm.

As she cried in her dream scape, the darkness was shattered around her, to be replaced with infinite white. Hermione looked on in confusion, she wondered what was going on, didn't the nightmare end when the darkness completely obscured her vision? Like they always did before.

Hermione saw a man with his back towards her. He wore stylish white suit, his long shoulder length silky black hair flowed in unseen winds. He turned slightly to his side and looked at her with ruby red eyes. He was saying something to her, she couldn't hear him, it sounded muffled.

When his mouth moved again. Hermione heard his words with crystal clarity. Words suffused with indescribable power filled her entire being, filled her with hope. "Wake up."

Hermione woke up with a warm feeling in her chest. All her fears and insecurity evaporated. For the first time since her memories returned, she felt free, liberated from that never ending nightmare. She knew she will never have that nightmare again.

Hermione wondered who that man was. Her face turned pink as she remembered how handsome he looked, everything about him were perfect, beyond anything she could imagine.

It was then she heard a soft tap on her window. A strange doll like dove was on her window sill with a letter at it's feet. Hermione opened the window and took the letter. Once she did, the strange dove flew away.

Hermione gingerly opened her letter with a spell on the opposite side of her bedroom. Once she was certain the letter would not explode or do something else against her. She read it's content. It was really short.

Dear Hermione Granger

If you wish to learn about magecraft. If you wish to become a magus. If you wish to learn the truth. Be in this room tomorrow at 5pm and accept the portkey.

If not, just leave the letter on the window sill and you will never hear from me again.

I leave the choice up to you.

Hermione read the letter again. She knew this letter was not from Rin, she made it clear what she wanted from her. Hermione knew this could not have come from Tsukiko. She always seemed reluctant to teach actual magecraft to her.

So the question was. Who send this letter? Hermione knew there was only one way to find out.

(Line break)

Gringotts Continental gate terminal

"Please don't go Luna. I'm going to miss you." Cried Ginny as she hugged Luna in a tight embrace.

Luna smiled as she patted Ginny on the head. "Oh Ginny. We talked about this. This is best for everyone. You know that."

Ginny hiccuped. "But... but.. I want you to stay. You can stay with us during summer and attend Hogwarts. You don't have to go with your dad."

Luna could only smile sadly at that proposition. "Oh Ginny. Thank you. You really are a good friend, but you knew it's more then that."

Ginny sniffled. "Yea I know... but there must be something we can do..."

Luna touched her forehead onto Ginny's forehead. "You know that the Ministry and Dumbledore will never leave me alone if they knew I have a fully working seer sight."

Ginny cried as Luna continued. "Oh Ginny. This isn't goodbye forever. I will come back. Maybe sooner then you think."

Ginny looked her in the eyes. "Really? You certain."

Luna gave her a bright smile. "I can see the future, remember."

Ginny grumbled. "Does that future also include princess Gryffindor untimely demise or expulsion."

Luna sighed in good humour. "No Ginny, it does not."

Ginny pouted. "Oh bloody hell!"

Luna laughed a little. "However someone very interesting will come to Hogwarts this year."

Ginny pouted. "Unless it's Shiki-sama. I doubt they are that interesting."

Luna just gave Ginny an evil laugh as her answer.

Luna gave Ginny a tight hug and said. "I have to go now, I will keep in touch. Goodbye Ginny, love you."

Ginny sniffled. "Love you too."

The two friends parted way. Luna walked towards the gate and thought back to her time at St Mungo's.

She could not remember much of her trip to the forbidden forest. She knew why she went there, she knew she carried out her final plan.

However she was still alive. What's more, she could no longer see all the variable outcomes of the future. She saw the future as it was going to happen, a singular outcome. She could no longer change them to how she wanted them or see the outcome of any changes she made. Future became an unknown to her when it's flow has changed or until after the event of the changes she applied.

She no longer feel the unnatural pressure within her head and the Mediwizards at St Mungo's gave her a clean bill of health along with the discovery of her true sight.

That was a mess. Her status as a seer saw her detained at St Mungo's for months. They used all the legal loopholes they could find, in order to keep her there for studies.

It was during this time, Eria, an Elin Oracle. Came to their rescue and offered her an apprenticeship and a place at Beacon. It was thanks to Eria, that the legal nightmare with St Mungo's and in part the Ministry came to an end.

Also it turned out Eria was the one who found her in the forbidden forest. Luna had asked if Eria knew what happened to her in the forest and how she knew she was going to be there.

However she didn't tell her what happened. She told her. 'You will know when it is time for you to know. No sooner and no later.'

Eria was very cryptic. Luna wondered if being cryptic would become part of her training as well.

Luna walked through the continental gate and came upon the sight of Allemantheia, it was beautiful.

Luna saw Eria speaking to her father and turned very pale. Luna's seer sight saw a very disturbing future, one where Eria was more then a mentor to her.

Luna wondered if she could somehow alter the future to her liking. She almost wished for her mystic eye of 'Actualize method', even if said eye almost killed her.

(Line break)

46a Craigdarragh road

It was close to midnight when Lancer decided to retire for the day. The past couple of days had been stressful, not only for him, but also everyone else.

The argument between Rin and Tsukiko was vicious, even by his standard. Needless to say Arcueid was rather upset by the state Rin had left Tsukiko in. Arturia was not happy with Rin and in turn Satsuki as well. Both of them had kept her out of the loop along with Tsukiko.

Lancer could not blame Rin and Satsuki for their deception, both of them cared for Tsukiko just as much as everyone else. He would've done the same if given the chance, although he would not berate or belittle his young master like Rin did.

What Rin had done has hurt Tsukiko deeply, both in trust and her pride as a magus. To be told that she was not up to Rin's standard or expectation was a hard pill to swallow.

Tsukiko might have her short coming, but not as severe as Rin had painted it and Tsukiko would most certainly improve in the future.

Thus Lancer could only groan in annoyance when he saw Rin in his room raiding his mini-bar. She already drank half of his good stuff.

Lancer could see Rin was completely hammered. Her face bright red, she slouched over the table with many empty bottles.

She looked over to him and smile. "Hey Cu Chu... umm... Chulainn. Co... come over and... hic... drink with me. Drinks taste... hic... better when you half... ummm... I mean have... some one to drink with."

'Oh yes. Rin is completely hammered.' Lancer thought to himself.

He sat down next to Rin and poured a glass of Vodka for himself. He downed the glass in one go and savoured the burning sensation of strong alcohol.

Lancer said with a sigh. "So what eating you. I can already guess, but I like to hear it from you first."

"That obvious huh." Rin seemed to sobered up a little at that. She glanced at him. "What? You're going to have a go at me as well. Get in line..."

Lancer cut her off. "Hey. I'm pretty sure you already heard enough from everyone else. If I'm going to have a go, it would be all the drinks you cleared out of my mini-bar and drinking under age."

"Oh piss off! You prick!" Rin growled half heartedly.

Lancer said seriously. "You only want what's best for Tsukiko. I know you care about her, despite what you said."

Rin was silent for awhile, playing with her drinks. She said sombrely. "I never visited her you know. After I graduated from Fuyuki high with Shirou. She never crossed my mind until the day she took her own life." Rin downed the drink in one go. "I didn't even go to her funeral. I was too scared."

Lancer already knew whom Rin was talking about. Sakura Matou, formerly Sakura Tohsaka. The one ghost Rin never seemed to be able to let go. Rin continued. "If Tsukiko breaks like Sakura did. I'll never be able to forgive myself."

"She's not going to break." Lancer said while pouring another drink.

Rin glared at him angrily. "And how can you be so sure? Did you see how distant she was when she came back today!? Did you see how haunted she looked!? I should have locked her up and did..."

"She is strong Rin, she is as strong as you are. She took this head on and she cares. That is why she can show how upset she is with this whole damn situation. That's why she is determined to fix and save those girls. She will never give up. Not on those girls, not on herself, not on anyone." Lancer said with conviction.

Rin's glare softened as he continued. "Tsukiko reminds me a lot of Scathach. She has the same determination, the same fire within her. And Scathach is... and will always be the strongest woman I've ever know."

Rin said sarcastically. "Is that why you always reject Tsukiko's advance, and not just because of her age. Are you telling me the real reason is because what? You really care about her."

Lancer stayed silent as he slowly sipped his drink. Rin said in honest shock. "You really do care about her. You're really in lo..."

"No Rin. I only ever loved one woman... and she is long gone. I see Tsukiko as family. That's all." Lancer said sombrely.

Lancer then gathered up all the bottles, empty or not, despite Rin's protest. He said to her. "And that's enough drink for you. Best you go to bed and sleep off..."

"I can't... I'm in the dog house with Arturia. She kicked me out of our room." Rin said with despair.

Lancer sighed. "And let me guess, you want to sleep here, around someone you know... take the bed, I'm going to sleep on the couch."

Rin said quickly. "You don't have..."

Lancer cut her off. "Take the bed Rin. I will be fine. I will see you in the morning. I'm not going anywhere."

Rin said quietly. "Thank you. Cu Chulainn."

Rin fell asleep soon after.

(Line break)

22 June 1993

Granger's house

Time slowly edged towards 5pm. Hermione quickly checked her inventories. She had her wand, small supply of Zonko's prank supply, deadly if used incorrectly or maliciously. Hermione also made sure a small pocket knife was properly secured in her boots.

Hermione knew her parents would flip if they found out she had a knife. But then again, if they knew what she knew now, they would have pulled her out of Hogwarts and taken Rin's offer.

Hermione could already imagine what Rin and Tsukiko would say about what she's doing now. They would call her a suicidal idiot, but she needed to know.

'What is a magus? How are they different from wizard and witches?' Hermione thought. But this time, it was not just simple curiosity or the need to know everything. It's more complicated then that now. Her survival, her friends and families safety were on the line.

The clock struck five o'clock. The same doll like dove arrived. This time with another letter.

The strange dove watched her attentively as she opened the letter. A silver coin fell out. As soon as the coin fell into her hand, the world swirled around her.

Hermione arrived at an office filled with cabinets, papers, usual stationary goods along with various strange and odd artefacts. The room gave off an impression of old or well worn office, one that was often seen in the seventies detective movie. The orange lighting only strengthened that impression, along with a heavy scent of cigarette smoke. Overall the room was at best 'organised chaos'.

Hermione quickly took out her wand and pointed it at the only other occupant of this room.

The woman looked to be in late twenty or early thirty, she had striking red hair tied into a pony tail, she wore an oval glasses along with a lose white shirt. She had a mature look with a pleasant and inviting air around her. She sat behind a massive oak work desk.

She smiled at her, a smile that Hermione found all too familiar. It was similar to Rin's when she used her social persona.

The woman said to her with that warm and inviting tone, a friendly tone that Hermione was weary off. "I'm glad to see you took precaution before meeting me, Miss Granger. I am impressed."

Hermione said cautiously. "I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage Miss. You knew my name, but I do not know you."

The woman laughed softly and said. "Oh my. How rude of me. I never did put my name down in those letters."

Hermione didn't buy that one bit, everything about this woman felt unreal. The woman continued. "Well. It's a pleasure to meet you Hermione Granger. My name is Touko Aozaki. Former magus of the Clock Tower."

(Line break)

British Ministry of Magic

Dolores Umbridge was not having a good day. Correction, there were never a 'good day' since the Tohsaka came into the political arena of Magical Britain.

The Ministry relation with those half-breeds, beasts and impure filth were improving. All those years of directing the Ministry towards the pure-blood agenda were undone in a single year.

Her push towards the magical beast registration act were undone, he effort to register Veela and others like them as magical creature were labelled racist, small minded, intolerant and... BAD for business! Her dream of creating the muggle registration act were in complete tatter. Thing could not be worse.

When one tempts fate, it tend to answer in kind. Dolores immediately knew something was wrong when she entered her office.

All her Kneazle portraits were silent, all of them whimpered in terror. A succulent voice came from the shadow. "I have been waiting for you... Veiled queen."

Dolores almost jumped at the voice. A woman with dark raven colour hair and amber eyes appeared out of the shadow of her office. The Kneazle within their plates were visibly shaking in fear.

Dolores hated this woman, Cinder Fall. She was unnatural. Every fibre of her being screamed at this abomination. There was something very off with this woman. Even if her previous contacts from the American Ministry had assured her of this woman's 'purity'.

Dolores said with a regal tone, or at least she tried to. "Agent Cinder. What an unexpected surprise. If you had send words of your arrival. Perhaps you would not have to wait."

Cinder smiled. "Oh don't mind me. I don't mind the wait in this 'lovely' office. Such decorum towards insanity and madness. Perhaps our 'interrogator' could draw some inspiration from this room."

Dolores glared at Cinder for her veiled insult to her taste in decoration. 'The bitch has some nerve!' Dolores thought darkly.

Dolores put on an overly sweet tone, hoping to irritate her. "Is there something I can do for you dear? Tea perhaps, or a very interesting quill I have in my possession."

Cinder smiled back and said. "Don't trouble yourself. 'My dear' as you Brits fondly put it. Our plans are going ahead and I need you to do your part."

Cinder took out a letter and continued. "Be a 'dear' and give this to the Dementor of Azkaban."

"Is that 'all' dear?" Dolores said with a false smile. "Would you like me to send them gifts as well. You came here for this!?" Dolores almost snarled.

Cinder said with cruel amusement. "I can assure you this is VERY important. And be a dear, deliver this newspaper to one Sirius Black." Dolores was about to retort sharply at Cinder and damn the alliance. Cinder continued unperturbed. "Of course if this is too much for you. I'm sure someone within the Veiled Heritance will be more then happy to carry out my wishes and... earn my gratitude."

Dolores froze as Cinder's amber eyes glowed. That was a threat, Cinder would have her replaced if she refuse. Fear, real fear crawled in her stomach as she gaze into those unnatural eyes.

Dolores quickly nodded. Terrified her voice would reveal her fear. Cinder smiled. "Now, was that so difficult? Now run along and complete the mission."

Dolores was about to charge out and get away from this woman when Cinder said to her. "Oh Dolores dear. Do try and not open the letter..." Cinder's smile turned pure evil. "Or you might lose what little sanity you have left." Cinder vanished into the shadow.

(Line break)

23rd June 1993

Azkaban

Dolores did not linger at Azkaban. She loathed unnatural beings like Dementor just as much as werewolf and muggles. The only good thing were how useful and obedient those Dementor were. She dropped the Daily Prophet into Black's cell and handed the letter to the nearest Dementor she could find.

Dolores was surprised when the Dementor took the letter with care, almost reverence. If such creature could understand the concept.

Her mission completed. She quickly left this Merlin forsaken hell hole.

The Dementor held the letter protectively as it made it way towards the highest level of Azkaban.

The weather were forever dark due to the numerous Dementor residing here. The Dementor made it's way towards one of the corner of the triangular tower prison, it found what it was looking for.

A Dementor unlike any other. It's dark shroud were clean and clear cut, unlike the regular Dementor with their black rotten rag. It held it's hand out for the letter. Long skeleton like fingers, grey smooth pallor skin. Unlike it's brethren rotting and infested hand.

The lesser Dementor backed away as soon as it handed the letter over.

The dark being opened the letter and smiled at the content. It has an almost human like feature under the dark hood, if one discount the sickly grey skin along with it's gaunt and sinister expression.

The being spoke to the lesser Dementor. "Let the mutt go and gather all our brothers. The promised time is here."

The lesser Dementor flew off the edge and spread the news. Within moments, dozens of Dementors gathered and flew around the dark being. It walked to the edge of Azkaban and unfurled it's shadow like wings as it join it's brethren for upcoming conflict and inevitable feast.

A/N: And that's the end of year two. Wow, this has been a long saga, I'm happy to say we are close to 50% done with Tsukiko chronicle as a whole. Year 3 will be a real game changer. The tone of the story will change massively and people will start dying.

I will try and update as much as I can. However real life has been a real pain lately, so I can't promise anything like timed release or regular update.

Now moving onto the review.

Mernom: Got those eyes from the OVA of Garden of Sinner, I thought they were pretty clever.

Rydan fall: The chamber will be emptied of. The basilisk's body will definitely have it's uses as overprice potion ingredient or the secret of magical resistance in it's hide.

Greyjedi449t: There will be interaction at the start of year 3 and more in the middle. RWBY cast will not be isolated to year 2 alone.

MWkillkenny: No, I will not have Salem in this fic. There is too little info on her, and beside I got someone far more terrifying then her.

Paxloria: I'm getting a sense of dejavu answering this. Might have answered this already. Severus is a big boy, he can take care of himself. Also at this time death eater were considered defunct, they are convinced their dark lord was dead or it would be more then Bart and Wormtail looking for him. Also Veiled Heritance was the group American magical allied with, not death eater.

This might become a problem later when Volde get resurrected.

Reishin Amara: Glad you like it :)

Kaiirine: Stay tune and find out is all I can say without giving up the plot ;)

Rickp01: Not at all, many fanfic have came up almost hundreds of way to kill Voldemort. Rin does have the power to kill him and so does many others. The main thing was how to achieve them reasonably. One example is, for Rin she needed to know how the Horcrux work, how it connects the main souls to the fragments or even fragments to each other. Then she might find a way to break their connection and kill them.

Here is food for thought. What do you think would be Voldemort's reaction if he learned about Touko Aozaki's immortality. Where she could move into another duplicate body at the moment of her death.

Amerdism: So you noticed :). Yes Tsukiko do become weaker for each soul that leave her. She wont be able to tap into their unique magic and knowledge. As for Jewel craft, it has it flexibility and draw back, but most important thing about being a magus is 'specialization'. Virtually all magus specialize in one area of studies and expertise.

For Tsukiko this fell under Runes and Jewel craft combo. Thus she will always be expanding this field at all time. She might branch off into other area, but her strongest point will always be in Rune and Jewels. I do have plans to give her something truly powerful near the end, and that will be a surprise.

Way of life: Good point on 10.000 Galleon, when she can have them for 21. In the real world, specially present time, you won't see that. People tend to take any and all advantage they could get.

However there are those that will suitably reward others for exceptional service rendered. You will see this more often in the far east culture. Most Chinese do believe in fair service and trade.

Tsukiko was also brought up under this type of belief and know the advantage of having loyal connection working for her. The Elder Wand is a priceless artefact, who's to say that Ollivander won't come across other Deathly Hallow artefact or even some other legendary items like Merlin's hat, Avalon or Excalibur.

It's always good to treat other fairly instead of selfishly, or it might come back and bite you in the arse.

Well that's all for now. I will see you all at the start of year 3.