Part Two

A/N: Now that the nightmare that was Last Quarter is over, I can resume editing the remaining chapters. My profound gratitude goes to M and to Clairvoyant, whose beta-skills are unrivaled. I hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: I am merely playing in JKR's world.

May 30, 2010

Dear Rose,

I promise not to exceed my parchment limit, as I was prone to doing at Hogwarts. Let's say I will stick to three subjects and attempt to be concise. I am, for lack of a better term, a lawyer, however. Even our briefs tend to be excessive! Still, I will try to be concise, as I'm expecting Professor Snape or his owl today. Writing to you is much better than pacing...which is difficult to do on crutches...around the house in nervous agitation.

We had a lovely time at the zoo yesterday! You especially loved the butterflies and the giraffes. They entranced me as well, but I was nearly moved to tears seeing one of the female gorillas carrying her little one. I've never had the need to read up extensively on gorillas, but I felt I understood her better than if I had read every monograph on the subject. I can never tell you that I love you too many times. Your Nana promised to stop at the library and pick up some books on African animals, though, so we can learn together.

Why am I taking all this time off with you? Usually, you spend the day at Nana's or Grandma Molly's playing with your cousins. You live with me, but your dad is here often enough that it is almost like living with two married parents. When I'm home, we read a lot together. My parents taught me...and I agree...that reading is the best way to learn about the world you cannot physically experience. However, being witches, we have a little more flexibility in our ability to realise improbable things. You are improving at forming your letters, and together we are starting to learn Spanish nouns (which I believe to be more suitable to developing your first foreign language skills than French). I have every confidence that your intellectual foundation is firmly established. I've also tried to give you a basic understanding of ethics, but I trust your family to guide you in that all your life.

Does that count as two subjects? I wanted to give you a bit of my perspective of our life before my condition. It is difficult to find the words to describe the joy and adventures being with you inspires.

Essentially, though, I have accumulated enough holiday and sick leave over the years that I was able to take the last three weeks off. I've spent the last four weeks seeing every specialist in the country and a few foreign ones as well. Ron, Harry, and I thought I should keep a low profile at work until we had a logical explanation. I spend my days playing and reading with you and corresponding by owl and the Floo Network with my co-workers. We have several big pieces of legislation in the final stages before submission to the Wizengamot. Soon, I will have to have my colleagues over for tea to plan strategy and approve the final edits.

Professor Weasley, my essay is complete, having kept to the guidelines and finished it before its due date (aka your rising). Wish me patience and luck today!

Whimsically yours,

Mum

P.S.: I know you wanted to go to the reptile house yesterday, but I just couldn't enter. I've been Petrified by a basilisk, nearly lost your grandpa to Voldemort's pet snake, and watched her attempt to kill Professor Snape. Sorry, darling, but I will only suffer their company if my life depends on it.

Later

Good news first, Rose.

Professor Snape isolated the poison. That's the only good news in the letter he sent me. I am outraged (I wasn't blasting weeds for your amusement only...it felt good). Someone is succeeding at killing me! I survived torture, manhunts, and battle before I left my teens, only to be brought down by an anonymous killer using a poison unknown even by the best Potions master in England?

Professor Snape has never encountered it before. There was little residue in the sample, which means it is very potent. All we've gleaned from the tests is that it is a plant and it is in Queensland. Queensland!!!! Did you know that Queensland's tropical rainforests possess one of the highest biodiversity levels in Australia? There are thousands of different plants in such small areas.

The characteristics of this poison do not match any other known magical neurotoxins. The source must have magical aptitude (either possess magical properties or an ability to interact with magic), however, as it is untraceable in the body (meaning my blood work did not show any unusual toxic levels).

Professor Snape suggested a research team be sent to Queensland and search for the plant. There is political reason to as well...Ministry employees will be at risk if there is no antidote and our enemy attempts to influence public policy by elimination. I am to meet with Kingsley to advise him of the situation and to set up a meeting for the three of us to determine who will accompany Professor Snape to Australia.

Why is he doing this? Is his intellectual curiosity so stimulated by this case that he would put aside all other work and travel for an indefinite time to Australia? It seems such a thankless task. He couldn't have found out that I saved his life...

Even so, I find it difficult to understand his motives. Then again, when have I ever?

I've sent in an owl to meet with Kingsley at his earliest convenience. I'm sure the Minister could spare his lunch break to meet with an old comrade.

Lots of love,

Mum

P.S.: It occurs to me that, as life has gotten very interesting lately, I've neglected to share with you any motherly wisdom, or at least what your mum likes to eat! Well, I consider tea to be in a food group of its own (no doubt your father's influence), but I have also recently become fond of Thai cuisine. I feel more logical than wise, but my mother recently passed on to me a book about Dietrich Bonheoffer, a member of the German resistance during the Second World War. He wrote that the "essence of optimism is that it takes no account of the present, but it is a source of inspiration, of vitality and hope where others have resigned; it enables a man to hold his head high, to claim the future for himself and not to abandon it to his enemy." What a lovely piece of advice...

June 1, 2010

Dear Rose,

I wish I could say I suffered from bipolar disorder (a Muggle psychological condition), but I'm afraid my rapid transitions from frustrated to relieved to excited to angry are to be entirely blamed on my trip to the Ministry today. My emotional state is just volatile enough that I will go on long rants about random issues if I don't stick to a strict, colour-coded version of the events:

8:45...Ginny collected you for a play date with Jamie and Al. I wore my best work clothes (which I have strangely missed over the past few weeks) and Flooed to the Atrium.

9:00...Met Susan Bones, Dorothy Prewett, Quintus Knightley, Mirabel Duval, and Imogene Abbot from the office (I have tea weekly with Mirabel, Dorothy, and Susan; do you remember them?). Entertained much sympathy and disappointment from them regarding my medical condition, which is spoken about in the most ambiguous of terms. I absolutely loved being back in the office and working on new legislation!

10:15...Notarized my will.

11:30...Meeting with Kingsley. Themis Brocklehurst, the head of MLE also present, so all mention of Professor Snape confined to references to Royal Havisham (Kingsley unsurprised, but seemingly displeased). Am informed that I am temporarily banned from any ministerial work, with paid leave, of course.

Banned, Rose!!!!! Logic can go Reducto itself...I am to be kept from my (other) life's work because some psychopath has decided to kill me? If these are indeed my last six months, I want to be living a full life as a mother and passing equity laws. Instead, I am told that this attempt could be politically motivated and the only way to prevent other assassination attempts is to remove me from the equation!

I am not allowed to even be a consultant. I know being your mother is my first priority, but I care so much about civil justice! I was hunted not just for being Uncle Harry's friend but because I was a Muggle-born. There is so much still to do to promote tolerance and protect rights, and I will go stir-crazy watching from the sidelines.

Kingsley looked at me very intently when my tirade was finished and opened a file sitting on his desk.

"Hermione, I am sure you are aware that your department has been under fire from conservative lobbyists ever since you transferred from Magical Creatures to the MLE. They see you as the greatest threat to the status quo, and we agree since we approached you about this legislation in the first place."

"I have received threats before," I objected. Themis shook her head.

"Your post has been screened since you were hired, as is your colleagues'. There are fifteen letters addressed to you in that file that contained curses. I cannot, in good faith, risk your colleagues' lives by letting you continue to take part in this legislation."

Kingsley nodded. "Furthermore, this poison presents a high security risk for several reasons. Your assailant clearly has the resources and intellect necessary to possess this rare of a weapon and to choose a mysterious way of distributing it. We don't know if this is aimed solely at you or if a larger conspiracy is afoot. Frankly, I am concerned about the slow-moving nature of the poison. This smells of blackmail...put fear into Ministry employees that they could die a potentially slow and painful death. Individual employees could be forced into decisions if promised they wouldn't receive a dose."

"The Aurors will be put in charge of this investigation," Themis said. "This will be top priority and have the highest security clearance. Naturally, you will be asked to advise and cooperate with the investigation."

"The expedition to find a cure will be under the oversight of the Aurors in order to keep it out of the papers. I don't want this enemy to know they are losing their advantage," Kingsley added.

I frowned. "I hardly think an Auror would be appropriate to lead an Herbology expedition."

Kingsley smiled. "We have just the right man for the job. Themis, would you excuse us, please?"

We said our goodbyes, and Kingsley ordered lunch brought in. He looked disapproving.

"I received a letter from our friend two days ago, informing me of the situation. I must say I haven't received such a blistering lecture on the nature of security in my administration before. Apparently, I practically invited Ron to visit our friend."

"I am sorry," I apologized. Kingsley shook his head.

"Under the circumstances, I can hardly fault Ron for his behaviour. How are you holding up?"

"As best I can, given I've just been banned from my job." It was his turn to wince. "I'm just trying to live each day to its fullest and spend as much time with my family as possible."

"We will find a cure," he promised. "Royal has contacted friends in Queensland who will be able to assist, and I will pull every herbologist away from their projects if necessary. We will not give up on you!"

His confidence buoyed my spirits, although I still felt as though I had been fired. We spent the next half hour looking over potential members of the expedition and discussing logistics. Within the week, we will hopefully meet for the first time. Oh...Kingsley has picked the perfect man to lead the expedition.

This feels exactly like going behind Umbridge's back in my fifth year! But that still hasn't dissolved my anger.

Love from your

Mum

P.S.: I'm waiting again.

June 4, 2010

My dearest Rose,

Please forgive me for saying this, but I need a break. Running after you on crutches is no easy feat, and I wish all sorts of harm on your dad for giving you a toy broomstick. Thank Merlin you've not inherited my fear of flying. I love spending time with you, but it is all I do! I am unable to find a balance now that I cannot participate in the legislation, and I am getting nowhere with the book of magical plants in Australia.

We are going to my parents' house for a miniature holiday...you're not the only one who needs her mum right now.

I hope, whenever you are, that you still remember me fondly.

Mum

P.S.: I love you!

June 7, 2010

Dear Rose,

It is amazing what three days away from your regular life can do to renew the spirit. As I told your dad and Uncle Harry over lunch today, I think I now understand how Sirius Black felt, trapped by circumstances and unable to help the Order of the Phoenix at all. I disapproved of Sirius's recklessness, but I wonder if I would have acted any differently. Feeling useless is one of the most frustrating things in the world.

Harry let it slip that he will be in charge of the investigation here at home. While there is little evidence, I have the utmost confidence in Harry. He has the rare ability to face an impossible task and doggedly pursue it until it is mastered. But in the meantime, he is my steadfast friend, making me laugh by suggesting all sorts of outrageous tasks to help me feel useful. Tomorrow, the three of us are meeting the expedition for the first time at Kingsley's flat in London. Finally, we can make some progress!

I received a card today from Mirabel and her brother wishing me a speedy recovery. Mirabel spent all of this spring encouraging me to go out with Claude, although at the time I thought that I could have nothing in common with a herbologist. How ironic now!

Much love,

Mum

June 8, 2010

My dearest Rose,

I don't know what to think. I'm going to Australia! Not once did I imagine this happening. Part of me is jumping up and down in exultation and mentally drawing up lists of everything I need to get ready while the rest of me keeps coming back to the image of you dirt streaked and smiling as you presented me with the bouquet of flowers you really shouldn't have torn up from our garden. I don't know how I can be separated from you for potentially months!

Let me explain to you how this came about. Aunt Ginny offered to watch you tonight while your dad, Harry, and I went to London. That was awfully kind of Ginny...I am in awe of her ability to handle two young boys and a baby and work part time as a reporter. We were the first to arrive at Kingsley's flat in Chelsea. Although Kingsley lives alone, his flat is sophisticated and perfect for small parties.

Harry and Ron quickly engaged Kingsley in a discussion of the warding spells on the flat...the advantage to having a former Auror as the Minister of Magic is that it is impossible to spy on him in his own home.

"I assume your office is monitored, then?" I asked, remembering how we avoided mentioning Professor Snape by name. Kingsley possesses a very lovely sofa upon which I lounged.

"I practically asked for it, promising transparency in government. Hence, our covert meeting here."

Harry frowned. "I'm concerned that Hermione's absence will not go unnoticed by the press. Rita Skeeter in particular will be asking questions about her health."

"A fair point," Kingsley acknowledged. "We will have to create a cover story. Would you like to go observe the Bulgarian Ministry, Hermione? I'm certain we could convince Viktor Krum to vouch for your presence there."

"It would be lovely to see Viktor again, although I don't fancy hiding away very much," I replied. Any further discussion was interrupted by the subsequent arrivals of our compatriots.

First to arrive was Sinead O'Rourke, a Healer from St. Mungo's. She's a tall, auburn-haired woman still in her work robes. Any tiredness from a long shift was obscured by her easy-going manner, and the two of us quickly warmed to each other. A short while later, a stocky man dressed for trekking arrived, followed by my dear friend Neville Longbottom. All of us sat down on Kingsley's lovely sofas with glasses of wine and hors d'oeuvres, conversing in small groups.

"He's late," I muttered to Kingsley. He rolled his eyes.

"He has always loved making an entrance," he replied. I smiled in agreement. Both of us were wrong, however, for Professor Snape arrived quietly, Glamoured, in the company of a white-haired man.

"Royal! We were beginning to think you weren't coming!" Ron called, causing Harry to look quizzically at him. During the war, Kingsley's resistance name was Royal, and that no doubt contributed to Harry's confusion tonight. Professor Snape's companion smiled.

"That would be my fault. I'm afraid the time shift left me absolutely knackered. Evening, mates," he replied in tones of an Australian countryman. He looked to be a little younger than Professor McGonagall, but his manner reminded me of Teddy's father, Remus Lupin. When we were all seated, Kingsley thanked us for coming.

"I know you all have other responsibilities, but I thank you for the sacrifices you are making by joining this. Your work will be vital in preventing, but more likely combating, a significant threat to the health of this government. Hermione may have been the first to be attacked, but I fear she won't be the last. We have less than six months in which to address this situation, but I sincerely hope you won't have to be in the jungle for that long." There was some laughter.

"Tonight, we will talk strategy so that I can begin negotiations with the Australian prime minister. Perhaps we might begin by introducing ourselves?" The stocky man next to him stirred.

"Rolf Scamander. Usually, I'm a magizoologist, but I came home to visit my grandfather and was drafted by Kingsley to be your guide. Queensland is very interesting this time of year," Scamander added. He must be the grandson of Newt Scamander, author of Magical Beasts and Where to Find Them. I wonder if he knows Luna.

Harry was next. "I'm Harry. I work for the Auror office and will be leading the investigation here."

"Ron Weasley. Deputy to the guy next to me, and...well...actually, I don't have a legitimate reason to be here." More than one of us rolled their eyes. "But in a way, it's kind of my fault that you are all here, so thanks."

I shook my head. "He's my ex-husband, and I think it's sweet he worries so much. I am Hermione Granger, but it's really my fault that you get to go to warm, sunny Australia. I know this is a long shot, but I really appreciate all of your sacrifices." Ron gave my hand a squeeze.

"We'll thank you now before we're worrying about crocodiles," Sinead teased. "My name is Sinead O'Rourke. I work at St. Mungo's in Potions and Plant Poisoning."

"Neil Erhling. My wife Adelaide and I are private researchers in Queensland. I specialize in ley line magic and will, therefore, be assisting in several capacities. My wife and I are also opening up our home as a base for the expedition. I've known this man," referring to Professor Snape sitting next to him, "nearly a decade."

Professor Snape flicked his gaze to Kingsley, who nodded.

"I must ask you all for your complete discretion," Kingsley asked calmly. There were some confused faces, but all assented. Harry's eyes widened, and he whipped his head towards Professor Snape.

"Yes, Potter." Professor Snape removed his Glamour. Neville, sitting next to him, paled, but did not flinch. The room was silent. "My privacy is very dear to me, so I thank you all for your silence." Neil's eyes crinkled.

"Some of you know me as Royal Havisham. I am an independent Potions master and will be serving the same function on this trip. Mr. Longbottom." He nodded to Neville, who noticeably swallowed.

"Right. I'm Neville. I'm currently on leave from the Auror office and recently finished my Herbology apprenticeship." Neville was a far cry from the timid third year he used to be, but his gaze challenged the man next to him as he continued. "Kingsley has asked me to head the expedition."

Everyone who knew Neville watched Professor Snape for his reaction. A flicker of his eyelids was the only sign of surprise he gave, but I held my breath as he studied Neville. Finally, he gave a tiny but curt nod. Kingsley clapped his hands together.

"Very good. Now, Severus has determined that the most likely place you will find the poison is in..."

We talked logistics for over an hour. There are several tropical rainforests in Queensland that fit the ley line coordinates Professor Snape was able to determine from my residuals. I have to find out how he did that! There was discussion over which forest would be searched first; debate broke out over collection methods, and I sat back, enjoying the spectacle.

Meanwhile, Harry and Kingsley were discussing my list of enemies. Is it a sign of accomplishment to have your own personal enemies list? I suppose a good number of old Wizarding families (I really do not like the term 'pureblood') were there as were Marietta Edgecome (although I sent her a letter of apology after I learned Umbridge used Veritaserum on her), Rita Skeeter (unlikely that she'd wish to kill me when she can merely start another smear campaign), and Dolores Umbridge (in Azkaban). In short, too many people and not enough evidence.

When there was a lull in the conversation, I was surprised to hear my name.

"I think Hermione should come with you," Harry announced. All of us looked at him in surprise. Naturally, Professor Snape was the first to react.

"And how would Miss Granger be of service? The forest is no place for... someone in her condition." A cripple. I could almost hear him say it.

"You need a researcher," Harry argued. "Someone who can hunt through libraries and follow up obscure references. This is exactly what we lacked while searching for Horcruxes. And Hermione is the best person for the job. You need her!"

"She is right here," I objected. "I can't just get up and leave..."

"Harry makes a good point," Ron interjected. "This is exactly up your alley, Hermione. This could make it much easier to find the source of the poison! Besides, you've been frustrated for days, feeling useless."

"But Rose..."

"She can stay with me. I am her dad, after all."

Harry was right...we had no idea what we were looking for or where to find a Horcrux during the war. This task would be no different unless someone could find any sort of documentation. But to leave you behind and go off to Australia for an indeterminate amount of time... I trust Ron, though. He will take good care of you, or at least take you to his mother or mother-in-law.

I looked at Neville. "What do you think?"

He didn't hesitate. "We'd be clomping around the rainforest without any sort of direction if you didn't have our backs. I want you in Queensland. Any objections?"

Even Professor Snape assented. Neil Erhling graciously opened his home to me for the duration of the trip (Professor Snape shot him a look), and suddenly, I realized I was going to Australia again! As I sit here now, I realize that I actually am looking forward to it. I love learning about subjects I don't even know if I'll ever have a use for. But to leave you... it's breaking my heart.

I've never told you this before, but I modified my parents' memories and sent them to Australia before we left to search for Horcruxes. It was one of the hardest decisions I ever made, and I have to wonder if I am making a huge mistake removing myself from your life when there could be so little time left.

But it is done. I have a responsibility now to my new colleagues, and I want to help them find this cure as fast as possible so I can come home soon. I will be incredibly busy the next few days, packing and spending as much time with you as I can, so I expect your next letter will be written from Australia.

I love you so much!

Mum

Thank you for reading! Part Three will be up in a few weeks.