"If I go to the Eagles, I will take my quidditch cups and house points with me. That only seems fair." Hermia volleyed back at her Head of House. She'd tasted three Quidditch Cups and two House Cups in her Hogwarts career and, while they were obviously the result of teamwork, Hermia allowed herself to feel the pride of work well done. Sadly, it looked impossible this year, but, if nothing else, Hermia could always be counted on to keep the faith.

Hermia didn't have the energy to stifle her laughter. "Professor, with all due respect, possibilities are more overwhelming than my impending O.W.L.s. There is so much more I want to know; too many things I know I need to learn." Hermia felt the familiar nagging in the back of her mind, the Nerves come a'calling.

"I don't know what happens next. There is the problem." In five years, Hermia would be nearing twenty and two, Silvius' age. Silvus was already happily settled into his position as a Healer and Charles went straight into research after his Grand Tour. Hermia, the only daughter, relying on her brothers to look away from their professions and to marriage, was still in limbo. Would her freedoms disappear with her debut? Would she find herself courting young? The idea made her want to squirm in her seat.

"If, for a moment, I can say what I wish? I want to keep learning, I would love to shadow my father as an ambassador, perhaps make my own place in International Relations." The very idea had butterflies blooming in her chest. "But where I would be most at ease? I would love to teach. What better fate is there than helping others learn to love knowledge?" Forever a sentimental dreamer, Hermia was still well acquainted with reality. "Unfortunately, I doubt those paths are even open for me to follow. That is why the next two years are crucial. I want all of the experience; all of the education I can reach. I don't want to lose a moment of it." In that at least, Hermia was certain.

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