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June 15, 1999...

"Jem, wake up! It's today. Finally!"

Jemina groaned when she felt a weight on her body, it was too early for this. She tried to shove Eleanor off, but her best friend clung onto her even more, letting Jemina know she would not let go unless the Nightingale woke up.

"I am up." Jemina grumbled loudly.

That made Eleanor giggle before she finally got off and watched her friend sit up. "I thought I'd have to bring Ginny here to get you up."

Jemina chuckled at the mention of her girlfriend and shook her head. "You'd have better chances of waking me up."

"That is true."

The two friends laughed before they finally started preparing. Today was their graduation day, their long journey of 7 years at Hogwarts with their 6th feeling the longest, was now coming to an end. They were soon starting the next chapter of their lives, their lives after Hogwarts and as adults in the Wizarding World.

The Nosebusters all had their plans for what they wanted to do after Hogwarts although nothing was really set in stone. Neville had graduated the previous year along with Seamus, Ernie, Justin, Susan, Hannah, Pansy, Blaise, Daphne and Theo while the others like Harry, Ron, Dean and Malfoy didn't return.

The Longbottom would be there for the ceremony since he was staying in Hogwarts to train under Professor Sprout to be a Herbology professor. Luna was going to travel every month, looking for the magical creatures she and her father strongly believed that existed. They too believed in the creatures somehow since they believed in Luna.

Noah got a job offer as an Unspeakable, and he took it, wanting to correct all the false research results made during Voldemort's rule. Eleanor got a job in Muggle Relations, her experience as a Muggleborn and her proposals being of great assistance to the Department. The two of them took their jobs to help the Wizarding World, especially the Muggleborns who had gone through so much.

Hermione was also graduating with them since she came back to finish her studies. She was better these days, not completely fine but better. She was already planning what she needed to do to improve the lives of house-elves and the rights of Muggleborns. Classic Hermione, she really was keeping her promise to Deanna to make a change in this world.

On the other hand, Ginny got multiple offers from various Quidditch teams, her match in the last championship was exceptional. She was starting to live her dream of being a great Quidditch player. Despite the many offers, she already committed to her dream team, the Holyhead Harpies. She was excited when Gwenog Jones herself came to Hogwarts to thank her for accepting the offer. She remembered trembling while she shook Gwenog's hand. It was a dream come true, to meet her Quidditch hero in the flesh. Meeting her new Captain was one of the best moments of her life indeed.

Jemina was going to continue studying in Hogwarts so that she could one day apply for the position of Muggle Studies professor. She was actually offered the positions of Muggle Studies professor and DADA professor, but she chose the former. She did enjoy dueling and teaching spells. She also had the skill for it, but dueling was more like something she'd do only when necessary. It was something they had to do to fight back... But as a career? Maybe not.

As for Muggle Studies, she had a lot of painful moments with the subject, but her willingness to help wizards understand Muggles, not only the way they lived without magic but also as their equals outweighed that. Being a Muggleborn was more of a pain to her in her early years although Jemina realized later on it was her biggest strength. It was time for change to come for Muggleborns, and she along with their friends and everyone would make that change happen.

With a smile, Jemina finished washing up and wore her Hufflepuff robes. She smiled at her reflection. She'd miss wearing these robes, sleeping in this bed, walking through this school. Hogwarts was her home after all, she gained so much while being in this place, Ginny being the greatest gift she got while studying in Hogwarts... She'd miss a lot about the castle, but it was time to move forward to the next chapters of their lives. With Ginny, their friends and families... It was time to go on.

"Ready, Jem?" Eleanor asked as she came out from the bathroom, all dressed up and a wide smile on her face.

"Ready."

The two stood at the door and took one last look at their room. Everything was neatly cleaned, and their luggages were already packed. They sent one last smile at this room that became home to them for the past 7 years before they finally closed the door. Jemina and Eleanor went down the stairs and grinned to see Noah there, their trio of Hufflepuffs complete.

"Hey, you two." Noah grinned back at them, coming in between Jemina and Eleanor before he slung his arms around their shoulders. "I'm gonna miss the place even if I hated the sight of those plants."

The two other badgers laughed, knowing he was talking about the plants Professor Sprout placed around the Common Room to help her students with Herbology.

"Well, I'm going to miss having the kitchens beside us every night." Eleanor commented with a laugh. "I do love midnight snacks."

"And that's why you and Ron would starve when you have a family. You two eat too much." Noah shook his head with a sigh, earning him a smack on the shoulder from Eleanor while Jemina just laughed at her friends' antics. The Muggleborn started on her way out with her two friends following after her as they fought. This common room where Hufflepuffs became one and united in letting others know they were their own people.

The three Hufflepuffs went past the kitchens where they always hung out with the house-elves and went straight to the Great Hall where everyone was having breakfast.

"Luna!" The three went to Luna who was at the Ravenclaw table.

"Hello, you three." Luna greeted back in a pleasant tone. "Long came by a while ago and said he was going to the Room of Requirement. We still have an hour before the ceremony."

"Yeah, we're just waiting for Ginevra." Eleanor shook her head with an exasperated smile. "Good grief, is she even awake already?"

"Knowing Hermione, she definitely is." Noah's comment made the four of them laugh.

"You three should go eat then." Luna said with a smile. "Ginny might come anytime soon, and we can get going to the Room of Requirement."

They nodded in agreement and waved goodbye to Luna before they saw down at their own table. The ghosts too were at their house tables, talking with their students and wishing them luck.

Students were sitting at their respective house tables today although on any other day, you would see Gryffindors at the Slytherin table or Ravenclaws at the Hufflepuff table. Because it was their final day, the students had an unspoken agreement to have their last meal with their housemates who grew to become their families. But family wasn't just limited to the houses in Hogwarts...

Everyone in Hogwarts now considered each other family, the events of last year bringing them much closer to each other. There were still a few that felt superior over others because of their blood-status or their wealth. But instead of being aggressive and getting angry, everyone would try reaching out to those few and help them understand how they were all equals.

There was no room for prejudice and serious conflicts here in Hogwarts... Except for when it came to the Quidditch Cup and the House Cup. Yeah, those were the only things that were being fought about here in Hogwarts. But who knew Hogwarts that had always been divided would one day be united and peaceful? Well, none of them did, but they were glad to see their school, the ghosts, the faculty and staff and the students like this. This was Hogwarts.

"GOOD MORNING, HOGWARTS!"

A loud voice made them all look to the doors, and Jemina could feel her face heating up in embarrassment for her girlfriend who had a wide smile on her face as she greeted all of Hogwarts. The Great Hall burst into laughter at Ginny's antics while others greeted her back.

Actually, the Weasley wouldn't have woken up if it weren't for her roommate, Hermione, who threatened to tell Jemina who broke her knitting needles once... twice... okay, maybe 5 times. Well, in her defense, she did replace them after they got broken! But she still didn't want her girlfriend to get mad at her, so she got up immediately and got ready.

Ginny's eyes roamed around the Great Hall, and her smile grew wider when she finally saw her girl who was looking down and hiding her face for some reason. Nevertheless, Ginny went straight to Jemina who was trying to avoid her gaze because of how flustered she was.

"Good morning, Jem, honey!" Ginny greeted her in a loud voice before hugging the Hufflepuff from behind and kissing her on the cheek.

Now, Jemina's face was as red as Ginny's hair, but despite all the teasing cheers and the feeling that her heart could burst with how hard it was beating with Ginny's actions, she couldn't really ignore Ginny. How could she after that sweet greeting?

Jemina turned around with a smile and gave Ginny a kiss on the cheek, forgetting everyone else for her eyes could only see Ginny. "Good morning, hon. Did you wake up late again?"

"No, Hermione woke me up." Ginny answered with a proud smile, making Jemina laugh while caressing Ginny's cheek. The two of them smiled and looked into each other's eyes, not noticing how the entire Hall was looking at them with teasing grins.

Eleanor cleared her throat, finally breaking Jemina and Ginny out of their own world and earning her two glares from the two girls. She could only grin though in response. "I don't know if you two lovebirds have noticed, but if I don't stop you here, you might snog each other in front of the entire Hogwarts body."

Jemina and Ginny finally looked around and blushed when they saw everyone staring at them while some were even laughing at the looks on their faces. They might have really kissed each other if it weren't for Eleanor.

"Thanks, El." Jemina whispered to her best friend before smiling at Ginny. "Go eat your breakfast so we can go meet Nev at the Room of Requirement before the ceremony."

"Okay." Ginny smiled back at her and squeezed Jemina's hand before waving to the 3 Hufflepuffs and Luna at the Ravenclaw table before she went to her own and ate her meal, blushing at the teases that came as she sat. Well, she couldn't help it. When you had a girlfriend like Jemina, the only right thing to do was to give her the love she deserved.

Jemina who was being teased by Eleanor and Noah for the past few minutes was about to punch her two best friends when someone suddenly came from behind them, holding Jemina's raised fist with her hand and intertwining their fingers smoothly. Jemina's eyes softened when she turned around and saw her beaming girlfriend. She ignored the squeals of Eleanor and Noah, reminding herself to punch them later.

"Gin... Are you done eating? Did you eat well even? You were too fast, are you sure you got to – "

"Jem!" Ginny's giggle cut off Jemina's worried rambles, making the latter grin sheepishly. "I ate a lot, don't worry. Let's get Luna and go to the Room of Requirement."

"Alright." Jemina nodded in agreement and stood up with Eleanor and Noah before the four of them went over to Luna who smiled as she saw them.

"Shall we?"

The four of them nodded with grins before they proceeded to go out of the Great Hall and up the staircase to the 7th floor and the familiar corridor that became a refuge to them. Jemina, Ginny, Eleanor, Noah and Luna smiled at the sight of the wall that would lead students to a secret room. The five of them walked back and forth in front of the wall, repeating a single thought 3 times.

'I wish to be in the place where we started.'

They grinned when a door soon appeared in front of them, exchanging smiles before they finally pushed the doors open and entered the Room of Requirement where Neville was waiting.

"Nev!"

"Long, hello."

"Hey, guys. Hello, love." Neville hugged Luna briefly while waving at the other four as they walked over to him. The six of them smiled at each and bantered as Eleanor told Neville about what happened in the Great Hall. The professor-in-training laughed loudly with Eleanor, Noah and Luna while Ginny and Jemina were blushing.

Jemina was about to give Eleanor the punch she deserved when Ginny hugged her from behind and chuckled softly, obviously making Jemina's anger dissipate. "Relax, honey. I would have really snogged you back there if Eleanor didn't stop us."

"GINNY!" Jemina whisper-shouted to her girlfriend while their friends were holding in their laughter at the situation.

"It's not my fault your lips look inviting." Ginny whispered, and she grinned when Jemina's entire face heated up at the comment. She leaned in a little closer and whispered so that only the two of them could hear. "Save me a kiss or two for later?"

"Whatever." Jemina grumbled and gently took Ginny's hold off her, but her red cheeks and coy smile let Ginny know she was definitely going to get what she asked for. The Muggleborn cleared her throat and looked at Neville. "Nev, did you bring it?"

"Of course, I did." Neville brought out the notebook that saved their lives countless times and placed it on the table, the Nosebusters crowding around it with wistful smiles. This was Deanna's notebook that gave them everything they needed to fight back against the Death Eaters 1 year ago. They truly owed everything to the Dumbledore who was hopefully resting in peace up there.

"Can't believe it's been a year." Luna remarked with a laugh. "We stood here as Nosebusters, trying to fight Nose White and his Nose Eaters."

The five of them laughed yet they agreed. Time flew by so fast, and before they knew it, their Hogwarts journey was already ending. They were leaving Hogwarts that they had been protecting with their lives, but it only meant they were going to continue the next chapters of their lives. It was sad to part with their home, but it also cheered them up to think that this was just the start of their lives. They would finally reach the dreams they have longed for.

"I may not have been here with you guys back then, but I'm glad you still consider me a Nosebuster." Eleanor smiled gratefully at them. "Thank you."

"You're one of us." Noah nudged her playfully. "As long as you have a nose and everyone approves of you, yeah, you're one of us."

They all burst into laughter at that while agreeing. The Nosebusters was composed of 6 people: Jemina, Ginny, Neville, Noah, Luna and Eleanor. It was six of them until the end.

"Thank you." Eleanor sent them a grateful smile before looking back at the notebook. "Right then, I've got the marker here. So, let's write?"

All of them nodded and took turns in writing their final thoughts on the last page.

Know that there will always be people who will believe and trust you no matter what. L.P.L

You will always be equal and valid here in Hogwarts. E.M.E

Love and friendship and courage, those are the three things you need in life. N.A.K

We are all leaders in our own right. Don't be afraid to take the lead. N.F.L

Fighting, waiting and loving. Everything we do in life will be worth it, as long as we truly believe in what we do. G.M.W

Pain is inevitable. It will always be a part of our lives whether in the form of scars or heartbreak. Let yourself cry and feel it then stand up and fight again. It's difficult, but it will be fine in the end. J.I.N

Hogwarts is our home, the place where you will meet the best people in your lives and experience the best moments of your lives. Protect it, love it, make yourself at home in this place. It will always be home even as leave and pave your own path in the world. The doors of Hogwarts will always be open to those who deserve it. Nosebusters

They were planning to give this notebook to the next generation, hoping that it would help them like it helped the Nosebusters before. This was Deanna's legacy to them, and they too contributed a few thoughts and pieces of advice in the notebook. They were going to pass on this legacy to the students of Hogwarts.

When they finished, Neville looked at Jemina with a smile. "Do the honors, Jem."

Jemina smiled at her five friends who grinned back, knowing there was no one else better to do it but her. This all started with Jemina. It was only fitting she did the finishing touches.

"Ready?" Upon seeing them nod, Jemina pointed her wand at the notebook and casted the spell. "Geminio."

The six of them grinned when they saw an exact copy of Deanna's notebook beside the original. Now, their final gift to Hogwarts was done. Neville picked up the copy while Jemina pocketed the original. He placed it inside a box at the middle and closed it, the notebook waiting for the next students to find it. After hiding it, Neville stood beside his friends, smiles on all their faces as they looked around the Room of Requirement.

It may be a long time before they come here again so they decided to spend their last day at Hogwarts in the place where their group formed, in the place where they had spent many days together, in the place where they fought together. There was no other place they would spend their last day in Hogwarts in, and there was no one else they would spend their last day in Hogwarts with if not with each other here in the Room of Requirement.

"It's time." Noah spoke up with a smile. "Let's go."

The Nosebusters took one last glance at the Room of Requirement before they finally proceeded to the Black Lake where the ceremony was taking place. As they walked and arrived, the six of them just laughed together and talked about the future. Luna reminded them once more to have weekly gatherings or else she would make the Snorkacks come after them. They wouldn't put it past her so they agreed immediately, but they knew just missing each other too much would be enough for them to see each other every week. That was how strong their bond was.

The six of them smiled at Hermione who just arrived. The witch who graduated at the top of her year sent back a smile at them before sitting at the front. Neville excused himself soon to take his spot with the staff while students filled in until they were all complete. This was it. The end of their Hogwarts journey. But as Jemina and Ginny held each other's hands, they smiled. It was the end of a chapter but not the end of the story.

Seeing that everyone settled down and was now there, Headmistress Minerva McGonagall went in front of the boats and started her speech, a proud smile on her face for this batch of students that had gone through so much.

"7 to 8 years ago, you were wee wizards and witches with no idea of the direction your life was going to take." Professor McGonagall smiled at each and every one of them. "Now, your 7 years in Hogwarts has concluded, and despite how you've all gone through so much in the past few years, I am proud to say that you have all grown to be the wizards and witches of our age. You will only go further from here and do the things you want to do in this life."

"However, even as you grow older, remember. From then until now, you will be Ravenclaws, Gryffindors, Slytherins and Hufflepuffs. Help will always be given to Hogwarts to those who deserve it. The doors of Hogwarts will always be open to you."

They could've sworn they saw tears in her eyes... They were in tears too. It was not easy for them to say goodbye to Hogwarts that was their home for the past 7 years. Hogwarts was always open to them, they had no doubt about that, but it was time for them to go and take their next steps towards the future and their lives beyond Hogwarts. It was time for them to reach their dreams, have their own families and do their parts in the Wizarding World, making change happen for the better. They were going their separate ways, but they would always be united in the fact that Hogwarts was their home.

Professor McGonagall cleared her throat and looked at them with a happy smile once more. "Go forth, students of Hogwarts, wizards and witches... As you ride these boats that brought you here, you will soon ride new waves that may bring you challenges and happiness. Do not fear, and just ride them. Do as you've always done. You will do well... So, now, let us all stand and sing for one more time. Hoggy Warty Hogwarts, led by Peeves, Myrtle and the House Ghosts!"

Everyone stood up and smiled at Minerva while the ghosts and Peeves came from behind her with smiles on their faces. They would miss their students.

Sir Nicholas cleared his throat and signaled to his fellow ghosts. "Ready? One, two... one, two, three go..."

Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hoggy Warty Hogwarts,

Teach us something please,

Whether we be old and bald,

Or young with scabby knees,

Our heads could do with filling,

With some interesting stuff,

For now they're bare and full of air,

Dead flies and bits of fluff,

So teach us things worth knowing,

Bring back what we've forgot,

Just do your best, we'll do the rest,

And learn until our brains all rot.

They sang it in a mix of cheerful voices, grumbles, wailings and cackles, and all the students sang with them with some having tears run down their faces and others huge smiles. Jemina squeezed Ginny's hand, knowing her girlfriend was crying right now because she was too. The two of them smiled at each other. They were leaving Hogwarts, but they had each other. In them and their love, the spirit of Hogwarts would live on.

As the song ended, Professor McGonagall stepped aside and motioned to the boats. "Thank you, Class of 1999. Move forward and keep the spirit of Hogwarts in you even as you go on your paths."

Hermione smiled at everyone before she moved first, going to the professors who were waiting to shake the students' hands at the side.

"Let's go." Jemina smiled at her friends before they too followed after the Granger and fell in line as each student shook hands with all of their professors, thanking them for everything.

"Thank you for everything, Professor Sprout." Jemina smiled at the Head of her House.

"Thank you for fighting back, Miss Nightingale, we'll see you soon." Professor Sprout winked at her, making Jemina grin before she moved to Professor McGonagall.

"Thank you, Professor." Jemina shook hands with Professor McGonagall. "For the offer and for everything else.

"Hogwarts will always be open to you, Miss Nightingale, but I will only formally accept you in 3 years." Professor McGonagall smiled at Jemina. "I will see you, Jemina."

"See you soon, Professor." Jemina chuckled at her before she moved along, letting Ginny come in front of her former Head of House.

"Professor McGonagall!" Ginny greeted her cheerfully while shaking the Headmistress's hand. "Thanks for everything, Professor. I hope I wasn't too much of a trouble."

"Oh, Miss Weasley, you were, but your brothers are much more troubling, I must say." The two of them laughed at Professor McGonagall's comment before she patted Ginny on the shoulder. "I will be delighted to watch your matches, Miss Weasley. Congratulations."

"Thank you, Professor." Ginny smiled once more at the professor before she moved to where Hagrid was talking with Jemina. "Hey, Hagrid."

"Oh, you two." Hagrid scooped them up into a big hug, making both Jemina and Ginny smile before they patted him on the back. He set them down and smiled tearily at them. "I know yeh two have gone through a lot, but have a great journey, yeah? We will be watching yeh with proud smiles, and when yeh two have a family, yeh can trust me to guide them around here at Hogwarts."

"Thank you, Hagrid." The couple answered with grins on their faces, knowing that they had the support of Hogwarts and their professors all the way. Even as they had a family, there was no one else they would trust their children with but Hagrid.

The two of them moved towards the boats and saw Neville was already waiting at one. Ginny smiled at Jemina and squeezed her hand. "I'll see you on the other side then?"

"Yes, Ma'am." Jemina jokingly answered, making Ginny laugh once more before they went their separate ways with Ginny and Luna joining Neville in one boat while Jemina was being joined by Eleanor and Noah.

"Even if you have a lot of Nargles around you, I'm glad I got to meet you two." Luna grinned at Neville and Ginny, making the two Gryffindors glance at each other before they burst into laughter.

"You are absolutely right, Love." Neville kissed his girlfriend on the cheek with a lovestruck smile on his face, he'd go with anything she said. Even if it did mean he had Nargles all around him.

"We're glad too, Luna. Nargles and all." Ginny sent her a grin, making their trio smile softly at each other. From when Dumbledore's Army first started up to the future, they would always be glad to have met and become best friends with each other. Nargles and all. This was them, and they wouldn't change it for anything in the world.

"This is it, you two." Eleanor squeezed Noah and Jemina's hands with a smile.

"Gosh, we've all changed a lot, didn't we?" Noah chuckled as he looked back on their journey. "Thanks to Ron Weasley, El's a little calmer now, keyword: little."

"Jerk." Eleanor mumbled and glared at the Knight who ignored her as he continued speaking.

"Jem's still reserved and timid, but she also shows her bold and confident side at times."

Jemina rolled her eyes at that comment, but it was true. She was bold and confident especially during the dark times and sometimes when she was with Ginny and the Weasleys. However, she was still that shy girl who retreated into herself most of the time. She liked herself that way, and she liked living like that too so she never thought to change herself.

It had been the three of them ever since Deanna called the Hufflepuffs together and helped them become stronger. Their friendship was one of the greatest things that ever happened. Jemina, Noah and Eleanor. Quite the group of misfits yet it was the group they always longed for. It was a friendship they sought desperately and never had... until they found each other. This friendship of theirs was a treasure they would never let go of.

The boats moved as they were filled by the students. All of them had smiles on their faces when they looked back at Hogwarts. This castle was their home, and it always would be. It was the place they fought for so desperately and finally united after years of disputes between the houses. With a little kindness, spirit, bravery and a bloody great fight, they protected Hogwarts and made it an even better place for everyone.

The thought made the six Nosebusters smile before they got together in one compartment in the Hogwarts Express, making them remember the first time they went here. Back then, they were hopeful souls with their families. They were children, hoping to explore the Wizarding World and magic. They had an image of a picture-perfect fairytale in mind.

But 7 years later, here they were. Bruised souls and scarred hearts. They experienced firsthand just how cold and dark the world could be. But in this world, they chose to be the light and warmth. With how they fought and led Hogwarts, they became hope. Hope to all. All their experiences and memories in Hogwarts, both good and bad... all of these, they would keep in their minds and hearts as they moved on to the next chapters of their lives.

"We're here." Ginny said in a soft voice, lifting her head from where it was resting on Jemina's own head. The train finally stopped, and they knew they were back at Platform 9 ¾. The moment they got off the train, it meant that it was really the end. They exchanged smiles before they stood up and looked at the compartment.

"Until the next ride, I guess." Eleanor shook her head with a smile, and they all smiled as well in agreement. That was right. This wasn't the end. It was just a new ride for now, it was just goodbye for now. But they could come back to this train anytime they wanted, anytime they needed it. That was for sure.

With their luggages in hand, the Nosebusters smiled wistfully once more at their compartment. They may have not started their Hogwarts journey together, but they ended it with each other. That was all they needed. They only needed each other's support and friendship to start their new journeys. For now, it was farewell to Hogwarts and welcome to the new world.

"Luna!"

"Nev, right here!"

"Elly, dear."

"Our little Knight, you're not so little now."

"Ginevra, darling. We are so proud, oh!"

"Jemina, over here!"

The six of them went out and smiled when they saw everyone there, calling their names. Hermione's parents, the Edmontons, the Knights, Augusta Longbottom, Xenophilius Lovegood, Sirius, Remus and Teddy Lupin-Black and a pregnant Ria and Tonks, the Weasleys, Harry and Ron. Even Aberforth was there.

Jemina was surprised when she heard the Weasleys and Aberforth call for her, but it made a smile come onto her face. She may have lost a lot due to the war, but she gained a new family. A family that might not be related to her by blood but a family that would stay with her until the end. What more could she ask for? This was everything she needed.

The Muggleborn smiled, waved and nodded to everyone but beelined directly to Aberforth who just handed Hermione a bouquet of flowers before he turned back to Jemina who had a smile on her face.

"Congratulations, kid." Aberforth handed her another bouquet of flowers and patted her on the shoulder. "You did great."

"Thanks, Ab." Jemina accepted it with a grateful smile, pulling the old man into a hug. "For everything. Not just the flowers, but also, you know... For taking me in and making me feel part of your family."

"You're family, kid." Aberforth chuckled and hugged her back tightly. "You always will be. And I know I'll be seeing you a lot, Professor Nightingale."

"Hopefully, I can be called that soon." Jemina laughed softly with Aberforth.

Aberforth smiled back at Jemina softly and checked his watch. "Well, I should be going then. I just came by to congratulate you kids. I'll see you soon, Jem. Come and visit."

"I will, Ab, thank you." Jemina waved at the barman who grinned and bid his goodbyes to the others before he Disapparated away. The Muggleborn may not be a professor yet but she already knew she would often be in the bar that took her in when she couldn't go anywhere.

With one last smile, the Muggleborn turned back and looked around. Noah was with Harry, Sirius, Remus and Teddy and his parents, the Boy Who Lived became the Boy Who Blushed. Eleanor, her parents and Ria and Tonks were talking with each other loudly. Neville and Luna and his grandmother and her father were speaking about something Jemina couldn't understand. But judging by the look on the Longbottoms' faces, she didn't want to know. Seeing everyone made Jemina smile before she started moving towards the Weasleys except for Charlie, Bill, Fleur and Percy who were at work but were going to catch up at the Burrow.

Molly saw her first and rushed to her without another word. "Jemina!"

Jemina was surprised for a moment when Molly Weasley gave her a tight hug, but she smiled immediately and hugged Molly back. She was used to the Weasley matriarch's warm hugs by now. "Hi, Mrs. Weasley."

"I already told you to call me Molly, dear." Molly looked at her pointedly before smiling once more and stroking Jemina's hair. "You've done so beautifully, Jemina. Your family would be so proud of you. Oh! We should go visit, maybe I shouldn't mention them. I-I'm sorry, dear, but really they are so – "

"Molly, let the girl breathe." Arthur stopped his wife with a chuckle before smiling at Jemina and hugging her briefly. All the Weasleys became close to Jemina after getting to know her better in a year. She was practically a Weasley now with how they treated her, and she was always grateful to feel the warmth of the Weasleys. "Congratulations, Jem. Three years is a little time, don't worry. You'll be a professor soon."

"Thank you, Molly, Arthur." Jemina smiled at the two and squeezed their hands in gratitude. "And don't worry it's fine. I'm glad to know that they're proud of me anyway."

"Yeah, no need to worry, Mum. Jem's too kind to even get mad anyways." Ron popped up from behind them and gave Jemina a hug as well. "Hey, congrats, Jem. Don't know how you'll be able to stay in Hogwarts more, but cheers. You'll be a great professor."

Jemina grinned at the youngest Weasley son. "Thank you, Ron – "

"Oh no!"

"Jemina's going to become Professor Jemina."

"But we still congratulate you!" The two voices said in unison.

The Muggleborn let out a soft laugh when she heard the twins' voices, and she saw them come near her with Ginny who was rolling her eyes at their antics. "Thank you, Gred and Forge."

"Ah, she knows how to get our heart, Gred." Fred wrapped an arm around Jemina.

"Shall we steal hers to make it even, Forge?" George came on Jemina's other side and wrapped an arm around her as well.

"HEY!" Ginny yelled and glared at them, making Jemina blush while everyone else grinned at how she looked jealous. She stomped to them and took off Fred and George's arms off her girlfriend and hugged Jemina tight, turning Jemina into a tomato for the nth time that day. "I'm the only one who can steal her heart, and she can only get my heart. I don't care if you're my brothers. Jemina Iris Nightingale is mine, and I am hers."

Everyone grinned at Ginny's heartfelt confession, even Jemina managed to smile though her heart felt like bursting out of its chest. The twins were about to tease them even more, but Molly had intervened.

"Stop bothering them." Molly glared at her sons, making them pout at her. But she did not heed them anymore attention and only smiled at Jemina and Ginny. "So, to the Burrow now. Shall we?"

Everyone nodded and fixed themselves up, readying themselves to go. The twins offered to take their luggages, earning them grateful smiles from Jemina and Ginny. Jemina felt Ginny's hand slide from her shoulder to her hand, soft smiles coming on both their faces when Ginny intertwined their fingers.

"Let's go home." Ginny spoke in a tender voice, making Jemina's smile grow wider at her choice of words and her tone. Home. She had a home not only in Hogwarts but also in this newfound family. The Burrow was also her home now. But if you'd honestly ask Jemina what home was to her...

"I am home." Jemina whispered in a voice just as tender. They were each other's home. Those feelings of peace, warmth and love they could only find in each other. No matter where they were and what they were doing, as long as they had each other, they were home. Ginny was her home.

Ginny grinned at her answer and held Jemina's hand when a thought came to mind. She watched the others Disapparate away before she whispered to Jemina. "Honey, would you perhaps want to get away for a while with your lovely, amazing, beautiful girlfriend?"

Jemina raised an eyebrow at that, and she whispered back, seeing only a few were left. "What do you propose?"

Ginny grinned at the answer, knowing that was a yes. She looked around and saw that they were the only ones left. She took out her wand and gave it a wave, a Horse patronus coming out and going to the Burrow to tell them that she and Jemina were going somewhere. As much as she wanted to celebrate with her family, she also wanted a few moments alone with her badger.

"Come on." Ginny gave Jemina's hand a tug, and in a flash, they Disapparated out of the train station and on a hill where they lay under a starry sky and the moonlight. It made Jemina's jaw drop in awe. She didn't even notice it was already night with how quick time passed by. The view made her smile, it reminded her greatly of how the stars would always fill the sky back in Hogwarts.

Ginny watched Jemina with a soft smile on her face, glad to see that Jemina was enjoying the view. This was her secret spot. It was a place that used to be only for her, but now she found someone she could share it with, it was now theirs. Their spot. Then, she remembered her impulsive plan and tapped Jemina on the shoulder, making the Hufflepuff look away from the view.

"Wait for me... for 2 – no, a minute, alright?" Ginny grinned and was almost jumping up and down while Jemina chuckled at how excited she was. "Just close your eyes, honey. Trust me. It will be worth it."

Jemina's eyes softened at that, those words meaning so much to the both of them that she immediately trusted Ginny (not that she didn't already). "I will always wait for you."

"I know." Ginny squeezed her hand one last time before she motioned Jemina to close her eyes. Jemina shook her head in amusement before she closed her eyes, counting down the seconds in her mind. She could hear the banging and clanging and the sound of yelps and pops. She couldn't help but smile. Ginny had the tendency to be clumsy when she was rushing or nervous about something. And this entire thing was rushed, spontaneous just like the redhead.

Although she got past the minute mark, Jemina continued standing there with her eyes closed, smiling still with the sounds Ginny was making while doing whatever she was doing. Finally, after a minute and 39 seconds, she felt Ginny come behind her and hold her hands, the Weasley having an excited yet anxious smile on her face.

"Come on." Ginny guided Jemina a few steps forward and glanced at the confused Hufflepuff before they finally arrived in front of the surprise. She hoped Jemina liked it. "Open them."

Jemina's eyes fluttered open, and a gasp escaped her lips once she saw what Ginny had prepared. There was a tent set up, a bonfire and in the middle was a picnic blanket laid out with some food and pillows. Above everything was a large banner saying, "Congratulations to us, Ginny Weasley and Jemina Nightingale!"

"Gin." Jemina turned to her girlfriend who was smiling proudly to see how happy her girlfriend looked. She immediately wrapped her arms around Ginny whose smile was hurting her cheeks from how wide it was. This was their dream date that they had been planning to have in the past year but couldn't because of how busy they were. Spontaneous as it may have been, she couldn't deny Ginny Weasley made her fall a million times harder over and over again.

"Do you like it?" Ginny asked in a soft voice.

"I love it." Jemina mumbled into Ginny's shoulder and grinned. Ginny's heart felt warm at the thought that she made Jemina this happy. If you'd ask her now, what did she see in her future, there was only one answer. Jemina. At some point in their lives, Jemina became her future. Not Quidditch or an image of what she would be in the future. She only saw a person in her future, Jemina. She wanted to make her feel as special as how Jemina made her feel. So, she may have been impulsive, but seeing Jemina's smile, it was all worth it. She was ready to take the next steps of her future with Jem.

"Come on." Ginny pulled away and tugged Jemina to the picnic blanket, the two of them giggling and smiling as they ate the food and looked at the stars.

Turned out, Ginny was planning to do this for a long time, but she never had the perfect opportunity to ask Jemina out. She thought the timing seemed right now, and it was a good thing Dobby had some food. The Weasley felt a little sorry she couldn't cook for the two of them since it was all rushed, but Jemina thought it was a good thing since Ginny was a disaster in the kitchen. She didn't say that though and said maybe next time (She hoped Ginny wouldn't remember that).

As they finished, the couple lay on the blanket, their legs were entangled with each other while Ginny had an arm wrapped around Jemina and the latter had her head on Ginny's shoulder. They stared up at the starry sky, the stars witness to the love they shared.

"Your family and Deanna are proud of you. You know that, right?" Ginny spoke up in a soft voice, and it made Jemina's eyes soften to know that Ginny asked about them.

Jemina looked up at Ginny and nodded with a smile. "I know, and I know they're happy too to see me with a woman as kind as you."

Ginny laughed at that before she looked up at the stars and shouted. "Archie, Mr. and Mrs. Nightingale, Deanna! I love you. Thank you for staying with Jem!"

"Ginny." Jemina blushed and slapped her lightly on the shoulder, making the Weasley laugh and smile back at her lover who was trying to hide her own smile. Ginny raised a hand and started tracing Jemina's scars gently on the face and on her hands. The Hufflepuff looked at her with a soft gaze, resisting the urge to shiver at Ginny's touch but failing because of how light Ginny's touch was.

"I love your scars." Ginny finally spoke after she finished and cupped Jemina's cheeks, her thumb brushing lightly over the huge scar on her face. "I remember what you said before. They healed you... In a way, they heal me too."

"How?" Jemina asked in a soft voice.

"Our scars are the proof that we fought." Ginny recounted with a nostalgic smile. "In a way, they heal our hearts that have gone through so much pain from losing the people we loved. I hated the sight of scars before because I would only think of how painful it was and how terrible the memories were. I even hated that spell, Cicatrize, for a while because it couldn't bring you back to me no matter how hard I tried... But because of you, I learned to love them. I can proudly show off my scars. They're beautiful, they're me. And I'm not gonna hide them away. Just like how you aren't hiding yours. Your sexy scars."

Jemina chuckled at that before she leaned in and placed a kiss on Ginny's cheek. "Sexy and beautiful scars. Well, that's one story we could tell in the future."

"No way, Jemina Nightingale is joking." Ginny let out a dramatic gasp, making Jemina roll her eyes at the Weasley's dramatics. "Where is my Jemina who would blush at my banters?"

"Your brothers are a bad influence."

Jemina's comment made the two of them laugh before Ginny took Jemina's hand and looked into her green eyes. She knew it long before, but she realized it once more. Jemina was her future, her home and the only one she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. It had been a year since they got together, and Ginny has never been more certain in her life about anything or anyone.

"I love these scars too." Jemina grinned at Ginny, looking into the Weasley's brown eyes that were filled with love and admiration. That look in Ginny's eyes never failed to make her heart speed up. But nonetheless, she continued with what she was saying. "They're the reason I got to meet you in the first place. These scars led me to the love of my life. I would go through everything again if it meant having you. You will always be worth it."

"I love you deeply, Jemina Nightingale." Ginny grinned back at her before she gave Jemina a kiss that the other reciprocated immediately.

"I love you too, Ginevra Weasley."

The two of them smiled at each other before looking back at the night sky where their loved ones who had passed were watching over them.

All the pain and heartbreak, all the waiting and suffering were worth it for Jemina and Ginny for at the end of everything, they had each other, their families and friends and a better world. Their scarred and bruised hearts have gone through so much pain, but as they said, it was all worth it.

"I accepted your marriage offer, right?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"Think we can tell the kids about our sexy and beautiful scars?"

"GINNY!"

But Jemina's smile let Ginny know she was completely open to the idea. A family with each other? That sounded nice. Little Nightingale-Weasleys all around the house with Jemina knitting and Ginny flying around the house. The two would tell the stories of their sexy and beautiful scars and the phenomenal tale of how they got together. It did seem chaotic but nice.

Scars to other people seemed scary and horrible, but to Jemina and Ginny, getting scars was their solution to the healing hearts. After all the pain and scars, they healed, and in the process, they loved. Now, they were going to move forward together towards a future with each other.

The journey may be another rocky one, and they might gain more scars in the process. However, they were certain about one thing. Scars and all, they would embrace everything and each other and move forward. Together.

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Wow, wow, wow. Cicatrize is done! The idea of this story was born after I thought that it would be nice to create another story about the situation at Hogwarts while Deanna was off on her own journey and I realized it would be best to narrate that story through Jemina Nightingale, the shy Muggleborn who was never supposed to come back. Her return to Hogwarts brought her a lot of torture, pain and scars, but it also brought to her new allies, a family and a love long overdue. It may have been Deanna and the Golden Trio who finished off Voldemort, but I wanted to show how it was Dumbledore's Army and the students of Hogwarts that kept the fire burning. Through pain and suffering, they never let the fire die.

We've gotten this far, and this wouldn't have been possible without all of you. Thank you for reading and supporting this story from the start until the end. Cicatrize was actually the heaviest work with the physical and emotional pain and the more detailed descriptions of the scenes, but I am proud of how it came out although the earlier chapters were too slow (stupid writer's block). I'm glad Cicatrize still had a happy ending to make up for all the pain Jem and Gin went through, sorry about that. I can't say the same for Salvation, hahaha, I'm joking. I think. Anyways, thank you for giving my works a lot of love. I hope you enjoyed it!

This is the end of Jemina and Ginny's story, the bloody warrior and the bruised protector who fought for Hogwarts and the greater good. They've gained scars along the way, but that's just another story for their kids about how they saved the day. Hoping to see you all in the other stories!

Creating magic with words. kitkatgram.

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