Episode 20- Spring Break
April 1993
"Mom, Dad," Hermione called out rushing over to her parents.
"Hermione," they replied hugging their daughter.
"You've lost weight," Emma said stepping back and taking a good look at her daughter.
"I dunno," Hermione muttered, still hearing the jeers of the trio feeling her stomach.
"Your face looks slimmer and the skirt looks a little big on you," Emma said.
"Well maybe a little, I was skating almost everyday until the lake thawed and two girls are teaching me yoga," Hermione explained.
"Really," Emma said.
"Yes, Padma and Parvati," Hermione said.
"Indian can't get any more authentic yoga than that," Dan chuckled.
"I'm hoping maybe they'll be my friend," Hermione said softly.
"If they are teaching you yoga I'm sure they are," Dan said.
"What house are they in," Emma asked.
"Padma's in Ravenclaw, I know everyone says their book worms but they are really nice," Hermione said. "And Parvati's in Gryffindor with Neville, they're ok even if some of their housemates are jerkfaces," Hermione said thinking of Ron.
"Well your mother and I have a surprise for you," Dan said.
"Really….." Hermione said as they walked out of the station.
"Well you see," Emma said.
"She was asked to talk at a dental conference," Dan said.
"Go mom," Hermione cheered.
"It's nothing much," Emma said.
"They want her to talk about how small practices can perform dental outreach," Dan said.
"And your father just wants to play with all the new toys he can get for the practice," Emma shot back.
"Where is the conference," Hermione asked.
"Zurich," Dan said, making Hermione's eyes light up.
"Can I come," Hermione blurted out.
"Already packed your bag," Emma said.
"Hey mom do you remember Astoria?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, such a lovely girl. Sent me a note asking me if I had nightmares after Croatia," Emma said.
"Well it's her birthday and I don't know," Hermione said.
"Don't know what," Dan asked.
"Well I overheard Daphne say something about having to attend her loser sister's party over the break and well I want to get her something nice incase Daphne doesn't," Hermione said.
"That's my girl," Dan said, putting an arm around her.
Break
"Hermione…" Emma groaned rolling over watching Hermione slink out of the hotel room dress in a sweat suit.
"Ok, how did it go," Hermione said looking over the instructions Padma and Parvarti gave her. "Cat pose, cow pose," Hermione said, shifting between the two poses 30 times.
"What has gotten into her," Emma said watching her daughter practice yoga before moving into pilates until she flopped onto the mat a sweaty mess. "You're certainly working hard," she said stepping into the room.
"Mom," Hermione exclaimed. "What are you doing here?"
"I was curious as to what would drag you out of bed at the crack of dawn," Emma said.
"I didn't know what you had planned for the day, and I wanted to make sure to get some practice in," Hermione said.
"I see," Emma said. "Hey how about you show me some of that while you cool down."
"Really," Hermione said.
"Sure, and I could use a little exercise," Emma replied, heaving her stomach.
"You're not fat mom," Hermione said.
"But I am carrying a little extra," Emma said. "So what do I start with."
Hermione gaped at her mother. "You're serious," Hermione said.
"Sure, I made your dad try yoga. It's only fair I do the same," Emma chuckled as the impromptu session began.
Break
"Daphne!" Astoria exclaimed tackle hugging her sister.
"Ooooffffff," Daphne grunted taking a step back.
"Someone's gaining a little weight," Daphne said.
"Yep, I'm a growing girl," Astoria said, puffing her chest out.
"That wasn't a compliment," Daphne said, poking Astoria in the stomach.
"I'm not fat," Astoria snapped, slapping Daphne's hand away.
"Daphne….." Mr. Greengrass said looking across the room.
"Fine you are fluffy," Daphne groaned walking away.
"Are you coming to my party," Astoria said.
"Yeah, yeah," Daphne said walking upstairs.
"Daphne," Catherine called.
"Yes mother," Daphne said.
"Your sister," Catherine stated.
"Is fat, and a total disaster," Daphne said. "She still plays with dolls."
"Which is why I need you to put in a good performance at her party," Catherine explained. "You need to show the prominence of the Greengrass family.
"That can be arranged," Daphne said.
Break
"So what are your plans for the day," Dan asked as they enjoyed a Swiss breakfast.
"Shopping," Emma said. "Hermione needs some new clothes."
"What about your presentation," Hermione asked.
"Not until later this week," Emma replied.
"Great, just don't take all day," Dan said.
"Why," Hermione asked.
"It's a surprise," Dan said.
Hermione rolled her eyes turning to her mother. "Mom….."
"Hey I am as in the dark as you are," Emma said.
"Great," Hermione said.
Break
"Are you sure this place is ok," Hermione said softly as they stopped in front of a clothing store.
"Yes," Emma said.
"How," Hermione said looking at the expensive dresses in the window.
"Emma," a woman said, opening the door.
"I called ahead," Emma said as they entered.
"And not to worry, we carry fashion for everyone," the woman said.
"Great," Emma said.
"And what can we help you with today? You weren't exactly clear on the phone," the woman said.
"My lovely daughter has recently lost some weight and would like to update her wardrobe," Emma explained. "And I'm looking for something nice for a conference later this week."
"Wait your Emma Granger," the woman said.
"Yes," Emma replied.
"As in the Emma Granger," the woman said.
"Mom what did you do?" Hermione asked.
"Nothing much…." Emma said, pressing her fingers together.
"Married couple discovers sham dental practice while in Berlin," the headline read, showing a picture of Emma holding a small child.
"Your father and I always wanted to see Berlin so we decided to meet there after I did my charity work in Croatia," Emma said. "And it's all your dad's fault."
"How is it Dad's fault," Hermione said.
"He got lost and the only thing he recognized was a dental sign so we went to ask for directions, and well we could tell they were doing it wrong," Emma said.
"Please tell me you didn't throw anything," Hermione sighed.
"No, but I wanted to," Emma said. "It was your dad that punched him."
"Go dad," Hermione said.
"Anyway it's time for shopping," Emma said.
"It doesn't matter what I pick, they'll probably just make fun of me," Hermione muttered searching through the spread of colors, patterns, and styles. "Nothing I pick will be fashionable…."
"A good part of fashion is just being confident," the saleswoman said.
"But," Hermione said.
"She's right Hermione," Emma said, holding up two dresses. The first was a floor length sleeveless pink evening dress with gold inlay on the skirt and a slit nearly to her waist. A dress not meant for a woman with Emma's robust figure. While the second was more fit for a woman of her proportions, it was just a rather plain with a bit of blue at the ends of the short sleeves, and floor length skirt. It was very plain and boring but more fit for her figure. "Do you think these would look good on me," Emma said.
"Mom the first one is a bit much," Hermione said as her mother sighed.
"I know but I liked it and wanted something a bit more fun," Emma said, moving to put the pink dress back holding both in one hand for a moment.
"Mom, wait," Hermione said.
"What is it," Emma said.
"What if you wore both of them," Hermione said.
"Both of them," Emma said.
"Put the white one on first, and then the pink one over top. It's like the best of both worlds," Hermione said
Emma froze holding up the dresses placing the pink over the white. Amazing, Hermione," Emma giggled practically skipping into the dressing room.
"See you do have an eye for fashion," the saleswoman said.
"Well I um, you know," Hermione said, moving her hands over her stomach.
"Yes, yes, anyone can look good if you dress right, it's just a matter of finding what works for you," the saleswoman said as Emma changed.
"I don't know what will work with this," She said motioning to her own body.
"You just let me worry about that," the woman said leading Hermione along. "Now did you see anything you liked."
"Well this one was kind of cute," Hermione said pointing to a green and yellow outfit.
"It is a nice everyday outfit. I think one of the German private schools uses it for their uniform," the woman explained.
"Do you think you have it in my size," Hermione blurted out.
"I am certain we do," the woman said, pulling one out.
"Did you find something Hermione," Emma said stepping out of the dressing room.
Brown eyes blinked as they locked eyes with the woman's voice. A woman that sounded like her mother dressed in dare she say a regal outfit. "Mom…" Hermione gasped the loose cut of the dress and couldn't hide everything but it did give her figure a bit of shape, highlighting her hips and modest chest while hiding her stomach and thick thighs. "You look great," Hermione said.
"Thanks," Emma said, surprising herself as she looked in the mirror. "Now what did you find."
"A different school uniform," Hermione said softly holding up the dress.
"That looks so cute, you have to try it on,' Emma gushed.
"Ok," Hermione said with a smile entering the dressing room.
"I hope it's not too small…" Hermione said as she slid the green underdress over her head feeling it slide easily down her body. "It fit's Hermione giggled. Next came a yellow blouse that fits just as easily. "I really have lost weight," Hermione said as she buttoned up the yellow blouse. The long sleeves and puffy shoulders made her arms look slimmer, while the yellow blouse made her stomach look slimmer. She thought the short skirt would be an issue but with the long socks they made her legs look longer as she slipped on a pair of simple loafers. "Still a fat girl though," Hermione said looking at herself in the mirror. "But I am not the fat girl," Hermione said as she stepped out.
"So cute," Emma gushed.
"Really," Hermione said.
"Yes, very cute," the saleswoman said as Emma couldn't hold back in hugging her daughter.
Hermione couldn't help but relax and return the hug. "Mom…."
"All you're missing is the bow," the saleswoman said, taking a thin red ribbon and tying it into a big looping bow around the collar.
"Can I get 5 copies of that outfit and will it be a problem if we want to wear these out," Emma said. "And do you have a backpack that goes with that outfit."
"Yes, certainly," the woman said.
"Mom this isn't…" Hermione said.
"Actually the only uniform requirement at Hogwarts is the robe at the entrance and exit feast along with a few other special events," Emma said.
"How….." Hermione said as they looked at backpacks.
"After what happened you think your father and I didn't go through the rules with a fine tooth comb," Emma said. "And there is nothing saying you can't wear your cute little outfit as a uniform."
"Really," Hermione said, picking up a matching backpack.
"You can check for yourself later if you want," Emma said as she paid the bill.
"No I trust you," Hermione said.
Break
"So what do you want to get Astoria," Emma asked as they strolled the streets of Zurich.
"I don't know," Hermione replied. "She's from an old pureblood family so I don't know what kind of stuff she might like or be allowed to keep."
"Why don't we try that antique store, maybe they'll have something nice," Emma recommended.
"Ok," Hermione shrugged, following her mother along.
"Guten tag," Hermione said as they entered the store.
"Herzlich willkommen. Gibt es etwas Spezielles, das Sie suchen?" the old proprietor replied.
"Hermione…" Emma said looking towards her daughter.
"Spielzeuge," Hermione said to the man before turning to her mother. "He asked what we were looking for and I said toys," Hermione explained as the man went off in rapid fire german. "Um, sorry that's about all the german I know," a blushing Hermione replied.
"Sorry, you have such a small accent, I thought you might know more," the man said in English.
"Thank you," Hermione replied.
"I'm afraid I don't have too many antique toys, but what I do have is over here, feel free to take a look," the man said pointing to a corner of the store..
"Thank you," Emma said as they headed to the back of the store passing a number of metal artifacts. "What do you think of these Hermione," Emma asked. "Hermione…." Emma said, turning around as her daughter stared at one of the metal objects. "Hermione," Emma called out walking towards her. "Is everything ok?"
"Mom," Hermione squeaked.
"Is everything alright," Emma asked.
"Mom I think this is a dwarf hammer," she whispered.
Emma eyed her daughter for a moment. "Wait, you mean it's the m word," she said, putting the m in air quotes.
"Possibly," Hermione said.
"How can you tell," Emma asked.
"I saw this in one of the history books I was looking at for a project," Hermione said.
"Is there anyway to prove it," Emma asked.
"Maybe, but could you," Hermione replied nodding towards the shopkeeper.
"No problem," Emma giggled. "Excuse me but do you have any vintage dresses for little girls.
"No, but I can tell you," the man said as Emma walked over.
"Please don't react like a wand," Hermione whispered, closing her eyes. Concentrating she focused on sending a tiny sliver of magic down her hand towards the handle of the hammer. As the magic reached the end of her fingers she heard and felt a slight ping as if the magic was blocked by the hammer, similar to what it felt like when she was wand shopping and the wand rejected her only without the pyrotechnics.
"Can you tell me about this," Hermione asked, pointing to the hammer.
"Oh that, old thing," the man said.
"It doesn't look very old," Emma said.
"I know it's weird, but my father picked that up from a family that needed the money during WW2," the man said.
"Could you tell us anything about them," Hermione asked.
"Not really, dad just used to say that they were really short, like dwarves or something," the man explained.
"How much is it," Hermione asked.
"I don't know, it's been in my family for so long," the man said.
"What if we could discover the true history of the item," Emma said.
"Mom…" Hermione said tugging her arm.
"Magic, goblins, and elves exist, so why not dwarves," Emma whispered in her ear.
"Yes, I know that," Hermione said. "Ooooohhhhh…"
"Perhaps a few pictures to show to an acquaintance of ours who is more knowledgeable in the subject," Hermione said.
"I see no problem with that," the man said.
"Great," Emma said, handing Hermione her camera.
"Dankeschön," Hermione said as they left.
"The pleasure is mine and I will be curious to see what you discover," the man said.
"1 hour photo," Hermione said.
"And 1 hour for you to find out how to contact the dwarves," Emma replied.
"No problem, while not as prevalent as the Goblins the Dwarves do actually have banking services and this is Switzerland," Hermione said.
Break
"So Tolken did get it right," Emma mused looking at a building built into the side of the mountains outside Zurich.
"Maybe he saw it," Hermione said.
"Truth is stranger than fiction," Emma chuckled as they walked inside.
"The world is a strange and wondrous place," Hermione added as they marveled at the smooth stone interior, with soft lighting a far cry from Gringotts.
"Can I help you," a dwarf said as they approached a teller.
"We hope so, but it is a rather unique situation," Hermione said.
"Do you have an account with us," the dwarf replied.
"No, do I need one," Hermione said.
"Well that is what one usually does at a bank," the dwarf said.
"Very true, but my daughter found something that she thinks belongs to the dwarf's and this was the closest place to ask about it. We do understand that this is something that a bank does not normally do," Emma explained.
The dwarf's eyes wided a bit. "This is not something I hear everyday. So what is it that you found, that was so interesting."
"This," Hermione said, placing the pictures of the hammer on the counter. "I know it's just a picture, but when I tried to channel magic into it pinged like a rejected wand."
"Is everything ok," Emma said looking at the frozen dwarf.
"Where did you find this," the dwarf said. "A pawn shop here in Zurich."
"The owner said a family sold it to him during WW2," Hermione explained.
"I'll be right back," the dwarf said, rushing away.
"Progress," Emma said.
"You think…." Hermione said.
"Relax," Emma said, placing a hand on her shoulder as the dwarf came back.
"Please come with me," the dwarf said.
"Certainly," Emma said.
"My name is Thormir It is a pleasure to meet you….." a male dwarf said.
"Emma Granger, and this is my daughter Hermione Jean Granger," Emma said.
"And the pleasure is ours," Hermione said.
"Of course, and I am very interested in the item you discovered," Thormir said.
"Is it important," Hermione asked.
"If it is what it appears to be," Thormir said.
"And what exactly is it," Hermione asked.
"A mythril hammer, used by the sons of Ivaldi," Thormir said.
"The brothers that made the Gungir," Hermione said.
"Yes, it is true that they made the legendary Gungir, that has been lost to the realm of history. These days the Sons of Invaldi is the Dwarf blacksmith guild," Thormir explained. "And they will pay handsomely if this turns out to be a real mythril hammer."
"That's great," Emma exclaimed.
"It will take a day or two for a guild representative to arrive," Thormir said.
"That will be fine, we will be here all week," Emma said.
"Thank you for your time," Hermione said.
"The pleasure is mine," Thormir said, showing them out.
Break
"Why did dad want us to meet him here," Hermione asked as they walked into a skating rink. "I didn't bring my skates with me."
"Hermione," Dan called out waving to them.
"Dan you didn't tell me your daughter was so cute," the woman standing next to him said.
"Dan, what did you do," a starry eyed Emma said.
"I saw how much fun Hermione had ice skating during Christmas, and I just wanted to put that smile back on her face," Dan said.
"By getting her a lesson with Katerina Witt," Emma said.
"I couldn't get ahold of Ria and Christopher heard from Jayne that she might be around so I just asked," Dan said.
"Only you Dan." Emma sighed.
"Um hi Miss Witt, my….. Name is…" a furiously blushing Hermione stammered.
"Hermione, your dad told me all about you, and I was just going for a little skate, and I could use some company," Katerina said.
"Dankeschön, but I don't have my skates," Hermione said looking at the floor.
"Right here kiddo," Dan said holding up her skates.
"Shall we then," Katerina said.
"Ok, but I'm not very good," Hermione said.
"Let me be the judge of that," Katerina replied.
Break
"Your father told me you picked up ice skating recently?" Katerina asked as Hermione stepped carefully onto the ice. A girl who wasn't afraid to fall, but wasn't excited about the prospect either.
"I just thought it would be good exercise and the school has a lake that is frozen most of the school year, and it's more fun than trudging through the snow." Hermione said slowly gliding towards Katerina. "But it's really fun, gliding across the ice makes me feel free and it's relaxing," Hermione said with a small smile.
Her strokes were short, but confident, and she wasn't flailing her arms for balance either, Katerina observed slowly backing up as Hermione came closer keeping distance between them. Soon she was moving side to side smiling as Hermione turned with her. "For a girl who's been skating less than 6 months with only a few lessons to start you off, it looks to me like you have a good grasp of the basics," she explained skating around Hermione.
"Thank you and I'll keep practicing, but I doubt I'll ever be as good as some people I know..." Hermione trailed off thinking of Daphne's flashy moves on the ice over the last few months made even worse as she seemed to delight in showing off whenever she caught Hermione on the ice.
"I'm going to have to disagree with you on that," Katerina said using a spin to stop in front of Hermione.
"She is so much better than me though," Hermione muttered.
"While I can't argue that this person is or is not better than you as I don't know who they are, and it might look like some people might have a leg up," Katerina explained.
"They have all the legs up," Hermione whispered.
"But I see something in you that is far more important," Katerina said.
"What's that," Hermione said perking up.
"Determination, discipline, and most of all a love of the ice," Katerina said. "Skating on a frozen lake in Scotland, in the middle of winter, not just anyone does that. Plus I saw the way that your eyes lit up when you saw the ice," Katerine explained. "That is going to take you further than even the most talented girls. Now I am sure your instructor is very good, but how about I show you a thing or two."
"Ok," Hermione said with a big smile.
"Now you are starting to figure it out on your own, but you want to push off of the blade with your foot, not your toe," Katerina said demonstrating. "This gives you more stability and speed."
"Oh wow," Hermione said, shifting her foot slightly, feeling the burn in her legs more as she got a stronger push off the ice.
"Great job," Katerina clapped. "Now let's get some practice in and work on how to turn while moving."
"Yes," Hermione said. "This is more of a workout than the last time I skated," Hermione said starting to breathe harder.
"That's because you're really putting your legs into it now," Katerina said.
Break
"Mom, Dad did you see that, I made it all the way around the rink without falling or stumbling, or holding the railing!" a tired Hermione yelled happily.
"We did," they replied.
"Thank you for teaching me Miss Witt," Hermione said to Katerina.
"The pleasure is mine," Katerina said.
"Thank you Miss. Witt," Dan and Emma said.
"The pleasure was mine, Hermione is a very earnest student," Katerina said.
Break
"Miss Granger, Hermione, please come in," Thormir said as they returned to the bank, a stout muscular goblin standing at his side.
"We are just happy to help," Emma said.
"I still can't believe that a mythril hammer appeared in a muggle shop after all this time," the dwarf next to Thormir said.
"My apologies, this is Gimley a master smith from the guild," Thormir said.
"Nice to meet your Mr. Gimley," Hermione said.
"Please just Gimley," Gimley replied.
"Shall we then," Emma said.
Break
"You came back," the shop owner said as Hermione and Emma entered.
"Of course, and my daughter brought her friend with her," Emma said, making the dwarf's eyes go wide.
"You consider a dwarf your friend," Gimley whispered.
"Sure, why not, you seem like a nice person and you told me all about dwarves," Hermione replied. "It's right over here," Hermione said pointing to the hammer.
"Amazing," Gimley muttered gazing at the hammer.
"So is it the real thing," Hermione asked.
"I think so, but I need to test it to be sure," Gimley said.
"Go ahead, my mom is providing a distraction," Hermione said as her mother spoke to the shop owner fawning over an antique table. Hermione watched as Gimley checked the hammer, a smile lighting up on his face. Before giving a story about the hammer's history to the owner.
"How much for the hammer," Gimley said.
"I don't know, I am grateful for the information, but it has been in my family for so long," the man said.
"Excuse me," Emma said whispering in the man's ear.
"I am happy to reunite a family heirloom with it's rightful owner. I had no idea it was stolen," the shopkeeper said, quickly handing the axe to Gimley.
"Thank you for caring for it for so long," a surprised Gimley said.
"It was my pleasure, come back again any time," the owner said as they left.
"Mrs. Granger, what was it that you said to the owner," Gimley asked.
"Oh I just asked if he could prove that the item wasn't stolen by the Nazi's given the time period that his father came into possession of it," Emma replied. "I mean it's not like I lied or anything."
"Impressive," Gimley said.
"Go mom," Hermione added.
Break
"I must say thank you again," Gimley said as they sat in Thormir's office.
"It was no trouble," Emma said.
"Of course," Thormir said.
"There is just the matter of your finders fee," Gimley said.
"Finders fee…" Emma and Hermione said, sharing a look.
"Yes, that is why you alerted us to the hammer isn't it," Gimley said.
"No, I just thought it was magical, and in Britain it's illegal for muggles to have magical items and well… I just kinda wanted to know what it was," Hermione stammered.
"Are you familiar with Stradivarius," Thormir said.
"He made violins," Emma said.
"Very good high quality violins, and mythril hammers are like the stradivarius of smithing," Gimley said.
"I'm just glad it's back with someone who could use it," Hermione said. "I mean it's not like I could use it."
The dwarves shared a laugh amazed by the pair. "You are a very unique girl Hermione," Gimley said. "And while you are ready and willing to receive nothing for your efforts, The Sons of Ivaldi are not. So I have taken the liberty of creating a secure vault in your name in depositing the equivalent of 4 million british pounds worth of silver thalers. Additionally if there is anything we could be of assistance with it would be my honor." Gimley said.
"Mom is this really happening," Hermione said her mouth hanging wide open.
"Yes, it appears it is dear, and please close your mouth," Emma replied.
"Ok, because I wasn't sure for a moment," Hermione replied, taking a moment to think. "Mr. Thormir, Mr. Gimley, would you happen to know of, or be able to point me in the direction of German magic if such a thing exists," Hermione asked.
"I don't know if it would fall under German magic, but there is rare form of magic using gems, which uses a Germanic base. I can provide you the few books we have on the subject, along with a supply of practice trash gems," Gimley said.
"Thank you," Hermione said with a smile crossing her lips.
"It has been a pleasure doing business with you," Emma said as they stood to leave.
"If you could indulge me just a moment longer perhaps," Thormir said. "Gimley told me how you convinced the man to part with the item, saving us time and energy, and that has gotten me thinking about the opposite occuring. While I am loath to admit it, a surface scan of some of our vaults detected a stolen piece of muggle artwork, that you might be able to return to their rightful owners," he explained motioning for a dwarf to enter carrying a large painting.
"Hermione pinch me," Emma said.
"Why?" Hermione asked.
"Because I must be dreaming," Emma said as Hermione pinched her arm. "Ouch…. Ok not dreaming."
"I take it you know what this is," Thormir said.
"Yes, it is the The Just Judges by Jan van Eyck, which was stolen in 1934 from Ghent," Hermione said. "What I pay attention to and documentaries are interesting."
"So you could return this for us," Thormir said.
"Certainly," Hermione said as her mom continued to stare.
Break
"Entschuldigung, Herr. Wache Sir," Hermione said walking up to the Belgian Embassy as her mother carried the painting.
"Can I help you," the guard replied.
"Mein Name ist Hermione Jean Granger, and well um the thing is I think this belongs to you, but not you, you, more like your country you," Hermione said.
"And what exactly is this," the man replied.
"The Just Judges," Hermione said, lifting up the cover.
"Is this a prank," the guard said.
"No we just thought that you should have it back. See we were shopping, but then we visited a bank…. Well anyway here you go," Hermione said placing the painting down and running off. "Tschüss."
"Thank you," Emma said before joining her daughter in rushing away.
Break
"Emma what did you do," Dan called from the door of their hotel room.
"It's all Hermione's fault," Emma shot back pointing at Hermione.
"I didn't do anything," Hermione said.
"Then why is the Belgian ambassador here to speak with you," Dan said.
"You have returned a treasured painting we thought was lost to the annals of history," the Ambassador said.
"Hermione, did you return a painting lost decades ago to the rightful owner?" Dan asked.
"It was theirs and it's not like we can just hang it in the kitchen, besides it was so sad when we went to Ghent and it was missing," Hermione said.
"But how did you find it," the Ambassador said.
"Would you believe me if I said magic," Emma stated.
"Yes, actually I would. Belgium is a smaller country so our magical and non magical governments are more intertwined," the Ambassador said.
"How did you know," Hermione gasped.
"You left your wand out," the Ambassador said. "Not uncommon in magical families."
"Hoppla," a beat red Hermione said. "The thing is I found this dwarf item and mom helped me return it to them, and then they found something stolen in their bank and asked us to return it to them," Hermione blurted out.
"It's alright, magic was not revealed to the world," the Ambassador said. "And I would like to officially invite you to the ceremony returning it to the Cathedral this summer."
"It would be our pleasure," Emma said.
"I am glad to hear it, but Mrs. Granger I do have one favor to ask," the man said.
"Yes," Emma said.
"If you find someone doing it wrong could you please tell us first before cracking skulls open," the Ambassador said.
"Oh come on," Emma groaned. "It was one time….."
"It is why I married her," Dan said, hugging her.
Break
Happy birthday Astoria,
Someone told me it was your birthday today, so happy birthday. This is Abigail Williams, she eats nightmares and monsters for breakfast, but what she really likes is pancakes. I hope that you like the dress. It's a traditional german dress called a dirndl. Hermione said that the magic should adjust to fit you and that she has one just like it.
Dan and Emma Granger
Happy birthday Astoria,
I heard Daphne say something about your birthday coming up and how you liked music. Here is a beginners book on how to play the piano.
Hermione Granger
"Thank you, thank you," Astoria exclaimed looking at the letter and presents. The doll was a cute girl with long blond hair in a frilly black dress with orange highlights wearing a witch's hat holding a small bear.
"Astoria what are you wearing," Mrs. Greengrass hissed looking at her daughter in a blue and white dirndl with red stitching across the front. "Where is the dress I laid out for you?"
"I tried mommy I really tried, but it was too small," Astoria said.
"Not good enough," Mrs. Greeengrass said, removing her clothes with a flick of her wand.
"This will have to do, adhibere corset," she hissed pointing her wand at Astoria watching as her stomach was compressed.
"Can't breathe," Astoria gasped.
"Consider this a punishment for eating too much. I was far to lax with you it seems," she said, forcing the dress on Astoria. "Now I expect you to behave as Daphne entertains everyone."
"Yes, mother," Astoria said clutching her new Abby doll tightly.
Break
Mr. and Mrs. Granger,
Thank you for the presents, I love Abby. She is a good girl who is gonna go all smashy smashy on Daphne's Hercules the next time we play grail wars. And the dress was really cute, but mommy wouldn't let me wear it and used a spell to make me fit into the dress she laid out for me. Yours was way cuter.
Thank you,
Astoria
Hermione,
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for the book. I'm going to practice as soon as I can.
Thank you,
Astoria
PS- Can you please tell me what these words mean?
Astoria,
"She did what!" Emma yelled.
"Um mom are you ok," Hermione asked looking up from her book a ruby sitting by her side.
"Oh the nerve of that woman doing that to her own daughter," Emma hissed.
"Honey what's wrong," Dan said.
"Astoria's mother used a spell on her to force her into a dress that was too small," Emma said.
"Sadly there is a spell for that," Hermione said. "I've seen some of the older girls use it. It's basically a magical corset, from what I understand."
"That poor girl," Emma sighed. "There has to be something we can do."
"I don't know what you can do, she practically runs the British magical world with her friends," Hermione replied. "And well…."
"I know I'm not magical, but that doesn't mean I have to like it," Emma grumbled.
Dear Astoria,
You are a good girl, never forget that.
Emma Granger
Break
"I'll see you in June,," Hermione said as they approached the barrier.
"Dan do you mind if I try something," Emma said.
"Please don't tell anyone they are doing it wrong, dear," Dan replied.
"I promise not to do that… yet," Emma said.
"Mom what are you doing," Hermione said as Emma put a hand on her shoulder.
"Taking advantage of good publicity," Emma said. "Now lets see if I can go through as long as I am holding your hand."
"Ok," Hermione said as they approached the barrier.
"I hate magic," Emma groaned holding a bloody nose as Dan helped her away.
"We upgraded the barrier so the muggle plebians could not make it through," Gwendoline Davis said, entering after Hermione.
"Hello mudblood," Tracy said. Casually walking around Hermione.
"Green for abundance and yellow for hope with a bit red for anger. You are hoping that your new outfit hides your abundance, but are angry that it does not hide the fact that you are a fat ugly troll," Tracy said.
"It's like putting lipstick on a pig. Dress it up all you want, you are still a little piggy," Pansy said.
"Oh that's a new one Pansy where did you hear it," Daphne asked.
"I did a short ballet tour in the United States during the break," Pansy replied.
"How lovely," Tracy and Daphne replied.
"I got a chance to do some modeling myself," Tracy said. "And I loved your performance at your sister's birthday party Daphne."
"Thank you, it was a bit of an impromptu event," Daphne said. "But we are being rude, what did you do over the break, mudblood."
"I found and returned a dwarven artifact and a muggle painting to their rightful owners," Hermione boasted.
"Oh really that is fascinating," Daphne said. "Perhaps we missed judged you." she added placing an arm around Hermione.
"What are you doing," Hermione said.
"See it's that kind of initiative that makes a true Syltherin," Pansy said, placing her arm around Hermione's other shoulder.
"Girls I really," Hermione stammered.
"Sit with us," Tracy said. "You know on second thought those really are your colors and that outfit works for you." she added joining the group.
"Millie could you be a dear and get out trunks," Daphne said.
"I can get my own trunk," Hermione muttered.
"Nonsense that's what Millie is for," Pansy said.
"Yes," Millie replied.
Break
"Um does this mean….." Hermione stammered.
"Mean what?" Daphne asked closing the door to the cabin.
"That you'll be nice to me," Hermione said softly.
"And why would we do that," Pansy said.
"Because….." Hermione stammered as the trio circled her.
"You think because you found and returned one dwarven artifact that makes you one of us," Daphne said, yanking Hermione's head back by her hair. "My family has lost more rare artifacts than you ever find." she hissed in Hermione's ear.
Pansy's fist impacted Hermione's stomach making her retch. "As for that muggle painting I know about I would have happily bought it just to burn the wretched thing."
"And your outfit, positively hideous," Tracy said, tearing the bow off the outfit.
"When will you just learn your place," the girls said, kicking her or tearing her clothes as Hermione fell to the ground.
"Really a blouse over a dress, it's not helping hide your fat stomach," Daphne said, ripping it away.
"Stop my mom," Hermione coughed.
"Oh your mommy got this for you," Tracy leaned over and gripped Hermione by the chin. "Oh your mommy got this for you," she said looking over the dress. "Well it's too nice for you." "I quite agree Tracy," Daphne said.
"Please don't," Hermione muttered as the blows rang down. It was all she could do to bite back the pain as the blows reigned down. A kick to her head sent her vision spinning, while she curled into a fetal position. Vision spinning she shut her eyes trying to center herself. Bereft of her wand there was little she could do despite focusing her magic as the blows kept coming. "Getting tired," Hermione whispered as the force of the blows seemed to lessen.
"Just getting started," the girls said, tearing at her clothes.
Break
"Millie have you seen Hermione," Neville asked.
"Why do you ask," Millie replied, fidgeting a little.
"Parvati was looking for her," Neville said.
"Oh….." Millie said.
"Millie what's wrong," Neville asked as the sounds of a scuffle came from the cabin.
"Neville I can't, I just can't…. I can't cross them," Millie said, running off. "Tell her I'm sorry."
"Neville did you find her," Parvati said.
"Dam the doors locked," Neville said.
"Can you…." Parvati said.
"No," Neville said.
"I'll get Percy," Neville said, racing off.
"I'll look for Penelope," Parvati said going in the other direction.
Break
"Oh my god Hermione," Penelope gasped, arriving with Parvati and Padma.
"Penelope…" Hermione muttered clutching the shredded remains of her clothes.
"What happened," Penelope said
"I fell," Hermione said, struggling to stand.
"Oh god," Percy gasped, arriving with Neville.
"Boys," the girls hissed as Percy covered Neville's eyes.
"Percy we are taking this to McGonagall," Penelope growled.
"Yes, Ma'am," Percy said from outside the room.
"And do what, Hermione said she fell," Daphne said, sticking her head out of the next cabin over.
"Cut the crap," Parvati growled. "I know you did this."
"Did what, we didn't do anything," Pansy said. "You can check our wands if you like."
"Shut up," Padma said.
"I would watch what you say," Tracy said. "You know that while the muggle world might consider India an independent country, the magical one does not. I wonder how the Ministry would see….."
"Stop it, I fell," Hermione coughed as Penelope sat her down a blanket over her shoulders.
"See she said it herself," Pansy said.
"This isn't over," Padma said.
"Yes it is," Daphne said.
Break
"Are you going to be ok," Penelope said.
"You were in there for a long time," Padma said.
"Penelope could you give me a minute with Padma and Pavarti," Hermione said.
"Sure I will get your trunk, and I am locking the door," Penelope said.
"What is it Hermione?" Parvati asked.
"I think I figured something out," Hermione said.
"What how!?" the girls gasped.
"When I fell," Hermione said softly.
"Hermione, stop you can tell us the truth," Parvati said.
"Ok," she said as the girls took her hands. "During the beating I was kicked in the head, and tried to center myself and cast a spell," Hermione explained.
"But you didn't have your wand," Padma said.
"I know but as I did, everything seemed to hurt less," Hermione said.
"Hermione, that's amazing, but horrific how you discovered it," the twins said as Penelope returned with her trunk.
"Thank you, Penelope," Hermione said.
"You're welcome, I just wish I could do more," Penelope said. "I'll lock the door again and come back when the train ride is over. I wish I could stay, but while he doesn't show it, Percy can be as excitable as his brothers." She said before leaving.
"Now let's get you cleaned up,' Padma said.
"You can't let them win," Parvati added.
"But…" Hermione muttered looking at the cabin floor listening to the train rumble across the tracks.
"Oh you have another outfit," Parvati said, pulling out an identical outfit.
"Great you looked so cute in it," Padma said, holding it up.