Chapter 39- Hogsmeade

November 1994

"What cha working on," Millie asked, walking over to Hermione who was digging in the ground randomly.

"Millie, what are you doing out here," Hermione said.

"Steve wanted to hunt," Millie shrugged, kneeling down next to her friend.

"I see," Hermione said, writing in her notebook.

"But what brings you out here," Millie asked.

"Oh this, it's a project for Professor McGonagall," Hermione said.

"Transfiguration?" Millie said, cocking her head to the side.

"No, it's for my remedial classes," Hermione said. "I have to impress her with a project that combines all aspects of 1st through 4th year magic."

"And you've got a plan," Millie said.

"Yes, I am going to spruce up the grounds a bit," Hermione said examining the dirt she had dug up. "Granite, slate, limestone, or flagstone," she muttered looking up at the castle.

"What does the castle have to do with it," Millie asked.

"Granite does match the castle better," Hermione said, writing it down. "It wouldn't help me if my renovations didn't match the existing castle."

"True, and a nice path to and from the greenhouses and stables would be nice," Millie said.

"That is the plan, and what do you think about an asphalt path around the lake," Hermione said.

"Why asphalt?" Millie asked.

"Well it would be easier to bike, and roller blade on," Hermione said.

"Genius," Millie exclaimed. "I never did those, but I saw people doing it in Monaco and they looked like fun."

"It is," Hermione said.

"So what else do you have planned," Millie asked.

"Not sure," Hermione said. "Right now I'm just mapping out the paths, and checking to see if the soil has the right components for the transfiguration?"

"Just a transfiguration, won't that wear off over time," Millie said.

"True, but I am going to tie it into a rune array that can be recharged overtime," Hermione said.

"I'll leave the runes to you, I much prefer plants," Millie said as Steve returned.

"I'll say, that was an impressive transfiguration with those sunflowers," Hermione said.

"I didn't transfigure them," Millie said.

"You didn't," Hermione said, dropping her notebook.

"No," Millie said.

"Then what did you do," Hermione asked.

"I gave them the energy they needed to grow and mature faster," Millie said.

"Wait what…" Hermione blurted out.

"Was it something I said," Millie said.

"But how, plants, cells, ATP, energy….." Hermione said. Millie giggled bopping Hermione lightly on the head.

"Hey what was that for." Hermione protested.

"You were over thinking it again," Millie said.

"I was not," Hermione said.

"Yes, you were," Millie said.

"Well science…." Hermione grumbled.

"Life is life, and it all has the same spark or energy to it regardless of what form it takes," Millie said.

"True, all living things do use ATP for energy," Hermione replied.

"Yeah, just go with that," Millie said after a moment. "What I did, or at least what I think I did was, give them the energy they needed to grow faster."

"But where did all the nutrients come from," Hermione said.

"Yeah, Professor Hooch and Sprout were a little mad about that," Millie said.

"What did you do," Hermione said.

"Well the sunflowers kinda, sorta absorbed all of the surrounding nutrients killing off the grass," Millie said. "Which is kind of bad for the soil."

"Obviously," Hermione sighed. "But….."

"That's what she said," Neville said.

"Ugh," Harry groaned, smacking his forehead.

"Neville, Harry…." the girls said.

"That's not how the joke works Neville, and it's stupid to begin with," Harry groaned.

"It's not…" Neville said.

"No…." Harry said.

"Do I want to know," Hermione and Millie said.

"... Probably not…." Neville said.

"Now what brought you out of your tower today," Hermione asked looking at Harry.

"Well um, you see," Harry stammered ducking behind Neville.

"He wanted to ask you something," Neville said pushing Harry forward.

"Hey what are you doing?" Harry snapped.

"Helping," Neville chuckled.

"Neville, want to go see if we can find out what plants Professor Sprout will have us working on next," Millie said.

"No wait Millie!" Hermione squeaked.

"I'm helping," Millie chuckled as she walked away with Neville.

"That's not helping," Hermione called out.

"Consider it payback," Millie laughed.

"Payback for what," Harry asked.

"I kinda sorta helped her make the Slytherin cheer team after Tracy forced her to try out," Hermione said.

"Oh…." Harry said looking at Hermione. "Wait you helped her make the Slytherin cheerleading team?"

"Yes, is there something wrong with that," Hermione said.

"Um…. Hermione, don't take this the wrong way, but you really don't look like a cheerleader," Harry said, focusing on her glasses, retainer, and bulky looking outfit with her hair bundled up in her hat.

"Ok, fine," Hermione groaned. "I know I might not look like it now, but I am a cheerleader."

"I'll make sure to look for you at the next game," Harry said.

"Good," Hermione snapped before slowly turning red as she realized what Harry just said. "So um, what did you want to ask me?"

"Right, well you see, I was kind of hoping….." Harry said.

"I am not doing your homework," Hermione snapped.

"What no, I am not Ron," Harry said. "And well you are kind of….."

"Kind of what…" Hermione said, glaring at him.

"Well… um…. What I mean is…" Harry said tugging at the collar of his shirt.

"That I am in remedial classes," Hermione sighed.

"Yeah that," Harry said looking away.

"Ok," Hermione said standing up. "What did you actually want to ask me about?"

"Do you know Johanna," Harry asked.

"Johanna who….." Hermione said.

"You know the cute third year girl with silver hair," Harry said.

"Who!?" Hermione yelped falling on her but.

"You know, Johanna," the 2nd year Slytherin on their varsity cheerleading team, with the really pretty silver hair, and is like super smart or something or at least that's what the third years told me," Harry said. "So um do you know her…."

"Yes, I know her," Hermione said slowly standing up

"Great, so um do you think maybe you could," Harry said.

"Could what," Hermione asked.

"Well um, I know there is a Hogsmeade visit coming up so I thought maybe…." Harry said.

"You want to go to Hogsmeade with Johanna," Hermione said slowly.

"Yes," Harry said loudly.

"It would probably help if you asked her," Hermione said.

"That's just it, I tried, but I can't seem to find her anywhere, and Neville said that you were friends with her so I thought….." Harry said.

"That I would ask her for you," Hermione said.

"Yes," Harry said.

"No," Hermione said.

"But… It's important," Harry said.

"I'm sure it is, but you still need to ask her yourself," Hermione said as Harry's shoulders slumped. "That doesn't mean I won't help you," Hermione added.

"Really," Harry said perking up.

"Yes, I happen to know Johanna's schedule, and where you might be able to find her," Hermione said.

"That's great, thank you, thank you, thank you," Harry said hugging Hermione before running off as Hermione fell to the ground.

Break

"Hermione is that you, what are you still doing out here," Lavender yelled, running over to Hermione.

"Lavender?" Hermione said, looking up at her friend.

"What did they do this time," Lavender said.

"They who…." Hermione said.

"Daphne, Pansy, and Tracy, although you did do a number to Tracy in defense," Lavender replied, helping her up.

"Thanks, and they didn't do anything," Hermione said. "I mean Pansy still ridicules my fashion sense, and calls me stupid, but since I'm a cheerleader she's backed off a little."

"That's great, but then why are you sitting out here," Lavender said.

"Harry….." Hermione said growing red.

"What did he do, if he hurt you," Lavender growled.

"Oh no nothing like that he kinda sorta of asked me for a favor," Hermione said.

"And that left you sitting out here in the cold on a Friday night after dinner," Lavender said.

"Oh crap," Hermione squeaked.

"You're lucky I caught Harry and the twins looking at some map that can tell you where everyone in the castle is, and they said something about you still being outside," Lavender explained. "Anyway, what did Harry want?"

"Well um, he wants me to help him ask Johanna to Hogsmeade," Hermione said blushing at the memory.

"Johanna, that cute little Syltherin 2nd year with the silver hair," Lavender said.

"Yes," Hermione said as they walked back inside.

"No surprise he's been asking the third years about her for a while now," Lavender said. "I guess you know her from cheerleading."

"Um Lavender," Hermione said. "I don't know her, I am her," Hermione said.

"Hermione no offense…" Lavender said looking at her friend. "Wait, you're serious."

"Yes," Hermione said pointing her wand at her hair "Colovaria," she said using the charm to change her light brown hair to silver. Next, she took off her glasses while reinforcing her eyes with magic changing the color to blue. Lastly, she popped out her retain and removed her big bulky sweater.

"Bloody hell," Lavender gasped looking at her friend.

"Oh, come on," Hermione groaned, a German accent overtaking her posh English accent. "You knew about this from last year.

"I what," Lavender said, looking at her friend who stood taller as she stopped slouching.

"You helped get the Gryffindor 2nd years to call me Johanna to hide the fact that I was taking remedial classes," Hermione said.

"I did," Lavender said softly before pausing to think. "You're right I did, that's weird," Lavender said.

"I know," Hermione said as Lavender continued to look at her.

"It's a really good disguise, I can hardly recognize you like this," Lavender said looking her over. "Wait, did your hair get longer?" she asked, reaching out to gently brush Hermione's long silver hair that rang to the small of her back.

"It did," Hermione said looking at her hair. "I guess it did."

"But how, you can't just grow several inches of hair like that," Lavender said.

"The spell took all of the kinks and frizziness out, I guess," Hermione said.

"I guess….. Anyway, silver and blue are definitely your colors," Lavender said.

"You think so," Hermione asked.

"Tots, and you are like super cute, no wonder Harry wants to ask you to Hogsmeade," Lavender exclaimed.

"Thanks, but what am I going to do?" Hermione said.

"Go with Harry to Hogsmeade," Lavender said.

"But… What do I do, I've never been asked out by a boy before," Hermione said.

"Hahahahaha," Lavender chuckled. "It's easy you just say yes, and talk to him."

"It's that easy," Hermione said.

"Yes, it is that easy," Lavender said.

"Ok, but what am I going to wear," Hermione said.

"That is not so easy, But I'm sure we can think of something." She said looking down at Hermione. "Or not…." Lavender muttered. "I'm not sure any of my stuff will fit you," she said focusing on Herimone's chest

"I am a 4th year and I am not flat chested, darn it," Hermione grumbled.

"If you say so," Lavender said, patting Hermione on the top of her head.

"Ooooooohhhhhhhhh!" Hermione pouted, stomping her foot.

Break

"Got any plans for Hogsmeade," Tracy asked as she dried her hair.

"I dunno, shopping and hangout with Draco I guess," Pansy said, turning towards Tracy. "Although I did hear something interesting."

"Do tell," Tracy said, frowning a little as her stomach folded over as she leaned in closer.

"The runts sister is visiting," Pansy said.

"Really, who told you that," Tracy said.

"Draco, apparently Marcus couldn't shut up about it," Pansy said. "And seeing how you are now; you probably don't want to run into her."

"What is that supposed to mean," Tracy hissed.

"Oh, what's this a roll," Pansy said, pinching Tracy's stomach.

"Knock it off," Tracy snapped, slapping Pansy's hand away.

"I thought proper pureblood ladies didn't have rolls," Pansy chuckled.

"I do not have rolls," Tracy growled sitting up as she tried to suck her doughy stomach in.

"That was over the line Pansy," Daphne said drying her hair with a towel. "Just because someone is a bit heavier than others that doesn't mean you should pick on them." she said dropping her towel

"And I don't need help from a girl with hair that is a frizzy mess," Tracy said standing up holding the towel loosely around her breasts to hide her stomach.

"My hair is not a frizzy mess," Daphne retorted.

"She's got a point," Pansy said as several others nodded making Daphne stand a little taller.

"Perhaps, but it is a bit wild these days, and these are split ends," Tracy said examining Daphne's hair. "It really needs some work or you might lose your spot as the girl with the best hair."

"I do not have split ends and who cares about that," a red-faced Daphne snapped.

"Cares about what," Millie said exiting the shower her long blond hair shimmering as water slowly rolled down the golden strands before splattering on the floor.

"Oh nothing," Tracy said as Millie began to dry her hair.

"Millie have you done something different with your hair these days," a girl asked.

"I dunno, nothing specific," Millie said, drying it.

"Well whatever it is keep doing it," the other girls said.

"Thanks, I will," Millie said with a beaming smile humming as she brushed her hair, the long tangle free falling down her shoulders, the strands beginning to resemble a golden brown waterfall.

"It really is looking better," Daphne said to herself as she started brushing her own hair struggling with the knots and tangles. "Stupid hair."

"Looks like someone is having a bad hair day," one of them said as Hermione entered.

"Really, can't you find something better to do," Hermione sighed.

"For once they weren't talking about you," Pansy chimed in.

Her eyes widened in surprise at Pansy's words. "Oh…. my…. Are you sure you're feeling ok Pansy."

"I am perfectly fine, and for once you are not having a bad hair day," Pansy said.

"Yes, that pleasure belongs to someone else," Tracy said.

"Fine, but I still think what your doing is stupid," Hermione sighed entering the shower missing as all eyes looked between Hermione, and Daphne.

"Well it's not me," a red-faced Daphne snapped as her eyes were drawn to Hermione's hair which fell to the bottom of her shoulder blades and was still frizzy, no wavy was probably the better term. The color was a muted light brown, or was it dirty blonde, Daphne couldn't tell as she spotted some split ends but Hermione did have some nice volume. "Her hair is better, but mine is still nicer," she whispered wincing as she roughly pulled the brush through her hair leaving split ends and frizz in its wake.

"Hermione has a point, but Pansy wasn't wrong either. Did you see Daphne's hair? It's good but I think Pansy's is the best now. Agreed, but Millie's is looking better, and wast that really Hermione." Despite the running water and idle chatter Daphne couldn't help but hear the comments being made about her.

"Hmmmm maybe she is the weaker of the two," Tracy said smirking as she watched Daphne who prided herself on her hair, pulling it back into a tight braid.

Break

"Man, all of these make me look like a second year," Hermione grumbled as she tossed another outfit aside.

"But you are a second year," Elizabeth said.

"Only in Potions, Transfiguration, and Charms," Hermione grumbled.

"True," Astoria said as the other girls nodded.

"I really should have planned for something like this. All Johanna has is school clothes." Hermione muttered looking at the pile on her bed. "Ugh, I don't want to look like a dork on my first date."

"I don't think that is possible," Anna said.

"Thanks," Hermione said looking at the pile.

"Wait you have a date," Elizabeth said looking up from her book.

"Yes, why else would I be getting dressed up," Hermione said.

"But who would want to date a 2nd year," Elizabeth said.

"She is a 4th year student," Astoria said.

"Right," Belle said, shaking her head for a second. "But you're kind of short," she added.

"I am not," Hermione pouted. "I am 4 feet and 8.25 inches thank you very much and that."

"Puts you just below average for a 2nd year," one of the girls said.

"Ok fine, but I am a growing girl," Hermione pouted.

"Yeah, yeah, now who is your date with," Elizabeth said.

"Um well technically he hasn't asked me yet, but I'm kind of hoping maybe," Hermione said nervously.

"So, who is it," Anna asked as the girls waited for an answer.

Silence reigned as the seconds ticked by as they all waited for Hermione to answer. "Harry Potter," Hermione said softly.

"Knew it," Astoria chuckled.

"You're kidding, the Harry Potter," Belle said.

"Yes," Hermione said.

"Better not let Draco find out," Anna said.

"Or Pansy," Belle added.

"They'll be looking for Hermione, not Johanna," Hermione said, working a potion into her hair turning it silver.

"True," Elizabeth said. "But he's Dumbledore's poster boy, and a Gryffindor."

"What makes him Dumbledore's poster boy, and why does it matter that he is a Griffyndor?"

"Well you know," Elizabeth said.

"Know what?" Astoria asked.

"He's…. Well… you know…." Elizabeth stammered.

"Can't answer it can you," Anna said.

"I can to…" Elizabeth snapped.

"Doubt it," Belle added.

"Brainwashed," another girl said.

"Hör auf," Hermione said loudly.

"Did you just call me a whore," Elizabeth snapped.

"She said stop it," Astoria said translating for them.

"Oh…." the girls gasped.

Hermione took a deep breath. "We're all individuals, we are allowed to have differences in opinions. And I have nothing wrong with you trying to have a vigorous debate, in fact I welcome it. What I will not stand for anyone being bullied for having a different opinion," Hermione said with a pronounced German accent.

"We're sorry," the girls said to Hermione and Elizabeth.

"Great now we can get back to more important matters," Astoria said.

"And that is," Hermione said.

"Finding you something good to wear on your date," Astoria said.

"It's not a date. It's just a visit to Hogsmeade," Hermione said.

"That makes….. Ok fine it's not like we know any different," the girls said.

"Hhhhmmmmmmm… You know if none of your stuff works, you could borrow some of my clothes," Astoria said looking at her own clothes.

"Mine to, and me, I have something that might work," the others added.

"Really," Hermione gasped.

"Yes," they said.

"Having friends is nice," Hermione said as they got to work.

Break

"Who is that?" Ron said pointing at someone across the great hall as they finished up breakfast.

"It's not nice to point," Lavender said.

"Who are you my mother," Ron groaned.

"Don't bother," Padma said.

"Yeah she's way cuter than you two," Ron said as the person in question walked towards them.

"Guten Morgen Lavender, Parvati," Hermione said gently, pinching the hem of her skirt before giving them a slight curtsey. Her skirt the color of freshly fallen snow, contrasting nicely with a long sleeve purple blouse, her silver hair falling down nearly to her waist.

"Wow, just wow, I know you told me Lav, but this is something else," Parvati said in Hindi.

"I know right," Lavender giggled.

"I'll say, it's like my brain just can't see Hermione at all," Parvati said.

"Well duh, she's way better looking than that 4 eyed dork," Ron said.

"Your reputation precedes you Mr. Weasley," Hermione said. "And for the record Hermione is a friend of mine."

"And mine," Neville said, joining them. "Good morning Johanna, what brings you to the Gryffindor table today.

"Hermione told me that Harry wanted to ask me something," Hermione said.

"He did," Ron said.

"Yes," Hermione said, turning to face the newly arrived Harry. "Guten Morgen Harry."

"Johanna!" Harry squeaked.

"Ja," she replied looking up at him with her ice blue eyes.

"Go…...od Morn…. ing," he gulped.

"Ja, it is a nice morning," Johanna said with a smile.

"Right," Harry said, his cheeks turning red.

"Hermione told me that you wanted to ask me something," Hermione said.

"She did," Harry yelped as everyone looked at him. "Right she did, well you see the thing is," Harry said, turning his head away from her.

"Ja," Hermione said.

"Would you like to go to Hogsmeade with me, that is I mean if you even want to go to Hogsmeade today," Harry said.

"Ja," Hermione replied.

"Well I mean I know it's kind of last minute so I understand if you say no," Harry said.

"She said yes Harry," Lavender giggled.

"She did," Harry said.

"Ja, means yes in German and yes I will accompany you to Hogsmeade today," Johanna said.

"Oh… Oh!" Harry gasped as the others began laughing.

Break

"Mr. Potter," Professor McGonagall called out as the students left the castle.

"Yes, Professor," Harry said.

"What do you think you are doing leaving the castle," she said.

"Going on a Hogsmeade visit," Harry said softly.

"Is there a problem Professor," Hermione asked.

"I believe the Headmaster made himself clear on this matter," McGonagall said.

"But I have followed all of the instructions required of the other students," Harry said.

"That is true, but…" McGonagall said as Hermione sighed.

Harry looked back and forth at Hermione and McGonagall several times. "..."

"Marcus!" a blue streak called out as it came to a slamming stop next to him.

"Victoria!" Marcus yelped falling on his posterior.

"Hehehehe," Victoria giggled.

"I thought I told her to wait until Hogsmeade," Hermione muttered in German as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Miss Granger, how did you get in here," McGonagall snapped.

"It's a secret," Victoria said, wagging a single finger at the professor.

"And you must be Johanna, my sister told me all about you," Victoria said looking at Harry. "Now don't you worry my sister says that Harry is a good boy and will treat you right and if he doesn't…"

"Victoria what are you doing," Hermione hissed in German.

"What I am just looking out for my little sister," Victoria replied in German.

"I am not the little sister," Hermione said, continuing their conversation in German.

"Yeah, yeah," Victoria said.

"Hey Potter, stop holding up the line!" Draco yelled.

"Es tut uns leid," Victoria replied, grabbing Marcus's and Johanna's arms. "Come on let's go!" Victoria yelled racing off as Harry was drug along for the ride

"Victoria," the group yelled.

"Get back here this instant!" McGongagall yelled.

"Oh let them have their fun," Professor Lupin said.

"But…" McGongagall said.

"I'll go along for the day, he won't try anything if he smells me nearby," Lupin said heading off towards Hogsmeade.

"If anything happens, I will hold you personally responsible," McGongagall said glaring at him as he walked off.

"Great she really did show up," Tracy groaned watching Victoria's display. "Well at least I can make sure I don't end up in the same carriage as her," she muttered walking towards the carriages. As she walked towards the carriages she couldn't help but notice each dementor she could see paused pointing or looking at the walking path towards Hogsmeade. "Do they want me to walk?" Tracy muttered looking at a dementor who seemed to nod. "That's crazy….." she said watching Victoria race past the carriages. "Well if she can do it so can I." Tracy said marching off.

Break

"Sorry, Hermione warned me that Victoria could be a handful," Hermione said as Marucs and Victoria broke off from them.

"I still don't know how they are actually sisters," Harry said.

"Twins actually," Hermione said.

"You're kidding," Harry said his eyes wide in shock.

"No, they are actually fraternal twin sisters," Hermione said.

"If you say so," Harry said as they walked along.

"I do," Hermione said. "But I don't think you asked me to Hogsmeade to talk about my

Schwester," Hermione said.

"Schwester," Harry said.

"... Sorry I sometimes slip into German," Hermione said blushing as she realized her mistake. "I meant to say I didn't think you asked me all the way out here to ask me about my friend."

"It's ok, and I didn't," Harry said as they continued on the 1.5 mile walk to Hogsmeade.

"No problem," Hermione said as a gentle silence settled in as they enjoyed the sounds of nature.

"How did you do it," Harry asked.

"Do what?" Hermione asked.

"Face the dementors like that," Harry said softly.

"Oh," Hermione said.

"Yes, I was terrified, barely holding onto my broom, and you just leapt into action, like you weren't scared at all" Harry said.

"But I was," Hermione said.

"You were," Harry said.

"Yes, dementors are terrifying creatures that any rational person should be scared of," Hermione said.

"And yet…." Harry said as Hermione skipped over to a nearby rock.

"Come sit," Hermione said, patting the rock.

"Alright," Harry said, sitting down next to Hermione.

"Gut," Hermione said. "Now what is bothering you?"

"I couldn't do anything," Harry said softly.

"Nein," Hermione said, flicking his forehead.

"It's the truth," Harry said covering his forehead.

"Dummkopf," Hermione said, flicking his forehead again. "Did you freeze up."

"No, but it was all I could do to keep flying," Harry said.

"And in doing so you kept most of the dementors focused on you," Hermione said.

"I did?" Harry said.

"Ja," Hermione said.

"But Professor Dumbledore said that my flying like that put people in danger and that I…." Harry said.

"Is wrong," Hermione said.

"But he said that the wrong action can make things worse," Harry said.

"While I can't say that the headmaster is technically wrong, in a general sense," Hermione said. "However, I prefer to think of a quote my mother likes."

"And that is," Harry asked.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing," Hermione said. "You did something, which more than I can say for most of the students there."

"All I did was fly. It was nothing like what you and Millie did," Harry said.

"But if it wasn't for your flying pulling some of the dementors away, Millie wouldn't have been able to do anything," Hermione said.

"And yet Millie was actually able to do something," Harry said.

"It is true that Millie's actions did finally drive off the dementors, but she had help," Hermione said. "Do you wish to do more next time?" she asked, placing her hand on his.

"Yes, but I'm not that brave," Harry said.

"Nein," Hermione said, shaking her head as she remembered all of their escapades since 1st year. "You are brave enough to stand up to the dementors, of that I have no doubt. If you doubt your actions, then learn and grow so that the next time you face dementors you know what to do," Hermione said.

"You make it sound so easy," Harry said.

"Trust me it's not," Hermione said thinking of the last few years. "Nothing worthwhile ever is….."

"Right," Harry said.

"Really Potter, trying to seduce a mere second year," a tired Tracy called out as she trudged past them.

"I'm not," Harry retorted.

"Then why are you sitting next to each other, I mean you are practically in her lap so lewd," Tracy said.

"Wait what…" Harry and Hermione squeaked looking at how their hips were brushing against each other. "Eeekk!"

"Hahahahaha, what would everyone thinking of Dumbledore's golden boy seducing a poor little Syltherin, what's next holding hands, so lewd," Tracy said.

"I um, I mean I we weren't, I wasn't," the pair babbled.

"Oh right of course you weren't, you pervy Gryffindor," Tracy said glaring at Harry.

"I wasn't," Harry protested.

"So, you're saying she isn't cute," Tracy pressed.

"No, I mean yes, argh…." Harry said.

"Go away Tracy," Hermione said.

"I am just trying to protect your virtue," Tracy said. "You are much to young for the lewd act of holding hands."

"Holding hands is not lewd," Daphne yelled.

"It's not," Harry said with a sigh of relief.

"No it's not, in fact it's cute," Daphne said.

"Good," Harry said.

"I just figured you would have asked Hermione to Hogsmeade," Daphne said.

"Well um….." Harry said, tugging his collar.

"It's obvious, Johanna is much better looking than that annoying pain in the but," Tracy said.

"That pain in the but is my friend," Daphne said.

"I am aware of your friendship with the muggleborn girl," Tracy said. "Did she help you with your hair this morning."

"No, why," Daphne said.

"Because your hair is looking a little frizzy and your braid is coming apart," Tracy said.

"It is not," Daphne said.

"Potatoe, potato," Tracy said walking off.

"Get back here," Daphne said, chasing after Tracy.

Break

"So this is Hogsmeade," Victoria said as they entered the small town.

"Yes," Marcus said. "It is the only purely magical town in all of England."

"Fascinating," Victoria replied as they walked through the town that could have served as a period piece for a Georgian era period drama.

"I guess you don't have anything like this…. You know I never asked you where you went to school?"

"Saint Hilda's in Lichtenstein," Victoria replied. "It's a small community school located in Vaduz, so we inter-mingle with non-adepts on a daily basis."

"Oh…" Marcus said. "That's…. Um….."

"Horrific," Draco said. "Dealing with muggles on a daily basis no thank you."

"Draco….." Marcus sighed.

"And you must be Draco Malfoy," Victoria said.

"So, you have heard of me," Draco said.

"Yes, Marcus said you are a good seeker," Victoria said.

"My reputation precedes me then," Draco said.

"Yes, and my sister said you are manageable in small doses, but your id has a tendency to write checks that your ego can't cash, while the superego can't control either of them," Victoria said.

"What did you say," Draco growled.

"She said you are an obnoxious little snot," Mathew chuckled.

"Who asked you," Draco snapped.

"Liz did actually," Mathew shrugged.

"Why," Pansy asked.

"She wanted to make sure Slytherin did not look like a bunch of fools in front of the exchange student," Mathew explained leaning closer to Victoria. "But personally, I just think she wants a copy of the tape you gave Marcus."

"She what…" Victoria squeaked. "Marcus what did you do…."

"Well um…. You see…." Marucs stammered.

"This idiot played your music during a dementor attack and it was so bad that it drove the dementors off," Pansy said it's a miracle my hearing is still intact.

"It was not," Marcus said.

"Then why were you tapping your foot along to the music then," Daphne said.

"Dancer's reflex," Pansy said.

"Oh you dance, I love dancing," Victoria said. "What style of dance do you practice?"

"Ballet, and ballroom," Pansy said.

"Oh I like those, but what about folk dancing, and modern dance," Victoria said.

"Folk dancing is for the peasants, and modern dancing is muggle trash," Pansy replied. "But I am surprised you can manage that since you probably have two left feet like your sister."

Victoria simply looked down at her shoes for a moment. "I don't think I have two left feet. What do you think Marcus," Victoria asked.

"They look fine to me," Marcus replied.

"That's not the point you idiot," Pansy hissed.

"It's not, because you just said I had two left feet," Astoria said.

"I did not," Pansy snapped.

"Yes you did," Daphne said, causing Pansy to fume.

"Argh, fine, but you are still a terrible dancer, and your voice is like nails on a chalkboard," Pansy said before marching off.

"Thanks Daphne," Marcus said.

"Daphne Greengrass," Victoria said.

"Yes," Daphne said.

"As in the Daphne Greengrass who bullied my sister," Victoria said glaring at Daphne.

"Yes," Daphne said.

"The same Daphne Greengrass who forced her to be a maid," Victoria said, stepping closer.

"Yes," Daphne said softly.

"The same Daphne who tormented her to the point where she cried herself to sleep at night," Victoria said glaring at Daphne.

"Y...e...s…." Daphne stammered unable to meet Victoria's glare.

"And what do you have to say for that," Victoria said.

"Um…. I'm…. sorry…." Daphne said softly.

"Good," Victoria said. "Hermione told me that you apologized to her, but I just wanted to hear it for myself."

"Ok," Daphne said.

"So what's this I hear about you playing my music to drive off dementors," Victoria said, turning away.

"Oh that, well you see," Marcus said as they walked along.

"Woah did you see that; she totally took them down. I saw it but I can't believe it, Daphne Greengrass cracking under pressure. I mean just wow, one look and Victoria broke her, was she ever that strong. " some of the students Daphne passed whispered even as she looked in their direction.

"It's fine, I'm not weak, I did deserve it for what I did, and I am trying to be a better person," Daphne said to herself as she walked along.

Break

Technically all of the rules of Hogwarts still applied to the students during Hogsmeade visits, which usually was enough to keep the students behave during the visits. However, there was one small problem when it came to Hogsmeade visits, there were many more opportunities for mischief. The people of Hogsmeade were well aware of this, and did report students to the school, but that still left plenty of blind spots for the students to make use of. One such place was the statue of Honor Harrington in the more residential section of the town.

"What did you want me to see all the way out here," Tracy said as Marietta pulled her along.

"Proof that Loony is crazy," Marietta said pointing at Luna.

"Did you know him," Luna said looking up at the statue of one of the heroes of the magical wars against Napoleon. "You were sleeping," Luna said. "Oh I guess that would make me tired," Luna said.

"Is she schizo or something," Tracy said.

"No, multiple personalities, I think," Marietta said as Luna continued to appear to be talking to herself.

"Dumbledore let her stay at Hogwarts and learn magic, is he nuts," Tracy said. "What if she snaps and loses control?"

"I won't," Luna called out to them.

"You heard that," Marietta gasped.

"No, Artemis did," Luna said.

"It has a name now," Marietta said.

"We've always had names," Luna said.

"Just how many of you are there," Tracy said.

"Just one like you," Luna replied.

"You are not like me," Tracy said.

"Of course not, I'm a Virgo and you are a Capricorn," Luna said, making Tracy take a step back.

"Wait how could you know that," Tracy snapped.

"You mean you didn't know you had a connection to Saturn," Luna said as her eyes glassed over for a second. "Oops sorry just forget I said that."

"Why would we care what you say, silencio," Marietta said, brandishing her wand.

"A quick silencio to prevent your target from casting or crying out, nicely done," Tracy said. "Not what I would have expected from most Ravenclaws." she added as Luna grabbed her throat.

"Unlike my fellow Ravens, I like to think the simplest approach is the best approach," Marietta said. "Would you care to do the honors?"

"Why thank you," Tracy said pointing her wand at Luna. "You know you really aren't very moon like," she said firing a spell at Luna changing her hair from a platinum blond to a stark white color.

"I would have gone with a crater face," Marietta said.

"That would catch too much attention," Tracy said.

"I just wanted a nice secluded place to fix my hair," Daphne said to herself as she exited a nearby street in clear view of the statue.

"Daphne," Tracy said.

"Tracy can you not go a day without bullying someone," Daphne sighed.

"Yes," Tracy replied. "But can you go a day without having a bad hair day."

"Yes," Daphne said, moving between Luna, and Tracy.

"Hahaha, that's a good one," Tracy chuckled.

"What's so funny," Daphne snapped.

"You haven't had a good hair day since you got kicked out of runes," Tracy chuckled.

"Ggggrrrrrrr," Daphne growled, gripping her wand. "I have had it with you needleling me. We are friends, and I am tired of the snipes about my hair."

"Are those fighting words," Tracy said.

"If you want them to be," Daphne said.

Tracy slowly looked over the statue, the tiny park around it and the surrounding street. "Works for me," she said, taking a stance.

"You really don't have to do this," Luna said.

"Hey I silenced you," Marietta exclaimed.

"No you silenced Luna, not me, but I do understand the confusion," Luna said tilting her head to the side looking at Marietta. "Hmmmm are you a Mars or a Vuclan,"

"What the hell are you babbling about," Marietta snapped.

"Well Tracy is clearly channeling Saturn, and Daphne is trying to channel Mars, but I think her inner Jupiter is starting to show, while you I'm not sure of yet, you are Mars, but you've got a little Vulcan in you too," Luna said.

"We are trying to have a duel here," Tracy said.

"Yes, of course, it is not necessary to fight on my behalf, but Luna does appreciate it, could you make it quick we are a bit peckish," Luna said.

"This will only take a minute," Daphne said.

"Oh you think you can take me," Tracy said.

"I've seen you duel," Daphne said, raising her wand.

"Phalanx Rapio," Tracy said, firing off a barrage of low level bludgeoning spells.

"Too easy," Daphne said, slipping between the gaps in the spells.

"Oh no," Marietta said watching Daphne slowly weave through the spells.

"If all you are going to do is dodge you are not going to win," Tracy said between spells.

"If you can't hit me, you won't win," Daphne replied.

"All you can do is talk," Daphne replied side stepping a spell moving closer to the statue. "And talk is… Oof," Daphne said as she slammed into the statute.

"A distraction, Rapio," Tracy said, quickly firing spells around Daphne,before launching a stronger one right at her. "Domus undique," Tracy said, firing the hard hitting burgeoning spell direction at Daphne.

"Protego," Daphne cried out a loud bang reverberated over the park as Tracy's spell slammed into Daphne's shield. The loud noise startled the birds sitting on the statue squawking as they flew off, but not before several lost bowel control pelting Daphne with droppings. "Petrificus Totalus," Daphne quickly fired back before the birds cleared, dropping Tracy to the ground.

"Bugger," Marietta hissed.

"I win," Daphne said, stomping towards Tracy.

"True, this is your win," Tracy sighed.

"That is surprisingly gracious of you," Daphne said.

"Well I'm not the one with bird poop in her hair," Tracy said.

"What…." Daphne said slowly reaching a hand up to touch her hair feeling a warm wet semi gelatinous material in her hair. With a growing sense of dread she brought her hand to her face, her jaw dropping as she gazed at the white smelly substance staining her fingers. "Bird… Droppings…." she muttered as her eyes widened in shock.

"Is that a new conditioner you are trying because if you are you are doing it wrong," Marietta added.

"It is not," Daphne said before racing off.

"Weak," Tracy muttered.

"Was that really Daphne," Marietta said as she freed Tracy. "And did you plan that."

"Thank you, and yes," Tracy said. "But I was only trying to corner her against the statute to impede her movement, the birds were a nice benefit. A more than fair trade off for the loss."

Break

"Um, excuse me, but could I possibly get a haircut, it's sort of an emergency," Daphne said holding her hat firmly on her head all of her hair tucked up under it.

"Certainly, what seems to be the problem," the woman said.

"Um…." Daphne said nervously.

"Not to worry, I've seen all sorts of accidents over the years," she said leading Daphne to the back of the shop.

"Ok," Daphne said slowly removing her hat and letting her bird poop stained hair down. By tucking it under her hat, that she had inadvertently worked the dropping throughout her hair.

"You were dueling by the Honor Harrington statue," the woman said.

"Yes," Daphne replied. "Wait how did you know."

"The birds that like to sit on that statue are known for relieving themselves at the smallest noise, but it's nothing a deep wash can't fix," she said.

"Ok," Daphne said, leaning back as the woman began washing her hair.

"Now don't you worry about a thing, just relax, and enjoy the deep cleaning," the woman said as she got to work.

"Thanks," Daphne replied, enjoying the relaxing wash.

"And done," the woman said. "Now what sort of cut would you like today?"

"All I needed was the wash," Daphne replied.

"Ok, but i can't let you go outside on a cold day with wet hair at least let me dry it." the woman said.

"Alright," Daphne said.

"Great," she said, moving Daphne to a chair with a large metal contraption connected to the chimney.

"Um don't you use…" Daphne said.

"Magic, heavens no if i use magic to dry everyone's hair I would be drained before lunch. I know it's a bit archaic but the Godefroy hair dryer gets the job done. I know using a gas stove is not the more efficient way of doing things, but I don't see Hogsmeade getting wired for electricity anytime soon," the woman explained placing the metal bonnet on Daphne's head.

"But it works," Daphne said sighing as the warm air circulated around her head.

"True, we use magic to improve it, but it's just not enough. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we should rush and embrace every new gadget, but just because it's worked for 100 years doesn't mean we can't improve it," the woman said.

"That makes sense," Daphne said.

"I know right," the woman said. "And done," she said lifting the metal contraption off Daphne's head.

"That was faster than I expected," Daphne said.

"That's because I added a small fan spell that circulates the air more, speeding up the drying process," the woman said. "And are you sure you don't want a little trim to deal with those split ends, and you've got some mismatched layers."

"I…." Daphne said, inspecting her hair. "Have split ends…" she muttered looking at the ends of her hair. "I never have split ends…"

"Oh please we all get them from time to time," the woman said. "But it's nothing a quick trim can't fix."

"Are you sure, I like my long hair," Daphne said images of Hermione and Millie's hair coming to mind.

"I'll take off the smallest amount possible I promise," the woman said, pulling out her scissors.

"Alright," Daphne said as an apron was placed around her. She tried to look straight ahead, but she couldn't help but watch as strand after strand of her hair was cut from her hair, each one giving her a slight tingle as it hit the ground. The seconds seemed to drag on for an eternity.

"Now how would you like to style your hair today," she asked.

"Oh, I don't really style it much, I just let it fall long and straight," Daphne replied.

"I see the classic princess cut, but I don't think that's quite going to work today," the woman said.

"Why not…" Daphne said, taking a closer look at her hair as her eyes doubled in size. What… happened…" she stammered looking at the frizzy curls that replaced her long straight locks.

"Sorry about that, the shampoo must have washed out whatever you were using to straighten your hair," the woman said. "It might not be what you are used to, but it doesn't look bad."

"But," Daphne said, touching the brittle strands which only made them poof out more.

"You do have more volume, so you will need to do something with it," she said. "Oh I know…" she said, clapping her hands. "Twin tails, it will control your extra volume, and look super cute.

"Isn't that a style for little girls," Daphne said.

"But you are a girl, and who said that," the woman said as she got to work.

"So floofy," Daphne muttered as she left the hairdresser bouncing her large curly ponytails.

Break

"Do not forget your homework," Professor Meloi said to the class as the bell rang.

"It seems being a third year student is treating you well, Johanna" Luna said to Hermione.

"I am just happy to be one year closer to my actual year," Hermione replied as she put her notebook in her bag.

"You wish to return to that," Luna said.

"Yes, I have my reasons," Hemrione said.

"I see," Luna said. "But you won't be the same person when you return."

"I will always be me, Luna," Hermione said.

"Even if you are not the same person," Luna said.

"People change Luna, but I will always be me," Hermione said.

"A rose by any other name would still smell as sweet," Astoria chimed in.

"Exactly," Hermione said. "And with that I need to run, Arithmancy is calling and I need to change into Hermione."

"Go, and don't forget to check your roots this time," Astoria said.

"I won't and I don't know why the silver dye sticks to my roots so much," Hermione said, racing off darting between students.

"Ooofff," Hermione grunted as she bumped into Daphne.

"Sorry Daphne, wow I like your big hair day today, ok by," Hermione said disappearing in a silver blur.

"Big hair, my hair not big," Daphne muttered, patting down her large floofy ponytail.

"Hello Daphne," Astoria said.

"Astoria…." Daphne gasped. "What are you doing here?

"Magic Theory," Astoria replied.

"Yes, but the …" Daphne began.

"The third-year class just ended," Astoria said.

"But you're a second year," Daphne said.

"I know, but the second-year class was challenging enough for me, so Professor Meloi moved me up," Astoria said, adjusting a pair of large circular glasses that looked cuter as she pushed them up her nose a bit.

"But, that's…." Daphne stammered.

"Pretty cool right," Astoria said, kneeling as she picked up her bag.

"I guess," Daphne said softly taken a back as her "little sister" stood up standing taller than Daphne remembered when combined with the aura of confidence her sister was beginning to develop, she just didn't seem like the little sister she remembered.

"Well I've got to run," Astoria said as the warning bell rang. "Oh, and the answer is, gems, staffs, blades, cards, musical instruments, brushes, and shields," she said glancing at the board before leaving.

"What," Daphne said watching her sister leave, Astoria's dark brown hair touching her shoulder blades in twin ponytails that swished side to side as she walked, with hints of blue as the light reflected off it.

"The Do Now is on the board, please get started," Profesor Meloi said as the bell rang.

"Up until now we have been studying how wizards and witches channel magic through their wands to create spells, however a wand is not the only thing we can use to channel magic. What are some of the other items that can be used to cast spells?"

"Gemstones are obvious, and I know about staffs, but the rest…." Daphne muttered.

"Ok, time up," Professor Meloi said.

"What really," Daphne muttered as they went over the answers. "How did Astoria know all that."