Chapter 40- Make me a Snow fort

December 1994

The days grew shorter and colder as November changed to December and winter began to set in, and yet students were still found walking out amongst the grounds of Hogwarts. "I don't care what Hermione says this is cold," Millie muttered as she made her way back from Hagrid's hut. "And Steve better appreciate this," she whispered holding a sealed package close to her chest. The pitiful whine of a dog carried over the empty grounds as the last rays of sunlight disappeared from the sky, as the moon rose to prominence. "A dog all the way out here?" Millie said as spotting a black dog huddled against the side of the castle searching for a way out of the cold wind as it crossed the lake. Drawn by the noise several dementors turned and slowly made their way to the dog bringing their cold meanancing aura with them. The dog growled softly trying to stand only to collapse in exhaustion whimpering softly as the dementor's moved closer.

"Hey what do you think you are doing," Millie yelled, marching towards the dog.

One of the dementor's turned towards Millie making a ghastly hissing noise.

"I don't care," Millie said, glaring at it.

"Now get out of the way or else," Millie yelled focusing on her magic.

The dementor began to shake its head.

"Why do you have to do things the hard way," Millie snapped. "Well don't say I didn't warn you," Millie said adjusting the large sunflower holding her hair back causing the dementor to pause as it was pointed in their direction. "Pollinisation!" she said channeling magic through the flower causing it to spray the dementors with a cloud of pollen. The dementors hissed flying backwards to avoid the small cloud of pollen as Millie scooped up the dog. "Don't worry you're safe now and don't you worry about those big meanie dementors."

Break

"Mille, why are you carrying a dog," Hermione asked as Millie entered carrying a large black dog.

"I found it on the way back from Hagrid's hut," Millie replied.

"And you picked it up because…." Hermione said.

"I couldn't just leave Tarasque outside in good conscience," Millie said.

"You named him," Hermione said.

"But isn't that what you do with pets," Millie said.

"Yes, but why did you name him after a dragon," Hermione said pausing for a minute before grabbing her hair in frustration. "Wait what, since when is he your pet," Hermione yelled.

"Since now," Millie said as the dog began to struggle. "No, that's a bad Tarasque," Millie yelped, tightening her grip on the beast. "You've been outside who knows how long and you need a bath."

"But Millie you already have Steve, and the school only allows…" Hermione said as the snake and question slithered out of its tank and over to Millie.

"Well, I was thinking that Melissa doesn't have a pet," Millie said.

Hermione groaned, slapping her forehead. "That was a prank we did on the train and a couple of other times for fun." She groaned.

"How is that any different than what you did?" Millie said as Steve slithered up her arm glaring at Tarasque.

"Because…" Hermione groaned. "Gut, du hast einen Punkt," Hermione sighed.

"Is it break yet," Elizabeth groaned, stumbling into Millie as she entered the dorms. Her only response was a big sloppy lick that left her bangs sticking up in the air. "Dogs…." she said softly as the others waited for her to explode. "I love dogs," Elizabeth exclaimed her spirits rejuvenated stars in her eyes as she stared at the dog.

"You like dogs," the others said.

"Yes, I like dogs, but my aunt and cousin don't like them for some reason," Elizabeth said. "Are you going to give him a bath, can I help."

"Oui," Millie replied.

"Great," Elizabeth cheered.

"I smell the human on you," Steve hissed softly in Tarasque's ear. "Millie is a nice girl with a heart as wide as the ocean, and if you make her cry I will be very upset."

"I understand," Tarasque whimpered.

"Oh look Steve and Tarasque are becoming friends," Millie giggled.

Break

Professor Lupin could see the eyes of his students glazing over as he neared the end of the day's lecture on levantholds. "I think that is enough of me talking for the day. Now it's time for the next round of the grail wars tournament," he said causing the class to erupt in cheers.

"Finally," Lavender said I thought he was going to go on forever.

"Not like playing with dolls is much better," Ron groaned.

"Well some of us are looking forward to it," Neville said.

"Today we have Daphne vs. Lavender, Tracy vs. Dean, Blaize vs. Draco, and Ron vs. Greggory," Lupin said.

"Who are you going to use," Hermione asked Daphne.

"Cu Culhain," Daphne said, pulling out her doll.

"You're going for his instadeath right off the bat then," Hermione said.

"Yes," Daphne replied.

"I don't plan on going down easy though," Lavender said, placing her doll on the large table that served as the arena.

"An archer, big mistake," Daphne said looking at the purple haired doll in a frilly white dress.

"Maybe, but it was the best of all the options," Lavender said.

"Oh really," Daphne said.

"You've got saber Artoria, Cu lancer, Emiya, Medusa rider, medea, and hassan. Now I expect you to go with Saber Artoria which gives me a class advantage, but Euryale is good against males which covers 3 other options," Lavender said.

"True, but I still have the type advantage on you," Daphne said.

"Enough talking, get with the battling," Hermione and Millie said excitedly.

"Right, right," Lavender and Daphne said, directing their dolls. Eurayle moved sideways running for the trees on the battlefield while Cu simply blocked the shots but not before taking a grazing shot on the arm.

"Lavender's doing pretty good," Millie said as Euryale continued to stay out of reach of Cu.

"I know, Daphne's looking a little sluggish today," Hermione said as Cu tried to close the distance but lost track of Euryale in the trees.

"True, maybe she just needs to get warmed up," Millie said as Daphne's brow furrowed in concentration.

"Whim of a goddess," Lavender said as Euryale glowed for a minute activating a skill.

"Trying to charge your noble phantasm faster," Daphne said.

"Maybe," Lavender replied.

"To bag you have to hit me for that to happen, evasion from arrows," Daphne said as Cu blocked every shot.

"I dunno, maybe we worked too hard at practice yesterday," Hermione said as sweat began forming on Daphne's brow.

"I dunno, I didn't think it was that hard," Millie said causing Daphne to shoot her a look only for it to turn into a stare. The blonde's cheeks were looking slimmer with more defined cheekbones and no double chin even when she tilted her head down.

"You've really been working hard so I'm not surprised," Hermione said.

"Thanks," Millie replied.

"Ugh, stand still," Daphne groaned as Euryale once again avoided a direct hit.

"Catch me if you can," Lavender said as Euryale landed another glancing blow.

"I will, Daphne said with a smirk, Gae…" Daphne began to say.

"Vampirism," Lavender called out.

"Bolg, it's over," Daphne finished as Cu's special attack the Noble Phantasm Gae Bolg failed to activate. "What!"

"Thanks for the free charge, Vampirism allows Euryale to drain her opponents' energy to charge her own noble phantasm. "Eye of the Euryale!"

"Cu guts now," Daphne squeaked as the inescapable pink arrow barreled down on him.

"I win," Lavender cheered as the Cu doll appeared to power down.

"Thanks for the recharge, Cu Gae bolg," Daphne said.

"Siren's song," Lavender said, making Euryale smile and blow a kiss in Cu's direction, freezing him solid.

"Crap," Daphne hissed as a flurry of arrows peppered Cu slowly chipping away at his health. "Come on move darn it," Daphne said waiting for the skill to wear off.

"Way to go Lavender," Millie said.

"Hey I am more than just a pretty face," Lavender chuckled.

"I know, but the way you've been controlling the battle," Hermione said as Cu broke free.

"What can I say I did my homework," Lavender said flipping her long silky hair over her shoulder.

"Pay attention to your opponent," Daphne snapped. "Gae Bolg," Daphne yelled ending the fight with Cu's sure hit attack. In her panci Daphne overcharged the doll which created a small breeze that ruffled Lavender's hair only adding volume as not a hair was blown out of place.

"Crap," Lavender said. "But that's what I get for losing focus. I'll just have to make sure I don't lose again and make a comeback" she said shrugging as Daphne looked at Lavender's hair with envy. The perfectly brushed long golden strands flowing over the girl's shoulders, hair that was like what her used to be.

"Maybe, but I think…." Daphne began to say as a faint snapping sound was heard as Daphne's hair freed from one it's confines as the ribbon broke free her hair poofing out into a frizzy mess as the bell rang.

Break

"Hello Tracy," Marietta said, discovering the redhead perusing the massive stacks of books that Hogwarts called the library.

"Marietta," Tracy said, nodding her head towards the girl.
"Doing research for your winter break essay," Marietta asked.

"Trying to," Tracy groaned under the weight of the books.
"What's the rush, you've got the entire break to do it," Marietta said.

"I wish," Tracy said.

"Oh, big plans for the break," Marietta said.

"I wish," Tracy groaned. "Mom's demanding, I work a couple of events over the break so she can cut costs," Tracy sighed.

"Really, but I thought Davis Catering was doing well," Marietta said.

"It is, but Blustrode fine foods and catering is starting to undercut mom's pricing so she's had to adapt. It's those damn mermaids, she's got a direct line to the best fish without the middleman," Tracy explained.

"I see that is problematic, but if you don't mind me asking what events will you be working," Marietta said.

"A couple of private parties, but the big one is the ministries Yule Ball, and The Diagon Alley Broom Drop," Tracy said.

"What about you? Any big plans for the break?"

"Sadly no, I would love to go to a few parties but, that just isn't in the cards for me," Marietta said

"I wouldn't call being a waitress going to a party," Tracy groaned.

"True, but at least you have the possibility of meeting the movers and shakers of society," Marietta said.

"You raise a good point…" Tracy said trailing off as she looked at Marietta.

"Um… is something wrong… was it something I said," Marietta stammered.

"No, quite the opposite," Tracy said a slight smile forming on her lips. "I can't promise the pay would be very good, but perhaps you would like to also be a waitress."

Marietta's jaw dropped in utter shock. "Wait….. What…." she gasped staring at Tracy.

"I could use the extra help, and you would gain access to the party, and if we both work hard maybe we get a few minutes off," Tracy said.
"Why?" Marietta asked.

"Because I could use the help and it will suck less if there is a second person there," Tracy said.

"True, but I'm just a commoner," Marietta added.

To this Tracy took a deep breath, before replying. "While that is true, I have come to realize that one can never have too many friends. And friends in different places can offer a unique perspective on things."

"I see," Marietta said looking Tracy in the eye. For a moment their eyes locked trying to discern the others motives. "In that case I accept."

"Good, now the trays can be heavy so I suggest you prepare yourself for hard work," Tracy said.

""Of course, and I guess this means I will need to finish up my work earlier than expected," Marietta stated.

Break

Snow, a sign of the holiday season, fun, cold, a wet mess, pranks, falling, regardless of what you thought about it, the snow had arrived blanketing Hogwarts with at least a foot as the end of the semester rapidly approached. Some used it as an excuse to stay inside, but some were more than happy to brave the cold snowy morning.

"Lovely," Astoria said as she stepped out of the castle looking over the freshly fallen snow, with more still trickling down from the sky. "This is going to be hard," Astoria said watching her shoe sink deeply into nearly a foot of snow. "But it will be good for my ankles and get me to lift my knees more," she said. Slowly but surely, she made her way down to the lakes edge. "Morning Hermione," Astoria waved happily as her friend skated by light brown hair with flakes of silver shimmering in the morning light.

Slowly but surely Astoria made her way around the lake, tamping down the snow as she went. Black Lake, was technically a loch that sat between the Hogwarts and the town of Hogsmeade, a half a mile across at its longest point, with a convoluted shoreline. She wasn't sure why it was called Black Lake, with the way the light reflected off the crystal-clear ice that was no doubt reinforced by Hermione. "You know it's not as cold as I thought," Astoria muttered while working up a sweat as she trudged through the falling snow.

"Good Morning," a man called out to Astoria as she approached Hogsmeade.

"Guten tag," Astoria replied with a wave.

The man nodded before calling out a second time. "I didn't know today was a Hogsmeade visit."

"It's not, I'm just out for a run around the lake," Astoria replied, slowing down.

"Really," the man said.

"It's only 2.5 miles around," Astoria said now jogging in place.

"Too long for me," the man said.

Astoria shrugged. "You get used to it. Something smells good?"

"Must be the donuts," the man said.

"Well they smell delicious," Astoria said.

"They are," the man said, patting his belly.

"Do they sell berliners," Astoria asked. "No… I can't…. Gotta stick to my diet."

"After running that far, I think you earned a reward," the man said.

Astoria looked at the man and then back to the lake.

"Come on my treat," the man said.

"Ok, but just one for when I get back," Astoria said. One quick stop and Astoria was back at it pushing through the snow with the tasty treats for when she finished.

Break

"Astoria is hard at work,' Hermione said with a smile watching her friend jog around the lake pushing through the snow. "But what am I going to do for my performance at the winter festival," she said pausing to look at the figures she'd been carving into the ice. Circles, looping over figures, creating a large pattern in the ice, that from the distance might resemble fairy wings.

A blossoming fairy," a light airy female voice said.

"Luna…." Hermione squeaked stumbling on the ice, but she remained standing.

"Sorry, it's just your design looks like fairy wings," Luna said from the shore line.

"You think so," Hermione said.

"I think so, since I have met a few fairies before," Luna said.

"Artemis," Hermione said.

"Both of us actually," Luna said. "We live near the forest, so sometimes I can catch a glimpse of them."

"I see," Hermione said. "You know if you don't mind me asking what is a divine spirit?"

"It seems your inquisitive nature hasn't changed," Luna said. "It's a bit earlier than I expected, but I supposed giving you some information cannot hurt."

Hermione tilted her head to the side, cocking an eyebrow at her friend.

"There are many types of spirits, elemental, nature, animal, divine, and demonic," Luna said.

"But where do they come from," Hermione asked.

"An interesting question that you will come to learn over time, but for now a divine spirit is a spirit that is brought into the world by the collective thoughts of humanity, and the more people who think about it, the stronger the spirit is," Luna explained.

"Fascinating, so the ancient gods," Hermione began.

"Yes," Luna explained.

"Then does that mean religion is?" Hermione asked.

"Even Artemis cannot answer that as there are things even the divine spirits cannot comprehend, and something even came before them," Luna explained.

"I have so many questions," Hermione gushed.

"I am sure that you do, but for now you have a performance to work on, and I for one would love to see the snow fairy's wings blossom," Luna said before leaving almost seeming to vanish into the snow.

"Those two," Hermione muttered before returning to her practice.

She was soon back in the zone, or the flow state as she glided across the ice practicing her moves and thinking about her new routine. It would start out simple and small, growing more complex and animated as the girl gained her confidence. Soon she was leaping and spinning across the ice, unaware of the growing crowd. After a final spin she stopped crouching down as a budding flower of ice surrounded her. After a short pause the flower bloomed ice crystals fluttering in the breeze as Hermione leapt into the sky. "It's a start, and I'm going to need a little something extra for the finish," she said to herself as the clapping began.

"Awesome," Astoria exclaimed.

"That was amazing," Daphne gushed.

"Astoria, Daphne, when did you two get here," Hermione said.

"I've been here," Astoria said, hands on her hips. "I came out not long after you for a run. I said hello but you were in the zone."

"Hey I called out to you while you were running, but you didn't hear me," Hermione shot back.

"And you forgot to wake me," Daphne said. "I told you I would come out skating with you today."

"Hey I did try and wake you, but you were out like a light and snoring," Hermione said.

"I do not snore," Daphne protested.

"Well someone was, and it wasn't Millie," Hermione said. "And it's not like you can't still skate."

"True, but you kind of made a mess of the ice," Daphne said.

"It's not too bad, but it would be bad if you activated one of the circles by accident," Hermione said, pulling out her wand. "Zamboni," she said, waving it over the ice, smiling as it became smooth as glass. "Nice to see you want to work for me today," she whispered to her wand before putting it away. "It's all yours," Hermione said.

"Thanks," Daphne said, skating onto the ice.

"You stretch yet," Hermione asked.

"Nope, and I've got a surprise for you when we're done," Astoria said as the pair found a nice spot to stretch out before their muscles seized up.

"Oh…." Hermione said.

"Well let's just say a little taste of home," Astoria said.

"I can't wait," Hermione said as a loud thump caught their attention.

"Did Daphne just fall," Astoria said looking at her.

"Looks like it," Hermione said.

"Isn't she actually, you know, good at ice skating," Astoria said.

"It's a matter of degrees I guess," Hermione replied watching Daphne continue to skate. "I mean she is better than a casual skater," Hermione said cringing a little as Daphne nearly fell out of a spin. "But…... " she began as a loud crash cut her off. "She really shouldn't try any jumps." Hermione said looking at the pile of limbs that was Daphne.

"I thought she was talentiert?" Astoria asked.

"I dunno," Hermione said as Daphne continued to skate alternating between circling around the lake, and trying some sort of advanced skill with mixed results. "But practice makes perfect, and she hasn't really been practicing."

"You're the expert," Astoria said.

"And you've been running a lot," Hermione said.

"You think so," Astoria replied.

"Don't think I didn't notice you running around the school," Hermione said. "And I think your hard work is paying off."

"In that case I won't feel guilty about this," Astoria said pulling out a Berliner.

"Is that a Berliner…." Hermione said, drool running down her lip.

"Yep, a nice man gave me one when I passed Hogsmeade on my run," Astoria said. "Wanna split it with me?"

"Ja," Hermione said rapidly nodding her head.

"Here is to a little taste of home," Astoria said.

"Seriously, this is why you will always be fat, Astoria" a red faced and sweaty Daphne said stumbling off the ice.

"She is not fat," Hermione protested.

"Hey!" Astoria yelped as Daphne swiped her half of the Berliner.

"Look Hermione, I know my sister and she needs to watch her diet," Daphne said before scarfing down the German donut.

"And you don't?" Astoria pressed.

"No," Daphne said proudly, running a hand through her hair rubbing a bit of jelly into it. "Anyway, it's freezing out here," Daphne said heading back to the castle.

"Sie ist nicht meine Schwester," Astoria grumbled as Hermione gave her half of her piece.

"Nein, nicht wenn sie so handelt," Hermione replied.

"Danke," Astoria replied.

"Oh, come on we have a perfectly fine language called English you two," Daphne sighed.

"Sieht aus wie die alte Daphne zurückkommt," Hermione whispered.

"Ja," Astoria replied.

"I heard that," Daphne said loudly.

"But you can't understand it," Astoria and Hermione said, sticking their tongues out at her.

"What are you two, 2nd years," Daphne sighed.

"Third years, you 4thy," they chimed.

"Ugh…." Daphne groaned. "Wait what, since when are you a third year, Astoria?" Daphne exclaimed, spinning around to face them.

"You'll just have to wait and see," Astoria giggled.

Break

"What do you two think you are doing," Percy Weasley said, marching up to his younger twin brothers amassing a large pile of snowballs.

"Oh, look it's brother no fun," George said.

"Well he wasn't always the no fun brother," Fred replied.

"True," George said.

"I'm talking to you two," Percy said, stomping his foot.

"Oh good, you guys didn't start without us," Ron and Ginny said, joining their brothers.

"And just what is about to start," Percy hissed as a snowball smacked into the back of his head.

"It's called a snowball fight you dolt," Penelope Clearwater laughed. "A work and no play makes Percy a dull boy and I don't like dull boys," she added, winking at him.

"Fred, hand me a snowball," Percy said, holding out his hand.

"With pleasure," Fred cheered.

"Snowball fight," Ginny cheered as several more Ravenclaws appeared out of the snow.

Break

"Are you warm enough Steve," Millie asked him as he snuggled against her neck surrounded by the warmth of her scarf. Slowly his head poked out braving the cold.

"Yes," he hissed.

"Great, but you know that you didn't have to come with me," Millie said.

"I know," he said before glancing down at Tarasque.

"Oh geez, really Steve, Tarasque isn't like that rotten duplicitous jerkface Tom," Millie said.

"True, but I still have my reservations," Steve said.

"Yes, yes, I know you over protective snake, and if he does anything, I will be the first to serve up his bits to you on a silver platter," Millie said, making Tarasque's eyes bulge out. "Now, now, I'm sure it won't come to that, but you'd better behave and not fight me the next time you need a bath," Millie said hugging her dog.

"Now what do you say we finish up our walk and get back inside, it is cold today," Millie said.

"Millie," Elizabeth called out, running over to her.

"Elizabeth," Millie said, waving back as the girl approached.

"It's all set, he can come with me for the break," Elizabeth said.

"Excellent," Millie replied. "You hear that Tarasque, you get to stay with Elizabeth for the break, and you'd better be a good boy."

"Or I will turn you into Bosintang," Steve hissed added.

"Yes," Tarasque barked weakly.

"This is going to be so much," Elizabeth squealed as a snowball slammed into her face.

"Ha, take that, you snake," a Hufflepuff 2nd year yelled proudly.

"Mergle," Elizabeth groaned face down in the snow.

"Steve, snowball," Millie said slowly turning towards the Badgers. "Susan," Millie called out as the snake began to use his tail to make snowballs.

"Yes, Millie," Susan said from the center of the Hufflepuff's

"Unlike Elizbeth I know how to dodge," Millie said as Steve dropped a perfectly formed snowball in her hand.

"So, what," the 2nd year said.

"Yeah, You're still a big fat target!" Hannah added.

Susan just sighed smacking her forehead as the snowball slammed into Hannah's chest.

"Snowball fight," more students yelled frocking to their respective houses.

"Hey Millie, need a hand?" Hermione said, rushing up to her friend.

"The more the merrier," Millie said.

"Can you be anymore childish," Daphne said just before a trio of snowballs slammed into her. One to the face, with two more in the chest knocking her back into a snow drift.

"We're sitting ducks out here," Astoria said as the Ravenclaw Griffyndor fight shifted to helping the Hufflepuffs against the Syltherins.

"And outnumbered," Elizabeth said.

"Come on get the lead out Daphne," Astoria snapped.

"Ugh what hit me," Daphne groaned slowly sitting up.

"We're defenseless," Anna said sliding across the snow to them.

"Yeah, the Raven claws have the trees, and the Gryffindors have the snow drifts coming off the wall," Belle added, blocking a shot with her sled.

"Leave that to me," Hermione smirked. "Protego," she said pointing her wand at the incoming barrage. Time slowed as the shield spell failed to materialize multiple snowballs slamming into Hermione throwing her back.

"We're leaving what to you," Pansy said, blocking several snowballs as more student's poured out of the castle.

"You know you can't trust the squib with anything," Tracy chuckled.

"I am not a squib Tracy," Hermione huffed, pushing her hair back.

"I call it like I see it," Tracy said proudly.

Hermione glared at her wand. "I have had it with you mister," Hermione hissed.

"Don't blame your wand for your own failings," Tracy said.

"Come on they're defenseless, nail them," multiple students cheered.

"Fine you don't want to work for me. Then I will just do it myself," Hermione growled tucking her wand away as she marched in front of her dorm mates. The gems on her bracelet glowed as she weaved around the oncoming fire.

"Dude her gems are glowing," Neville said.

"Oh crap," Harry added.

"And we care because," several Griffyndor's said.

"Remember last year," Harry said.

"Bollux," the Weasley twins cursed as Herimone's magic flared forming a simple magic circle in the snow. Slowly walls made of out bricks of snow rose upward stopping at 4ft high. The perfect height to provide cover and still allow them to throw snowballs. Parapets lined the wall providing extra cover. When the wall reached 10ft long it stopped turning 90 degrees to form a perfect 10ft by 10ft square. As if that wasn't enough the corners turned into turrets 8ft high with a platform for students to stand on. The battle paused as the students marveled at the impressive fort constructed entirely with magic.

"Who's the squib now," Hermione sighed looking at Tracy before flopping back into the snow.

"That was passable," Tracy said, taking advantage of the cover.

"Hermione what the bloody hell did you do," Daphne exclaimed.

"Made a snow fort," Hermione said.

"But, you, magic, no wand, impossible," Daphne stammered.

"Gem magic," Hermione said holding up her wrist.

"Gem magic can do that," Pansy said.

"Apparently," Tracy added. "Now are you two going to just stand there or do something."

"Slave driver," Pansy sighed joining the fight.

"Well two can play that game Hermione," Penelope yelled, weaving her hand in an intricate pattern to make a small catapult out of snow.

"Ha, Syltherin rules," Liz cried out from the top of one of the turrets.

"Hey Liz," Penelope yelled.

"What got a problem with that," Liz said, turning toward the Ravenclaws.

"Dodge this," Penelope yelled, launching a snowball the size of a person's head at Liz.

"What!" Liz shrieked before the snow boulder slammed into her throwing her off the turret.

"I got you," Mathew said, catching Liz.

"Mathew…" Liz muttered looking up at him her face slowly turning red.

"Fear not princess, your faithful knight will always have your back," Mathew said.

"Merlin you are such a dork, and I am a Marchioness, not a princess," Liz said.

"Meh, Princess is easier to say," Mathew replied.

"Ugh, such a dork," Liz said, hopping out of his arms and taking cover by one of the turrets.

"I think he likes you," Millie whispered.

"I know that," Liz said.

"You do," Millie said.

"Yes, and it's so embarrassing," Liz said.

"Why," Millie asked.

"Because," Liz said while launching a few snowballs of her own.

"Why," Millie said, lobbing a few towards Nevile.

"It's complicated," Liz snapped.

"No, it's not," Millie said.

"Ugh, did you forget I am a Marchioness, even if, and that is a big if, I liked the big dork, I can't just go and marry some muggleborn commoner," Liz said.

"Why," Millie asked.

"Because," Liz snapped. "I can't just be with whoever I want. I am the last Tuttle, and I have a name to uphold." Liz said.

"Ugh… Steve a little help please," Millie sighed.

"Wait, what," Liz said, giving Millie a look before Steve's tail smacked Liz on the side of the head. "Hey what was that for."

"Cause you were being stupid," Millie said.

"That doesn't make any sense," Liz replied as a loud thump echoed through the fort.

"Is that a battering ram," Millie gasped, peaking over the wall.

"Yes," Liz said, taking a quick look. "And it's manned by the Weasley's."

"Didn't you used to like one of them," Millie said.

"I thought we promised never to speak of that again," Liz hissed as the wall collapsed.

"Man, the breach," Draco yelled.

"Leave it to us," Astoria yelled, pulling Marcus along.

"What," Marcus yelped.

"You gotta do better than that boys," Astoria said narrowly dodging the barrage.

"Here," Marcus said, tossing Astoria ammunition for a counter attack.

"How the hell is she doing that," Charlie Weasley, the older brother in his 9th year yelled as Astoria ducked and weaved out of the way of their throws.

"Why are you asking me," Bill said, taking a snowball to the shoulder.

"You know girls with interesting abilities," Percy said as Astoria bent over dodging a snowball aimed at her back.

"I met her one time, on an internship," Bill remarked as Astoria Danced and twirled just out the way of the incoming fire.

"Stick to the plan," Ron said, throwing snowballs as fast as she could.

"What plan?" Bill Weasley, 7th year Griffyndor said.

"I dunno, I thought you had one," Ron yelled at Fred and George.

"Yeah it's called having fun," Fred and George replied.

"Well when the heroes storm the castle, don't they rescue the princess," Ginny said softly as they were forced to retreat.

"Ha take that you cowardly lions," Daphne cheered from atop one of the turrets.

"Pavarti, I don't claim to be the smartest, Griffyndor, so do correct me if I am wrong, but doesn't this present an excellent opportunity," Lavender said pointing to Daphne, Pansy, and Tracy who were standing on separate turrets.

"Yes, it does," Parvati said.

"Care for some interouse cooperation," Padma said.

"Excellent," Lavender said. "I don't know how to make a catapult but I do have these," she said reaching up to let her hair fall freely pulling out a pair of stretchy hair ties.

"And I just did some reading on ballista's," Padma said.

"I'll make the bolts," Parvati said, forming arrows out of snow.

It didn't take long for the girls to complete their creation, and soon a snow and ice ballista of Roman design sat ready to fire. "Who's first," Lavender said, taking aim as Parvati loaded their creation.

The Indian twins shared a look. "Pansy,'' they said in unison.

"Ready," Lavender said as Pavarti gave her a thumbs up. "Aim," she said, adjusting the site until it was lined up on Pansy. "And Fire!" she exclaimed firing her first shot. The lance of snow and ice flew true, but low plowing through the turret and out the other side landing near the forbidden forest.

"Nice try nerds," Pansy yelled.

"Sorry," Lavender said.

"Wait for it," Padma yelled back at Pansy.

"Wait for what…." Pansy said as the turret began to wobble. "Oh crap," Pansy yelled just before the tower crumbled beneath her. "Dam you!" Pansy screamed before being buried in a pile of snow, just a twitching hand remained above the snow.

"Daphne's next,' Padma said as Tracy leapt off the turret she was standing on.

"Perfect," Lavender said with a grin. "Consider this payback for what you did."

"Agreed," the twins said.

"Fire," Lavender called out. Time seemed to slow as the icicle flew towards Daphne whose eyes went wide.

Eyes locked on the projectile, Daphne urged her body to move, but was slowed by the cold, and more importantly the giant snow boulder that slammed into the tower taking a large chunk out of the side. Her footing gone, all Daphne could do was try and turn her body in an attempt to dodge it. A painful icy thwack slammed into the back and side of her head, followed by a tearing sensation as she crashed into the snow.

"Nut's" Lavender hissed. "Sorry girls."

"Nah you still hit her," Padma said.

"Maybe a glancing blow," Lavender said.

"A glancing blow that nailed her hair," Parvati said pointing to the dirty blond strands of hair that were hanging in the breeze."

"Well it serves her right," Lavender said.

"STUDENTS! Just what do you think you are doing!" McGonagall roared storming out of the castle.

"Cheese it," the Weasley boys yelled.

"Oh, come on Minerva let the kids have their fun," Professor Meloi said.

"How can you condone this…" she hissed.

"It's called fun, you old wind bag," Sybll Trelawny said.

"Sybil…." Minerva said, glaring at the flighty Divinations professor.

"Calm down Minerva, stressing out over everything is bad for your blood pressure," Poppy said.

"1 point for each student for such a wonderful display of friendly inter house cooperation and competition," Ponma added.

"Ditto," Professor's Trelawny, Meloi, Babbage, and Vector added as the students erupted in cheers.

"It's not like you're going to overrule all of us," Meloi said with a shrug.

"The elves have prepared hot coco and snacks for everyone," Pomona announced as the students brushed off the snow.

"Oih Slytherin," Liz said loudly, calling everyone over.

"Oh crap Liz is mad," several of them grumbled.

"Nice job today," Liz said with a smile. "We really showed them who's boss."

"But they wrecked the fort," one of them said.

"It happens," Liz shrugged. "But we made them pay for it, and more importantly," Liz added counting heads. "There were more Slytherins out here than any of the other houses, which means…."

"We won the most house points," Astoria cheered.

"Yes, but how did all of you know to come out," Liz asked.

"That's easy," Mathew said.

"Ugh, not now," Liz groaned.

"Astoria came and got us," he said.

"Wait what," Liz said.

"Yes," she came barging in covered in snow yelling about a snowball fight," Marcus said.

"Thunder thighs ran all the way to the dorms and back," Daphne said, gaping at her sister.

"Yep," Astoria beamed. "And um Daphne are you ok?"

"Yes," Daphne snapped. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

"You got a little scratched up," Hermione said holding up a fragment of ice to act as a mirror.

"What," Daphne said, snatching the ice. "Ouch," she muttered looking at her reflection, her face with ruddy cheeks from the cold and rubbed raw from falling in the snow. Several flecks of dirt mixed in giving her the appearance of freckles.

"Forget to put your makeup on this morning," Tracy said as she walked by.

"I don't wear makeup," Daphne snapped.

"Well that explains a few things," Tracy said over her shoulder.

"Hey get back here," Daphne yelled chasing after her.

"Well I don't think you have thunder thighs," Marcus said, placing a hand on Astoria's shoulder.

"Really, because they are a little thick," she said, pulling up her track jacket a little to expose more of her tracksuit covered legs and posterior.

A blushing Marcus gulped trying and failing to not look at Astoria as she posed, one foot rising up on her toes as she twisted it slightly side to side to show off her legs. "Nope, you're good," Marcus stammered.

"Really, thank you Marcus," Astoria said before skipping off.

"Dude, Astoria's a second year," Blaize said.

"I know, but she doesn't look like it at times," Marcus replied.

"Daphne will kill you if she thinks you're hitting on her little sister," he said.

"I'm more afraid of what Johanna will do to me," Marcus said.

"Good point," Blaize said.

Break

As she made the short walk back to the school, an itchy crackling feeling came over her head. "Ugh, so itchy," Daphne groaned trying to scratch her head through her thick wool cap. Sadly, it did little to alleviate her itch, as she stepped into the castle. "Finally she said, ripping off her hat, static crackling as she pulled it away, stray strands standing up in its wake.

"I'm sorry about your hat Daphne," Lavender said. "I can get you a new one if you want."

"What…." Daphne said looking down at her hat, her finger sticking through a large hole in the back lined with more than a few strands of her hair.

"I didn't mean to ruin it," Lavender said.

"No it's ok…." Daphne said softly as her opposite hand slowly moved upward slowly running it through her hair which seemed rougher than usual.

"Alright," Lavender said, leaving, as Daphne remained frozen.

Her hand continued to run through her hair only to find the tight bun she had put it in to be a loose messy bun that felt smaller in her fingers than she remembered it being. Half of its volume now sinking into the snow, resting on the floor or stuck to her hat.

"Hello Pansy," Tracy said.

"Yes Tracy," Pansy said.

"Check out Daphne's hair," Tracy said.

"Tracy if you are trying to rub it in," Pansy sighed.

"No look it's total fuzz but today, yours is much better," Tracy said while aiming her wand in Daphne's general direction.

"Daphne's hair might not be its best but it's not…. " Pansy gasped looking at her friend's hair. The slight feminine wave kinking and curling the more she scratched it. Brittle strands sticking into the air despite the attempts to furiously tap it down. "Total fuzz butt," Pansy said causing Daphne who was furiously tugged at the remains of her hair bun that stuck off the right side of her head like a giant matted hairball to freeze.

"Think she heard us," Pansy said.

"Probably," Tracy said carefully hiding her wand having just cast a minor sound amplification spell.

"I am not a fuzz butt," Daphne said.

"Well that was probably a little harsh, but I dare say your are looking a little Irish," Tracy said.

"That's rich coming from the bloated carrot," Daphne snapped.

"She's got you there tubby," Pansy said poking Tracy's slight flab.

Tracy inhaled sharply. "I will admit to carrying a bit more flesh than I should, but I don't think I am a carrot top," she said removing her hat freeing her hair. The formerly bright red strands looking a little faded softening the color. While she did have some frizz it was much less than what Daphne now sported.

"I just need a shower," Daphne said before turning and marching off, pulling her hat back on as soon as she was out of sight.

"Hey Daphne leaving already," Vincent called out.

"Um, yeah," Daphne said softly.

"Oh, come on at least enjoy a cookie they are really good today," Vincent said holding out a large chocolate chip cookie.

"I'm not really…." Daphne said only for her stomach to rumble making her blush. "Ok, but just one." She said taking the cookie.

"Hey Daphne you doing ok," Hermione said popping up next to her. "Cause I ran up to the hospital wing and you weren't there."

"Yes, and I didn't go to see Madame Pomfrey, it's just some snow burn not anything serious," Daphne said.

"Ok, if you're sure," Hermione said.

"I am," Daphne said as more students packed into the Great Hall.

"Ugh who turned on the heater, it's so hot in here," Hermione said pulling off her hat. Long shimmering hair fell down her back in slight waves barely a hair out place.

Daphne couldn't help but look at a stray lock of her own hair smiling nervously as Hermione's light brown, no blond hair cascaded down her back, silver highlights glinting in the light of the Great hall. "So long," she muttered tracking the strands with her eyes until they ended at the small of her back, where the color was still a bit darker than the rest of her hair.

"You think it's too long," Hermione said, pulling up a lock of hair.

"No," Daphne said quickly back pedaling. "It looks great." She gulped nervously fiddling with her hat, as her own hair would be lucky to reach her shoulders blades now.

"Thanks, and I have been thinking of growing it out," she replied fiddling with her hair.

"You should," Daphne said softly, all too aware of her own numerous split ends with Hermione only had a few.

"I will," Hermione said with a beaming smile, her snow-white skin glowing.

"Hey Hermione," Harry called out, weaving through the crowd.

"Potter," Daphne hissed.

"Harry," Hermione asked, turning towards him.

"Johanna," Harry squeaked.

"Ja, that is my name," Hermione said.

"I know," he said softly.

"So, did you enjoy the snowball fight," Hermione asked.

"Yes," Harry said. "That snow fort you made was amazing," he said as they walked off leaving Daphne alone with her thoughts.

"I don't look like Hermione," Daphne huffed before leaving.

Chapter 40.3- Changes in Motion

"Who ever said you can pick your friends but you can't pick your family clearly hasn't traveled to our country" Citizens of Magical Lichtenstein

"Astoria are you sure about this?" Elizabeth asked as they snuck into the cargo area at the back of the train.

"Yes, you said it yourself," Astoria said.

"You do realize I was joking when I said that," Elizabeth said.

"Come on it will be hilarious," Anna said as they dug through the pile of trunks.

"Found it," Belle said.

"Yeah, it's Hermione's," Anna said helping Belle pull it out. "But how are you going to get past the protections she put on it." she added looking at the protection in question which still left them baffled as they looked at the row of gems arranged over the latch.

"It's a gem combination lock modeled after muggle trunk and briefcase locks, but I still think she was inspired by Simon says. Either way You just have to pick the right ones," Astoria said.

"And you know the right ones," Elizabeth said.

"Yup, it's her element, ice," Astoria said, pressing a clear gem.

"Wait wouldn't ice be blue," Belle said.

"No blue is water, ice is actually a combination of air and water," Astoria said, pressing the blue gem, and opening the trunk.

"Well that's not what McGonagall taught us," Belle said.

"I guess even teachers can be wrong sometimes," Anna shrugged.

"OK, sure, but let me go on record again by saying that this is a terrible idea, that I had nothing to do with if it blows up in your face," Elizabeth said.

"Don't worry I'll get you something nice," Astoria said.

Break

"Is something wrong mom," Hermione said as they left the station.

"Nothing, I was just hoping to run into Astoria…." Emma sighed waving goodbye to the Bulstrodes.

"Ja, I didn't see her on the train either," Hermione said.

"You don't think," Dan said, looking at the retreating form of Pansy and Tracy.

"Doubtful, Astoria's really coming into her own, and that magic whip of hers is not to be taken lightly," Hermione said. "And I think I heard her say something about staying at Elizabeth's place for the break."

"And her mother will allow that," Emma said.
"Well, Elizabeth's mother is special," Hermione said.

"And what do you mean by special," Dan said.

"Um, how do I put this," Hermione said, putting a finger to her chin. "She's crazier than Jack the Ripper, and was locked up for life in a wizarding prison that uses soul sucking creatures as guards.
"Oh my," Emma gasped as a serious expression formed on Dan's face.

"But Elizabeth is like a super nice girl, sure she's got some odd views when it comes to blood purity and such, but we're working on it," Hermione blurted out.

"Oh…" Emma said looking at her daughter.

"Yeah, she's not a fan of her crazy mom, and well she's actually a nice girl even if she denies it," Hermione said.

"Good girl," her parents said, ruffling her hair.

"Now we have a plane to catch," Emma said.

Break

"Emma, Dan, welcome back," Hans called out as the Grangers entered their favorite hotel in Lichtenstein.

"Fröhliche Weihnachten Hans," Hermione said.

"Merry Christmas Hermione, and I must say your German is getting very good," Hans said.

"You think so," Hermione said, conversing in German.

"Yes, your accent is very small," Hans replied causing Hermione to smile. "I have your usual cabin ready for you," he added.

"Excellent, and I trust there are no surprises this time," Emma said.

"None that I am aware of," Hans said. "But your work in helping Voluspa expand is the talk of the town," Hans said, taking their bags.

"Mom what did you do," Hermione said.

"Oh no, it wasn't me this time," Emma said.

"What all I did was provide them the capital they needed to expand production, and I helped them find a place locally, " Dan shrugged.

"Go dad," Hermione cheered.

The Grangers smiled and waved to the various guests and staff of the resort, as they made their way to the cabin. "Two guesses where Hermione is headed," Emma said, her daughter bouncing excitedly as her trunk was placed on the floor of the cabin.

"I'm not taking that bet," Dan said.

"Gotta run, Ria is…." Hermione said undoing the latch on her trunk

"SURPRISE!" Astoria exclaimed exploding out of the trunk her arms out wide with a beaming smile on her face. "I'm your Christmas Present!"

"Astoria!" the Grangers gasped.

"So, I wasn't sure what to get everyone for Christmas, but then Elizabeth said I could be the present. Did cha miss me," Astoria giggled.

"But I thought you were going to Elizabeth's house," Hermione said, grabbing and shaking Astoria. "What if she finds out?"

"Hehehehehehe, she won't," Astoria said.

"I feel like I am missing some important information," Dan said.

"Elizabeth is going to stay with her Aunt Tonks, and will be "roughing it" in the muggle world for a while," Astoria said air quoting roughing it.

"Surely she knows how to," Emma said.

"She does, but she hates it and Andromeda Tonks, maiden name is Black and she hates the Greengrass family," Astoria explained. "Am I a genius or what," Astoria giggled.

"More like crazy," Hermione groaned.

"One man's genius is another man's crazy," Emma said.

"Mom, I can't believe you are condoning this," an exasperated Herimone said tugging on her hair. "Astoria you are insane," Hermione groaned while the smile remained plastered on her face.

"Well it's not like we can just send her back," Dan said.

"Woohoo! Best Christmas Ever!" Astoria cheered, initiating a giant group hug.

Break

"Enter," Catherine bellowed, calling for her daughter from her study.

"Yes, mother," Daphne said slowly stepping into the foreboding room lined with dark mahogany bookcases filled with esoteric knowledge.

"Would you care to explain what I am looking at," Catherine said glaring at her daughter.

An oppressive silence reigned as Daphne looked away fidgeting with her hands. "Looking at what mother," Daphne finally said her voice barely above a whisper.

"A failure," Catherine said.

Daphne's eyes went wide in shock. "But I haven't failed anything…." Daphne said.

"Silence," Catherine snapped. "Anything less than success is failing. I have been informed of your accident and resulting removal from ancient runes."

"Crap baskets," Daphne said under her breath.

"Not to mention your other flaws," Catherine added.

"What flaws mother…." Daphne sighed trying to fix her hair which only seemed to make it worse.

"What flaws indeed," Catherine said, summoning a mirror. "Now what do you see?" She asked while walking over to her daughter.

"My reflection," Daphne said softly.

"Your reflection," Catherine snapped causing Daphne to flinch.

"Yes, mother, am I missing something," she said softly.

"Yes," Catherine snapped slapping Daphne sending her careening to the floor.

"I'm sorry mother," Daphne said, tears forming in her eyes.

"Stand up," Catherine snapped.

"Yes, mother," Daphne said.

"Do you know what you are?" Catherine said.

"Daphne Greengrass, the heir to the countess Greengrass," Daphne said.

"Then why am I looking at some lowly commoner," Catherine said as Daphne saw her light brown hair and freckled face in the mirror. "I do not know what has gotten into you daughter, and I don't care, but you have served well as the heir so far, so I will be lenient this time," she said looming over Daphne, her wand clenched in her fist.

Break

Alexandra's eyebrows raised in surprise as she spotted Ria sitting at their favorite cafe drinking a steaming cup of coffee as she looked over a large stack of paper. "Ok, now I know you have to be sick," Alexandra called out.

"I am not sick," Ria groaned.

"It's winter, the sun is up, and you're not on the ice, plus you are doing paperwork," Alexandra chuckled.

"Hermione is doing the lessons for today, and it's called being responsible," Ria groaned.

"Winter festival…" Alexandra said reading the document on the top.

"I blame Hermione," Ria sighed.

"What did your student do?" Alexandra asked.

"Performed at the Olympics, and then in Monaco, and mentioned Lichtenstein having a winter festival," Ria groaned slumping onto the table. "So now I have to create a winter festival."

"But you are the one who taught her how to ice skate," Alexandra laughed.

"Shut it you," Ria said glaring at her friend.

"Yeah, yeah, sucks to be you," Alexandra said.

"You know you never told me about your student," Ria said sitting up.

"Who…. Astoria…" Alexandra said.

"That would be the one," Ria said.

"She's…. different," Alexandra said.

"Oh…" Ria said, eying her friend.

"Let's just say she's…." Alexandra began before a blue missile tackled her.

"Alexandra," Astoria cried out slamming into Alexandra tackling her to the ground.

"Energetic…" Alexandra groaned as Ria burst out laughing.

"Did you miss me," Astoria exclaimed looking down at her teacher.

"Ugh….." Alexandra groaned.

"Astoria, no tackling people," Emma called out.

"I think we can make an exception for this one," Ria said between laughing at her friend. "I hate you so much right now," Alexandra said slowly getting up.

"No you don't," Astoria said.

"Anyway what brings you here kiddo," Alexandra asked.

"She was hoping you might be able to give her a few more lessons," Emma said.

"I've been practicing," Astoria said.

"Have you now," Alexandra said.

"Yep, they have a piano at school," Astoria said. "Do you think I could perform like Hermione is at the festival?"

Alexandra looked at Ria for a moment before smirking. "Now don't say I never did anything nice for you Ria."

"Not helping," Ria sighed.

"Of course, you can," Alexandra said.

"Woohoo, I am gonna rock this place," Astoria cheered.

"Not without practice you won't," Alexandra said pulling Astoria along.

"Great more work, but knowing Alexandra it will be a crowd pleaser," Ria said slowly looking up to see Emma still there. "Do you need something Emma because I am really busy right now."

"I'm bored," Emma sighed with a slight upturn of her lip.

"You're bored," Ria replied.

"Yes, Dan is helping with a local dental practice, and with the girls practicing for the festival," Emma sighed loudly. "I do yoga with Hermione, and Astoria, and go skiing, but…"

"You need something a little more intellectually stimulating," Ria said.

"Exactly," Emma said happily, clapping her hands together with a beaming smile.

"And you think I can help with that," Ria said. "You realize that I only did the equivalent of high school in both worlds, and you've got what a doctorate."

"Oh that silly thing is just a piece of paper, that doesn't matter," Emma said sitting down across from Ria.

"Ok," Ria said as Emma pulled off the top sheet of paper.

"Hhhhmmmm, costuming, food, venues, budgeting, wow, this is a lot of work, you could really use an assistant," Emma said looking over the list.

"Ugh, tell me about it," Ria said, leaning back in her chair.

"Well I can call up Maggie which should help round out the staffing and she will probably cut us a deal on some of the food items. I can talk to the dwarves to see if they can help us with setting up seating for the performances. It's short notice, but Alucard probably knows some vampires looking for work, which means we can use a 24/7 work cycle to speed things up," Emma explained.

"You…. You… You can do all that," a bug-eyed Ria said softly.

"Sure," Emma said.

"You're hired," Ria yelled, pushing the large stack of papers towards Emma.

"Hehehehe, you're welcome," Emma said with a smirk hidden behind the paperwork.

Break

"Ugh…. come on… not again…." Emma sighed tugging at the hem of her skirt.

"Problem babe," Dan said, looking in on his wife struggling to pull down her skirt that fell somewhere between above the knee to mid-thigh.

"Stupid washer and dryer shrunk my clothes again, and this was my last decent skirt," Emma groaned.

"They didn't shrink your clothes," Dan laughed.

"And you've got a better idea," Emma said in a huff giving up the fruitless endeavor.

"I might…" Dan said watching as his wife's skirt proceeded to slip down past her knees tripping her up.

"Eeeeekkkk," Emma squeaked, crashing to the floor. "Oh, come on," she groaned in frustration.

"Hahahahaha, well you can't blame that on the washer and dryer," Dan chuckled.

"Is everything ok," Hermione and Astoria said, poking their heads in.

"Ah girls perfect timing," Dan said.

"For what," Astoria said.

"Your mother is in denial again," Dan said.

"I am not in denial, Dan. Don't listen to your father," she said looking at the girls.

"Then let me prove it," Dan said.

"Oooh, I wanna see how much I've grown to," Astoria said.

"Yeah," Hermione added.

"Not this again….. "Emma sighed.

"But if your right, wouldn't this shut dad up," Hermione said.

"Yeah, show him who's boss mom," Astoria said.

"Mom….." Emma muttered looking at Astoria.

"Well um, sorry Auntie it just kind of slipped out," Astoria said.

"No, it's ok," Emma said softly getting up and hugging Astoria.

"Thanks," Astoria said.

"Someone needs to be your mother because that woman certainly isn't," Emma said to herself as she hugged Astoria feeling a sense of closeness with the girl.

"Ok, youngest first," Hermione said pushing Astoria forward.

"Hey, I'm the older one, remember," Astoria said, turning on Hermione.

"Are not," Hermione snapped.

"Come on Hermione, you know Victoria is the older one," Dan said.

"Yeah, yeah," Hermione grumbled stepping forward so Dan could measure her height. "How are you not out growing your clothes," Dan muttered looking at the number.

"Magic and what's the number," Hermione said excitedly.

"4'11.75," Dan said.

A beaming smile erupted on Hermione's face as she leapt into the air. "Woohoo 5ft," Hermione cheered.

"Almost 5ft," Astoria said as the adults chuckled.

"Spoil sport," Hermione said, sticking her tongue out at Astoria.

"I'm just being accurate," Astoria shrugged, taking her place.

"5'1," Dan said.

"Auf keinen Fall," Hermione said, stomping over next to Astoria. "Unmöglich," she said, frowning as she had to tilt her eyes slightly upward to look Astoria in the eye. With a sigh she finally relented.

"Don't worry you'll get your growth spurt to," Astoria said.

"Dan, I think your numbers are off," Emma said butting in.

"Nope," Dan said.

"Dan, if Astoria really is 5'1, she'd be taller than me and she isn't," Emma said moving next to Astoria.

"Well there is 1 way to find out," he said, pulling out a second measuring tape.

"Really," Emma said.

"I will make it worth your while," Dan said with a grin.

"Um, we're 13," Hermione and Astoria said looking at each other.

Emma simply rolled her eyes and gave him a good swat.

"5'3" Dan said. "Looks like Pernelle was right," he whispered in his shocked wife's ear.

"Oh my…." Emma said slumping to the floor in shock.

"Go mom," the girls cheered.

"Told you…." Dan said proudly.

"Well, that just means I'll have to go shopping," Emma said.

"Meh," Dan shrugged. "We've got the money so why not treat yourself."

Break

Daphne was not looking forward to the litany of appointments her mother arranged in an effort to "fix" her. If it wasn't for the sketch book in her hands, she would be frantically scratching her head to deal with the itch that was plaguing her all while the hairdresser got to work.

"Honestly, you should take better care of your hair," the woman said with a disapproving tone as she examined Daphne's hair.

"It's not that bad," Daphne muttered.

"I'll be the judge of that," Catherine said.

"Lady Greengrass," the hairdresser said.
"Your reputation precedes you," Catherine said examining Daphne's hair.

"It's short, brittle, thinning, kinking, and the color is off" the hairdresser explained, running a lock of the hair between her fingers before it broke off.

"Agreed, but can you fix it, money is no object" Catherine said.

"There are limits to what even I can accomplish," the hairdresser said.

"Do what you can then," Catherine said scowling at Daphne.

"Certainly," the hairdresser said as she began to get to work tugging and pulling at Daphne's hair trying to free the tangled strands to no avail. "Ugh I've seen nice looking birds nests," she groaned.

"Is it that bad," Daphne said looking up from her sketchbook.

"Yes," the hairdresser said, cutting away the tangled mass of hair.

A wide eyed Daphne watched in shock as the last bit of her hair that might be considered blond fell to the floor. Slowly her eyes tracked upward locking on her reflection in the mirror, a face that was unrecognizable and yet at the same time seemed familiar. Blue eyes looked over short curly brown hair that stuck out wildly, with freckles sprinkled over her delicate nose, and refined cheeks. "I'm not her, I'm not," Daphne muttered, eyes locked on her reflection.

"Fuzz but, afro head, mud hair, spots, freckle face, rejected Weasley," Every insult Daphne had ever used seemed to be coming true as her eyes remained locked on her reflection. Karma, a new normal, her future, none of them brought her any comfort as the hairdresser cut, pulled, prodded, potioned, and charmed her hair back into shape.

"What do you think," the woman said after what seemed like an eternity.

"Um what," Daphne said.

"Well take a look," she said pointing at the mirror.

"Amazing," Daphne gasped looking at her now dark blond hair styled into a braided bun with a long ponytail. "It's like it used to be." she said softly before frowning as she noted her hair was still several shades darker than it had been a few months ago, and the freckles seemed to stand out even more on her face.

"Not exactly," she said as Daphne reached for her hair, the once silky strands, felt rough across her fingers. "Even I have my limits. I may have restored some of its length and color but it is only a temporary fix that relies on your magic to keep it that way. Overusing your magic or too much stress will cause it to fail."

"Thank you, but that won't be a problem. I am a noble pureblood and have plenty of magic," Daphne said.

"That may be, but my warning still stands," the hairdresser said as Catherine returned.

"Come daughter," Catherine said overing a slight nod to Daphne.

"Yes, mother…" Daphne said softly.

Break

"Emma, your back, is something wrong with the clothes," Belldandy said.

"Heavens no, Bellbandy," Emma said waving at the woman. "It's just how do you say it…." Emma said.

"Mom's having a growth spurt," Hermione said.

"Hermione, Victoria," Skuld said, popping her head out from the back.

"Skuld," the pair said, running over to her.

"Well I wouldn't have said it like that, but apparently I am having a rather unique case of agromeglia that is causing me to grow taller instead of larger hands and feet," Emma explained pointing to the cuff of her jeans that was riding high on her ankle.

"Oh, magical retrograde under chamber syndrome, that is exceedingly rare," Belldandy said.

"Um, what," Emma said, staring at Belldandy.

"What my sister is trying to say is that you have a rare condition that causes the person to age backward to their magical prime, which sometimes means you get some extra growth, and you might lose a few years," a tan woman with flowing platinum hair said.

"Urd, when did you get here," Belldandy said.

"Just now, and I couldn't miss the festival," Urd said.

"I feel like I am missing something important," Emma said looking at the woman.

"Your husband didn't tell you yet," Urd said.

"No, he did not," Emma said glaring at Urd.

"Woah, woah, woah, it's nothing like that, please don't throw anything at me," Urd said ducking behind Belldandy.

"Then what is it like," Emma said.

"He suspected something was happening long before you spoke to Perenelle Flamel, and sought out any information he could on the subject. Which eventually led him to me," Urd said.

"And you are," Emma asked.

"A potion master, and magical doctor who likes to use non-magical knowledge to try and advance medical knowledge," Urd said.

"You know 5 years ago I would have considered all of this grounds for a 72 hour hold," Emma said.

"Hahahaha, I wouldn't blame you," Urd chuckled.

"That's being said it still seems a little unbelievable," Emma said. "I mean getting taller, as crazy as it sounds, I can't argue with that. And it's not like there aren't muggle ways to increase your height even if they are a bit drastic." Emma said with a shudder. "But getting younger, that's….." Emma said as a mirror was placed in front of her face. "Impossible…." she muttered in shock finally noticing that the growing wrinkles on her face were limited to a few laugh lines. Her skin looked younger than it had in years, and better than she ever remembered it being. Even her nose that had long been a little crooked appeared straighter.

"I think your mom is having a brain fart," Skuld said as Emma remained locked in a staring contest with a mirror.

"It happens," Astoria said.

"She gets like that when she's surprised. Dad usually snaps her out of it, but she'll come around eventually," Hermione said.

"But like this is, can't be happening, I mean I'm not pretty, and….." Emma muttered.

"Dummkopf," Belldandy said, cracking Emma on the back of the head.

"Or that happens," Astoria giggled as Hermione sighed as the adults continued with their antics.

"Hermione are you performing at the festival," Skuld asked.

"Yes," Hermione said.

"And I'm going to sing," Astoria added.

"Have you picked out your outfits yet," Skuld said.

Hermione and Astoria froze, slowly turning towards each other a growing sense of dread growing on their faces. "We forgot!" the girls exclaimed hugging each other. "What are we going to do," they cried out hugging each other.

"Calm down," Skuld said, cracking them on the head. "This is Volupsa after all, if we don't have something in house, we'll just have to make it then."

"You can do that," Hermione said.

"Friends help each other out right," Skuld said, making the girls smile. "Now what do you need?"

"A figure skating outfit. A dress for my performance," Hermione and Astoria said respectively.

"No problem, and we've got some new stuff you might like," Skuld said.

"Wunderbar," the girls said.

"So how is Hogwarts," Skuld said as she began looking through the racks.

"Great," Hermione said.

"Really, because…." Skuld said trailing off.

"It's gotten much better," Hermione said.

"It helps that she's got most of the school fooled into thinking she's someone else," Astoria said.

"Really, how'd you manage to pull that off," Skuld said.

"It's not really that big of a deal," Hermione said.

"Come on show her," Astoria pressed.

"Yeah, I want to see your disguise," Skuld said.

"Ok, ok," Hermione said, picking up a few things and heading into the dressing room. A few minutes passed before she exited wearing sneakers, baggy jeans, a big bulky sweater, glasses, retainer, and her hair dyed brown and hair pulled back into a pair of messy braids. "Hello my name is Hermione Granger," Hermione said, stressing her English accent.

"I mean sure you're not really trying to be fashionable, but I fail to see the difference," Skuld said.

"Wait for it," Victoria said as Hermione picked out a new outfit and went back into the dressing room.

"Wait for what," Skuld said before Hermione stepped out in a sleek red sweater, pleated black skirt, black thigh high socks and her long silver hair tied off into twin tails with a pair of blue ribbons, brown heeled shoes on her feet with her glasses and retained absent.

"Hallo Ich heisse Johanna Grunberg," Hermione said with perfect German.

"Hahahaha told you," Astoria chuckled as a speechless Skuld just stared at Hermione.

"Ok, seriously, what the hell. That room only has one way in or out, and the store is warded against transport magic. So logically I know you are Hermione, but it's giving me a headache just trying to think about it," Skuld groaned.

"I know right," Astoria said, putting her arm over Skuld's shoulder. "Johanna suits her so much better than Johanna, right."

"I agree, Johanna it is," Skuld said.

"As much as I like it, my name really isn't Johanna," Hermione said softly.

"And who decided that," Astoria said.

"Mutter," Hermione said looking towards her mother.

"So just get her to change it," Astoria said. "I mean it's not like you are trying to change mothers or anything."

"Yeah you're more of a Johanna anyway," Skuld.

"You think so," Hermione said.

"Definitely, and that outfit is perfect for you," Skuld and Astoria said.

"Ok, but only if you get something to," Hermione said looking at Victoria.

Break

"Oh, come on," Daphne hissed, struggling to fit into the red and white dress Catherine had custom made for her. "Seriously what is the problem…." Daphne paled looking at an extra flesh that was squeezing out above the zipper as it stopped at her hip just below her waist. Flesh that was forming a ring around her waist, especially her stomach where it pressed tightly against the fabric of the dress highlighting her belly button. A trembling hand slowly reached out to softly poke her stomach, her dread increasing as it sunk deeply into her skin "Crap…." She whispered, pinching what felt like an inch between her fingers. "Baskets…." she said.

"Is everything alright," the seamstress asked.

"Um…. could I maybe get this dress in a larger size?" Daphne said.

"It is a custom dress made to your exact size," Catherine said.

"Mother…." Daphne began to say as her mother threw open the door.

"Merlin you've turned into a fat little piggie," Catherine said, staring at her daughter's stomach.

"Um, it's not that bad," Daphne muttered, averting her eyes from her mother's gaze.

"Silence daughter, this is fat," she said, grabbing Daphne's stomach.

Daphne winced. "It is just some winter weight."

"This is not winter weight; you are going soft. At this rate I should make your sister the heir at least she put on a good performance in Monaco." Catherine said.

"But I am the eldest," Daphne gasped.

"That may be, but the Greengrass family is not bound by primogeniture. It is bound by power, something I thought you had," Catherine said.

"I do," Daphne said a little louder trying to look her mother in the eye.

"Then I suggest you prove it," Catherine snapped. "Now put on the dress and do not say a word. Do I make myself clear?" Catherine said casting the corset spell on her daughter.

"Yes, mother," Daphne hissed as her stomach was violently constricted until she could put on the dress.

Break

Harry,

Merry Christmas, how is your break? I hope the dementors are behaving, because if they aren't, I can have Millie or Luna talk to them again, those dark floaty jerks really don't like those two. Oh, and I hope you like the food, it's from some of the tastiest places in Lichtenstein.

Hermione

"Merlin's bloody balls, that is a lot of stuff," Ron said.

"Um, you think so," Harry said with 12 different packages arrayed around him in a circle.

"Well, um, I dunno, but who would send you all that stuff, your fans," Ron said.

"What fans," Harry replied in disbelief.

"Your Harry Potter you have tons of fans," Ron said.

"That's news to me, and Hermione sent me all this," Harry said.

"She what…" Ron gasped eyes nearly bulging out of his sockets.

"But like I thought she was like you know…." Ron said.

"Like what Ron," Lavender said.

"That the Granger family was like not that well off," he said softly.

Lavender looked at Ron for a moment, a smile slowly forming on her lips before she finally lost it curling over with laughter. "Hahahahaha, you're kidding right," she said looking at Ron.

"Have you gone mental woman," Ron yelled.

"Wait you are serious," Lavender said crumpling to the floor laughing.

"Do we need to call Madame Pomfrey," Dean said watching Lavender roll around on the floor laughing.

"No, no, I'm ok," Lavender said slowly coming to a stop.

"Then what the hell happened," Dean asked.

"Ron said the Granger family is stricken by poverty," Lavender explained.

"Um, don't they have a knack for recovering lost artwork," Dean said.

"Yes, and they apparently only take a 5% finder's fee," Lavender said.

"That doesn't sound like much," Ron scoffed. "I mean seriously how much money can you make returning a bunch of stupid paintings."

"Well her parents are dentists," Harry chimed in.

"Ron what's 5% of 500 million Galleons," Lavender said.

"25 million galleons," Ron gasped. "But the Slytherins said…."

"You know how Draco is, and why does it matter anyway," Harry said looking at his friend.

"Because…." Ron stammered.

"Anyway, Hermione sent me way too much food," Harry said. "Apparently this is a full 12 course meal featuring all of the delights of Liechtenstein," he explained reading the note that came with the food.

"How many owls did this take," Dean asked.

"Apparently just 1 eagle," Lavender said as Valefor trilled proudly.

"Anyway, let's dig in," Harry said.

Break

"Hermione," Emma said as she walked into the kitchen, her daughter looking over something in one of her books. "Hello earth to Hermione," Emma said again before throwing up her hands in frustration as Dan entered. "Dan, she's doing it again."

"Doing what," Dan whispered.

"Ignoring me," Emma said.

"Don't worry about it," Dan said.

"Don't worry about it, what if something is wrong," Emma whispered.

"Trust me nothing is wrong," Dan said as a knock sounded on the door.

"I'll get it," Astoria said, skipping across the room.

"Victoria," several girls said.

"Johanna, they're here, get the lead out," Astoria yelled.

"Coming," Hermione replied.

"Have fun at the movies girls," Dan said.

"Bye," Astoria and Hermione said.

"Are you sure they will be alright, and why were they calling Hermione, Johanna," Emma asked.

"I don't think the movie theater will make them fight a basilisk, and what is wrong with Johanna I think it's cute," Dan said.

"True, and our daughter's name is Hermione," Emma replied.

"Also true, but you call Astoria, Victoria," Dan said. "And Hermione isn't exactly a German name, so maybe she just uses it to blend in."

"Dan and Emma aren't German names and you don't see us using different names," Emma sighed.

"Technically they are dear," Dan said.

"Oh, shut it you," Emma said swatting her husband.

A sly grin slowly grew on his face as he looked at his wife. "That is not what you told me to do this morning."

"Ready for more I see," Emma replied.

"I can't help it if my wife is the sexiest woman alive," Dan said before kissing her. Any further ministrations were cut short by a knock on the door of their cabin.

"You know for a rental cabin at a ski resort we get a lot of visitors," Dan groaned.

"I'll tell them to go away," Emma said breaking free of his embrace and answering the door.

"Hans, Ria," Emma said, opening the door to see Hans, Ria, and another man she didn't recognize. "Is something wrong?"

"Not exactly," Ria said nervously.

"Pardon the intrusion Mrs. Granger but Mr. Ingvalt would like to speak with you," Hans said.

"Mr. Ingvalt, you have my deepest apologies for any trouble my daughters might have caused," Emma said only for the man to burst out laughing.

"Um, I feel like I am missing some important details," Emma said.

"My apologies, but I thought you knew," Hans said looking at Ria.

"Knew what," Emma said.

"My apologies Mrs. Granger, my name is Claus Ingvalt and I am the Burgomaster of the Magical side of Vaduz and the de facto leader of Magical Lichtenstein," Claus said.

"Your honor," Emma squeaked.

"Hahaha, Claus is just fine Mrs. Granger," Claus chuckled.

"Then please call me Emma, and please come in," Emma said, moving aside so they could enter.

"Hans, if this is about the noise this morning, I promise we'll have Hermione charm the room first," Dan said looking at the group joining them.

"What noise…." Hans said as a slight redness built up on Emma's cheeks slowly turning darker as everyone looked at her.

Ria smirked looking at Emma. "So that's why you were so perky this morning, and…." Ria said trailing off as something Emma muttered early in the day made more sense. "Six times…." she muttered as her eyes bulged out. "I have got to get Alexandra to talk to Dan," Ria whispered.

"Ria," Emma whined in utter embarrassment.

"Our playing hide and seek with the German sausage aside, why have decided to grace us with your presence Claus," Dan said to his wife's defense.

"The pleasure is all mine Dan, and it seems we've run into a bit of a snag with the festival, and I was hoping you might be able to help us out," Claus said.

"Of course," Emma stammered. "What exactly is the problem?"

"Dan, Emma, it is probably not lost on you that most people when asked where Liechtenstein is on a map, they would ask you what is Lichtenstein. And that is that is the same in both worlds, or at least it was," Claus explained.

"It was?" Emma said.

"Yes, it seems times are changing, thanks to your family, Lichtenstein's standing on the international stage has increased as of late," Claus explained.

"Um, ok, but I didn't think we did all that much," Dan said.

"Mr. and Mrs. Granger the whole world saw your younger daughter revolutionize a sport that quite frankly was considered stagnant and dying off. And then her twin sister put on a stunning performance at the Gala in Monaco. Both of whom Ria made sure to highlight as performing at the winter festival," Claus explained.

"Um, oops…." Ria said nervously pressing her index fingers together.

"Not to mention your own exploits in the realm of charity and diplomacy," Claus said.

"I don't know if causing a scene counts as diplomacy," Emma said.

"Oh, come on we both know that jerk deserved it," Dan muttered.

"Yes, your bringing Baron Harkonen to heel and telling him to shut up and dance monkey impressed a number of people," Claus chuckled.

"If you liked that you should have seen how she handled those guys at the Olympics," Dan said.

"Indeed, the magical IOC has learned not to push Lichtenstein around," Claus said. "Which is exactly what I need your help with."

"Sure, no problem, who do you need Emma to "explain" things to," Dan chuckled.

"Dan, I am not some violent monster," Emma sighed.

"Of that I have no doubt Mrs. Granger, and we do not need you to "explain" anything to anyone," Claus said.

Emma gave a sigh of relief. "What exactly do you need my help with?"

"I would like you to host a small gathering of VIPs that will be occuring during the festival," Claus said.

Dan and Emma turned, staring at each other before turning back to them. "Um, what," they said in union.

"If it is no trouble, I would greatly appreciate it if you could represent Lichtenstein and host a small dinner for some visiting dignitaries during the festival," Claus said.

"Um, wouldn't that be something better suited for yourself, or at the very least an actual citizen of Liechtenstein," Dan said.

"You have far more experience on the international stage than myself or anyone on my staff. And I no, we would greatly appreciate it," Claus said.

"Sure, why not," Dan said.

Emma simply glared at her husband.

"What we've got the time, it's not like we haven't been to stuff like it before, and I get to see you all dolled up," Dan said. "And I know how much you like to see me in a suit," he whispered in her ear.

"Fine you win," Emma sighed.

"Excellent," Claus said.

"How many people will I be hosting," Emma asked.

"About a dozen I think," Ria said.

"Not exactly small but ok," Dan said.

"And where will I be hosting this party because I don't think the cabin will cut it," Emma said.

"Ria shrugged. "A work in progress I guess."

"The hotel does have several areas that could be used," Hans said.

"Thank you, Hans, but I think a more intimate setting would be worthwhile," Emma said.

"The mayor's residence then," Claus said.

"Perhaps, but that will just raise questions as to why you aren't hosting it yourself," Dan said.

"Right," Claus said.

"We can scout out a place tomorrow," Dan and Emma said.

"Who exactly is coming," Emma asked as the meeting continued.

Break

"Wow, did like the entire town show up or something," Hermione said, her voice quivering a little as she looked out at the people that were packed in the bleachers and crowded around the lake, with some even sitting up on the hill overlooking it.

"Yeah you could say that," Ria said.

"Seriously," Hermione said, spotting her new friends in the standing section as she scanned the crowd before her eyes locked on two people sitting in the VIP section. "Mein gott is that Jessica and Natasha…." Hermione gasped.

"Yup," Ria giggled.

"Wait what, really, why are they here," Hermione gasped turning towards her coach.

"Because I invited them silly," Ria chuckled.

"But they're like superstar Olympic medalists, and I'm just…." Hermione said.

"Just what," Ria said. "And if you say an ugly little duckling, a terrible skater or anything stupid like that…"

"Ok, ok," Hermione said, throwing her hands up. "It's just well I'm not a star like they are."

"Yet," Ria said hugging Hermione. "Johanna, I have no doubt that you will be just as great, no greater than them."

"Really," Hermione said looking up at Ria.

"Yes, Johanna," Ria said. "Now go and show them a blossoming fairy." she said pushing Hermione out onto the ice.
"Hey wait Ria…" Hermione squeaked as she tumbled out falling onto the ice slowly sliding on her knees out into the center of the lake.

Silence settled over the crowd as Hermione sat on the ice. A sober tune began to play as a single spotlight lit up Hermione. "That was an interesting entrance," Jessica said as Hermione began to skate.
"I think Ria shoved her out there," Natasha said.

"Didn't she do that to you once," Jessica said.

"Shut up and watch," Natasha snapped.

Oscar Wilde's famous quote Art imitates Life was never truer as Hermione's performance began the story of a shy hopeful girl entering school only to see those dreams ruthlessly crushed by bullies.

"Is that what school is like for Hermione," Claus thought, sparing a glance at the Grangers.

"Hermione," Emma muttered a tear streaking down her cheek as the performance continued.

Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, the girl found hope in faraway mountains, jumping with joy at being treated with kindness by the people. She spun with happiness before returning to school once more.

"What's with all the jumps," Jessica said.

"It's much more athletic than even our performances," Natasha replied.

This time the girl was able to weather the storm and even thrive as the bullies tried in vain to stop her even as she made new friends. And she never forgot the far away mountains, always remembering the people who helped her and that she wanted to help in return. Finally, after a trying but successful year she returned to the mountains to rest. As she lay on the frozen lake a cocoon of ice grew around her glowing blue and silver as it surrounded her.

"She really does see us as friends and family," Hans said to Claus.
"Yes, indeed she does," he replied.

"Is it over," people began to whisper as the music intensified as the ice began to crack. With a triumphant fanfare, the cocoon exploded the tiny shards illuminated by moonlight fell like snow over the crowd as Hermione slowly began to stand in now dressed in a shimmering silver and blue outfit silver fairy wings unfurling from her back.

"She's not seriously," Jessica gasped as Hermione bent her knees and leapt into the air with a flap of her wings.

"Going to fly….." Natasha finished as the wings further propelled her into the sky striking a pose in the light of the full moon.

"Look mommy it's a snow fairy," a girl exclaimed as Hermione slowly floated over the crowd, snow slowly fluttering from her wings.

"Ria really needs to tell her student to stop inventing crazy new ideas," Natasha muttered.

"Girls got game," Jessica exclaimed.

"Beautiful," Emma whispered.

"Our daughter is finally showing her true self," Dan said hugging his wife.

Break

"You ready for this Astoria," Alexandra said as they waited for the curtain to rise on their performance.

"Yes, but could you maybe do me one tiny little favor," Astoria asked.

"What is it," Alexandra asked.

"Could you maybe call me Victoria," she said softly.

"It's about time, I was wondering when you were going to ask," Alexandra said.

"You knew," Astoria said.

"Of course, I did," Alexandra said.

"But how," Astoria said.

"Well I heard your friends calling you that, Emma calling you that, and well it's pretty obvious what you're planning," Alexandra laughed.

"It is," Astoria said.

"Yeah, you kind of spelled it out in your new song, now let's rock this place," she said, slapping Astoria on the back as the curtain raised.

"Wait what I'm not ready," she said as she looked out over the crowd.

"It looks like they are," Astoria said pointing to the crowd.

"Who is ready to rock," Alexandra bellowed. The crowd roared in response as Alexandra stood next to Astoria. "Alright so let's hear it from Victoria Grunberg!" she said as the spotlight landed on Astoria.

"It's happening whether I'm ready or not so I might as well own it," she said to herself before looking out over the crowd, spotting Hermione, Emma, and Dan in the crowd. "Mom, Dad, and sis are here, I can do this," she said, taking her guitar. "Now let's get this party started, I call this one Sirius," she yelled as Alexandra began playing with her band.

"Starting now, No more rules allowed, Cause I'm throwing off the shackles, I'm breaking free and skipping the toll, No stopping me I sprint to my goal."

"I think you already did that Victoria," Hermione thought smiling as she watched her sister on the stage.

"Even if I lose my way, I'll make it okay, Healing wounds from the path that I've sown, I'll change the threads of fate turn 'em into my own."

"More like take a chainsaw to them, followed by a flamethrower and dance on the ashes as they are blown to the wind," Dan said to Emma who simply nodded.

"Shining brightly for all to see, I hold my destiny, Just like a star, Who knew I'd come this far, Cause life's too short to sit there crying, And I'm too busy flying, With luck my guide and friend, I'll see it right through the end."

"That's right, no more crying, you have a family now," Emma said to herself.

"Blazing wildly, burning out, I wanna scream and shout, All through the night

Cause I was born to fight, Until the day I finally reach you, I'll make my dreams come true, Cause starting now today, It's time to find my own way, But with my rules."

"You realize she gets that from you," Dan said.

"Hey I don't make my own rules," Emma said.

"No you just smash the ones you don't like," Dan replied.

"I wouldn't have to if people didn't do stupid stuff in the first place," Emma huffed as the song came to an end.

"Thank you for listening, and thank you Alexandra for letting me open for you," Victoria said.

"Encore, encore, encore," the crowd began to chant.

"Alexandra what do I do," Astoria said, turning to face her teacher.

"Rule number 1 in showbiz kiddo, give the crowd what they want," Alexandra said.

"But," Victoria said.

"Encore, encore," the crowd continued.

"Don't worry we've got all your songs memorized so have it," Alexandra said.

"Think you can keep up," Victoria said.

"Try me," Alexandra said.

"This next one goes out to my sister Johanna," Astoria called out. "I call it Give Reason!"

"Drowning in denial, they're racing through this city, Fighting for survival, an urban Serengeti, Slowly I awaken, and know that I can make it, Time to show the power that's burning like a fire deep in me."

"Thanks Victoria however It's more like ice, but I understand the metaphor," Hermione said.

"And somewhere there's got to be a reason, And it's something we all can believe in, From their birth people search until they've found it, Now the die is cast, And you can't turn back, You've got to reach for your dreams."

"Yes, we both will," Hermione said.

"I'm not afraid of failure or wounding my pride, And I'm not that strong but I know I'll survive, Had enough pretending, enough being weak, I will find my future, and I will succeed! HERE WE GO! GO! Run like the wind and be proud, If you don't look back then you'll make it somehow, I've got faith in the person I am, GIVE A REASON FOR LIFE, And show them you can"

"Ok, Victoria, no more hiding," Hermione said.

"It's about time," Emma whispered to Dan.

"Just as long as she doesn't blow up the castle," Dan said.

Chapter 40.6- Parties

"How are you holding up," Tracy asked, walking past Marietta a tray balanced in each hand.

"How the heck do you do that," Marietta gasped. "These things weigh a ton," she said struggling with her own tray.

"Practice," Tracy said. "If that mudblood runt has shown me anything it is that talent is no replacement for training," Tracy said. "And I might not be able to take ballet classes right now, but carrying these trays is good for working on my balance." She added placing the trays down as they waited for them to be reloaded.

Marietta froze, stunned by her friend's statement.

"What, I have more brains than Pansy," Tracy said.
"It's just…." Marietta said.

"Look, I'm not admitting Hermione is better than me, but I will admit that her hard work has paid off," Tracy said. "I mean if she can lose all that weight and convince some people she is some German girl, then I can change as well," Tracy said looking past Marietta to Daphne who was slowly walking around the party.

Marietta followed Tracy's gaze, her jaw slowly dropping. "You're not serious, I mean sure Daphne was slipping up for a while there but it looks like she is back to form."

I have no desire to be that loser, but the power she could wield as the heir of the Countess Greengrass on the other hand," Tracy said.

"That's crazy, I mean, if anyone found out," Marietta gasped.

"Who would believe a commoner like you," Tracy said.

"True, but why even tell me," Marietta said.

"A slip of the tongue I guess," Tracy shrugged. "I had planned on you finding out, just not this soon. And for the record you should know that the noble titles come with certain benefits."

"They do," Marietta said.

"Yes," Tracy said.

"What are the benefits of the Davis Baronet," Marietta asked.

"Since it is such a low level title it is just a boost to my power and control," Tracy said.

"And the Greengrass title," Marietta asked.

"Unknown, but I do know that she has the power to both grant and remove noble titles from others," Tracy said.

"Interesting," Marietta said looking between Daphne and Tracy. "So by helping you usurp Daphne as the heir to the Greengrass family, you will grant me a title."

"You catch on quick," Tracy said. "Now do we have a deal?"

Marietta was a Ravenclaw for a reason. She knew early on that as a commoner she would need "friends" if she was going to make it in the world, seeing how her mother was stuck in a dead-end ministry job, and how a distant relative had fared in going muggle, not well would be an understatement. A peerage, and friends in high places would go a long way in securing her success in the world. She also knew when she had a winning hand so to speak. "Yes, but I have a few conditions."

"And those are," Tracy said.

"1- a stipend, 2- full access to your family's library for research purposes, 3- my choice of titles," Marietta said.

"1- Better pay for each event you help me with, and the occasional gift, 2- limited access, 3- The Davis baronet until you prove worthy of more," Tracy replied.

It was less than what she asked for but, within the range of what she actually expected to get. After a pause she extended her hand. "Then we have a deal."

"I look forward to our success," Tracy said, shaking Marietta's hand.

"Agreed," Marietta said.

Break

"Robert, I am glad to see you made it out safely," Arthur Weasley said, approaching a man standing within earshot of Daphne drawing her attention.

"Thanks, but it was a close call," Robert replied.

"What the bloody hell happened, we knew things were a bit shaky there after the communist government fell, but I thought things were stabilizing," Arthur said.

"They were, or at least it seemed like it," Robert replied.

"Did something happen in Russia….." Daphne said softly, causing the men to look in her direction.

"You could say that Miss…" Robert said.

"Daphne Greengrass," Daphne replied. "And what happened?"

"It's nothing that a girl your age…" Arthur began to say.

"Mr. Weasley, my family runs one of the major magical ports, and deals extensively in international trade, including the import of Russian goods like caviar, and furs, for example. So either way I will be finding out sooner or later," Daphne said, cutting Arthur off.

Robert sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You have a point Miss Greengrass, so I will tell you what I know."

"Robert, this is hardly something you should be telling her," Arthur said.

"I agree, Arthur. I wouldn't want my little girl to hear about this either, but if I don't her mother will tell her, and then I can be in a world of trouble," Robert said, turning back to Daphne. "Miss Greengrass, a second magical civil war has begun in Russia," Robert said.

"Who would do such a thing, the Romanov Line was destroyed by the Soviets, and they kept the magical population on a tight leash" Daphne said.

"All true, but Chernobyl changed things," Robert said.

"Chernobyl…" Daphne muttered.

"A muggle accident that spread radioactive material over a large swath of land in the Ukraine," Arthur explained.

"Why would we be concerned over a muggle accident," Daphne asked.

"Because it poisoned the land in a way that cannot be easily rectified and made it scanning or warding the area spotty at best," Arthur said, surprising Daphne.

"Stupid muggles, what were they thinking," Daphne muttered.

"It also served to shock the cowed magical population of Russia into action. It has also come to light that the Harkonnen family is a distant relative of Ivan the Terrible through his 5th wife if I remember correctly," Robert said.

"So, he inherited the Tsardom of Russia," Daphne said, trying to keep a neutral facade.

"Not exactly," Robert said.

"That's a relief," Arthur said.

"I feel like I am missing some important information," Robert said.

"That's right, as a muggleborn you wouldn't have been privy to this information," Arthur said.

"Mr. Weasley, that information is….." Daphne said glaring at him.

"There might be your custom about not talking about it, but there is no law against it," Arthur said as Daphne growled balling her fists. "Noble titles are more than just titles Robert, they are a privilege, a gift for ruling over land or people, noblesse oblige if you will."

"That makes sense, but why would it matter that Baron Harkonen is a descendent of Ivan the Terrible," Robert said.

"Because those name titles carry more weight when magic gets involved. The titles confer certain benefits to those who hold them. In the case of the Tsardom of Russia it is the ability to summon the cold and snow of Siberia to their side," Arthur explained.

"That does explain a few things," Robert said.

"Explain what," Daphne asked.

"The initial assaults came through unseasonably cold weather, and an early unexpected snow, but they were very localized," Robert said.

"How much land does he control," Daphne asked.

"Most of the Ukraine, and the Caucasus region, made an attempt on Moscow, but were pushed back. His men were stronger than expected seemingly shrugging off all but the strongest spells and they had a beast like something out of a legend. It wasn't until the government asked for muggle assistance where they were able to blunt the attack using heavy artillery. But now they seem to be spending their time and energy moving into Siberia which doesn't make much sense. There is nothing out there," Robert said.

A faint memory ran through Daphne's mind, a small snippet of an encounter that seemed more like a dream. Men petrified for thousands of years breaking free before being killed their blood splattered on her clothes, the skeleton of a monster thought to be a myth discovered. "I gave them that power, but at what cost. Is power like that worth it," Daphne thought looking towards her mother.

"Is something wrong Daphne," Arthur asked.

"No, I am fine, Mr. Weasley, I am just a bit parched" Daphne said, excusing herself.

"Hey Daphne, you enjoying the party," Pansy called out waving to her friend.

"Hello Pansy, and yes, I am enjoying the party," Daphne said looking at her friend in a cute pink and white dress that was perhaps a bit risky for a 15-year-old girl.

"Then why are you being such a frowny face," Pansy said, putting an arm around Daphne's shoulder.

"I am not a frowny face," Daphne said.

"Well then why aren't you smiling," Pansy said offering Daphne a beaming smile.

Daphne took a whiff of Pansy's breath looking her friend in the eye. "Pansy are you drunk?"

"No, a lady never gets drunk, I am just a little tipsy," Pansy said with a giggle "It makes the party more fun."

"No thank you," Daphne said.

"Your loss," Pansy said. "You know I like what you did with your hair," Pansy said.

"Really," Daphne said perking up.

"Yep, it's like almost back to normal," Pansy said examining Daphne's hair.

"Is the style ok," Daphne said carefully brushing the ponytail that she moved forward over her shoulder as if to protect it.

"Yeah, it's so you," Pansy said. "The braided bun is very regal, but the ponytail shows that you've got a fun side too. Now let's dance." Pansy exclaimed while pulling Daphne onto the dance floor.

"Pansy wait," Daphne yelped.

"Did you spike Pansy's drink," Marietta asked softly as she walked by Tracy.

"Spike a drink at a ministry event is just asking for trouble," Tracy replied. "But I just so happen to know that she likes fruit Juice, and it is not my fault if she takes a Screwdriver thinking it's orange juice."

"You are devious," Marietta whispered.

"I'm a Slytherin Marietta, just try and keep up," Tracy said with a grin as she switched out her tray of cocktails for one with glasses of water.

"It seems I have much to learn," Marietta said to herself watching Tracy head back out two trays held high in the air.

"What's the problem, you can dance can't you," Pansy said, spinning Daphne around.

"Yes, I can dance, you idiot" Daphne growled, speeding up to match her friend..

"You do realize that I didn't fail the charm final like a certain someone," Pansy said.

"I didn't fail," Daphne said, breathing heavy as she struggled to keep up. Wait how could you know the scores already," Daphne gasped.

"I have my ways," Pansy said, winking at Daphne.

"Broom Closet," Daphne said as her legs began to burn as the corset restricted her breathing

"Really Daphne, a broom closet, how lewd," Tracy said as she walked by.

"I didn't do anything in a broom closet. It was Pansy," Daphne said a little too loudly as the sweat began to form on her brow.

"I did no such thing," Pansy said. "I simply asked one of the upper years who was helping grade the first-year work if they might be able to see how I did, and said I would make it worth their while."

"Broom closet," Daphne said slowly down.

"Seriously get your mind out of the gutter, we're only 4th years Daphne," Tracy said.

"Oh, come on you've seen how she's been dressing," Daphne snapped.

"I have and it is perfectly acceptable for a fine upstanding young woman," Tracy said. "Water," she said, offering them each a glass.

"Thank you, Tracy," Pansy said, taking the glass.

"Whatever I have more important things to deal with than whether or not you think Pansy's dress makes her look like a stupid bimbo or not," Daphne snarked, holding her head high only to receive a glass of water to the face.

Even Tracy took half a step back in surprise. Sure, she was trying to rile them up, but she didn't expect anything like this, or least not so publicly or so soon. "Crap, I can't have them go at it now, I still don't know what those important things are," Tracy thought.

"How dare you," Pansy hissed.

"Know your place Pansy," Daphne growled as the music began to fade.

"Or what," Pansy shot back.

"Now, now, it was just an accident," Tracy said. "Honestly I should have waited until you were done dancing before giving you some water." She added loudly.

"Not now," the pair hissed.

"Yes, now you idiots, or do you want to make a scene in front of everyone," Tracy said, pulling Daphne along.

"Unhand me," Daphne said.

"Your makeup is running, and unless you want everyone to see your freckle face, I suggest you keep moving," Tracy said, placing a hand on her back, her wand hidden underneath.

"I do not have freckles," Daphne said only for Tracy to show her reflection in the mirror-like surface of the tray she was carrying.

Tracy nodded to Marietta, who instructed the band to continue playing as they left. "corrigiam calciamentorum," Tracy whispered as the band's music roared back to life.

Break

"Here," Tracy said, handing Daphne a towel as they entered the bathroom.

"Thanks," Daphne said wiping her face off

"Your welcome," Tracy said.

"I don't know what's gotten into her," Daphne said.

"Well you did call her a bimbo," Tracy said.

"Because she is one," Daphne said.

"Please just because she is more developed than you is no reason to be jealous," Tracy said.

"She is not and I am not jealous," Daphne said.

"Denial is more than just a river in Egypt, freckle face," Tracy whispered.

"I do not have freckles," Daphne said.

Tracy smirked pointing to the mirror.

"Crap my makeup came off," Daphne squeaked aghast at her freckled face reflection in the mirror.

"Not to mention your kind of sweaty," Tracy said.

"I am not, it is just the water Pansy splashed me with," Daphne said.

"Perhaps, but that's not what it looks like," Tracy said. "And do you really want everyone to see you like that?"

"Like what," Daphne said.

"Look I'm just saying that you have an image to uphold and being seen like wouldn't help," Tracy said.

"You've got a point," Daphne said sadly. "But I still have something I need to do."

"You know I could help you with that," Tracy said.

"Really," Daphne deadpanned looking at Tracy.

"Sure, and this way you don't have to worry about your mother seeing you like this," Tracy said.

"That would be nice," Daphne said looking towards Tracy. "But I'm no fool, you are up to something," Daphne said.

"A mere Baronet like myself would never dream of doing something so underhanded to a Countess," Tracy said holding her arms out wide. "Besides I thought we were friends, and friends help each other out."

"Hahahaha…." Daphne laughed before abruptly stopping.

"Is something wrong," Tracy said with a slight smirk.

"Nothing," Daphne said, moving her hands to her stomach. "I just need to sit down for a minute," she said slowly moving to a plush chair in the antechamber of the bathroom.

"Was it something you ate," Tracy said.

"Probably," Daphne frowned, as her corset slipped even more.

"Do you need…." Tracy said.

"No, I'll be fine, I just need some time to rest," Daphne said.

"Alright, but what about those things you still needed to do?" Tracy asked.

"Crap," Daphne hissed

"Is it anything I could help with," Tracy said.

"Don't you have to, you know," Daphne said nodding towards the door.

"Nah the dinner service is over with, so I don't have much to do," Tracy said. "In fact I was thinking about changing and sneaking into the party anyway."

"Oh," Daphne said, sitting up a little only to hunch back down as she felt the corset slip a bit, easier to breathe, but starting to strain her dress.

"What do you need," Tracy said.

"Nothing major, you just need to pick up an item from the Russian Ambassador, and a dance with the son of a branch member of the Holstein-Gottorp family," Daphne said. "Now this is what you need to do." Daphne said, explaining the plan.

"Got it, but what is his name," Tracy said.

"Oh, right," Daphne said, blushing slightly. "Charles Ulrich."

"Don't worry, I've got this," Tracy said quickly, leaving the bathroom.

"Thanks," Daphne said. "And good luck you'll need it, he is expecting a dance with a good dancer, which you are not," she said, laying back on the large chair with a sigh of relief as the corset came loose.

Break

"Marietta," Tracy said, pulling her aside.

"Plans moved faster than you expected," she said.

"Yes, I was hoping a drunk Pansy might make a fool of herself, and drag Daphne into it. I did not expect them to get into a fight," Tracy said. "However that has created an opportunity."

"Oh," Marietta said.

"Yes," she said, pulling Marietta into another bathroom. "Daphne's currently resting in the other bathroom."

"And you need me to make sure she stays there," Marietta finished as Tracy began to change.

"Yes, can you do it," Tracy said.

"No problem, I'll grab an out of order sign from the maintenance closet and I'll swipe one of the durian's the Singapore ambassador gave the minister on the door," Marietta said.

"Those giant fruits….." Tracy said. "Here can you zip me up," Tracy added, turning her back towards Marietta.

"Taste like vanilla custard but smell like rotten garbage," Marietta said. "Is that silk?"

"Excellent, and no, it's sateen, but with the lower lighting it can pass for it," Tracy said, letting her hair down. "So how do I look?"

The dark red dress with black vertical accents combined with the way it billowed out at her waist created an effective slimming effect. The black of the sleeves and puffy fur around her shoulders drew attention to her face, and chest. Marietta smiled giving her a thumbs up

Break

If Tracy had learned anything over the past few years it was that confidence was key, and if you acted like you belonged then most people wouldn't raise an issue. And it was with that in mind that she casually entered the ballroom sticking to the side opposite the bar just to be safe. Taking a glass from a passing waiter she took a few sips before placing it on a table that was strewn with a number of empty glasses. "And that should do it," she thought, taking a step back and waiting.

"Excuse me, but might you know where I could find Ambassador Volkov," Tracy asked the house elf that appeared to clear the table. The elf simply pointed across the ball room before disappearing with glasses. Target sited she made her way across the room. Waiting for the older barrel-chested man to finish his conversation. "Excuse me Ambassador Volkov, might I have a moment of your time please."

"And you are," the man said looking down at Tracy.

"My name is Tracy Davis, and I am a simple Hogwarts Student who has been interested in studying abroad in Russia. I was hoping to ask you some questions about your homeland," Tracy said angling her eyes upward while keeping her head down.

"You wish to study in mother Russia," Volkov replied.

"Actually, it is my friend Daphne Greengrass who is interested in Russia, but she had some difficulties earlier, and sent me in her stead," Tracy replied.

"She did," Volkov said.

"Yes, she was hoping to learn about a place called Kitezh, is it true that they call it the Russian Atlantis," Tracy said.

"Indeed, it is," Volkov said. "And if I am to tell you of Russia perhaps you could grace these old bones with a dance."

"Certainly, it would be my pleasure, Ambassador Volkov," Tracy said offering her hand.

"Ok, it's just a waltz, you can do this," Tracy thought, doing her best to look at the Ambassador and not her feet as they danced to the music. She stumbled a few times, but to her relief she remained standing and did not step on his feet.

"Thank you for the dance Mr. Ambassador," Tracy said.

"No the pleasure is all mine my dear, and here a small gesture of gratitude for making me feel young again," he said, placing a diamond ring on her finger.

Break

"Where is that girl," Catherine hissed scanning the party as her daughter had yet to return since the incident with Pansy.

"Is there something a matter, Countess Greengrass," Tracy said as the party began to wind down for the evening.

"And you are," Catherine said, turning around.

"Tracy Davis, my lady," Tracy said with a curtsey.

"Oh Tracy, I almost didn't recognize you, wait was that you dancing with Charles Ulrich earlier.

"Yes, that was me, my lady, but I would hardly call it dancing, and I have been trying to improve myself as of late," Tracy replied.

"I can see that," she said looking over Tracy. "But I thought you were working as a waitress," she said.

"Only for the dinner, after that I had some free time and thought I would be a shame to miss the dance," Tracy said. "In fact I had a rather nice dance with Ambassador Volokov earlier and he gave me a small trinket of appreciation," she said showing her the ring.

"It is a lovely ring," Catherine said.

"Yes," Tracy said.

"Perhaps too lovely for a girl such as yourself, some might take it to mean other things. Things that a mother might not want her daughter to be thinking about," Catherine said spotting Gwendoline coming out of the back.

"And if I left it in your capable hands," Tracy said.

Catherine leaned over to whisper in her ear. "Then your mother doesn't find out that you skipped off work to enjoy the party."

"My mother does not scare me," Tracy said.

"Then do I scare you," Catherine whispered.

"Very much so Countess Greengrass, I saw firsthand what you did to that muggle upstart, and I have no desire to meet a similar fate," Tracy said, slipping Catherine the ring. "But in my defense, I was trying to help your daughter out after her incident earlier."

"Then I shall thank you for your assistance," Catherine said, moving to intercept Gwendoline as Tracy joined the people leaving the ballroom.

Break

"Mom what are you still doing here," Millie said glaring at her mother who was overlooking several pots and pans on the stove.

"Cooking, I was hired to cater the party, remember," Millie replied.

"And you cooked everything now, get going," Millie said, pushing her mother away from the stove.

"Millie what are you doing," Maggie protested.

"Everything is already cooked, all you have to do is plate and serve it, and Mrs. Granger invited you to the party to," Millie explained.

"Millie, you can't possibly," Maggie said as Steve slithered up the side of the counter wearing a chef's hat and apron holding a spoon held by his tail as he stirred the soup. "What is Steve doing?"

"He's my helper," Millie said. "Now go get changed."

"Millie…." Maggie said.

"Don't worry Mrs. Bulstrode we got this," Hermione said walking wearing a cute dirndl.

"Millie when you sent me that message this is not what I had in mind," Liz said tugging on the outfit.

"Come on, you said it yourself you weren't having any fun over the break, and I saw you enjoying the festival," Hermione chimed in.

"Yeah, yeah, but it's not really my style," Liz said.

"But you look so cute in it," Millie said.

"Cute is not really what I was hoping for," Liz said.

"Maggie come on, you need to get ready," Alex said.

"Not you too," Maggie sighed.

"Yes," he said, pulling his wife out of the kitchen.

Break

"Mr. and Mrs. Patil thank you for coming," Ria said, opening the door.

"The pleasure is ours, but how do you handle the cold," Sita said.

"You get used to it," Ria said with a shrug. "May I take your coats."

"Thank you," they said, handing Ria the coats who took them to the closet to hang up.

"Rama is that the Prime minister of Magical Switzerland," Sita gasped looking at the people mingling in the living room of the Rustic German manor house.

"I think so," Rama replied. "And that's the German foreign minister," Rama said.

"When Emma said she was having a little gathering I didn't expect anything like this," Sita gasped. "What was she thinking inviting us, if certain people found out."

"They won't and I don't particularly care. When I invited you, I was inviting my friends. The fact that you are also Magical India's Ambassador to Britain was a bonus," a woman with blond hair, wearing a stunning white gown with black trim.

The husband and wife slowly turned to face the woman. "Please correct me if I am wrong Miss but it is my understanding that Emma Granger invited us," Rama said.

"Of course, I did silly, Sita it's been far too long," the woman said, hugging Sita.

"Emma!" Sita and Rama gasped.

"That is my name," Emma giggled.

"Wow, just wow, I barely recognize you" Sita said, staring at her friend in a white, and pink evening gown. A bit classier than expected for the evening but the host should always dress a bit better than the guests. "You look great, the mountains really agree with you."

"You think so," Emma said, doing a little twirl.

"Yes, you've lost what like 10 pounds," Sita said.

Emma blushed a little, it's actually 15 and I've grown 3 inches. I think there is something weird in the water here," she whispered to Rita.

"Amazing and you look younger too," Sita said.

"You think so," Emma said.

"Yes, I remember you telling me when we first met you were pushing 50 and I swear you don't look a day over 45," Sita said.

Emma blushed cutely. "Oh stop," she said waving a hand at Sita.

"Well it's true," Maggie added, joining them.

"Is that," Rama said looking at Astoria sitting at a grand piano playing soft chamber music.

"Yes, that is our other daughter Victoria," Dan said.

"She is quite good," Rama said.

"She's had a good teacher," Dan said.

"I'll say," Rama said.

Break

"Millie what the hell is going on" Liz snapped returning to the kitchen to pick up several more drinks.

"Is something wrong," Millie said.

"Yes, I mean no, ugh, I don't know anymore," Liz sighed.

"What seems to be the problem," Millie asked.

"Millie do you know who is sitting down for dinner right now," Liz said.

"My mom and dad, Hermione's mom and dad, Mr. and Mrs. Patil, The Prime Minister of Magical Switzerland and his wife, a member of the German magical parliament and his wife. The mayor of Magical Vienna, and his wife, and the head of a world-famous Italian Ski resort and his girlfriend," Millie said. "I don't see what the big deal is though."

"Argh, Liz groaned. "That's exactly my point." Liz said before Steve smacked her.

"Thank you, Steve," Millie said.

"Stupid snake I outa," Liz grumbled.

"Look Liz, I called you out here to have a little fun after you complained about having a boring break in your letter," Millie said. "It's just a dinner party, not everything has to be political, and besides we're just kids."

"Ok, fine," Liz huffed. "But I still can't believe Hermione's mom is able to have a dinner party with such influential people," Liz said.

"It happens," Millie said with a shrug.

"Apparently," Liz sighed. "So, like what's the deal with people calling Hermione Johanna," Liz asked.

"Oh that," Millie said.

"Yes, that, and I swear Victoria looks like Astoria," Liz said.

"Well there are 5.6 billion people on the planet, so it's possible everyone has a twin out there somewhere," Millie said.

"I'll give you that, but it is uncanny," Liz said. "Anyway what's the deal with the Herimone Johanna thing."

"I dunno, I think Hermione just wanted a new name for a new outlook on life. I mean she has really changed since 1st year," Millie said.

"Understatement," Liz said.

"But don't you think she's more of a Johanna now anyway," Millie said.

"I guess so…" Liz said gasping as Hermione returned. "Wait, you mean that she's the German exchange student..."

"Yup," Millie giggled.

"Is there a problem Liz," Hermione said.

"She just figured it out," Millie said.

"Well it was bound to happen sooner or later," Hermione shrugged. "So how much trouble am I in for this one."

It was a long time before Liz said anything. "You know I should ream the crap out of you for this, but you know what."

"What," Hermione and Millie said.

"Well, you know," Liz said softly a faraway look in her eye.

"Know what," they asked.

"Controlling….no I need assistance with…. No, I want to…... " Liz stammered as the girls giggled a little. "Look it's not a big deal, but we'll talk on the train."

"Deal," Millie and Hermione said.

"Great, now we have dinner to serve," Liz said.

"She's my sister," Millie whispered to Hermione watching Liz pick up a tray.

"Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way," Hermione replied.

Break

"Mr. Prime Minister," Emma said as they sat down for dinner.

"Yes, Mrs. Granger," the man replied.

"Please call me Emma," Emma said.

"Then please call me Walter," he replied.

"Walter, I know that those adept with magic live much longer lives than those who are not skilled with magic, and that can lead to a slower moving society. But are there other reasons as to why the magical society seems so resistant to change," Emma asked.

"That is an interesting question Emma, and not one that is usually discussed. Might I ask what made you think of such a question?" he replied.

"Is it perhaps because of the discipline your daughter has received at Hogwarts," Alessandro Ricci the owner of a magical resort in Italy, said.

"That would be part of it, yes, but I was also struck by how in many of the magical areas I have had the pleasure to visit seem to be living 100 to 200 years in the past," Emma said.

"I believe the American's have a phrase, if it isn't broken don't fix it," Allesandro said, looking towards the mayor of Vienna Franz Metternick, an ancient man, but one that held a spark of intelligence in his eyes.

"You are not the first to use that phrase and certainly will not be the last," the old wizard said softly. "While it is true that rapid change can bring about societal unrest, causing everyone one involved a great deal of pain."

"That is exactly my point," Allessandro said, jumping to his feet, cutting the older wizard off.

"Mr. Ricci do sit down. This is a polite dinner conversation not a Quidditch match, so please stop being an Ulta," Dan said.

"And why should I listen to you," he snapped.

Emma sighed. "I had hoped to leave antiquated attitudes behind in England, but I suppose I have no choice."

"No choice," Alessandro scoffed. "Then are you going to use your daughter to throw me out, because clearly you can't."

"As entertaining as seeing my daughter turn you into a popsicle and throw you out into the snow to cool your head, that wouldn't really change anything," Emma said.

"Indeed, you are correct Emma, but I am afraid that will not be necessary," Franz said, leveling a glare at Alessandro. "I do not appreciate being interrupted, Mr. Ricci, I did not stand for it from Napoleon, the Habsburgs, or Grindelwald and I certainly will not stand for it from an overly excitable Italian who still lives with his mother. Now sit down and be quiet." He said, glaring at the man, his eyes radiating power.

"Yes, sir," Allessandro said, slowly sitting down.

"Now as I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted, is that rapid change can lead to upheaval, so it is natural to think that suppressing those changes is the answer," Fran said pausing for a moment. "However, history has proved that such efforts are doomed to fail, the French Revolution, the Springtime of nations, the Russian Revolution, but I fear they will pale in comparison to the revolution I fear is coming, one that will forever change the world."

"You are referring to the discovery of magic by the wider world," Emma said eliciting a gasp from the group

"Mr. Metternick, surely you can't be serious. I do realize that the muggle science has come far, but to discover and understand magic," the wife of the German MP said.

"And yet muggles…." Alex said before looking towards Dan. "Sorry, non-adepts have landed on the moon."

"And created weapons capable of destroying entire cities," Rama said as all eyes turned to the grangers.

"While it is true that non-adepts have created nuclear weapons, the same research that led to those weapons have led to advancements in medicine, electrical generation, and our basic understanding of the universe," Dan said.

"And I could say the same thing about the magical world, obscurials, the unforgivables, obliviate, and fiendfyre, to name a few," Emma said.

"How can you possibly know about those," Allesandro snapped.

"Just because I cannot cast magic, doesn't mean I can't read about it or understand it," Emma replied. "And Franz I agree with you, change comes whether you like it or not. Thus the only question is how you handle those changes," Emma said.

"You understand magic, I don't think so," Allessandro said.

"Mr. Ricci, it has been reported numerous times how Emma Granger has bypassed or subverted numerous muggle repelling wards. In fact she was asked to look over the wards for the Olympics this past year. Now stop being rude, as even the famed Swizz neutrality has its limited," Walter said.

"Thank you, Walter," Emma said. "While I cannot use magic, I do know of it and the culture surrounding it and I would hate to see it come to harm when not if magic is revealed to the world. The question then becomes what can we do about it, because I fear if it is not handled delicately the revelation that magic is real will be worse than the troubles."

"I agree the problem is what are we going to do about it," Rama said. "The revelation that some countries mundane and magical borders are not the same, will be quite a shock."

"You are of course talking about the fact that the British Empire is still alive and well," Alex said.

"Yes," Rama said.

Emma's eyes lit up. "And that was something I wanted to ask you about Walter. It's obvious what the British Ministry of Magic's response would be to Magical India declaring independence, Personally I would support them, but how would the other countries react."

The German's and Austrians gasped at Emma's statement as silence settled over the room. "Did I say something wrong," Emma whispered to Maggie who was sitting next to her.

"No clue," Maggie replied.

"Mrs. Granger it is my understanding that as the host of this meeting of international dignitaries, on behalf of Claus Ingvalt," Franz said.

"Yes, Claus asked me to host this little get together because apparently I have more experience in this sort of thing, than he does," Emma said.

"And he didn't give you any instructions," Walter asked.

"No, he just hoped that everyone would have a good time, and that I had his full support regardless of what happened," Emma said. "Did I do something wrong all I really wanted to know was why the magical culture is at least 100-200 years behind the muggle one in certain areas. I didn't mean to get into such a heavy discussion."

"Please calm yourself Mrs. Granger, you did nothing wrong," Franz said.

"Then why are you all staring at me," Emma said.

"Um, how do I say this," Walter said. "While small, Lichtenstein holds a very high regard in the German Speaking Magical Communities."

"Why is that," Dan asked.

"You said it yourself Mrs. Granger, the magical world is slow to change seemingly centuries behind in some areas, some of this is due to magical living on average 2 times longer than non magicals. " Walter explained.

"Perhaps I should take over," Franz said. "Mrs. Granger in the modern world Lichtenstein is considered by some to be a leftover of the Holy Roman Empire, a result of a unique blend of diplomacy during interesting times. While the magical Holy Roman Empire was destroyed by the magical forces supporting Napoleon, it was not fraying at the seams when it fell. While it has been 188 years since it fell there are still many who remember living in the Holy Roman Empire and many more who grew up hearing stories about it. These people see Lichtenstein as the inheritor of that legacy. While none wish to see the empire restored, when Lichtenstein speaks, they will listen. Thus, when you said Lichtenstein would support an independent Magical India, there is a good chance that Germany, and Austria will as well."

"Switzerland as well," Walter added.

"Um, oops," Emma said softly. "I've always supported decolonization, people should be free to choose for themselves, and I'm pretty sure everyone in Lichtenstein feels the same way. They are good people who I am happy to call my friends. Ria and Alexandra have done so much to help my daughters, and Belldandy and her family are such sweethearts. Hans is like the uncle I never had, and Claus has explained a lot of stuff to me. This country has taken us in like family and I just wanted to pay them back a little. Then there's the dwarves, and fairy's they are always a pleasure to run into." Emma rambled.

"Well said," the German MP chuckled.

"Understatement," Ria whispered, having recorded the whole thing.

"I mean I was surprised to find out that there was a Magical British Empire. Why is that anyway, certainly they could have broken away like the non-magical ones did." Dan said.

"They tried," Rama said. "Only to learn the true force of the British Ministry of Magic."

"There is a reason the British did not fear Grindelwald as much as the continent fears Voldemort," Franz said. "During their centuries of discovery and subjugation the British Ministry of Magic acquired many powerful magical artifacts and destroyed the ones they could not control."

"So, they control magical weapons of mass destruction, that Grindelwald did not have access to, but Voldemort's near conquering of Britain almost gave him control of the world." Dan said.

"The short version, yes," Walter said.

"Then we'll just have to make a countermeasure," Emma said.

"Emma do you have any idea what you are saying," Maggie gasped, grabbing her friend by the shoulders.

"Yes, and it's not like you haven't done it before," she said looking at the group as they stared at her jaws hanging open. "What's the big deal, the Japanese magicals invented the Neutron Jammer in response to the atomic bombings. So why can't you just cook something up."

"I'm afraid it's not that simple," Walter said.

"Why not, my daughter came up with a way to allow people without magic to play grail wars, it can't be impossible," Emma said.

"Hahahahahahhaha," Franz laughed loudly despite his age. "I lived a long-life Mrs. Granger and was ecstatic to see someone finally giving the magical world a good swift kick in the pants. Mark my words Emma, Dan, you and your daughters will change the world. I only hope to live long enough to see it."