Chapter 43- Fallout
March 1995
The sounds of battle echoed across the icy landscape, as a young girl on skates, battled an old wizard in brightly colored robes. "The spell has been cast, you cannot stop me," the old man said, firing lances of flames at the girl.
"I can do this all day," the girl replied.
"Eventually you will fall, and I will remove your memories of Lichtenstein and Johanna," the old wizard said.
"Not going to happen," the girl shot back skating around another attack.
"It is for the greater good," the wizard said.
"And who decided that," the silver haired girl replied.
"It is in your best interest," the wizard said.
"... right arguing with a spell that is trying to erase my memories inside my own head," Hermione muttered forming a wall of ice to block a new barrage of spells. "But the spell has a dam point," Hermione muttered as fire arrows slammed into her barricade. "Wait what did Astoria say, use the spell to beat the spell…... And mom beats muggle repelling wards by telling it what it wants to hear…. It's not perfect but I can work with this," Hermione said reforming her skates and rocketing out past the wall of ice before an explosion hex slammed into it.
"You missed me old man," Hermione exclaimed. "Are you blind or something."
"You should respect your elder's little girl," the old man said.
"I am not a little girl, I am a young lady thank you very much," Hermione said.
"I very much doubt that," the spell said, renewing his attack.
"Oh, come on, I am not some little munchkin runt, I just haven't had my growth spurt yet," Hermione yelled just barely dodging a spell before it slammed into a large boulder of ice revealing an old bag filled with random athletic gear. "Gym class," she read off the label on the bag before it burnt to a crisp. "Well I can live with that," Hermione thought as her memories of being picked last and pounded by dodgeballs or stuck in the goal slowly slipping away.
"12% complete," the old man said.
"Only 12%, just how much of my memory do you want," Hermione exclaimed.
"26 months," the spell said.
"Crap baskets," Hermione groaned. "This is going to take a while," Hermione groaned.
Break
The British Ministry of Magic or MOM, was the branch of her majesty's government that ran the magical world. Or at least that was the idea on paper. In reality it was more like a Byzantine nightmare of overlapping departments and regulations, that only the most experienced or connected could maneuver through.
"Heads up boss," an auror said to Amelia Bones as he walked by.
"Who is it this time," Amelia asked.
"It's her again," the man said before leaving.
"Well that's just great," Amelia sighed, spotting a rather iconic hat.
"Minister Bones," Augusta Longbottom said.
"Mrs., Longbottom," Amelia said. "As I said in my reply I cannot…."
"I am not here about that, Minister Bones," Augusta said.
"Then what are you here for," Amelia said.
"A conversation that is better suited for your office," Augusta said.
"And the nature of this conversation," Amelia pressed.
Augusta moved closer whispering in Amelia's ear. "A student being obliviated, now let's go or I go to the press."
"Yes, right this way," Amelia said leading the way to her office.
The door to Amelia's office had barely closed before she engaged the privacy wards. "Who obliviated Neville and why haven't I heard of this until now," Amelia said, her voice firm as she looked at the older woman.
"Who do you think," Augusta said.
"Snape," Amelia hissed.
"Appropriate but wrong," Amelia said.
"Lupin, the werewolf he has working for him," Amelia said, reaching for her phone.
"What, no, Remus Lupin is an excellent teacher from what I have heard," August said. "But his lack of action in this does bother me," Augusta muttered softly.
"Then who was it," Amelia asked.
"Albus Dumbledore," Augusta said.
"Dumbledore! Impossible!" Amelia gasped.
"Are you calling my grandson a liar," Augusta said.
"No, but this is…" Amelia said looking down at her desk. "I mean, if this gets out, the government…."
"Don't you mean when this gets out Amelia," Augusta said.
"No," Amelia said.
"Then we have nothing more to discuss," Augusta said, turning to leave only to end up bound and seated in a chair. "How dare you," Augusta growled at Amelia who had her wand out.
"No, you are going to sit down and listen," Amelia said.
"About how Dumbledore must have done it for the so-called greater good," Augusta spat.
"No," Amelia said. "He is the Headmaster of Hogwarts, the head of the Wizengamot, and the Supreme Mugawump of the ICW."
"And that makes him untouchable," Augusta said.
"No," Amelia said.
"Then what's the problem," Augusta said.
"You are not looking at the bigger picture," Amelia sighed. "Cornelius Fudge might be the Minister of Magic, but Dumbledore has his fingers on many of the lever of power."
"Tell me something I don't know," Augusta said.
"He blunts the effect of Cornelius's darker less capable people and ideas. You could say he is the man behind the man, and if he goes, we'll basically be handing the ministry over to the traditionalists," Amelia said.
"They're called blood supremacists, and it's not like he's doing much to stop them right now," Augusta said.
"It's better than the alternative," Amelia said as the room went silent.
After several minutes, Augusta finally spoke. "Fine, but I want two things from you or I will go to the press."
"You are not in the position of making deals," Amelia said.
"And you're not in a position to obliviate me," Augusta said, locking eyes with Amelia.
"Oh really," Amelia said.
"If I am not back by a certain time, and say a certain phrase to a certain associate of mine, then a copy of the information will go public," Augusta said. "I might be old, but I am not stupid."
"Fine, what do you want," Amelia sighed.
"1- Assurances that when the time is right Dumbledore is brought to justice, 2- Magical guardianship of Hermione Granger, Johanna Granger, and Victoria Granger," Augusta said.
"No promises on the first one, and why do you want guardianship of the Granger children, it isn't even my department," Amelia said.
"My reasons are my own, and you have ways of greasing the wheels and getting things done interdepartmentally that I do not have," Augusta said.
"That doesn't answer my question," Amelia replied.
"Let's just say that I am looking out for their best interests unlike their next guardian will be unless you do something," Augusta said. "And it will only be temporary until someone more suitable comes along."
Amelia's eyes widened at Augusta's words. "This I can do."
Break
The sensation of a warm hand on his scales, and a gentle voice slowly roused Steve from his slumber.
"Good morning Steve," Millie said looking down at her pet and familiar.
"Millie," Steve hissed excited quickly slithering around her until his head was at eye level.
"Well aren't you full of energy this morning," Millie giggled.
"Are you ok, do you remember," Steve hissed.
"Yes, and yes," Millie said.
"How, I saw the spells hit you," Steve stated.
"Yes, but it was thanks to Astoria and Johanna, that I was able to convince the spell to go after other memories," Millie said.
"Millie that's…." Steve hissed his mouth hanging open.
"Why do you think it took me so long to wake up. What day is it anyway, I kind of lost track," Millie asked.
"It's been 10 days," Steve said.
"Crap baskets," Millie said before looking over to see Hermione and Astoria still asleep.
"What are you going to do," Steve asked.
"I would be going against what I said to Hermione if I fed Daphne to Audrey, but that doesn't mean I will not make my displeasure known," Millie said as a dark look crossed her face.
"What do you need me to do," Steve asked.
"Distract the nurse for me will you. I feel perfectly fine, and I'd rather not have to deal with her again" Millie said.
"Consider it done," Steve said quickly slithering away his brown scales blending into the drab color of the stones.
"I really don't see how all of them could have fallen down the stairs knocking themselves out, and not have a scratch on them," Pomphrey mussed while going through some paperwork.
"Millie did ask me to do this," he thought, looking up at the billowing long skirt that the nurse was wearing before at least deciding to move up the leg of the chair slipping under Pomphrey's thick sweater. "She is a lot bigger than Millie," Steve thought as his body wrapped around the nurse finally poking his head out from the neck line. "Hello, you are wearing a very warm sweater today," Steve hissed looking up at the nurse.
Madame Pomphrey slowly looked down at Steve. "It appears there is a snake in my sweater," she muttered as Steve blinked, sticking his tongue out at her.
"SNAKE!" Madame Pomphrey screeched flailing her arms. "Get it off me, get it off me," she wailed.
"Good boy Steve," Millie whispered, making her escape.
Break
"18% complete," the spell said as another bookcase exploded.
"Well there goes Religion class," Hermione said watching another bookcase explode. "Better read up on Catholicism."
"42% complete," the spell said.
"Shit what did it get this time," Hermione cursed watching a model of the British Museum burst into flames. "Crap, got to be more careful," Hermione muttered as the vast majority of her knowledge of British history went up in flames.
"48% complete" the spell said as an errant shot hit a map of the British Isles.
"Not good, I am running out of stuff to let it hit," Hermione said to herself.
Break
"Millie, your back what happened," Elizabeth said running over and hugging her.
"Not to worry, I just had a little spill, nothing to worry about," Millie said looking around the still damaged common room. "But what happened here, it looks like a bomb went off?"
"That would be me," Liz said hobbling over on a pair of crutches.
"Merlin, Liz what in the world happened to you," Millie gasped, rushing to her friend's side.
"I'm fine, just a sprained knee, and twisted ankle, so no cheerleading for a while," Liz said.
"That still doesn't tell me what happened," Millie pressed.
"Let's just say I heard what happened to you, and when I went to check on you some people took offense to that," Liz said.
"And that ended with the common room blown up and you hurt," Millie said.
"More or less," Liz said.
"Lovely," Millie frowned.
"On the plus side, using invisible air served as a reminder as to why I am not to be messed with," Liz said.
"True, but now I owe people money," Millie said.
"Yeah, I had money on Hermione," Elizabeth said.
Liz cocked an eyebrow at the two. "Wait you had money on…"
"Who would be most likely to blow up the dorm," Millie finished.
"Millie…" Daphne called out. If looks could kill, Daphne would have fallen on the spot as Millie glared at her, green eyes looking straight through her.
"I have nothing to say to you masquerade," Millie said, her voice dripping with venom and a hint of a French accent.
"Masquerade," Daphne said.
"You heard me masquerade," Millie said as the entire dorm turned silent.
"I'm afraid I don't know what you are talking about," Daphne said.
"You know exactly what I am talking about masquerade," Millie said, moving into her personal space. "But just in case you forgot, it means a false show, or pretending to be something you are not," she added looking Daphne right in the eye. The power of nature itself reflected in her vivid green pupils.
"Millie…." Daphne said.
"My name is Millicent Blustrode, masquerade and you have a lot of nerve talking to me after what you did," Millie said.
"I am not a masquerade Millie, what do you mean what I did," Daphne said softly fidgeting slightly as Millie leaned closer.
"My name is Melissa and you know exactly what you did," Millie whispered in French into Daphne's ear. "And yes, you are fake, you really think I wouldn't notice your extensions, and the hair dye," Millie said running a hand through Daphne's hair. Honestly, if you are going to wear extensions make sure your extensions," Millie stressed, holding up a long lock of Daphne's hair to the light. "Match your natural color," she said pointing out the slight difference in color between the golden blond extensions and Daphne's dark blond hair, with brown roots.
"I knew it, there was no way she was a natural blonde," several girls whispered.
"Interesting," Vainsley whispered watching the scene unfold.
"My hair is not fake," Daphne growled.
"And mine is," Millie said proudly fluffing her long golden hair letting it shine in the light of the common room.
"Yes," Daphne snapped.
Millie smirked, pulling out her wand. "Well I am ready to take an oath right now, are you?"
"As a…." Daphne began.
"So that's a no," Millie said before turning and walking away.
"That's not what I said," Daphne said.
"Actions speak louder than words, faker," Millie said, dismissing Daphne as she went to change.
"She's got a point, Daphne, a countess's word is her bond," Vainsley called out looking up from her reading.
"Who asked you," Daphne snapped.
"No one I guess, but your hair is looking a little too manufactured," Vainsley said. "I mean look at Tracy's hair, it looks nice and she doesn't have extensions." Tracy just smiled, fluffing her hair as Daphne marched off.
"What the hell just happened," Elizabeth said.
"I don't know, but I intend to find out," Liz said slowly heading after Millie. She found her going through her trunk, a pile of clothes already on her bed.
"Too casual, too dressy, too cold for that one," Millie said.
"Millie," Liz said.
"Oh, hey Liz, what do you think of this one," Millie said, holding up a top.
"Don't you hey Liz me, what the hell is going on," Liz snapped.
"Daphne betrayed Hermione selling her out to Dumbledore who tried to obliviate us, so we're done taking her crap," Millie said, pulling out a skirt. "What do you think of this skirt?"
"Wait what!" Liz snapped. "You were obliviated…."
"More like attempted obliviate, I lost some memories, I just haven't figured out what yet," Millie said.
"How can you be so blasé about this," a wide-eyed Liz said.
"I'm not," Millie said. "But I can't do anything about it until Hermione and Astoria wake up, so for now I am going to do what I can."
"And that is," Liz said.
"I'm done taking their crap, and done with not being a good enough friend to Hermione," Millie said. "It's time that two-faced bitch got some of her own medicine."
"Millie…." Liz said, stunned by the younger girl's anger and fierce determination.
"Liz, my heart might be as wide as the Mediterranean Sea, but I have had enough. They are boats as sea, and I am the storm," Millie said. "Now what do you think of this?" Millie asked as she finished changing into a white dress, with tights to ward off the cold, along with a dark cape and hat to finish off the ensemble.
"Wow, just wow," Liz gasped.
"So, it's good," Millie asked.
"Good, Millie, that's better than good, you look amazing," Liz said.
"Perfect," Millie said. "Now I think it's time I head to breakfast don't you think." she said.
Break
"Hello Lavender," Harry said as his fellow housemate entered the great hall for breakfast.
"Have you gone to see Hermione?" Lavender said.
"No, why would I," Harry said.
"Because she is still in the hospital wing," Lavender replied.
"And I care about that liar because," Harry said.
"Hermione is not a liar," Lavender growled.
"Then why was she traipsing around as Johanna," Harry said.
"Don't bother Lavender, a loser like him wouldn't understand," Padma said, making her fellow Gryffindor's gasp.
"Harry is not a loser," Ron snapped.
"Yes, he is," Lavender pressed.
Parvati sighed pulling on Lavender. "Come on a loser like him wouldn't understand."
"I am not a loser," Harry finally said, glaring at the pair.
"A loser would not leave their friend unconscious in the medical wing," Parvati said.
"A friend wouldn't have lied to me and gone around masquerading as someone else to humiliate me," Harry said.
"He's got a point," Dean said.
"If that's what you really think then I have nothing to say to you," Neville said, joining the girls in leaving the table.
"Mind if I join you," Millie said.
"Millie," Neville said, glomming her. "Are you ok, when did you wake up, are you ok, and don't ever do that again."
"Neville's hugging me, Neville's hugging me, Neville's hugging me," Millie squealed internally.
"Um, Neville," Lavender said.
"I think you just broke Millie," Parvati added as Millie's head fell to the side her face stuck in a goofy grin.
"What…." he said slowly realizing what he was doing. "I'm sorry," he said, jumping back.
"I got a hug from Neville," Millie stammered as the girls helped her sit down. "Best morning ever," she said as the food was served.
"Well um, I was just you know worried and stuff," Neville stammered.
"No more worrying ok, and I woke up this morning and yes I remember everything," she said taking a spoonful of the dreaded Hogwarts breakfast porridge. A disgusting slop, that could be used as wallpaper paste, not that most magicals understood what that meant.
"Um Millie…." Parvati said.
"Yes," Millie replied.
"Are you sure you are ok?" Parvati asked as Millie ate the pale white gelatinous slop. The trio watched as the slop passed Millie's lips, her smile slowly vanishing as she slowly chewed on the porridge giving a full-blown frown before swallowing.
"Qu'est-ce que je viens de manger," Millie grumbled, grabbing a glass of water to hopefully wash the taste away.
"Maye not…." Neville said.
"Millie, I thought you knew not to eat that," Lavender said.
"What the heck is this," Millie said.
"Porridge," Neville said as Millie starred at the dish. "And you know what it tastes like."
"No, I don't," Millie said. "And it looks like Atole."
"What is Atole…" Parvati said.
"It's a Mexican…." Millie said.
"How can you not know what Hogwarts porridge tastes like," Neville said.
"I don't know…." Millie said.
"This doesn't make any sense," Neville said. "I thought you said you remembered everything…."
"I do but," Millie said, picking up an apple. "I wonder what this tastes like?" she whispered before taking a bite. "Crunchy, and sweet," Millie said.
"Millie, did someone try to obliviate you," Parvati asked.
"Yes," Millie replied.
"Seriously, WTF," Lavender gasped.
"It happens," Millie said looking down for a moment, her hair obscuring her eyes a dark look crossing her face. "But it will not be happening a second time."
"And if you could…." Neville said.
"Our lips are sealed," Lavender said. "Does this mean Hermione and Astoria were also…."
"Yes," Millie said.
"Do you think…." Parvati said.
"They'll be just fine, Hermione, no Johanna is much stronger than I could ever hope to be, and Astoria is stronger than she looks," Millie said. "I just wish I could figure out what the spell did to me."
"Oh, oh, I know that one," Lavender said, throwing her hand in the air.
"You do," the group said, their eyes focusing on Lavender.
"Um, well I think so," she said, shrinking down in her seat a bit.
"Is this a… or a…." Millie said, comparing the scent of two pastries.
"Your memory of what food tastes like has been removed," Lavender said.
"Wait what," Neville said.
"That doesn't make any sense," Parvati said. "Why would you want to erase Millie's memory of what things taste and smell like."
"It doesn't," Neville said, remembering the meeting.
"Actually, it does," Millie said.
"It does," they replied.
"Yeah I had this weird dream of fighting off a creepy old man by throwing all kinds of food at him. Only it wasn't a dream, that was me fighting off the spell by giving it something to delete," Millie said. "This is going to make cooking difficult for a while."
"How can you be so calm about all this," Lavender said.
"It could be worse, and we need to get to class," Millie said as the bell rang.
Break
"Tracy…" Daphne said to her friend as they paired up for potions class.
"Pansy would you like to be my partner," Tracy said, turning her back to Daphne.
"Ok," Pansy replied.
"Draco…." Daphne called out.
"Sorry, I need to make sure these idiots actually pass," Draco said, forming a trio with his lackeys Vincent and Gregory.
"Millie…." Daphne said softly.
"Did you say something masquerade," Millie said, turning her head slightly to look at Daphne over her shoulder.
"My name is…." Daphne growled.
"Ugh bien," Millie groaned watching as everyone else paired off. "But you'd better not screw this up idiote."
"I am not an idiot," Daphne hissed
.
"Then go get the reactants we need for today's potion," Millie said.
"Reacta what?" Daphne said.
"Reactants is a more technical term used to describe what we normally use to refer to potion ingredients," Millie said.
"Then why not just say ingredients," Daphne shot back.
"Because the term ingredients imply that they can be eaten and not every potion or potion reactants are edible," Millie said.
Daphne opened her mouth to speak only to be cut off.
"Correct 10 points to Slytherin Ms. Blustrode. While it is not something you worry about in 4th year potions, it is a very important concept to remember in later years," Snape said.
"Thank you, Professor," Millie said. "Now could you get the reactants," she said to Daphne waving her away.
"Fine," Daphne said in a huff heading towards the far end of the classroom only to freeze, slowly turn around and slowly walk back to Millie.
"I thought you were getting the ingredients," Millie said as she prepared their station.
"I am," Daphne said.
"Then why are you coming back empty handed," Millie said glaring at Daphne.
"What potion are we making today," Daphne asked.
Millie let out a long sigh rolling her eyes. "I am making the Booster Gold cleanser, you are simply my assistant now shoo and do not come back until you have the reactants," Millie said, shooing Daphne away again with her hand.
"It's about time," Padma said loud enough for Daphne to hear her as she walked by flinching at the words.
"Understatement," her partner Michael Corner replied. "But I shudder to think what Hermione is going to do once she wakes up."
"Probably turn Harry into a popsicle," Padma said.
"Wait what, what does Harry have to do with it?" Michael asked.
"Let's just say that Harry ran off when Daphne pulled her latest stunt," Padma said.
"I thought he was the poster boy for Gryffindor," Michael said.
"Appearances can be deceiving apparently," Padma said.
"Well she deserves a boy who can treat her right," Michael said as they got back to work.
"Hmmmm," Padma hummed making a mental note as they continued to work.
"Took you long enough," Millie said as Daphne returned, dumping the materials on the desk. "And don't just dump them there," Millie snapped.
"I didn't dump them, and what the hell crawled up your but today," Daphne snapped.
"Nothing, I simply didn't expect the great Daphne Greengrass to be so messy," Millie said.
"I am not messy," Daphne said.
"Whatever," Millie said neatly tying her hair back and out of the way. "Now use the distilled water transfiguration spell on the water and slowly bring it to a simmer while I prepare the ingredients," she said moving Daphne out of the way.
"Fine," Daphne huffed, unable to argue as Millie was one of the better students in potions and Snape praised her for her ability to prep ingredients.
"Gold leaf, royal water, kelp ash, aloe vera, coconut, honey, jojoba oil, bee venom, avocado," Millie said, organizing her space. "Professor Snape," Millie called out.
"Yes, Miss Blustrode," Snape said.
"Are we to prepare our own kelp ash. I asked because the Booster Gold Potion calls for it yet my partner returned with kelp." Millie asked, drawing a few stares.
"You can prepare kelp ash and still complete the potion," Snape replied.
"Yes, it's no trouble," Millie said, setting a frying pan on a stone block.
"Then please prepare your own kelp ash," Snape replied.
"Of course," Millie said as her knife clacked against the cutting board quickly dicing the kelp before putting it in a frying pan. "déshydrater cent pour cent," Millie said, waving her wand over the pan slowly drawing out droplets of water and directing them into a cup before setting it aside. "Salamandre," she said, directing a jet of fire from her wand directly into the pan.
"And you didn't do that in the first place because…." Daphne said.
"By dehydrating the seaweed beforehand, I can shorten the time it takes to make kelp ash," she said. "And I told you to bring it to a simmer not a boil." Millie said loudly.
"That is not the same Millie," Marietta whispered to Tracy.
"Understatement," Tracy replied, watching with a smile as Millie took charge. "But she is doing a nice job on Daphne, so I'll take it for now." She said as Millie continued to order Daphne around.
"Come on Millie I am not useless," Daphne said softly.
"Then why am I the one doing all the work," Millie said a little too loudly, smirking as a few more stares were directed at Daphne.
"You are not," Daphne said.
"Yeah she kind of is," Padma said to Michael.
"Can't argue with that," Michael replied watching Daphne flinch while giving Padma a low five under the table.
"Payback's a bitch," Padma whispered in Hindi.
"Fine, continue stirring this while I clean up, and try not to make a mistake," Millie said, handing Daphne a large spoon.
"It's just stirring," Daphne said, stirring the potion.
"Is very important, and can upset the balance of the potion," Millie said, moving away from the table for a moment. "Professor Snape, would you like the extra kelp ash?"
"Stupid Millie, thinks she's so smart," Daphne said stirring vigorously. "It's freaking potions, not cooking, I can just buy what I need anyway…." She grumbled as the potion stopped boiling. Without much of a thought she removed the spoon increasing the heat. "Come on…." she grumbled watching as Snape examined Millie Kelp Ash. "Seriously what the hell…." she said. "Crap got to keep stirring," she squeaked as the potion seemed to be solidifying.
Millie's eyes widened as she turned back towards Daphne. "Daphne what are you…." she said before the potion exploded out of the cauldron covering her in a gold gelatinous slop.
"EEEEKKKKKK!" Daphne screamed. "What the hell!"
"Calm down, the Booster Gold potion is a cleanser and it won't hurt you," Millie said.
"It won't," Daphne said, cleaning the goop out of her eyes.
"No, even if you were stirring it wrong," Millie said, leading her to a safety shower in the corner as everyone watched.
"I was not," Daphne said.
"I was stirring it counter clockwise and the potion should only be stirred in one direction. Instead of following my lead, you went in the opposite direction, which introduced more air into the potion. You then increased the heat to compensate which super heated it causing it to flash boil when you put the spoon back in," Millie said.
"I…." Daphne began to say as the shower activated washing off the potion and drenching her in the process.
Millie tried and failed to keep the smile off her face as the water poured down washing the remains of the potion and much more off Daphne. More than a few students gasped as Daphne's hair seemed to grow longer, reaching towards the floor before a snapping sound was heard and it fell to the ground with a large splat. The remaining hair barely touched her shoulders and was much darker with brown roots. Daphne's hands dropping to her sides, she gave everyone a good look at the freckles now dotting her face. Her face growing red as one of the Ravenclaw girls pointed at her.
"I knew she wasn't a real blond," a Ravenclaw girl said.
"I am…." Daphne said as a girl held up a mirror reflecting her drenched brown hair back at her. "No, no, no, not again, this isn't happening," Daphne said, running her hands through her hair squeezing the last of the blond color out, more hair falling to the floor.
"A belly on Daphne," Marietta said pointing towards Daphne's rounded stomach was no longer obscured by her sweater as its wet fibers stuck to her skin.
"Karma is a bitch," Padma added as Daphne slipped on the wet stone as she turned to run face planting into the floor with a loud flop.
Slowly Millie walked over moving to help Daphne up. "Come on get up you clumsy masquerade," she said before turning back to get her things as the bell rang.
"Professor I trust I will not be judged for my partners failings," Millie said.
"No, your excellent analysis of the mistake is more than enough to make up for any failings in the potion," Snape said before turning to Daphne.
"Thank you, Professor," she replied before skipping off.
"I swear I think even second years know not to do that," Padma added as Snape glared at Daphne.
"Millie, wait up," Padma said, calling out to her.
"Yes," Millie replied after they left the area around the potion's classroom.
"Did you?" Padma asked.
"Not entirely," Millie said. "I just made an advantageous situation and let the dice fall where they may," Millie stated. "I will say it turned out much better than I expected."
"I'll say," Padma chuckled.
Break
"72% complete," the spell said as several bookcases labeled English went up in flames with several more crumbling as she put out the flames.
"Crap…. Korbe," Hermione hissed. "This isn't gut," she said, as she found herself thinking randomly thinking in German
"It doesn't have to be like this," the spell said.
"Hell, it do," Hermione spat.
"How unfortunate," the spell said. "I believe what you meant to say was, the hell it does."
"Shut up," Hermione snapped.
"You are only making it worse on yourself," the spell said.
"Like letting you erase my memories is any better," Hermione said. "What else is their left to give," Hermione thought as she tried to surround the spell with walls of ice. "He's taken some of my English, math, and science from my summer classes, if I lose anymore," she whispered as the prison exploded, throwing her back.
"Commence spell completion," the spell said riding on a dragon made of snow. "Erasure of the persona known as Johanna." it said as Hermione found herself bound to the icy surface of her mindscape.
"No not like this," Hermione growled struggling against her bonds.
"This is for your own good," the spell said, firing off a jet of red-hot flames.
"No, it isn't," a brown-haired girl yelled leaping in the path of the flames. "There is nothing wrong with trying to change for the better," the girl yelled.
"Are you me," Hermione asked.
"More like I was you," the alternate Hermione said looking back at Hermione over her shoulder.
"But doesn't that mean," Hermione yelled as the flames slammed into them.
"You will still be you, just with a few less unpleasant memories," Hermione said as she faded as the flames died out.
"Memory erasure 100% complete," the spell said before fading as Hermione slowly fell unconscious.
Break
"Note to self-freeze Dumbledore's beard off," Hermione groaned as she slowly opened her eyes.
"Hermione…." Millie said putting her book down. "You're awake."
"How long…." Hermione said.
"Two weeks," Millie said.
"I take it you remember," Hermione said, looking at her friend.
"All of it," Millie said.
"What did you have to give up," Hermione asked.
"My sensory memory of the touch, taste, and smell of food," Millie said. "I can still cook. I just don't know what everything tastes like," She explained. "So, my food is not going to be the tastiest for a while."
"Could be worse I guess," she said, turning to see Astoria still sleeping.
"I am sure your sister will be fine," Millie said, placing her hand on Hermione's. "Did you lose anything?"
"Nothing important," Hermione said.
"Lost some English knowledge," Millie said.
"How did you know," Hermione said, putting a hand to her throat.
"The slight German accent was a dead giveaway," Millie said.
"Yeah, English along with some other subjects that I no longer need," Hermione said.
"Oh, good you're awake," Pomphrey said.
"Ja," Hermione replied. "And when can I leave."
"It's far to…." Pomphrey said as she felt something slither up her body.
"Hello, would you mind letting her go please," Steve hissed at Pomphrey.
"Bad Steve, bad, we talked about this, no slithering on people," Millie said. "That's a naughty snake."
"Danke," Hermione said, using the commotion to sneak away.
"I'm so sorry," Madame Pomphrey Millie said, finally getting the snake off her. "Steve just gets so chilled by these cold Scottish winters that he goes looking for the first warm place he can find," Millie explained.
"And what the bloody hell is he doing out of his cage," Pomphrey said.
"Pest control," Millie explained. "Steve liked to hunt, so I asked Mr. Filch if he could help him deal with the castle's rodent problem. Steve really likes rats," Millie said as Steve nodded.
Break
"Hermione you're awake," several girls called out as she returned to the common room.
"Hello girls," Hermione said, accepting the group hug.
"What happened, Snape said you fell," Sylvia said.
"Like we would believe that," Elizabeth snorted.
"Are you ok," Anna asked.
"Better than ever," Hermione said.
"But like why are you in your Johanna disguise," Belle asked.
"Who said it's a disguise," Hermione replied.
"But I thought…." Sylvia said.
"Hermione was the disguise, this is the real me," Hermione said.
"Interesting," Elizabeth said.
"Great I think Johanna is way better anyway," Anna said.
"Plus, we've got a new Hermione," Belle said, jerking towards Daphne who exited the dorms.
"Now that is something you don't see every day," Hermione whispered looking at a sullen looking Daphne with shorter brown hair. Her face picked up as she spotted Hermione quickly rushing over.
"Hermione are you…." Daphne blurted out only to be cut off.
"Halt," Hermione said sharply, her deep German accent and piercing blue eyes stopping Daphne in her tracks. "My name may be Hermione but you know full well I prefer to go by my middle name," she said holding up a hand her palm facing Daphne. "And I have nothing to say to a lugnerin like you." Hermione said her ice-cold voice freezing Daphne in her place.
"But…." Daphne stammered as Hermione put a hand on her shoulder.
"I thought you changed, I thought you were different, but it appears I was wrong, that is a mistake I will not make again," she said moving closer to whisper in Daphne's ear. "As my rival Jessica once said, if you mess with the bull you get the horns, and frankly I don't think your legs are ready for it Donnerschenkel," she said before walking away.
"What did you say!" Daphne called out only to be frozen with a look from Hermione.
"I said thunder thighs that I don't think you have what it takes," Hermione said.
"I do not have thunder thighs, fatty," Daphne snapped.
Hermione's eyebrows rose. "Really you want to go there."
"I am not the fat one around here," Daphne said.
"I couldn't care less who the fat one is," Hermione said looking around the room.
"So, you admit…." Daphne said.
"I admit nothing and I am more than willing to prove it, however unlike you, I have no interest in giving the boys a free show," Hermione said.
"What kind of girl do you think I am," Daphne growled.
"An arrogant self-absorbed hundin who talks the talk, and when the going gets tough, she runs crying to her mother like the spoiled brat she is," Hermione said.
"Well it's about damn time," a couple of older Slytherin muggleborns whispered as Hermione walked into the dorms.
"I am not," Daphne called out, marching after Hermione.
"And you are just going to allow this," Vainsley said to Liz.
Liz looked between Vainsley, Daphne, and Hermione. "I could solve my family's problem if I supported Daphne right now. She and by extension the Greengrass family would be in my debt. But at what cost, Millie and Hermione are nice girls, and never deserved the treatment they got. Mathew's always been there for me, and Millie's been helping me, even when I've been a real bitch. No, they helped me when I begged them for help. I can't just turn on them like that. This time I'm doing what's right, not what the family wants," Liz thought. "Hermione hasn't broken any rules, and it's about time she stood up for herself," Liz said.
There was a collective gasp from the room, as every stared at Liz, their jaws dropping. "What did you say," Vainsley snapped.
"I said, Hermione hasn't broken any rules, and it is far past the time she stood up for herself," Liz repeated.
"I agree," Mathew said.
"Oh, keep out of it, mudblood," Lev added.
"You know you keep talking about blood purity like having a Hapsburg chin or a Ptolemy nose is something to be proud of," Hermione said as the battle lines were drawn.
"I do not have a big nose," a red-faced Daphne said.
"You said it, not me, tomato face," Hermione said.
"You know her nose is kind of big," Sylvia said.
"You want to say that to my face," Daphne growled.
"Eep," Sylvia squeaked, ducking behind Hermione.
"That's enough, Liz said. "Why don't we all go to our rooms for a bit and cool off," she said, summoning up invisible air.
"You think that scares me," Vainley said. "Or did you forget what happened last time."
"I wasn't here last time," Mathew said.
"Hmph, we have a test to study for anyway," Lev said, pulling Vainsley away.
"Thanks," Liz said.
"What are friends for," Mathew said.
Break
"Shoo, go away," Harry said as a large majestic eagle landed in front of him.
"Isn't that Valefor," Lavender said.
"Go away dumb bird," Harry said as it pushed his breakfast away.
"Yes, and he is pissed," Parvati said.
"Just get Hedwig to do something," Ron said.
"Don't you think she tried that already," Harry said as Valefor shot a glare up at the rafters as Hedwig began to take flight before stopping and remaining on the beam.
"Just take the letter then," Ron said.
"Like hell it's from that liar," Harry said before Valefor pecked at him again.
"Valefor is Harry supposed to read the letter," Neville said, waiting as the bird nodded affirmatively.
"Not a chance," Harry said.
"Yeah, Hermione's just a dumb ugly snake," Ron added before Valefor began pounding his head.
"Will you let me read it," Parvati asked. Valefor paused before walking down to Parvati who took the letter and began to read.
Dear Harry,
I never lied to you, or tried to deceive you. My middle name is Johanna and I used it to try and stave off being bullied for taking remedial classes. After everything we went through, the stone, the chamber, being bullied for who we are, I thought you would be different, I thought you of all people would understand, but it seems I was wrong, you really are no better than your Uncle Vernon Dursley who I have had the displeasure of meeting. Your betrayal hurt me more than the so-called royal trio ever could have hoped for. I nearly lost everything because of your action and inaction. So much for the lauded bravery of Gryffindor, do not speak to me or even look in my direction again, as I consider you no better than them, I trust your feeble brain can realize who I am talking about.
"What did you do," Percy hissed glaring at Harry.
"Oh, lay off Percy," Ron said. "Who cares what a snake has to say."
"I care now shut up," Oliver said. "Do go on Parvati."
You are but a sheltered little boy who needs to grow up and see the world as it truly is, instead of letting others make those decisions for you. I once thought that I might be able to help you, but sadly I realize that you are incapable of taking advice from those who do not fawn over you. I do not fawn over anyone little boy, if you want my attention you have to earn it, and I have high standards, that I will not lower for anyone.
"Damn right she does," Angelina whispered to Katie.
Lucky for you, you are still young so perhaps you will grow up and become some small semblance of a man, I hope for your sake that you do. But I fear that the nine years of Hogwarts will not be enough for you Harry James Potter.
Respectfully,
Hermione Johanna Granger
PS- Ronald Weasley, your rat is evil and its days are numbered.
"Well who cares what some dumb snake thinks, and Scabbers is not evil," Ron snapped.
"I care what she thinks, Ron," Percy said, silencing his brother with a wave of his wand. "I know I can't do anything about how she is treated in Slytherin, but I will be damned if I let that kind of behavior happen in Gryffindor."
"How can you support that liar," Ginny added.
"Meh who cares what some dumb snake girl thinks, it's not like she was that pretty anyway," McLagan said.
"What he said," several others chimed in as the Great Hall grew silent.
The faint clicking of thigh high white heeled boots against stone could be heard as a girl walked down the length of the hall, shiny silver hair cascaded down slowly changing to blond as it hit her shoulders, which then began to transition to a rich brown color around the tips which ended at her waist. Her slim figure was undeniable in a short white skirt and purple long sleeve blouse. Her blue eyes took one look at the Gryffindor table before turning her nose up at Harry and looking away.
"Dude seriously you threw away a lady like that," Seamus said staring at Hermione.
"She isn't a lady, she's only 4th year taking 2nd year classes," Ginny said.
"She's got a point," Dean said.
"True, but calling her a girl seems inappropriate," Seamus said.
"Whatever, what does some 2nd year know anyway," Harry said looking towards Ginny.
"That's it I'm out," Neville said standing up.
"And where do you think you're going," Cormac said.
"None of your business, but I could use some more pleasant company, care to join me ladies," Neville said.
"Certainly," Lavender and Parvati said joining him.
Break
"Since when is your middle name Johanna," Daphne said looking at Hermione.
"Well I think it is a very pretty name," Sylvia said.
"Thank you, Sylvia," Hermione said, patting her on the head. "And I think your name is very pretty too," she added causing the 3rd year to blush and look away.
"Excuse me," Daphne said a little louder.
"Does this mean we should call you Johanna all the time now," Anna said.
"I would appreciate that," Hermione said.
"No problem," Belle said.
"Johanna," Liz said, hobbling over on her crutches.
"Ja," Hermione said, turning towards her.
"Apparently your schedules changed," Liz said, handing her a new schedule.
"A new schedule," Hermione said, taking the paper and scanning it.
"Are you finally moving up," Elizabeth said.
"No, it appears that all of my classes are to be second year classes," Hermione said.
"Why, you're easily the top of the year by far and should be moved up," Anna said.
"Il essaie de vous isoler," Millie said.
"Wahrscheinlich, aber er geht mich nichts mehr an," Hermione replied.
"Je suis d'accord," Millie said.
"Great, I have to learn French on top of German now," Liz said.
"Sorry Liz, we just kind of forget sometimes, and it is useful for when we don't want others to overhear," Millie said.
"Don't worry about it," she said.
"Come sit," Millie said, making space for her.
"Thanks," Liz said.
"Hey listen to me when I am talking to you," Daphne yelled, throwing a pastry at them, only to hit Liz on the side of the head, the red jam exploding all over her hair.
"Is there a problem Daphne," Liz said slowly turning towards her.
"No, I um…. Well…." Daphne stammered. "I was trying to get your attention."
"There are more appropriate ways of getting someone's attention than throwing food, little girl," Hermione said.
"I am not…." Daphne snapped.
"And yet your actions speak volumes, now leave us alone," Hermione said as Neville and the others joined them pushing Daphne further down the table.
"I am glad to see you are doing well, Johanna," Neville said.
"Come one let me help you clean that out," Millie said.
"Nah I got this, besides karma and all that," Liz said nodding towards Parvati before leaving on her crutches.
"Just how badly was Liz blown up," Hermione said.
"She let Mathew carry her to the infirmary," Sylvia said. "I think she likes him."
"Seriously, just what did I miss?" Hermione asked.
"Other than that, and Daphne's hair falling apart not much," Padma said.
"Johanna, I was wondering about those gems of yours," Michael said.
"What?" Johanna squeaked causing everyone to laugh.
"Sorry," Michael said as Padma elbowed him in the ribs.
"This is my fellow Ravenclaw Michael Corner, and don't worry he is one of the good ones," Padma said.
"Really Pad, I mean really and right after what happened," Lavender said.
"What, it's not like I can stop him from walking over," Padma said.
"But she just broke up with Harry," Parvati said.
"Wait what…." the other girls said.
"Ixnay on the Harry ay," Millie said.
"But he's like Harry Potter," several of the younger girls said.
"That may be, but the little boy has proven himself not worthy of my time, and I would rather not speak of him again," Hermione said before turning to Michael. "You said something about gems?"
"Right," Michael gulped as Hermione turned to look at him.
"Is something wrong," Hermione said pushing her hair back.
"Nothing," a blushing Michael said.
"Is something on my face," Hermione asked.
"No, I just, I…." Michael stammered.
"Use your words Michael," Padma said.
"You're really pretty," Michael blurted out.
"No, she isn't," Daphne grumbled looking down the table at the group.
"I'll give that she's no Tracy, but she's definitely better than you," Vainsley said.
"She is not," Daphne hissed.
"Don't worry about it, we still think you're pretty," Vincent said.
"Yeah, have a cookie," Gregory added, handing her a cookie.
"Um… thanks….I guess," Daphne said.
"Thank you," Hermione said softly. "And what was your question about gems."
"Oh, right," Michael said. "Are gemstones better at channeling magic than a wand, because I've noticed you've been using your gems more often?"
"You noticed that," Hermione said.
"I think we all noticed when you made a snow fort without your wand," Michael said.
Hermione's cheeks lit up. "Right, forgot about that," she said softly. "I had to use gems for that because my wand is being rather difficult right now," Hermione said softly.
"Your wand isn't listening to you," Michael said.
"Pretty much," Hermione replied. "And I have no idea why?"
"Interesting," Michael said.
"Am I about to become another Ravenclaw project," Hermione asked looking at Michael.
Michael froze a cold sweat running over him. "Um, no…." he stammered as Hermione giggled. "... I mean yes…." he finally said.
"Thanks," she said, pulling out her wand. "I'll take all the help I can get to find out why you aren't listening to me." she said glaring at her wand.
"Of course," Michael said. "So, what do you think of the color theory of the elements?"
"That is such a load of crap," Pansy said.
"Oh, go talk to Draco, Pansy," Hermione said before turning back to Michael.
"Don't you dare," Pansy said.
"Dare what," Hermione said.
"Just because you lost weight doesn't mean anything, rainbow head," Pansy said.
"Rainbow head," Hermione leaning her head to the side pulling her hair over her shoulder. "I'll give you its multicolored, but I don't see a rainbow," Hermione said.
"I'll give you a rainbow," Pansy said, drawing her wand. "Colovaria."
Michael tried to pull his wand in time but was too late as Hermione just smirked holding her hair out. The spell impacted the long silky strands with a shower tiny sparkles racing along her hair. Instead of the clownish rainbow hair everyone expected, the rich metallic color of Hermione's hair spread from her roots overriding the other colors except for the brown near the tips of her hair. "Warum danke Pansy," Hermione said, smirking as the blond growled and turned away.
"How did you do that," Michael said.
"That is a secret," Hermione giggled, wagging a finger at Michael as the bell rang ending lunch.
"So cute," Lavender whispered to Millie.
"It's about time she got to be happy," Millie replied.
"And I think someone is jealous," Padma said nodding her head towards Daphne.
"Good," Millie said smiling as Daphne stuffed another cookie down her throat before leaving. "I hope she gets nice and fat."
Break
"Ugh, still too early," Astoria groaned rolling over.
"Morning," Tarasque barked.
"Grim," Astoria squeaked, pulling the covers over her head.
"Now is not the time you stupid human," Steve hissed.
"What all I did was say good morning," Tarasque replied.
"While in your animagus form which is a big black dog, that looks like a grim you idiot," Steve said.
"Right," Tarasque whined as Steve slithered into the bed.
"Steve…" Astoria muttered looking at the snake in her bed.
"Yes," Steve hissed.
"My head hurts," Astoria groaned.
"It's ok," Steve hissed.
"Can you get my sisters," Astoria said softly.
Steve nodded sticking his head out from under the covers. "Human, go get Hermione and Daphne," Steve ordered.
"What do I look like…." Tarasque growled.
"Stop being a jackass, you dumb dog," Steve hissed.
"I am a human, remember," Tarasque barked back.
"I'll tell Millie," Steve said.
"I'll be good," Tarasque whined before leaving his tail between his legs.
Astoria didn't have to wait long before Hermione burst into the medical wing rushing to her sister's side. "You're awake, how are you feeling, are you ok," Hermione said.
"I'm fine Johanna," Astoria said as Hermione hugged her.
"I'm just glad you're ok Victoria," Hermione said.
"Sis, can I ask you something," Astoria said softly.
"Anything," Hermione said.
"Is that my first name or middle name, for some reason I can't remember," Astoria said.
While she kept up a smile, Hermione's heart fell at Astoria's words. "I… think… you should pick what name you think suits you best," Hermione finally said.
Astoria sighed. "I know you're right, but I was hoping…."
"Do you remember what happened to you," Hermione finally asked, letting go of her sister.
"Dumbledore tried to obliviate us, after we did something," Astoria said.
"That is what I remember as well," Hermione said.
"Then can you tell me why I have two mothers…" Astoria asked.
"Two mothers…" Hermione said looking her sister in the eyes.
"Yes," Astoria said. "I know it's a bit odd, but I remember Momma Emma, and Mother Catherine. Momma is very kind, but mother is…." Astoria shuddered.
"It's ok, I don't like her either and if it helps, I broke her ribs once," Hermione said.
"Really," Astoria gasped.
"Yes," Hermione said.
"So, I don't have to go back there," Astoria said.
"Only if you want to," Hermione said.
"Thank you," Astoria said.
"No need to thank me, we're twins after all," Hermione said.
"We are," Astoria said.
"Yes," Hermione said.
"I'm glad," Astoria said hugging Hermione.
"Good you're awake," Daphne said, marching into the infirmary.
"Hermione…" Astoria said looking between Daphne and Hermione.
"I am not Hermione, stupid," Daphne hissed.
"Daphne," Astoria squeaked as her sister stomped over stopping in front of the bed.
"What were you thinking, you stupid idiot," Daphne growled.
"I um…. Well…" Astoria stammered.
"Well maybe now you'll stop fooling around and…." Daphne yelled as an icy chill washed over her.
"And what Verräterin," Hermione said slowly standing and turning to face Daphne.
"Hermione!" Daphne said, taking a step back.
"You are the reason she is here," Hermione said.
"I am not," Daphne said.
"Yes," Hermione said, taking a step forward. "You," she added, taking another step. "Are," she said standing a mere inch from Daphne, nearly eye to eye with her bully. "I tried killing it with kindness, I will not make that mistake again. She is my sister, and I will not let you hurt her again." She said her eyes were as cold as ice.
"She is not your sister," Daphne said.
"Ha, as if I would listen to you, but if you must know, I don't see the family resemblance, or the famous Greengrass widows peak," Hermione said.
"Well…." Daphne began.
"That will be quite enough ladies," Pomphrey barked coming out of her office. "Astoria needs her rest!"
"Of course, my apologies for causing a ruckus," Hermione said with a curtsey.
"That's quite alright…." Pomphrey said. "Where is that crazy snake, I know he's around here somewhere…."
"He's right here," Astoria said, moving the sheets to show Steve curled up against her.
"No snakes in the infirmary," she said.
"I'm sorry, he was here when he woke up," Astoria said.
"It's alright I will take him back to Millie," Hermione said, extending an arm for Steve to coil around. "Would it be ok if Tarasque hung around so she has a familiar face."
"Dogs are ok," Pomphrey relented. "Now please let Astoria rest."
"Certainly," Hermione said, pulling Daphne along.
"But…." Daphne protested.
"Move it, thunder thighs," Hermione whispered harshly in her ear as she pulled her out.
"Tarasque can I ask you something," Astoria asked looking down at the dog.
"Sure," the dog said, jumping up on the bed.
"Is it wrong to wish that you weren't part of your own family," Astoria said. "I know I'm still technically a Greengrass, but my mom is like an evil stepmother who…." she stammered. "Does not tolerate failure or signs of weakness." Astoria whimpered as the tears began to flow from her eyes.
"But Emma Granger is a nice lady, and always tries to help me even if I'm not her real daughter." Astoria said hugging Tarasque. "Dan is a great dad, who always knows just what to do. They got me music lessons, instead of just throwing a book at me and telling me to do better. And I was, I even got to have a real concert, things were going great, but then…"
"Then what," Tarasque barked, nuzzling Astoria.
"Daphne ruined it, she squealed to Dumbledore about everything, and after Harry ran out, Daphne said everything was a lie, and then…." Astoria cried.
"Then what," Tarasque barked.
"He tried to obliviate us," Astoria said, hugging Tarasque tightly.
Break
"Tell me everything," Tarasque barked looking up at Steve, his eyes reflecting the moonlight as it filtered down into the Slytherin dorms.
"Why, you only seem interested in that Rat, and the Potter Boy," Steve hissed.
"You said it yourself, Millie is a nice girl, and from what I have seen none of them deserve to be obliviated," Tarasque replied.
"You won't like what I have to say about the Potter boy," Steve said. "And if any of what I am about to say leaks out, I will kill you," he added baring his fangs.
"It won't," Tarasque replied before Steve filled him in on the missing details.
"Argh," Tarasque groaned, putting his paws on his head. "He is far too much like his father when he was younger."
"Sirius Black, I presume," Steve hisses slowly moving out of his cage, eyes locked on Tarasque.
"It's not what you think," Tarasque said quickly, backing away. "Wait how did you know."
"Because I am not a stupid snake, human, and it wasn't hard to figure out," Steve said. "And it wasn't a bad plan hiding as a pet of the friend of the girl that Harry probably liked."
"What no it's not like that," Tarasque said.
"Then explain it to me and make it quick," Steve said.
"I didn't betray the Potters, Peter Pettigrew did," Tarasque said.
"I thought he was dead," Steve hissed coiling around Tarasque's leg.
"He's a rat animagus and faked his death," Tarasque blurted out.
"And did Pettigrew take the dark mark," Steve asked.
"I think so," Tarasque replied as Steve began to untangle himself from Tarasque.
"He is Ronald Weasley's pet rat," Steve said.
"I know that's why I came to Hogwarts," Tarasque said.
"At the next Hogsmeade Visit you will tell Millie everything or I will," Steve said.
"Yes," Tarasque gulped.
Break
Mutter, Vater,
I am angry, angrier than I have ever been. Angry at what has happened to you, angry at what was done to my friends, angry at what was done to me, and angry at what I allowed to happen to myself. Daphne, despite all of the kindness I have shown to her, has betrayed me. She told Dumbledore about my ruse to avoid bullying in my remedial classes. To make matters worse she outed me in front of Harry who ran off like a child. In my rage I attacked Daphne, after which Dumbledore tried to obliviate Millie, Neville, Astoria, and myself. While I did lose some memories of school prior to Hogwarts, his assault ultimately failed. Though I do find myself thinking in German more often and that Hermione is such a silly English name compared to a fine German one like Johanna. However, we can save that discussion for another time. I would also like to tell you that Astoria, no Victoria is doing well and remembers everything, but her memories are a bit fuddled thinking Catherine Greengrass is more of a scary stepmother than actual mother, and thinks of Daphne as some sort of sister or cousin.
I know you have always taught me to kill it with kindness, mother, but that is something I can no longer abide. Instead I prefer the motto of the old Holy Roman Empire, "Let justice be done." I am done playing games, and I will let justice be done.
Immer noch deine liebende Tochter,
Johanna
PS- Augusta Longbottom has taken over as our magical guardian in Mrs. Flamel's absence.
"I am going to," Dan growled slamming the letter down startling Valefor who flew to one of the rafters.
"Calm down," Emma said, putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Calm down, you want me to calm down," Dan roared.
"Dear I don't like it any more than you do, but we expected something like this might have happened," Emma said hugging his wife.
"I know," Dan growled. "But I can't just sit here and do nothing," Dan said. "You had years of your life erased, and that bastard nearly did the same to our daughters. I hate feeling so helpless."
"I feel the same," Emma said. "My anger is the only thing keeping me together right now."
"You are not helpless," Perenelle said entering the room.
"Perenelle," Emma said.
"Sorry, it took me so long, being stateless is such a pain," she sighed.
"No, it's fine, we're just happy for your help," Dan and Emma said.
"Good then you won't mind this," Perenelle said walking over to Emma.
"Mind what," Emma said as Perenelle slapped her cheeks.
"You have more friends, and power than you think, and I'm glad you're angry, just don't let it cloud your judgement," Perenelle said.
"I do," Emma said.
"We do," Dan said.
"Ugh, how can you be so freaking smart, and stupid at the same time," Perenelle sighed releasing Emma's cheeks.
"Well, they did erase…." Emma muttered.
"I wasn't talking about that, and it is something we can fix later, now sit down," Perenelle said
"You can undo…." Emma said sitting back down.
"Sadly, I cannot, but that doesn't mean I don't know a way to fix it," Perenelle said.
"Ok, but what's this about having more power than we know?" Dan asked.
"You're on a first name basis with the Prime Minister of Switzerland, have a direct line of communication with the German Prime Minister, plus the ear of the Mayor of Austria. You are a personal friend of the dwarves, fairies, the Tepes, Matou Blustrode families. Not to mention being friends with Charles and Diana," Perenelle said.
"But they're just friends, they wouldn't…." Emma said.
Perenelle ran a hand through her hair. "Now I know where your daughter gets it from."
"Hey," Emma protested.
"She's got you their honey," Dan chuckled.
"It's not like I can take Dumbledore down," Emma said.
"But that doesn't mean you have to sit idly by and let him do what he wants either," Perenelle said.
The loving couple sat silently for a minute, Dan beginning to smile as he spotted the growing smirk on his wife's face. "I doubt the British MOM will have much interest in investigating our attack, but that might change after Brian and Carly have an exclusive interview about it. That kind of publicity should deter them from trying again in the immediate future," Emma said.
"I would say that is an understatement," Perenelle said.
"That's entirely the point," Emma said. "At the same time, I will be thanking Augusta for looking out for my daughters, but that I would much prefer Magaret Blustrode to be their magical guardians."
"Why publicize that," Perenelle said.
"Because I am actually going to ask someone else to be her magical guardian," Emma said.
"Charles and Dianna," Dan said.
"No, Elizabeth," Emma said.
"Um, ok why, they don't have magic," Perenelle said.
"Given how enamored Daphne was with Princess Dianna, and the magical world's general obsession with royal titles, they must still hold the Royal Family in high regard, magic or not. Plus, Charles and Diana said that they know about magic, and still have some connections there," Emma explained.
"That makes sense, but outside of a few eccentric wizards and witches, France dropped the whole royal thing with the revolution," Perenelle said.
"I guess you would be the expert on that," Dan said.
"Lived, helped both sides, hated Robespierre, Napoleon was a jackass, and De Gaulle well he had his moments," Perenelle said.
"I can only imagine," Emma said. "Now about this about being able to fix being obliviated?"
"Fix, no, treat, yes, and you will certainly need treatment," Perenelle said.
"And what is this treatment," Dan said.
"In your case an outlet for your anger over everything," Perenelle said.
"That's it," Dan said.
"Dan you were able to guide the spell into taking small snippets of your life, so your brain had an easier time adapting to the holes in your memory. Do you remember everything about every single patient off the top of your head?" she said as Dan looked at her.
"No, but I don't…." Dan said.
"See your brain will naturally forget some things over time, a natural pruning of memories," Perenelle said.
"Which means he's not at risk for any confusion or false memories," Emma said. "But what does that mean for me, I can't just reinsert new memories to where old memories would be…."
"Actually, I have a potion for that," Perenelle said.
"You have a potion that will put new memories into where my memories of dental school and being a dentist would be?" Emma said.
"Yes, which means you are going back to school," Perenelle said.
Emma's jaw dropped. "Wait what…" Emma finally said.
"You heard me," Perenelle said.
"Yes, but I fail to understand how that will help me," Emma said.
"That is because between the potion and some spells, the new memories will replace the old ones," Perenelle explained.
Then that means I can't be going to graduate school again because there would be a mental paradox of having old memories of people I only met recently," Emma said.
"That is true, which is why it won't be a normal school," Perenelle said.
"You are going to teach her magic," Dan said.
"Not every magical subject actually requires magic, and I think between myself and Maria, we can figure something out," Perenelle said.
"I'll do it, but I have a few requests," Emma said as a minute of silence.
"And those are," Perenelle said.
"I want to learn German, and French, plus some lessons in economics and diplomacy," Emma said as Dan nodded along with his wife.
"Can I ask why?" Perenelle asked.
"I just have a feeling that they might be important later, and this way I can still be involved in charity work even if I can't help like I used to," Emma replied.
"I think I can arrange something," Perenelle said.
Break
Hermione,
Both your father and I understand your anger. While I would like to think that a Professor would not do such a thing, we both know that would be a lie. Rest assured though, your father and I will not be taking this lying down. I have already spoken to Perenelle and I will be working with her to treat my lethe curse. You have always had my full support to take the actions you felt were necessary, and that hasn't changed. However, I would like to remind you that the full quote is "Let justice be done, though the heavens may fall, and "An eye for an eye," may leave the world blind. I am not saying to not seek justice, just to make sure that your punishments are just and fair.
Your Loving Parents,
Mom and Dad
