Chapter 44- Falling

April 1995

Grangers Partially Obliviated

Yes, you read correctly Dan and Emma Granger were obliviated in their English residence last month. The details are still unclear, but an unknown assailant broke into their home and attempted to obliviate them before stunning them. Under normal circumstances the obliviate spell removes the memories as determined by the caster, and cannot be stopped if the spell lands on the target. However, Dan and Emma are good friends of the Dwarfs who provided them with passive protective charms on a watch and bracelet respectively. These charms activated when they were hit with the obliviate reducing the power of the spell. This combined with their quick thinking and mental fortitude allowed them to tell the spell which memories to take.

In the case of Dan Granger, it was just the memories of his problem patients and he wanted to reassure everyone that Granger Dental was still open for business. As for Emma she was hit not with an Obliviate, but the Lethe curse, which is a dark spell that wipes years of memories from a person. While there are some uses of the obliviate there is no useful reason for the Lethe spell to exist and the only reason it is used is to erase years of memories from a person potentially changing their personality and drive them insane as their brain struggles to deal with large gaps in memory.

"I do not know who you are, or why you tried to erase my memory, but you have failed. If you think losing my time in Dental School and my experience as a practicing dentist is going to stop me from being a mother to my daughters, or providing help to those in need then you are sorely mistaken. There is more than one way to help others, and as Thomas Jefferson once said, "I sincerely believe that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies." I might have the magical power of a loofa, but I have friends, and money, and I am not afraid to use them." Emma Granger.

As you can see Mrs. Granger is still herself and she is under the care of Perenelle Flamel, while taking lessons with Maria Tepes, and Franz Metternich the mayor of Magical Vienna. When asked about what they would be teaching her Maria Tepes had this to say.

"There is so much more to magic than just silly wand waving, and just because one can't power a spell themselves doesn't mean that you can't use or understand magic."

While might be considered heretical to some, Mrs. Tepes isn't wrong, as some of the more recent breakthroughs in Astronomy came from squibs, while divination has taken tremendous strides through the inclusion of mathematics. I think I speak for many when I say that I wish the Grangers all the best in their recovery and look forward to seeing what changes they may bring.

"You never said anything about obliviating her parents," Lupin yelled, slamming the paper down on Dumbledore's desk.

"What do you mean," Dumbledore replied before his eyes drifted downward to see the headline. "I see."

"See what," Lupin snapped. "You said you were just going to remove Hermione's secondary persona, not erase her family as well."

"It was necessary to remove their memories of their daughter's secondary persona," Dumbledore said. "I could not foresee the spell acting in the way that it did. Mind magics are a delicate branch of magic after all."

"True, but the Lethe spell…." Lupin said.

"Due to the presence of protective charms more force was needed," Dumbledore said.

"Fine, but I still don't like it," Lupin said. "Despite being a muggle, she has developed a positive image in the werewolf community."

"I was not aware of that," Dumbledore said.

"Yes," Lupin replied. "The talk of her being a friend to all children and treating everyone equally is not an act."

"And they do not care that she is pushing the limits of the statute of secrecy," Dumbledore said.

"Not when she is actively helping them," Remus said.

Break

"Millie," Hermione said as they made their way outside for cheer practice.

"Oui," Millie replied.

"Is it wrong for me to say that I am going to enjoy this?" Hermione asked as they walked.

"You have something planned," Millie said.

"Well I was thinking of upping the difficulty a little bit," Hermione said.

"What do you have in mind," Millie said.

"As you know I am not a fan of quidditch," Hermione said.

"Then why are you a cheerleader stupid," Pansy said.

"Because I like performing," Hermione replied.

"I wouldn't consider cheerleading anything like Swan Lake or Giselle," Pansy said.

"True, but that doesn't mean we can't have some kind of performance," Hermione said, catching their attention.

"But when would you do something like that?" Daphne said softly.

"You mean you don't know," Millie said, jumping on the opportunity.

"We can't just do a performance in the middle of the match," Daphne fired back.

"Really Daphne, even I know that," Pansy said.

"And she's blond," Hermione quipped.

Pany's head whipped towards Hermione her long blond hair smacking Daphne in the face. "I am not a dumb blond."

"You said it not me," Hermione giggled as Pansy scowled. "Anyway, there is the period before the game while the teams are warming up and everyone is entering the stands, and during the time outs," Hermione explained only for red faced Daphne's head to drop.

"Regarde le double menton," Millie said.

"Ja," Hermione said nodding.

"See I told you, Hermione was fatty," Cormac said.

"I guess you're right, I really thought she had lost weight," Harry said.

"Of course, she is, and you can do much better than some fat snake," Ginny added from where she hung off Harry's arm.

Hermione's fists clenched with rage, as Millie placed a hand on her shoulder. "Just wait," she whispered.

"I am not fat," Daphne snapped.

"Then why do you have a double chin, Hermione," Ginny said.

"I am not Hermione, my name is Daphne Greengrass, you poor ill-bred Weasley," Daphne snapped.

The prideful lions paused taking a second look at Daphne. Harry blinked, shaking his head before looking back at Daphne. "Sorry about that Daphne, I must need to get my glasses checked," he said before focusing on Hermione. "I don't know how I confused your Rubenesque beauty with that scrawny runt."

"I am not fat you stupid lion," Daphne yelled kicking him in the shin before storming off.

"What was that for, it was a compliment," Harry said hopping on one foot as he grabbed his shin.

"Daphne's an art dork, and knows about Peter Paul Rubens style," Pansy said, turning her nose up at him as she walked off.

"You deserved that for behaving like a child," Millie said.

"Like we'd listen from some stupid frog like you," Ginny said.

"The same could be said, for monolingual, tea guzzling, quidditch hooligan with bad teeth," Hermione said.

"Yeah well you're…" Cormac said as Hermione glared at him. "An ice woman."

"Real original Cormac, calling the German figure skater who grew up in the alps, an ice woman, so much for highly regarded British sense of humor," Hermione sighed. "Germans are not humorless, we just prefer to let others speak and provide the humor for us," Hermione said before walking away with a little extra pep in her step.

"Well that was unexpected," Hermione said as they moved to catch up.

"We already knew he was a jerk," Millie said.

"True, but…." Hermione said.

"I know he seems to have gotten worse lately," Millie said.

"That wasn't what I was referring to," Hermione said.

"Then what were you referring to?" Millie asked.

"How could he even think that I look like that faker," Hermione growled. "I don't even have the hint of a double chin, or hair like that," she said pointing towards Daphne's bushy brown hair."

"But you used to, and masquerade has been stuffing her face lately not to mention her hair accidents," Millie said.

"True, but that seems like a lifetime ago," Hermione said.

"Of course, but wouldn't it be a fitting punishment for little miss prissy pants tomato face I'm a countess Daphne Greengrass, to end up…." Millie began to say.

"A poor, stupid, fat, and ugly first-generation witch," Hermione said.

"Exactly," Millie said.

Hermione's smile brightened. "Melissa, I like the way you think."

"I thought you might like that, but my name is…" Millie said.

"I know, but ever since the obliviation, you've just felt more like a Melissa to me, and you were the one who picked it out, remember," Hermione said.

"No, I do like, and I do like Monaco, but I thought I," Millie said.

"You're not going crazy, you're just evolving," Hermione said.

"Then what does that make the masquerade," Millie said.

"She's just lazy, and a little slow," Hermione said. "Now let's do this." She said her smile grew as they joined the others.

"Alright ladies, we've been cooped up inside for the winter, so let's start with a run around the pitch to get the blood pumping," Liz said. "Let's start with 5 laps around the pitch."

"Hey Johanna," Mathew whispered as they got started.

"Yes," Hermione replied.

"I don't know exactly what happened that night, and I am glad that you are truly standing up for yourself now, and Liz is by no means innocent, but you could you…." he said trailing off.

"You really do care about her," Hermione said as they started to run.

"Well yeah who wouldn't," Mathew replied. "She's gorgeous, powerful, and underneath it all she really is a big softie. Did you know that she was my first friend when I came to Hogwarts?"

"No," Hermione replied.

"We met on the train, it wasn't anything like what you experienced but she said that it was beneath their station to pick on muggleborn students," Mathew replied. "On your left," he called out as they passed Daphne who was already working up a sweat as she struggled to keep up.

"Then why did she," Hermione said.

"That would be my fault," Mathew said.

"Your fault," Hermione replied. "How is it your fault."

"Well let's just say my defensive magic wasn't always this impressive. Don't get me wrong I gave as good as I got, but…." Mathew replied.

"It was still painful, and Liz put a stop to it," Hermione said.

"None of us knew it at the time, but she used invisible air to put a stop to it," Mathew said. "After that she said if she saw anyone was bleeding, and she wasn't the cause of said, then they would bleed."

"On your left," Hermione said as they passed Daphne again as she slowed to a jog sweating and breathing heavy.

"Shut up," Daphne groaned.

"Ok, but they why all of the maid crap," Hermione said.

"Well Liz was kind of a jerk," Mathew said.

"Really," Hermione said.

"Daphne, stop dawdling and run. Merlin, when did you get a pair of thunder thighs?" Liz yelled.

"I do not," Daphne replied as she tripped and fell into the grass.

"Ok, she is still kind of a jerk at times," Matthew said. "And just because she can turn them all into paste doesn't mean that they can't pressure her in other ways. Look I'm not stupid, and I know she's got some bad karma."

"You really are her friend," Hermione said.

"Yes," Mathew replied.

"Fine, I won't actively target her, but if she can't hack it then it's not my fault," Hermione said. "And you might want to talk to Millie."

"Why," Mathew asked.

"Millie's got this crazy idea on how she is going to make Liz her little sister or something," Hermione said watching as Millie ran side by side with Liz.

"It's not that crazy," Mathew said.

"Yes, it is," Hermione said.

"Ok, maybe it is but she got it from you, you know," Mathew said.

"What do I have to do with anything," Hermione said.

"Astoria, or should I say Victoria," Mathew chuckled.

"Whatever it was I didn't do it," Astoria's voice called out from behind.

"Victoria," Hermione yelled before stumbling into a cartwheel before returning to running. "What are you doing here!"

"Even though I'm just a manager Liz said I could train with you guys," Astoria said. "Now, if you want to blame anyone, you blame mother Emma, because she showed me what a real mom is like."

"On your left cousin," Astoria said as they passed a plodding Daphne.

"What…." Daphne gasped stumbling to a stop as Astoria rocketed past her.

Astoria spun around running backwards looking towards Daphne. "Come on cousin, get the led out, you're running like you were hibernating all winter."

"I am your sister you little brat," Daphne panted as she slowed to a plodding walk.

"You are," Astoria said.

"She is, Because I don't really see it," Mathew said with a wink towards the girls.

"Yes, I am, now get over here, you little shit," Daphne growled.

"I'm only littler than you where it counts," Astoria shot back, placing her hands on her hips. "Seriously cousin you need to get it together." She said before turning around.

"Stupid, Astoria you are not littler than me," Daphne grumbled as she looked at her defiant little siter, who took off her track jacket to tie it around her waist causing Daphne to freeze at the site of what appeared to be a trim waist while she could feel her own starting to bounce around on its own. "Well I'm still bigger where it matters." Daphne said to herself as her breasts ached from the extra movement the running caused.

"Why did I say 5 laps," Liz groaned as she finished the last lap at a slow jog.

"Because you said some of us might need it after hibernating all winter, and you wanted to get back into shape after lounging in the dorm for most of the last month," Millie replied as they stopped.

"It wasn't a question," Liz groaned as she caught her breath.

"What's next captain Liz," Hermione asked excitedly with a cheeky salute.

"Oh, come on, Johanna you could at least have the decency of acting tired," Liz said as Hermione just continued to smirk.

"That's because the German brat doesn't have any curves to speak of," Pansy said.

"Hey I am not a brat or flat," Hermione snapped. "I am zierlich which is better than flopping all over the place."

"Oh please, I am not flopping all over the place like Daphne," Pansy said as Daphne's eyes widened in shock arms moving to cover her chest.

"Ladies please, it doesn't matter if you have a little talent," Liz said nodding towards Hermione. "A good amount of talent," she said nodding to Pansy. "Or too much talent," she said nodding towards Daphne. "It's all in how you use it." she said, hefting her own chest causing Mathew to blush as a dopy look crossed his face. "But enough about that it's time to get to work. The Badgers made a pyramid, but I think we can do better."

Break

"I hate being fat," Tracy grumbled as she walked towards the back of the quidditch pitch. The corset hidden under the black and white outfit, cinching her soft waist into shape, while it's long skirt hid her still thick legs. "But I am getting there," she whispered as she carried a large case in her hands.

"Man, Daphne's gotten kind of chunky," Vincent said as they observed the girls cheer practice.

"So, she's a little chunky look at those breasts," Gregory said, watching Daphne flap her arms hopelessly as she attempted to do jumping jacks.

"True," Vincent said nodding in agreement. "But who's the silver haired girl?"

"I dunno, maybe that German girl," Gregory shrugged. "Hey what do you think about Millie."

"Her food's good, and she's cute, but…." Vincent shuddered.

"But what," Gregory said as Tarasque seemed to look in their direction.

"Her pets scare me," Vincent said. "It's like they are always watching us."

"Yeah, you never know where Steve is going to pop up," Gregory said nodding in agreement.

"What about Tracy?" Vincent said.

"What about me," a smirking Tracy said from behind them, the case sitting on the grass next to her.

"Gah, Tracy, when did you get here," the pair exclaimed crashing to the ground.

"Long enough," Tracy said, locking eyes with them. "So, what was it about me," she asked. "I know I am not a cheerleader…" she said leaning forward slightly, smirking as she saw their eyes move to her chest. "But I think I am as least as good as Daphne when it comes to my looks."

"Hee-hee, boobs," the boys chuckled.

"My eyes are up here gentlemen," Tracy snapped standing up.

"Sorry," the boys said as they stood up.

"And you're better than Daphne," Vincent said quickly.

"Yeah like way better," Gregory added.

"Thank you," Tracy said.

"But um, what did you want us out here for," Gregory asked.

"Well I thought we could help each other with something," Tracy said.

"You want to help us," Vincent said.

"Of course," Tracy said with a smile. "It's no secret that you want to be the new beaters for the quidditch team next year," she said, opening the case to reveal a pair of beater bats and a pair of bludgers.

"Yeah, but you don't play quidditch," Gregory replied.

"That is true, however I still think I can help you," Tracy stated.

"How?" Vincent asked.

"By providing you with a moving target," Tracy said.

"What are you nuts," they gasped.

"No, I am quite sane, see you two need practice hitting a moving target and I need to practice dodging and defensive spells," Tracy said.

"True, you did get your but kicked in defense," Vincent said.

"And it is kind of big," Gregory said as the wind blew drawing Tracy's long skirt tight against her posterior.

"Ahem," Tracy said. "Leaving the size of my posterior out of things, are you interested in some mutually beneficial practice?"

The pair looked at each other before replying. "Sure, but don't blame us if you end up a sweating mess."

"Of course," Tracy said, stepping back and pulling her wand as they went for the bats and the bludgers sitting in the case. "Now just so you know I can and will fling the bludgers back at you."

"But I thought only the beaters can hit the bludgers," Vincent said.

"That is not true, anyone can hit the bludger," Tracy said.

"They can," Gregory said.

"Yes, it's just no one is crazy enough to try punching a flying cannonball," Tracy said.

"Wait there was that one guy," Vincent said.

"Oh yeah that Indian dude, on the Cannons," Gregory said.

"Exactly so you need to be ready for anything," Tracy said.

"That's just like what Professor Lockhart said," the boys said.

"Good, so are you ready to do this," Tracy said.

"Sure, but don't say we didn't warn you," they said, each launching a bludger.

Their aim was lacking as Tracy easily dodged the first pass, but the boys quickly sent them flying back at her and Tracy was forced to jump to the side. "Not bad boys, but trying mixing up your timing," Tracy said as they both whiffed.

"What do you mean," Vincent asked.

"You are both hitting the bludgers towards me at the same time. Try and mix it up, that way I can't dodge one without worrying about the other," she explained.

"We never tried that before," Gregory said.

"Then give it a try," Tracy said, keeping an eye on the cheerleading practice going on inside the pitch.

Break

"When did cheerleading get so hard," Daphne thought to herself as she struggled to keep up with the others.

"It's not," Pansy said smugly.

"You do ballet, of course it's easy for you," Daphne shot back.

"Didn't you do a big race against Johanna," Millie said, keeping time as they moved their pom-poms in unison.

"I raced against Hermione, and I nearly beat her," Daphne said.

"Daphne, stop talking and get it together," Liz snapped. "You're not in time with the rest of us."

"That's not how I remember it, Hermione," Hermione said, turning her head towards Daphne. "I distinctly remember kicking your but, and there is a lot of it to kick," she added.

"Grrrrrr," Daphne growled gritting her teeth as she struggled to keep up before they switched up the routine waiving with their arms. "Please like you can kick anything with those thunder thighs, I let you win in Monaco," Daphne said.

"Really do these looks like thunder thighs," Hermione said before swinging her leg up into a standing split. "You didn't let me win anything," Hermione said looking up and down Daphne's larger figure. "You only kept up because, chunky, you had extra momentum on the downhills, but what really surprised me was how well your bubble but smashed through the ice barriers. Of course, I can take it all back if you can do this," she said switching legs.

"Anything you can do, " Daphne said, grabbing her knee as she tried to pull her leg up. "I…." Daphne hissed. "…." she said as she began to wobble.

"Cannot do at all," Hermione sang as Daphne fell to the ground, her but sticking up into the air.

"It really is a crude chunky but," Millie said, smirking as she looked at Daphne's posterior.

"It's called lush, and it's classy," a red-faced Daphne shot back.

"So lewd, just look at how it's bouncing around," Millie whispered to Hermione.

"I know, positively plebeian," Hermione replied.

"My but is not big and not lewd," Daphne snapped.

"If you have the energy to yell, you have the energy to do it right, now get your fat ass in gear tubby," Liz snapped.

"I am not fat," Daphne grumbled as they transitioned to jogging while pumping their pom-poms in the air in time with each other.

"Whatever you say menteuse," Millie said as Hermione picked up the pace. Pansy rolled her eyes but easily picked up the pace.

"I meant to get in time, not pick up the pace," Liz groaned her legs burning as Hermione took the lead as they formed a line.

"Come on get those legs up," Hermione called out.

"I am," Daphne grumbled wincing as she was assaulted by the sensation of the skin of her inner thighs rubbing together.

"Come on we're a cheer team," she said swinging her leg up until it hit her shoulder. Pansy smirked in response easily matching Hermione. Millie managed to get her foot up to the level of her shoulder while Mathew was a little lower. Liz grimaced, managing to hit just below her shoulder, her knee slightly bent. "Come on Daphne, I thought you were flexible," Hermione said, wincing as her leg barely passed 90 degrees.

"I am," Daphne grumbled.

"If that's the best you've got, it's a miracle you are still on the team," Astoria said, nearly matching Hermione.

"What are you doing, you're just the manager," Daphne snapped as Hermione leapt into the air and performed a picture-perfect toe touch.

"Too easy," Pansy said before performing the stunt.

"Just you wait Pansy," Hermione said to herself. "Nicely done, Millie," Hermione called out.

"Thanks, I've been practicing," she replied.

"Practice makes perfect," Mathew said, managing it, but not doing as well as the other girls.

"Ok Liz show us how it's done," Millie said after easily performing the trick.

A cold sweat began to run down Liz's back as they looked in her direction. "I um, think I'm going to sit this one out, captain's privilege," Liz stammered.

"But you're the captain," Millie said.

The leader of the team and if the leader doesn't lead…." Hermione added.

"Shit," Liz cursed as they looked at her as her legs felt increasingly like lead weights.

"Of course, if you want to make someone else the captain," Pansy said.

"When hell freezes over," Liz snapped as Hermione smiled. "It was a figure of speech." Liz said, quickly shooting Hermione a look who just tilted her head to the side and smirked. "Fine," Liz huffed, taking a deep breath before bending deep in the knees and jumping as hard as she could. At the height of her jump her legs shot out, a slight break in the knee before coming back down. "Eep," she squeaked as her foot slipped on the grass dropping her right on her posterior with a thump.

"Not bad, but the landing needs work," Hermione said tapping a finger against her arm as she looked down at Liz who was flush with embarrassment.

"Bloody crutches," Liz grumbled slowly standing up.

"That's a lame excuse," Daphne muttered.

"I'd like to see you try," Liz said, turning her ire towards Daphne.

"I think we all would," Hermione said.

"Fine," Daphne snapped.

"Better watch out for the grass cousin, you never know when it might reach out and bite you," Astoria said motioning towards Liz whose cheeks grew redder.

"I'll be fine," Daphne said.

"Then hurry up and get on with it, we don't have all day," Millie added.

"Alright already, stop rushing me," Daphne snapped. "Merlin it's just a simple trick," she muttered, bending her knees to jump.

"I'd like to see Hermione get her fat ass in the air," Hermione said to Pansy loud enough for Daphne to hear as she began her jump. Distracted by the comment Daphne's jump became more of a bunny hop as her limbs flailed before she landed on her back with a loud splat. Daphne could only stare at the sky in shock as her limbs flopped to the ground next to her.

"And the fatty went boom," Pansy chuckled.

"You were saying," Liz said.

"Actions speak louder than words," Astoria added.

"I just slipped that's all," Daphne snapped, scrambling to her feet.

"There are no do overs in figure skating," Hermione said.

Liz sighed. "Look everybody gets one."

"Fine," the others said, rolling their eyes.

"I can do this," Daphne said to herself as she marched to a better spot.

"Yeah, yeah, that's what they all say," Hermione said.

Daphne growled glaring daggers at the smirking Hermione. "Jump and do a split, jump and do a split, this is easy, nothing to it," she muttered, bending her knees for the jump. With a silent prayer Daphne's legs snapped into action pressing down hard as she swung them out to the side as she reached out to touch them. Sadly, however she forgot to wait until she was airborne as her legs flew out from underneath her dropping her hard on her posterior with a meaty thump. The sound echoing across the empty quidditch pitch as her face once again turned red. "A nightmare, this has to be a nightmare, it's not possible, this isn't me," Daphne muttered.

Hermione leaned over viciously pinching Daphne's cheeks.

"Ouch!" Daphne screamed. "What the bloody hell was that for?"

"It's not a dream," Hermione said. "Now let's get back to work."

"Right," Liz and Daphne said, trepidation growing in their minds.

"So, what is next," Millie asked, looking at Liz. Sure, she wanted a cute little sister to, but her karma was still out of whack and needed some balancing.

"I um…." Liz stammered as her mind went blank. Normally they just went over whatever cheers they planned to do and practiced a few stunts.

"How about we take a break and try the human pyramid Hufflepuff did at the last game," Mathew said.

"Oh, come on that muggle thing," Pansy said.

"It's not that bad, and besides you'll probably be on top," Hermione said.

"Well if you insist and you better not drop me," Pansy replied.

"We won't," Millie said.

"Now if we are going to do this right," Hermione said.

"The heaviest girls should be on the bottom," Daphne chimed in.

"Then that means, Mathew, Daphne, and myself are on the bottom," Liz said.

"Hey…." Daphne huffed.

"Can it Greengrass, Pansy, Hermione, and Millie are all smaller than you," Liz said.

"They are not," Daphne muttered dropping to her hands and knees. She went stiff as she felt a hand grab her ass giving it a hard squeeze feeling the soft flesh compress as a weight bore down on her arms.

"It really is lush," Millie said in French.

"And it's not done growing yet," Hermione replied in German, Daphne's beet red face going on unseen as they assumed their position over her.

Break

"Note to self," Tracy hissed, ducking and rolling out of the way as one went for her head and other to her feet. "Don't do this while wearing a corset," she muttered as the stiff corset cut into her soft flesh.

"You ok Tracy," Gregory called out.

"I'm fine, I just wore the wrong outfit for this type of thing," Tracy replied.

"We can stop if you want," Vincent said.

"No, I'm ok, but I am going to switch to using spells to block the bludgers instead of dodging. So, keep them coming, big boy," she said winking at him.

"You got it," they said as Vincent slammed the cannonball in her direction.

"Protego," Tracy called out, swiping her wand in front of her as the bludger raced towards her. A resounding clang rang out as the padded metal ball slammed into her shield visibly denting it before she pushed it back, her shield snapping back to normal as it was flung away. She barely had time to smile at her success before the second one came smashing through her weakened shield as she spun to the side.

While the boys didn't want to smash Tracy, they also loved a challenge and breaking her shield isn't like actually breaking her. The pair looked at each other before hitting the bludgers with all their strength directly at her.

"Protego maxima," Tracy yelled, drawing a pentagram in the air in front of her with her wand. The red head grunted funneling her magic into the spell as the cannon balls impacted. "I will not yield," she growled as they pushed her back several feet before falling to the ground. "I win," she groaned, falling to the ground, the cannon balls laying on the grass in front of her as the boys ran over.

"Tracy, are you ok," Gregory said.

"I'm alright," she said slowly standing up. "But I think that is enough for today," she added.

"Ok, we just, you know, didn't want to push you too hard," Vincent said.

Tracy smiled. "That is very kind of you boys," Tracy said, but I am tougher than I look," Tracy said. "And I would prefer it if we kept this training just between us, ok" she added, giving each boy a peck on the cheek, before slowly walking away.

"Ok," the pair said with a dopey grin on their faces.

Break

"Ok, I think that's enough for today," Liz finally said slowly standing up on trembling legs as Daphne fell over flat on her back.

"Finally," Daphne thought her chest heavy as she stared up at the sky "Pansy…." she eventually called out looking towards her friend.

"Hey Pansy, I know some good stretches from figure skating that could help you in ballet," Hermione said.

"And what makes you think I want anything to do with you Hermione," Pansy said.

Hermione just cocked an eyebrow at Pansy. "Um Pansy you didn't hit your head or anything because I'm Johanna, Hermione is laying over there," Hermione said pointing towards Daphne.

The blond slowly turned her head to look at the thick girl laying on the ground chest bouncing with each breath. The girl's short brown hair is a frizzy mess as she flopped over to her stomach. "Right what was I thinking, confusing you two," Pansy said before joining her.

"Pansy, my name is not Hermione," Daphne said panting.

"Did you hear something," Millie said, joining them.

"This isn't happening, I'm popular not an outcast," Daphne muttered looking at them.

"Come on, Daphne, help me clean this stuff up," Liz and Mathew said, pulling her away.

Break

"You wanted to see us Professor Meloi," Hermione and Astoria asked, coming up to him after class.

"Yes, Johanna, Victoria" he said, surprising her.

"But I'm…." Hermione said as the professor sealed the room.

"Ladies, I am not blind, deaf, or stupid. It wasn't hard to figure out what was really behind your extended absences in my class. I also know that whatever happened it didn't work and you are trying to keep that a secret," he explained.

"You know," Astoria gasped.

"It wasn't hard to figure out what happened after reading the interview your mother gave, and well this also helped," he chuckled, laying down newspaper on his desk.

Mermaid Times

Oblivation at Hogwarts

The Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is the premiere magical school in Britain and its colonies from around the world. It also ranks as one of the top 5 magical schools in all of Europe, the equal of schools like Bexaboms, and Durmstrang. The headmaster is the illustrious Albus Dumbledore who is the Supreme Mugawump of the International Confederation of Wizards and Britain's Chief Warlock. Thus, I was shocked, no, appalled to hear that several students were reportedly obliviated at the school. The obliviate spell is not an easy spell to use, and it is one whose knowledge is restricted at least in many of the European Countries over fear of its misuse. In fact, in Denmark, the spell is only taught by a select few who actively research mind magic and the oblivators meant to enforce the statute of secrecy. And it is a spell never used on children due to the risk of causing death of personality. The names of some of the students involved are being kept secret for their privacy and safety, but I can tell you that it was attempted on 4 students, of which 3 of them have had some memory loss, two of which were Johanna and Victoria Granger. Each a rising star in their perspective fields of figure skating and music. One has to wonder just what is going on in England where such a loving family is being ruthlessly targeted for simply trying to make the world a better place.

Carly Anderson

"Mutter," the girls sighed.

"I take it this is true then," Professor Meloi said.

"More or less," Hermione replied.

"And I take it the obliviation failed," the professor asked.

"More or less," Astoria said

"I see," the professor said slowly, standing up to reach out and pat both girls on the head. "Rest easy girls, Dumbledore will learn nothing from me," he said as the girls looked up at him.

"Really but," Hermione said.

"Your concern is admirable, but it is the teacher's job to care and nurture their students' developing intellect, and having you stuck in classes far below your ability level is a waste of your time and ability," Meloi explained.

"Danke, but I don't think…." Hermione said.

"What Dumbledore and McGonagall don't know won't hurt him," Meloi said, stunning the girls.

"Professor, what are you going to do?" Astoria asked.

"Sorry girls this time it is you who will be doing all the work," Meloi chuckled. "I hope you don't mind another project Johanna."

"No professor," Hermione said.

"Good, because I've already made arrangements," Meloi said.

"What sort of arrangement," Hermione asked.

"The kind that keeps you from getting bored, and will potentially drive an old stick in the mud a little crazy," Meloi said.

"I'm in," Astoria said. "What do you need me to do professor?"

"Count me in as well," Hermione added.

"Excellent," he said, interlacing his fingers as he looked at the girls. "As of now the only classes you will physically be attending are 2nd year Potions, Charms, and Transfiguration," he said.

"What about?" Astoria asked.

"Magic theory, herbology, history, and flying," Hermione added.

"You will be on independent study," Meloi said.

"Independent study…." the girls said.

"Yes," Meloi replied. "I want each of you to research and conduct an independent study on some aspect of magic."

"You mean like a science experiment," Hermione asked.

"Yes, you could call it that," Meloi said. "This is different from the project Professor McGonagall gave you. I am not interested in seeing what sort of magical feets you can accomplish but in how you further the understanding of magic. That is of course if you are still up for that sort of thing."

"Is the pope catholic," Astoria said.

"I look forward to seeing what you come up with," the professor said, handing them a pass.

Break

"What is it about balls that are so darn fun," Sirius thought in his animagus form as his tail wagged excitedly.

"You want the ball," Elizabeth giggled holding up a ball in front of Tarasque who barked. "Yes, you do," she said, moving it back and forth.

"Yes, I want the damn ball," he barked, jumping for it as Elizabeth kept it just out of reach.

"Ok, Tarasque," Elizabeth said, cocking her arm back and throwing it. "Go fetch!" she yelled as the big black dog raced after it. "That's a good boy," Elizabeth laughed as Tarasque returned with the ball only to see it thrown again.

"Maybe it's because I've stayed as a dog for so long," he thought, feeling more excited than he had in years running back and forth chasing after the ball, playing with Elizabeth Le'strange and the other young Syltherin students. "Or maybe it's nice knowing I have another relative who isn't a raging lunatic or monster."

A large splat, and a torrent of laughter tore everyone from their fun as Sylvia landed face first in a large puddle of mud, where there clearly hadn't been a puddle of mud before. "Now you look like the dirty snakes that you are," a young redhead cackled as several others joined in on the fun.

"Hey that wasn't very nice," Elizabeth called out.

"What isn't not our problem that you slither around on the ground like that," a red headed girl added.

"We do not," Sylvia cried out as she slipped and fell back into the puddle with a splat

"What the ever-living hell is this is bullshit," Sirius growled moving between the lions and their prey.

"We'll tell…." Anna said.

"And who will believe you," Harry said. "You are all a bunch of liars to begin with."

"We are not," Belle added.

"And yet you are friends with the biggest liar of all," Harry said.

"Johanna is not a liar," Elizabeth said.

"Her name is Hermione," Harry growled.

"Ok, seriously Harry you might be James and Lily's son and my godson but you are being an ass," he barked. "Right, still a dog, of course he wouldn't understand me," he thought before walking up to them and raising one of his hind legs. "But this should do it," he barked before urinating on the group.

"Gah, what the hell is your stupid dog doing, that's disgusting," Ginny screamed.

"No, that's a bad Tarasque, no going to the bathroom on people even if they look like fire hydrants," Millie exclaimed, rushing over from the greenhouses. "Bad, no Tarasque snacks for you," she said quickly, pulling him back. "That's a good boy, extra peanut butter for you tonight," she whispered in his ear.

"That's right, I am a good boy," Sirius barked happily as the group ran off.

Break

"Not bad," Vincent said nodding appreciatively as Daphne entered the common room.

"That's right I still got it," Daphne said to herself adjusting the hair band she was using to reign in her increasingly bushy hair.

"Yeah, Hermione is looking pretty good today," Gregory said, causing Daphne to stumble and slam into the back of a chair.

"Clumsy much," Vainsley chimed in.

"I am not clumsy," Daphne snapped. "And my name is Daphne," she said looking at the boys.

"Right, sorry, Daphne, I just have trouble with names sometimes," Vincent said.

"Just get it right next time, stupid," Daphne hissed standing up.

"Now that's a little harsh calling them stupid, considering they didn't get kicked out of Runes, or are taking remedial potions," Lev said coming to their defense.

Daphne paled, frozen in shock as the words sunk in, while the rest of the dorm turned in her direction. "So, the rumor is true," others began to whisper. "Nice to know she's normal like the rest of us."

"Tracy, I love your outfit," Vainsley said as Tracy joined them in the common room wearing a green dress with a black corset that emphasized her chest while the skirt billowed outward over her hips creating a slimming effect while enhancing what curves she had.

"Thank you Vainsley," Tracy said standing next to Daphne, her outfit making her look ever so slightly slimmer, a fact that didn't go unnoticed by Daphne.

"Oh wow," Vincent and Gregory said, blushing a little as Tracy winked at them while Daphne deflated a little more, her eyes darting around the room before she left.

Leaning over she whispered to them. "Vincent, Gregory, thank you," she whispered.

"We…. um…. Were…. Just repaying the…. Favor," they stammered.

"Stupid, boys, those idiots wouldn't know pretty if it smacked them in the face," Daphne grumbled as she stomped through the castle. "And who the hell does that fatty think she is." she muttered as she arrived at the great hall plopping down next to Pansy. "Good morning Pansy, can you believe what Tracy."

"Bonjour Pansy," Millie called out, causing Pansy to turn her head quickly whacking Daphne with her long blond hair.

"Good morning," "Pansy replied.

"Gah," Daphne sputtered with a face full of hair.

"It looks pretty windy out there today, would you like me to braid your hair?" Millie asked.

"Sure," Pansy said.

"Excusez-moi," Millie said shoving Daphne over to make room.

"Hey, what do you think you are doing Millie," Daphne exclaimed. "I am sitting here."

"Relax there is plenty of room, even for a thick girl like you," Pansy said as Millie got to work.

Face flushed with anger Daphne slammed her hands on the table standing up. "I am not fat; do you see a belly here?"

"A bauch, no, however you are wearing a corset underneath your outfit," Hermione said standing next to her in a sleek sleeveless red dress with white pinstripes, black skirt with thigh high heeled boots, highlighting her slim athletic figure, in stark comparison to Daphne's growing softness. "That being said there is nothing wrong with being a little zaftzig."

The brown-haired girl couldn't help but stare at the silver haired beauty standing next to her, growing more apprehensive as the seconds turned into minutes. "When did she get so skinny, pretty, and her hair," she thought, looking Hermione over as more of her hair had taken on a silver color, only shifting to brown after it passed her shoulder blades. Her apprehension soon gave way to anger and jealousy as she remembered what she used to, no still looked like, this was just a phase it had to be. "I am not fat, and I am just waiting for my growth spurt," Daphne finally said smiling as she stood rose up on her toes slightly standing ever so slightly taller as she crossed her arms under her chest. "Then I'll be just like Johanna…." Daphne muttered as her eyes shot open. "No wait what am I thinking, I don't want to be like that muggle upstart…" she thought a horrified look on her face.

"Waiting more like having a growth spurt only it's more out than up, cousin," Astoria said joining in.

"I am not short, and I am not your cousin," Daphne snapped.

"True, you are not a midget," Astoria said standing next to Daphne, her heels and hair pulled into a bun making her look even taller than she was. "But you are shorter than me," she said tilting her eyes down to look Daphne in the eyes.

"You are not," Daphne said, trying to stand tall.

"Stop standing on your toes," Millie said.

"I am not," Daphne said.

"Yes, you are," Pansy said, shooting her a look.

A deflated Daphne rocked back on her heels slumping in defeat looking ever shorter next to Astoria.

"And done," Millie said as Pansy looked at her long blond hair as it was all pulled back into a simple braid that exposed her entire forehead.

"Thanks," Pansy said as a ray of sunshine seemed to glint off of the exposed skin of her forehead.

"Gah, Millie, what the hell did you do, Pansy's forehead looks huge," Daphne said.

"How rude," Hermione said brushing Daphne aside as she moved towards the stunned Pansy.

"But it is," Daphne said.

"I thought a member of the nobility knew better than to make fun of someone's physical appearance," Hermione said. "And no Pansy your forehead is not big in the slightest, in fact I think it is kind of cute."

"You think so," Pansy said.

"Of course, I wouldn't have styled it that way otherwise," Millie said.

"I'm sure Draco will like it," Astoria said. "So, go get him," she said pushing her towards him.

"It does look kind of big though," Hermione said in German.

"Totally," Astoria replied. "And you did that on purpose."

"Maybe…." Millie giggled in French.

Break

"Ok, Millie, we're in Hogsmeade, now what was it that you wanted to talk to us about?" Hermione asked as they walked to Hogsmeade.

"Not yet," she said as they broke off towards the shrieking shack.

"Scary," Elizabeth said looking up at the large abandoned house.

"Don't worry it's not haunted," Tarasque barked, rubbing up against her leg.

"It is certainly out of the way," Astoria said.

"Which makes it a good place to not be overheard or seen," Millie said as they walked inside.

"Are you sure about this," Elizabeth said. "You're not going to….."

"You are our friend Elizabeth," Millie and Hermione said hugging her. "And according to Steve this involves you to," Millie added.

"It does," Elizabeth said.

"Yes," Millie said.

"Millie what is going on," Hermione asked.

"Apparently, Steve says that Tarasque has something very important to show us, and to try and not over react," Millie said.

"Alright, go ahead Tarasque," Hermione said as the dog walked a few steps away from them and began to transform.

"What the…." the girls gasped as the big black dog turned into a scruffy looking man with scraggly black hair.

"It's not what you think," the man blurted out as his legs were frozen to the floor, vines wrapped around his arms, as the air began to swirl around him.

"Then why don't you tell us what this is, Sirius Black," Hermione said.

"I thought I told you not to overreact," Steve sighed.

"Reflex," Millie said, dismissing the vines.

"But he's Sirius Black he…" Elizabeth said hiding behind Hermione.

"I'm innocent," Sirius blurted out. "Look I wasn't the Potter's secret keeper, we just made everyone think I was to keep the real one secret."

"And the real secret keeper," Hermione said.

"Peter Pettigrew," Sirius answered.

"Who is conveniently dead, at your hand according to the official records," Hermione said.

"He faked his death," Sirius said.

"Your proof," Hermione said.

"They only found his finger and if I had blown him up, pieces of him would have been all over the scene," Sirius said.

"How did he escape," Astoria asked.

"He is a rat animagus, and probably escaped into the sewer after cutting his finger off," Sirius answered.

"And yet you were thrown in prison," Elizabeth finally said.

"Without evidence, and no trial. When I said I killed them I meant my plan had led to their deaths," Sirius said.

"Why escape now," Millie asked.

"Because…" Sirius said looking at Hermione.

"You now know where Peter is and you want to protect the little boy," Hermione said.

"Yes," Sirius said sadly. "But I want you to know, had I been there Johanna I would have done everything in my power to prevent what happened. Dumbledore's actions were inexcusable, and to think that my old friend Remus Lupin would have played any part in it, is beyond the pale."

"Thank you, Sirius Black," Hermione said.

"And his actions since then have shown that he is far too much like his father at that age," Sirius said.

"So that's why you," Elizabeth gasped.

"Yes, and besides your family," Sirius said.

"We are," Elizabeth said.

"Yes, your mother is my cousin, and I am proud to say that you fall far from the family tree," Sirius said.

"I do," Elizabeth said.

"Yes," he replied.

"Peter Pettigrew is Ron Weasley's pet rat," Millie said.

"He is," Hermione and Astoria said.

"Yes," Sirius said. "Wait, how did you?"

"Steve wants to eat it, and he has good instincts," Millie replied, patting his head.

"I buy that," the girls said.

"I know I am asking a lot especially after what happened, but I can't let him kill my godson," Sirius pleaded.

"Peter is not after him," Hermione said.

"He's not," everyone gasped, staring at Hermione.

"Scabbers has been the Weasley family pet for years, and has had access to the child's since his first year, and he hasn't killed him yet," Hermione said.

"True," Sirus said. "But that doesn't mean I'm going to leave him there."

"Agreed," Millie said. "Plus, where would I be if I didn't clear Tarasque's name."

"I may not like your godson, but you've been a good boy since Millie saved you," Hermione said.

"That's right I am a good boy," Sirius beamed.

"You have been spending too much time as a dog," Astoria deadpanned.

"Now as I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted, is that justice delayed is justice denied. And I don't like the idea of anyone connected to Voldemort running around the school" Hermione said.

"Thank you," Sirius said.

"Don't thank us yet," Astoria said. "We still need to have a talk about your peeping."

"Bad, Tarasque," Millie said smacking him on the nose with a newspaper. "That's a bad dog, no peeping on girls."

"In my defense I did try to run away each time," Sirius said.

"Bad, Tarasque no skipping bath time, you stinky dog," Millie said, smacking him again. "Don't worry I've got this, and you need to get going or you will be late for your date," Millie said.

"It's not a date," Hermione and Astoria shot back.

"Wait what," the pair said looking at each other.

"Marcus asked me to go on a walk with him," a blushing Astoria said.

"Michael asked me to meet him for lunch," an equally red Hermione stated.

"Well he better treat you right or else," the girls said in unison.

"They really do look like sisters," Sirius said looking at the pair.

"Well duh they're twins," Millie said as they left.

"If you say so," Sirius said.

"I do say so, and it's time we made some new rules Tarasque," Millie said looking him in the eye.

"Yes, Millie," Sirius snapped.

"Good boy," Millie said.

Break

"Astoria," Marcus called out waving as he walked over.

"Marcus," Astoria replied.

"You look, wow, when did you get taller," he said, giving her a more than appreciative glance.

Astoria couldn't help her pale skin slowly turning a nice shade of pink. "Thank you."

"So, um, what have you been up to," Marcus said as they turned off the main street.

"Nothing, much it's just been a little crazy since…" Astoria said.

"Right your fall," Marcus said as Astoria grew quiet. The birds chirping as they wandered down the empty streets. "Did I say something wrong," Marcus finally said.

"No…" Astoria said softly. "It's just…."

"Complicated," Marcus said.

"You could say that," Astoria said.

"Do you want to talk about it?" Marcus asked.

"I don't know," Astoria said thinking of Harry.

"Well when you're ready, I'll listen," Marcus said.

"Thanks," Astoria said tentatively, grabbing his arm.

"No problem, that's what friends are for, right," Marcus said.

"Right," Astoria sighed.

"Why don't we sit down for a bit," Marcus said, leading her to a park bench.

"Ok," Astoria said, taking a seat.

The pair sat silently enjoying the tranquil sound of birds singing. "Liz isn't over working you as the manager of the cheer team."

"No," Astoria said. "And actually, I've been doing workouts with them."

"Really, that's awesome, are you going to try out for the team next year," Marcus said.

"I think it will be sooner than that," Astoria said. "Daphne's kinda gotten…."

"Bigger," Marcus said.

"You noticed," Astoria said.

"Not really, I care more about what a girl thinks, and does, than what she looks like," Marcus said. "But dumb and dumber have been talking about her growing talent."

"We call them humpty and dumpty," Astoria said.

"Also, accurate," Marcus said. "But yeah your sisters really changed this year. That's enough about her, how are you holding up. It seems like there has been a lot on your mind.'

"You could say that," Astoria replied.

"I won't pry, but if you need to talk, I'll listen. Merlin knows you've helped me a lot with Victoria," he said as the silence returned.

"Say Marcus," Astoria said softly looking down at her hands.

"Yes," Marcus said.

"What would you think if someone you knew, wasn't exactly what they appeared to be," Astoria said.

"Well that depends I guess," Marcus said.

"On what," Astoria said nervously.

"Well like are they the same person, or are they secretly evil or something," Marcus said.

"It's not like that," Astoria said, turning red.

"Then I guess it doesn't really matter as long as they are the same person," Marcus said.

"Even if they said they were someone else," Astoria said.

"Yes," Marcus said smiling at her.

"Even if you thought they were two different people," Astoria said.

"Yes, Astoria, even if you are not really Daphne Greengrass's little sister Astoria, and are really Johanna Granger's sister Victoria Granger," Marcus said as Astoria's eyes widened in shock.

"You know," Astoria gasped. "When did you find out…"

"The recent three-week gap in letters, the fact that despite being a fan you are never around when Victoria is around. How Johanna has been over protective of you, the fact that you don't really look like Daphne, and well you look just like her," Marcus said.

"And you're ok with this," Astoria said.

"Well I'm not gonna say it isn't a little weird, but we see stranger stuff in Hagrid's class and you've been the same funny, kind, girl since I've known you. Now I just get to hear your lovely voice more often," Marcus said.

"You're not mad," Astoria said.

"Why would I be mad?" Marcus asked.

"Because I…." Astoria said as something clicked in Marcus's mind.

"That stupid bloody idiot of a Gryffindor," Marcus sighed running a hand through his hair. "And is he the reason you…." Marcus said.

"Partially," Astoria said.

"Relax," he said, putting an arm around her. "I am not mad at you, and your secret is safe with me."

"Just like that," Astoria said.

"Well yeah," Marcus said. "1- it's the right thing to do, 2- I trust you, 3- Johanna would freeze my balls off if I did anything to you."

"Hee-hee, that's the least she would do," Astoria giggled.

"Good to know," Marcus said. "So do I call you…."

"I don't know," Astoria said. "What do you think?"
"Honestly, what I think doesn't matter," Marcus said.

"It doesn't," Astoria said.

"What matters is what you think, who do you want to be," Marcus said.

"Who do I want to be," Astoria said softly. "I want to be Victoria Granger, I don't want to be Astoria Greengrass, all Catherine and Daphne ever did was call me a spare. Dan, Emma, Johanna, all they ever did was try and support me, for being me, not the spare. I am Victoria Granger, and I am my own person," Astoria leaning against Marcus as a gentle breeze blew across the park.

"Well that is different," Marcus thought as the roots of Astoria's hair began to turn blue.

Break

"Michael," Padma, Parvati, and Lavender said, surrounding the unsuspecting boy.

"Ladies," Michael replied.

"Johanna is a nice girl," Lavender said.

"You had better treat her right," Parvati said.

"Or else," Padma finished.

"Girls, please I am sure Michael knows that this is just a nice lunch with a friend, and not a date or anything of the sort," Penelope said walking up to them.

"Penelope our table is ready," Percy said, joining them.

"You are having lunch at the Three Broomsticks," Michael said.

"Yes," Percy said.

"Oh boy," Michael said.

"Crap here she comes, cheese it," Lavender said as the girls raced off.

"Time for lunch I suppose," Percy said as Penelope took his arm.

"Hey wait, …." Michael called out.

"Sorry, I took so long, Millie wanted to show me something and it took longer than I expected," Hermione said as Michael gave her a blank look. "Hello earth to Michael," Hermione said, waving her hand in front of his face.

"So cute," Michael muttered causing Hermione to freeze as her pale skin broke out in a full body blush.

"Really, I mean I know I'm not ugly, but…." a wide eyed Hermione muttered hands on her cheeks.

"Whoever said you're ugly is an idiot," Michael said.

"They are," Hermione said looking at him.

"Well I certainly wouldn't call Daphne paragons of intellectual prowess," Michael said thinking of potions class.

"That is true," Hermione giggled as her blush slowly faded.

"Hey so what is this project of yours that I've been hearing about," Michael said.

"Which one," Hermione replied.

"McGonagall gave you another one," Michael said as they went inside.

"No, Professor Meloi," Hermione said.

"Really, I didn't take him for a stick in the mud," Michael said.

"No, it's an independent research project," Hermione said.

"Well if you ever need any help," Michael said.

"Thanks, and I might just take you up on that," Hermione replied as they took their seats.

As they walked Michael saw Percy making a series of gestures looking between Percy and the chairs. "Here let me get that for you," Michael said quickly, pulling out her chair.

"Danke," Hermione said as Michael helped her into her seat.

"You're welcome," Michael said.

"You wanted to hear about my project for Professor McGonagall," Hermione asked.

"Yes, there have been some rumors going around Ravenclaw," Michael said.

"Honestly I don't see what the big deal is, all I'm doing is upgrading the outdoor recreational facilities a little bit," Hermione said.

"Johanna, Hogwarts doesn't have recreational facilities," Michael said.

"I know that's the beauty of it," she replied. "Because I only have to worry about the greenhouses, stables, and quidditch pitch I have a lot of leeway."

"True, but how," Michael said.

"Magic," Hermione giggled.

"I walked into that one didn't I," Michael laughed.

"Ja," Hermione said.

"But I have to ask, how are you going to build everything because transfigurations are not permanent?" Michael said.

"Only if you transfigure a substance into another substance," Hermione said.

"True, but you couldn't possibly…." Michael said as Hermione pulled out a diamond.

"Michael, it's an open secret that I practice gem-based magic," Hermione said. "Which isn't cheap."

"True, but still," Michael said.

"Relax, the dwarfs are giving me a good deal, and Victoria, and I did some modeling for Volupsa over Christmas so I think I'll be ok," Hermione said.

"Well let me just say that I can't wait to see it," Michael said.

Chapter 44.5

April 1995

"You know for being on a self-imposed vacation," Dan said as they ate breakfast.

"We still ended up really busy," Emma finished.

"But you know, it's not so bad," Dan said.

"It really isn't," Emma said.

"Almost feels like home," Dan said.

"That it does," Emma said. "But I never imagined we'd own a second home."

"Me neither," Dan replied as the phone rang.

"Hallo," Emma said, picking up the phone. "Gutten Morgen Ulrich, Es ist kein Problem,

ein problematischer Patient, das klingt schlecht, ja, ich werde es ihm sagen, bitte."

"Who was that," Dan asked.

"Ulrich would like your help with a tricky case, the patient's wisdom teeth are close to the inferior alveolar nerve," Emma explained.

"I don't know why he needs me when you…." Dan began to say before trailing off.

"It's alright," Emma said, hugging him.

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

"Dear, what's done is done, and nothing I can do will change that," Emma said.

"But they," Dan said.

"I know," Emma said. "But we'll never be able to move forward if we keep looking backward, and just because we aren't working in the same building doesn't mean I still can't meet you for a bread and butter lunch."

"It's nice to know some things never change," Dan said, returning the hug.

"You can erase my memories, but you can't erase the love that you and the girls have etched on my heart," Emma said, kissing him.

"I think we ought to save the rest for lunch," Dan chuckled, giving her a squeeze.

"Spoil sport," Emma giggled.

"The sooner I start the sooner I'll be done," Dan said. "And I thought you said you had a meeting today."

"Yes, but I still have some time," Emma said.

"You know you never told me what it was about," Dan asked.

"Nothing too important, Claus is a little busy and wants me to handle a few things for him," Emma said.

"What sort of things," Dan asked sneaking a glance at his wife in a short skirt.

"Just a few financiers, and such," Emma said.

"Emma, are you doing international finance and diplomacy," Dan said.

"Maybe…." Emma giggled as her skirt slipped a little lower on her waist and yet it still seemed to be too short showing off more leg than he could remember.

"Well aren't you being daring today," Dan said.

"Oh please, I'm more than prepared to deal with them," Emma said.

"I wasn't talking about your meeting," Dan smirked, glancing down at her legs.

"Look I know it's not ideal, but it's the best I've got right now," Emma protested. "And seriously why does Lichtenstein love to shrink my clothes. It must be something in the water."

"Emma, I don't think it's your clothes that are changing," Dan said.

"Come on not again," Emma sighed as Dan pulled her in front of a mirror.

"I dunno, I kind of like it," Dan said as Emma gave a frustrated sigh as she swished the knee length skirt that was not anywhere near her knees back and forth.

"I do too, it's just," Emma finally said.

"Different," Dan said.

"Understatement, I mean seriously when did you get so buff," Emma said, placing a hand on his chest.

"I guess the girl's healthy living rubbed off on me," Dan said.

"Ditto," Emma said.

"And it makes this so much easier," Dan said, no longer having to crane his neck as he leaned over slightly to kiss his wife.

Emma returned the brief kiss. "That it does, but I guess it means I have to go clothes shopping again."

"Have fun," Dan said.

Break

"Sorry for foisting this off on you," Claus said, handing Emma a stack of reports.

"Really it's no trouble at all," Emma said. "Is this still about the new banking regulations."

"Yes," Claus said.

"The goblins are causing a fuss," Emma said, flipping through the reports.

"Unfortunately," Claus said.

"I'll call Thormir and see if he can send someone to sit in," Emma said. "Do you mind," she said pointing to his phone.

"Not at all," Claus said, moving so Emma could make a call.

"Emma Granger for Thormir please," she said. "Guten Morgan Thormir, Ja, bitte. I have a meeting with the Goblins and a few others over some suggested changes to banking secrecy. No, I don't think they'll try anything, but some moral support would be nice. It's my first time doing this so I wouldn't mind a friendly face. Bahahaha, that's because most people don't look past the surface to see the inner beauty of dwarfs."

Break

"This is inexcusable," a goblin yelled storming into the room.

"Good morning, Mr. Ragrok," Emma replied.

"If you think," Ragrok said, marching right up to Emma.

"Mr. Ragrok this is meant to be a cordial discussion about proposed banking regulations, so do please sit down," Emma said.

"What right does a squib have to tell the goblin nation," Ragrok said.

"I prefer the term non-adapt thank you, and I highly suggest you stop making a scene, because it is not helping your case," Emma said as Ragrok realized he was not alone in the room.

"Good morning Ragrok, you are as fiery as ever this morning, battle in all things really is the Goblin way," Thormir said.

"Yes, well it's always best to keep your opponent off their game," Ragrok said.

"Perhaps, but I find it much easier if people can just talk things out as equals," Emma said, offering him a chair.

"Weak," Ragrok muttered.

"There is nothing weak in wanting to come to a mutually agreeable position," Emma said.

"That just means you've given up," Ragrok muttered in goblin.

"I believe my throwing arm would state otherwise Mr. Ragrok," Emma replied in passable goblin.

"Impossible," Ragrok gasped. "Only a few non-goblins know how to speak…."

"Right, now, let's get down to business," Emma said with a smile. "It seems the matter at hand is the recent changes to Lichtenstein's financial regulations."

"You are upending practices that have been well established for generations," one of them said.

"That is true, it will cause quite the shift in the market," another person said as others nodded in agreement.

"Please be more specific Mr. Perkins, which market are you referring to, the European, or global market," Emma said.

"Both," the man said.

"That is interesting," Emma said, turning her head slightly to look at him directly.

"Are you not concerned about how new regulations could up end the entire industry," Mr. Perkins replied.

"I am, but I fail to see how Lichtenstein's financial service sector which has a value of around 6 billion swiss francs, 600 million of which is from the magical sector will impact a global market of nearly 6 trillion swiss francs, with 600 billion coming from the magical community," she explained. "That means Lichtenstein makes up around 1 tenth of 1 percent of the market."

"Yes, but the swiss are also considering adopting some of the regulations," another one added.

"True, but that would be a question for the Swiss, would it not, Elenora," Emma replied.

"Yes, and it is true we are considering adopting some of the proposed reforms, we are not ready to adopt all of them," she stated.

"This is unacceptable, you are changing what has worked for centuries, and will cause a panic," an older gentleman said.

"A panic for who, the common man, or for rich old money elitists who have long since forgotten what made them great in the first place," Thormir said.

"What standing does a dwarf have in this meeting," Mr. Perkins said.

"Mr. Perkins, much like the Goblins, the dwarves run their own banking system, and as such have every right to be in this meeting," Emma said.

"They will do what they are told," a young man said sharply before Thormir, and Ragrok glared at him.

"Mr. Rosier, neither Thormir, or Ragrok are unruly children that need to be put in their place, something that could be said about you and your unruly behavior young man," Emma said.

"What right does a mere squib have to tell me what to do," Rosier replied.

Emma sighed. "Mr. Rosier you are free to do whatever you please with your life, but that does not include hiding dangerous and stolen objects in my country's bank vaults."

"What about Lichtenstein's secrecy laws," Mr. Perkins said as others murmured in agreement.

"Those laws were meant to protect people from unreasonable government requests and seizures, not as black hole where you can squirrel away ill-gotten gains," Emma replied.

"Are you accusing me," Mr. Rossier said.

"I am not personally accusing you of anything Mr. Rossier, but I have a very dim view of individuals who rob others and then use my country to hide their ill-gotten gains," Emma said.

"A country that you are not a citizen of," Mr. Perkins said.

"And who decided that," Emma said. "The people of Liechtenstein see me as family and I in turn see them as family."

"And is currently acting on their behalf in an official capacity," Elenora said.

"Thank you Elenora," Emma replied. "Now as I was saying under this new regulation if it is discovered that the property being stored in a Liechtenstein bank account is stolen it will be returned to its rightful owners, and the holder of the account will have their legal assets returned to them, and lose the privilege to do banking in Liechtenstein."

"Then I demand the return of Fragarach," Ragrok said.

"Ah yes the McRemitz family heirloom," Emma said.

"It was made by goblins and belongs to us," Ragrok said. "To give the sword to anyone else is a breach of Goblin law."

"Ah yes, the infamous Goblin rules or ownership," Emma said.

"Yes, it is Goblin law," Ragrok said.

"And Goblin is applicable to Goblin territory," Emma said.

"Yes," Ragrok replied.

"Just as how Lichtenstein law applies only to Lichtenstein," Emma said.

"Of course, Ms. Granger," Thormir said.

"Now do correct me if I am wrong, Mr. Ragrok, but it is my understanding that the Golbins have no bank or physical presence in Lichtenstein," Emma said.

"We do not," Ragrok replied.

"Then I do not see why I have to apply Goblin law in my country when I do not demand you apply Lichtenstein law in yours," Emma said.

"That…." Ragrok sputtered.

"You are of course free to take your case to Ireland, but as of right now, Lichtenstein is legally in the clear, and personally I feel honored to return a properly purchased family heirloom to its rightful owners," Emma said.

"A sentiment I agree with," Elenora said. "And something Switzerland is beginning to think about implementing as well."

"Excellent," Emma said. "And what about the proposals on tax havens," Emma said, getting the meeting back on track.

Break

"Dan it seems I over booked today, would you mind," Ulrich said.

"Sure, no problem," Dan said as they finished up the wisdom teeth extraction.

"Thanks," the old dentist said. "By the way I heard about the dreadful business you and your lovely wife had to go through, and while there isn't much I can do. I would like you to know that if any of your clients wish to come here to see you, that you are more than welcome to use a room or two, free of charge."

"Thank you, Ulrich, and while some of my patients may just force me to take you up on that, I couldn't possibly use your facilities free of charge," Dan replied as they let the nurse handle the rest.

"Nonsense, you and Emma are like family," Ulrich said.

"Thank you, Ulrich, that means a lot to us," Dan said.

"You're welcome," Ulrich said. "And if you don't mind me asking what has the rest of your family thought about what happened?"

Dan paused giving Ulrich a thoughtful look. "What do you mean, the girls know and are absolutely furious about it."

"Oh," Ulrich said. "I see…. I am sorry I thought…"

"Relax, both Emma and I came from rather small families who had kids late in life and our parents died just after we graduated high school, so there is no real extended family to speak of," Dan explained, unaware that they were standing within earshot of the waiting room. "We both wanted a big family as a result and well I guess it just wasn't in the cards."

"Momma," a little boy said.

"Yes, Hans," her mother said.

"Why did Mr. Granger say that he doesn't have a big family," Hans said.

"…." his mother said.

"Because he has all of us right, you always said we're like one big family," Hans said loudly.

"It's not exactly that simple Hans," his mother said.

"Why," Hans said looking up at his mother. "Johanna's really nice to everyone and even teaches people how to skate like a big sister."

"Yeah, and Victoria sang to us in the park one time," a pair of nearby twins added.

"And this one-time Emma," a woman said.

Break

"Good morning Emma," Belldandy said as Emma entered her shop.

"Guten Morgen," Belldandy Emma replied. "How have you been?" she asked in German.

"Great, and your German is coming along well," Belldandy replied.

"You think so," Emma said in German.

"Yes, your accent is much smaller, and you've moved beyond simple greetings," Belldandy said.

"When in Vaduz," Emma chuckled as they conversed in German.

"Of course," Belldandy giggled. "So, what can I do for you today."

"I'm tired of living out of my suitcase," Emma said.

"I see," Belldandy said. "And the fact that you…."

"Is it that noticeable," Emma said.

"Only a blind person would miss it," Belldandy said, walking to the front of the store and flipping the sign to closed.

"Really, it's not that big of a deal," Emma said.

"Now come on, take off that frumpy sweater and show me what you've got," Belldandy giggled.

"Ok but no laughing ok," Emma said.

"And why would I do that," Belldandy said.

"Because I'm still a little chunky," Emma said, finally removing the sweater.

"You…" Belldandy said gapping at her friend who was maybe a little soft in the stomach, and thick in the thighs, evident by the loose fit of the jeans around her waist and a little tight in the legs, but she was by no means chunky. And any extra flesh there was more than made up for by her chest which was straining the limits of her bra. "Are…." she said, noticing the cuffs of the jeans were up around her ankles. "An," she said, looking at hair that didn't have a single gray hair amongst the golden strands. "Idiot," she yelled, smacking her on the back of the head.

"Hey what was that for," Emma protested holding the back of her head.

"That for being a dummy," Belldandy ranted. "You are not chunky, you are curvy, and you look great for your age," she said. "You just think you're fat because you were the wrong stuff most of the time."

"I do," Emma said.

"Yes," Belldandy said.

"Now what have you been up to, you look fantastic," Belldandy said.

"Just some yoga, and running oh and I've been taking some dance lessons with Mina," Emma said.

"Oh…." Belldandy said.

"Yes, Maria and Perenelle said exercise would help with my recovery, and well it seemed like fun," Emma said. "And Dan is taking some dance lessons too, so we can…." a blushing Emma said.

"Certainly, you've got dancing before," Belldandy said.

"The tango," Emma said.

"Oh my," Belldandy said.

"Don't get me wrong Dan and I have a very healthy relationship, and I know that he loves me for me, and his eyes have never once glanced elsewhere," Emma said. "But just once…"

"You want to get his blood pumping with your body and not your mind," Belldandy finished.

"Yeah, do you think I can," Emma said softly as Belldandy began to laugh. "It's not funny…."

"Emma, Emma, Emma, I think you're going to excite more than just Dan by the time we're done," Belldandy said, placing her hands on her friend's shoulders. Emma didn't know if she should be scared, excited or both as she looked at Belldandy's smiling face reflected back at her.

Break

"Sorry for the wait Mrs. Muller…." Dan said walking into the waiting room and promptly dropping his clipboard.

"We'll come back later," she said as Dan continued to stare.

"Dan…. you're staring," Emma stammered blushing furiously as Dan's jaw dropped while Mrs. Muller shuttled the rest of the patients out.

"Emma…" Dan finally said.

"Is it bad," she said softly nervously shifting back and forth on her brand-new black knee-high boots, her hips swaying provocatively.

"You're gorgeous," Dan said slowly walking over to her, taking in the thigh length sweater dress his wife was wearing, a dress that fit her every curve. Curves that his hands were eager to explore as he put his hands on her hips. "And did you do something with your hair?"

"The girls always wear it long so I thought I would give it a try," Emma said softly. "Is it bad."

"It simply adds to your womanly charms," Dan said.

"Hee-hee," she giggled like a schoolgirl, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear.

"And is that a new dress," Dan said his eyes lingering on how the dress accentuated her bust.

"Yes, do you like it," Emma asked.

"Very much so, it looks like it was made for you," Dan said.

"Not quite but it is a new line from Belldandy," Emma said.

"You finally decided to upgrade your wardrobe," Dan said.

"Yes, I was getting tired of living out of a suitcase," Emma said.

"Good, you deserve a little pampering for all your hard work," Dan said.

"So, then you won't mind if I did a favor for Belldandy," Emma giggled.

"What sort of favor," Dan said.

"That's a surprise, and I still can't believe it myself," Emma said.

"Dan, go take your lovely wife dinner and dancing," Ulrich chuckled.

"Ulrich," the pair yelped.

"Sorry, about this," the pair said.

"Not at all, it's not every day you get to see the woman you married again for the first time," Ulrich said.

"Was it that obvious," Dan said.

"It was the same look I had when I met my wife over a century ago," Ulrich said.

"You're a…." Dan and Emma gasped.

"Yes, while I am not all that great with a wand, I have enough magic for a long life and making a few potions useful in dentistry," Ulrich said.

"But certainly magic," Dan said.

"Dentistry is actually far more advanced on the non-magical side outside of a few things," Ulrich said. "But we can talk more about that side of the practice later, right now you need to take your lovely wife out on the town."

"But you're…." Dan said.

"Yes, I'm booked full and maybe a little behind, but it's nothing I can't handle, now go and enjoy getting to know your wife for the first time all over again," Ulrich said pushing them out the door.

"Hanna, you can tell Belldandy operation tango is a go," Ulrich said.

"Belldandy, I repeat operation Tango is a go," an old woman said into the phone.

Break

"It is so different from Britain," Dan said as they strolled along the quaint streets of magical Vaduz.

"True, and yet…" Emma said, leaning up against him.

"It feels like home,'' they said together.

"Enjoying a walk with your husband I see," a woman called out from a nearby shop.

"Yes," Emma smiled. "And how are you doing Mrs. Becker.

"Just fine thank you," she said. "Are you on your way to the river."

"Yes, despite how long we've been here, we've yet to see it," Dan said.

"How lovely, there is nothing better than enjoying lunch by the river," she said. "In fact, wait right here," she said, disappearing back inside. Dan and Emma just shrugged and waited for her to return carrying a large picnic basket. "Here take this," she said, holding out the basket.

"Oh, no we couldn't," Emma said.

"I insist, it is a perfect day for a picnic by the river," she said, forcing it into their hands.

"Thank you very much," Emma said, taking the basket as they continued on their way.

"Alexandra, they are headed for the river," Mrs. Becker said into the phone as Dan and Emma walked off.

Break

"How about there," Dan said pointing to the base of a tree within view of the river.

"Wunderbar," a smiling Emma said, placing the basket down and pulling out a blanket.

"Mrs. Becker sure knows how to pack," Dan said, marveling at everything Emma was pulling out.

Emma giggled. "Silly it's expanded on the inside," Emma said, spreading out the blanket.

"Right magic, forgot about that," Dan said popping the cork on a bottle of white wine. "A Lichtenstein wine, this is interesting,'' he said filling their glasses.

"To Lichtenstein then," Emma said holding up her glass.

"To Lichtenstein," Dan said as they clinked their glasses, smiling as they took a sip.

"Not bad," Dan said.

"Much better than the British wines we used to drink," Emma said.

"Not to mention the food," Dan added.

"Well British cuisine is something of an oxymoron," Emma chuckled.

"Got that right," Dan added as they enjoyed a late lunch.

"Dan can I tell you something," Emma said.

"Sure, honey what is it," Dan said.

"I like it here," Emma stated.

"I do too," Dan replied.

"No, I mean I really like it here," Emma said leaning against him as they gazed out over the river. "I'm not saying Britain is bad, but things just seem different here. We have friends, and can enjoy life without constantly feeling like we are running on a never-ending hamster wheel."

"I know the feeling," Dan said, putting his arms around her.

"It was great just to be able to get to know and treat my patients instead of working through them like an assembly line," Dan said before a sad look crossed his face.

"It is alright Dan, I went into dentistry because I wanted to help people, and even though I may not practice dentistry again, but now I am in the position to help more people than ever, and Claus is really over worked, he should be enjoying his grandkids and not dealing with everything. Plus, it gives me time to really be a mom again. So, cheer up, ok" she said.

"I'll try," Dan said as music began to play.

"No, you will, and I know just the thing," Emma said standing up and pulling Dan to his feet.

"Did you plan this," Dan said, taking Emma into his arms.

"No," Emma said. "But that doesn't mean I won't take advantage of it," she said. "Now let's put those dance lessons to good use."

"With pleasure," Dan replied.

"Operation Tango was a success, I repeat operation Tango was a success," Ria said into a phone as she observed the happy couple dancing to music by the river.

"Excellent," Belldandy replied.

Break

"Really a maze, I expected more from you Emma," Maria called out as stood at the entrance to a large cave with a Greco roman style gateway.

"Then you never should have taken me to Crete to see the ruins of the Labyrinth," a disembodied Emma chuckled. "So, enter if you dare, but beware the traps lurking inside."

"I never took you for the dramatic type," Maria said as she entered.

Break

A loud crash echoed through the house. "What the hell was that," Maria groaned from a crater in the wall.

"The big bang," Emma giggled, opening her eyes.

"Impossible," Maria winced. "Even if it was the mental image of the creation of the universe it shouldn't have blasted me across the room without magic."

"But that's what it looks like," Emma said.

"Wait what," Maria hissed in pain. "You mean you didn't imagine that thing."

"No," Emma said. "I found it."

"You found it," Maria said.

"I was doing some reading about transcendental meditation and wanted to give it a try, and well I got bored so I added in some of those mind visualization techniques that you showed me, while holding one of the precharged gems to see if I could try and control the magic inside it. Well anyway the next thing I know I got lost." Emma said.

"You got lost in your own mindscape," Maria said using a green healing gem on her ribs

"Hey it happens," a red-faced Emma snapped. "So, the next thing I know I found that and well it looked like the light of creation or the big bang."

"I can't believe this," Maria said. "A complete novice, a non-adept, actually found it."

"Found what, I didn't break something again, because I made sure not to throw anything at it," Emma said.

"Emma," Maria said, giving her a serious look.

"Yes," Emma replied.

"That wasn't the light of creation," Maria said.

"Then what was it," Emma said.

"That is something the many in the magical community have spent their lives searching for, that was the light of your soul, your connection to the world," Maria said.

"Cool, so what does it do," Emma asked.

"Cool, you discovered your connection to the world, and all you can say is cool, and ask what it does," an exasperated Maria gasped.

"Well it's not like it came with an instruction manual," Emma said and I saw 4 strands branching off from it.

Maria just blinked as she continued to gape at Emma. "4 strands."

"Yes, a deep black one like the mysterious vastness of space, the next one was ice blue and cold to the touch like a glass of ice water on a summer day, the third was smaller than the others and sang like the mountain breeze and grew stronger when I held it," Emma said.

"And the 4th," Maria asked.

"I dunno it was flickering in and out like a lightning strike," Emma replied. "What could they mean?"

"That's obvious," Dan said.

"Dan when did you get here," Emma said.

"Right after you blasted Maria into the wall," Dan chuckled. "And the answer to what the strands are is easy."

"It is," Maria said.

"If the light of the soul is our connection to the world, then those strands are our connections to other people in the world. The one that felt like ice is obviously Hermione, and the song strand is Victoria," Dan said.

"Then my connection to you is represented by the black strand," Emma said. "But what about the lightning strand?"

"I dunno," Dan said. "Maybe you're pregnant again."

"Possibly, but we've been careful, and two is enough I think," Emma said.

"True," Dan said.

"Wait, wait, wait," Maria exclaimed. "Leaving aside the fact that you stumbled across something people spend their lives searching for, and that you clearly can for her, you only have one biological daughter."

"Details that can be worked out later," Emma said. "I think of Astoria as one of my own, and nothing is going to change that."

"I think Catherine is going to disagree with you on that," Maria said.

"Then I will just take care of it at the source," Emma said.

"I'm not sure taking Catherine on directly is the best idea right now," Maria said.

"Why would I do that and risk a dragon flame buster to the face, when I can just beat her at tug of war," Emma said.

"Wait what," a confused Maria said.

"Yes, I'll just go back in and tug on Victoria's strand and pull it away from Catherine," Emma said.

"I'm not sure that's how it works," Maria deadpanned.

"I'll help," Dan added.

"Great, now let's get operation stick it to Catherine started," Emma cheered.

"I don't know if I should be scared or excited," Maria groaned.

Break

"It doesn't look very magical," Diana said as the Hogwarts Express pulled into the platform.

"Looks can be deceiving," Charles said.

"True," Diana replied as the students began to exit the train.

"I will say it is nice to be treated like regular people for once," Charles said.

"Yes, these charmed watches Emma gave us live up to their name as normal people charms," Diana said. "But I do wonder if they will be able to see us?"

"According to Emma, anyone who actually knows us will be able to see through the charm, and anyone who has a highly focused mind intent on finding us." Charles said.

"Which shouldn't be a problem for the girls," Diana said.

"The real question is will there be any problems," Charles said as an old wizard arrived.

Diana punched him in the arm. "You just had to say it."

"Doh!" Charles yelped, rubbing his arm.

"Miss Granger, as your headmaster and magical guardian I gave you instructions not to leave the school," Dumbledore said.

"A teacher cannot prevent a child from seeing their child over the break," Mathew said moving in front of them.

"And she has a clean disciplinary record," Percy added.

"Mr. Krylieght, and Mr. Weasley, it seems you have been misinformed as there are extenuating circumstances," Dumbledore said as a wet sensation permeated his robes.

"Bad, that's a bad Tarasque, we talked about this, no urinating on people," Millie said, rushing forward as Tarasque relieved himself on Dumbledore. "Even if he looks like a fire hydrant," Millie said, pulling the dog back.

"Miss Blustrode," Dumbledore said.

"I'm very sorry Professor, it's just Tarasque was a good boy holding it for the entire train ride, and your robes resemble a fire hydrant today," Millie said.

"Nothing that can't be fixed," Dumbledore said, cleaning his robes with a flick of his wand. "Now as I was saying."

"Charles, Diana," Hermione exclaimed, jumping and waving excitedly.

"Johanna," Dianna said walking over.

"Is there a problem," Charles said.

"The headmaster is under the belief that he has guardianship of me, and can order me to stay at the school during the break," Heroine explained.

"He didn't get the memo," Charlies said.

"He didn't get the memo," Diana chuckled.

"These things happen," Charles said.

"The perils of a byzantine bureaucracy," Diana said.

"Should we tell him," Charles said as a crowd began to grow.

"I don't know, seeing his befuddled look is so delightful," Diana said.

"True, and you'd think a wizard of his caliber would have figured it out," Charles said.

"But I understand he is very sheltered these days," Diana said. "I mean honestly just look at those robes, positively beatnik," she added causing a few people to snicker.

"Might I ask your names," Dumbledore cut in.

"Colin Creevey if you are still here, I suggest you get your camera ready because this is going to be good," Hermione called out.

"Oh, bother it looks like our fun is over," Diane pouted.

"True, but he did ask," Charles said as they deactivated the charms. "My name is Charles Windsor, and this lovely lady is my wife Diana Windsor." The collective gasp was louder than the train could have ever hoped to be, before a palpable silence settled over the platform. The only sound was the flashing of Colin's camera. "Now as I was saying here is a letter informing you that you are in fact not the magical guardian of the granger girls." Charles said, handing him a letter.

"Come along Hermione, we've got the plane waiting for us on the tarmac," Diana said before they turned and walked out. With Millie and her parents following close behind.

"Am I missing something," Millie said as they left the station.

"Not until we're in Monaco," Alex said.

"Oh," Millie frowned. "I was afraid of that, given how you worded your recent letters," Millie said.

"You were," Maggie said.

"Yes, after what happened to the Grangers I…." Millie said softly.

"You feared we were obligated as well," Alex said.

"Yes, but I was afraid to ask in case the mail was being scanned," Millie said.

"We were more worried for you after we found out," Maggie said.

"We've just been trying to keep our heads down and wands out," Alex said.

"Diana can we make a slight detour," Hermione asked as Steve slithered up her leg.

"Certainly, what sort of detour," Diana asked.

"Can we drop my friend at Monaco," Hermione said. Nodding towards Millie.

"It would be my pleasure," Diana said.

"Thanks," Hermione said, racing off.

"Well I can help with that," Millie said, taking the flower of her hair. "Now relax and let Audrey do her thing."

"Millie, what the hell is this," Maggie gasped as the flower crawled up her hair making itself comfortable in Maggie's blond hair.

"It's a subspecies of the Bowseridea family, but I call him nipper," Millie said. "And dad you can walk Tarasque," she said, handing him the leash. "Be a good boy Tarasque and protect dad, and I will make you a Tarasque snack."

"Ok…." Alex said. "But what about you?"

"I have Audrey," she said, pointing to the large flower sitting in her hair that smiled when Millie said her name. "And Steve…." Millie said missing the comfortable weight of the snake resting on her shoulders. "Steve where did you go?"

"Millie, you big dummy," Hermione yelled, launching herself at Millie only for something to catch her at the last minute.

"Hey, what the heck…. Come on…," Hermione said flailing her arms as she hung suspended in Audrey's mouth.

"I got help," Steve hissed returning to Millie.

"Hermione, what are you doing, and why are you in Audrey's mouth," Millie asked.

"I dunno, I was just gonna tackle hug you for not telling me about being worried about your parents, and then give all of you a ride to Monaco," Hermione said as a flash bulb went off.

"Colin! Don't you dare," Hermione snapped, blinking her eyes as he took another picture.

"But it's a good picture," Colin said.

"Are they filming a movie, and is that Princess Diana," a growing crowd began to murmur.

"Perhaps you should put Hermione down before we really break the statute," Maggie whispered.

"Right," Millie said as Audrey released Hermione.

"Well now we know your prop works," Charles said.

"But your acting needs a little work, and you really shouldn't play around with your prop like that," Diana said.

"Sorry folks, they were just working on something for school," Charles said.

"And we're on a bit of a tight schedule so if you excuse us," Diana said, leading the group away.

"But who are they," a voice yelled.

"Just the children of some of my friends from my school days," Diana said.

"But…" a man protested as flashbulbs began to go off.

"You," Diana said pointing at a rather pushy photographer. "Come here." she snapped motioning for him to come forward with her finger.

"Yes, your highness," the man squeaked.

"I am going to take a page out of my friends' book and make this very simple," Diana said. "You want to take pictures of me, that's fine, but if I see you skulking around kids again, I will take that camera of yours and stuff it up your backside."

"Yes, Ma'am," the man gulped.

"Good boy," she said, patting him on the head.

Break

"Millie are we riding in a private jet with Prince Charles and Princess Diana," Maggie asked as Diana giggled.

"Yes, Mom," Millie giggled.

"And how did this happen?" Alex asked.

"Because my sister wanted to help you out," Astoria said. "I am just sorry I missed all the fun."

"Why were you in Johanna's trunk," Diana asked.

"To avoid dealing with Catherine Greengrass who is…. Well it's a long story," Hermione said.

"She is under the misguided idea that I am somehow her daughter," Astoria said.

"Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't she technically your mother," Charles said.

"Technically, but I am hoping to put an end to that soon," Astoria said.

"Don't be afraid to drop our names if you have to," Charles said.

"Really," the girls gasped.

"Oh yeah, the Greengrass's were on the losing side of the war of the roses and claim that they have a line to the succession of the crown, and mom would love anything that puts them in their place," Charles said.

"What about your sister, Daphne," Diana asked.

"Ixnay on the Daphne ay," Millie said.

"What happened she seemed like a nice girl," Diana said.

Millie smacked her forehead. "Johanna, Victoria, have you ever seen the cockpit of a plane," Charles asked

"No," the girls said.

"How about a tour," Charles said.

"Cool," they said following Charles.

Making sure the girls were out of earshot, Diana turned back towards Millie. "What happened."

"The short version, Daphne sold out Hermione to the Headmaster over using her first name instead of her middle name while taking certain classes, in front of the boy she liked," Millie said.

"Oh no," Diana gasped.

"But it didn't stop with that, Johanna, Victoria, Neville, and myself had decided to stop hiding and showed what we were truly capable of, and the headmaster became concerned and thought that the best course of action was to fiddle with our memories right after Harry ran out," Millie said.

"That unbelievable bastard," Alex growled.

"Magic can do that," Diana gasped.

"Yes, and someone tried to do the same to their parents," Millie explained.

"That's…." Diana said.

"Fills in a lot of blanks," Alex said looking at his wife and daughter. "How do you feel about moving to Monaco for a while? I'm sure the mermaids can help us find a place, and the Casino Monte Carlo was looking to hire us."

"Lucky" Diana said as Maggie and Millie hugged Alex.

"Princess Diana," Millie said.

"Please call me Diana," Diana said.

"Miss Diana, while I know the royal family is no longer directly involved in the running of the government," Millie said.

"My voice is still listened to, and there are a few levers we can pull on the magical side," Diana said. "What do you need, protection, action against the teacher who attacked you."

"Oh, no, nothing like that, Johanna's got a plan, and the mermaids will help and I have my ways," Millie said as Tarasque, Audrey and Steve lifted their heads up.

"No feeding people to your pets or plants," Maggie said.

"I won't, but if someone attacks me all bets are off," Mille said.

"And Tarasque will have to be house broken," Alxed said.

"Don't worry he is a very good boy," Millie said scratching him behind the ears.

"A very good boy," Sirius barked happily.

"And that is who I wanted to talk to you about," Millie said, sitting up a little as she looked at them.

"Millie what is going on," Maggie asked.

"Hermione, Victoria, Elizabeth and I discovered a miscarriage of justice," Millie said.

"But what does that have to do with…." Alex said. "Oh, you have got to be kidding me," Alex groaned as Audrey and Steve wrapped themselves around Tarasque.

"What…" Maggie said.

"You know that rumor from when we were in school," Alex said.

"About the Marauders being animagus," Maggie said, smacking her forehead. "Of course, that hound dog would be a dog."

"Transform now you dumb dog," Alex said grabbing his wand.

"I feel like I am missing something very important," Diana said.

"Don't wanna," Sirius barked, hiding behind Millie.

"That dog is the escaped convict Sirius Black," Maggie said. "Now come here so you can be neutered."

"The mass murderer the magical government warned us about," Diana said.

"Yes," Maggie said. "Now come here, I still haven't forgotten about that prank of yours."

"You are more worried about a prank, and not the fact that he is a mass murderer," Diana exclaimed.

"If he was, Steve would have killed him before now," Alex said.

"He really hated that book, and we know what that turned out to be," Maggie said.

"True," Alex said. "That still doesn't mean I trust the hound dog."

Tarasque quickly changed shape Audrey and Steve adjusting to the change. "I swear I didn't do anything, please Millie tell them I've been a good boy," Sirius blurted out as he completed his change.

"That is not something you see every day," Diana said.

"And yes he is a good boy otherwise he gets swats," Millie said pulling out a rolled up newspaper.

"Yes, I pranked you back then, and I'm sorry about that I was a real jerk back then, but I did not kill the Potters," Sirius said.

"Sit," Maggie said pointing her finger at him. Sirius quickly dropped into a chair. "Stay," she said next. "Now start talking."

Break

"Elizabeth, what are you doing here," Andromeda Tonks gasped at the sight of her 2nd niece standing on her doorstep.

"Can I ask you something," Elizabeth said.

"Certainly, but I thought you were staying at the Malfoy's for the break," Andromeda said letting her in.

"This is important and I think you are the better person to ask," Elizabeth said.

"Ugh, what is the shrimpy snake doing here," Nymphadora said from the couch.

"Nymphadora," Andromeda snapped.

"Well she is," Nymphadora said. "And she's friends with that freaky name switching liar of a girl."

"She's not a freak or a liar and her name is Johanna Granger," Elizabeth said.

"The same Granger who returned the Just Judges," Andromeda said.

"No that was Hermione," Nymphadora said.

"Her name is Johanna Hermione Granger," Elizabeth said. "And you're being a meanie."

"And you are an evil snake just like…." Nymphadora said.

"Nymphadora, room now," Andromeda snapped.

"What she is, I bet she's…." Nymphadora said.

"Room now," Andromeda growled.

"Fine," Nymphadora said, walking off.

"I'm sorry," Elizabeth said.

"No, I'm the one who is sorry," Andromeda said, hugging her. "Honestly I don't know what has gotten into her recently."

"Probably Dumbledore, and Potter," Elizabeth said.

"Anyway, what is it that you needed to talk to me about," Andromeda said.

"Aunt Andromeda, what would you do if you discovered that someone was in prison for a crime they didn't commit and were never given a trial for," Elizabeth said.

"That is a very specific example," Andromeda said. "Has your mother…."

"No, it's not about mom, she's like crazy evil and deserves to be locked up," Elizabeth said, waving her arms for emphasis.

"Then what is this about," Andromeda said, placing her hands-on Elizabeth's shoulders.

"Well, um I kinda found out that Uncle Sirius, kind of sorta," Elizabeth stammered.

"He killed the Potters," Andromeda said.

"No, he didn't," Elizabeth said.

"Yes, he did," Andromeda said.

"Then why wasn't he tried in court," Elizabeth said.

"He wasn't," Andromeda said.

"Nope," Elizabeth said.

"I'm sure he was, but if he wasn't how could you know that," Andromeda asked. "Minors can't access court records."

"Well um, you see," Elizabeth stammered.

"Oh, you have got to be kidding me," Andromeda gasped. "He was the dog you were watching over the winter holiday."

"Um, yes," Elizabeth said nervously pressing her index fingers together. "But don't worry he is a good boy, Millie has him well trained, and everything."

"Elizabeth," Andromeda said.

"No really, she even threatened to neuter him if he did anything bad, and her pet snake Steve said that if he hurt anyone, he'd eat him." Elizabeth said.

"I don't even know where to begin," Andromeda said.

"Could you maybe keep an open mind, and not tell anyone I told you that, because Johanna will freeze me and Millie will feed me to Audrey, if anyone finds out I spilled the beans before they are ready," Elizabeth said.

"Ready for what," Andromeda said.

"Getting an innocent man cleared," Elizabeth said with a slight smile.

"Good girl," Andromeda said, patting Elizabeth's head.

Break

"MOM! DAD!" Hermione and Astoria said slamming into their parents sending all 4 of them to the ground.

"Oof," Dan and Emma grunted.

"Are you ok," the girls said.

"We're fine," they replied.

"But," Hermione said as Astoria continued to hug Emma and Dan.

"Relax your parents are perfectly healthy," Maria said.

"But," Hermione said.

"Look kiddo, you and I both know certain memories are gone, but I assure you, they are still the loving parents, you knew when you left them in January," Maria said. "Even if your mother is breaking the rules again."

"Mom what did you do," Hermione said.

"Nothing yet," Emma said.

"What are you going to do," Astoria said.

"What, I'm just helping Claus with some meetings, and starting a new charity," Emma said.

"Go mom, but I don't think that's what Maria was referring to," Hermione said.

"No, but that can wait until later," Emma said. "Right now, you need to tell me everything."

Break

The sun had dipped behind the castle and yet a lone girl remained even as the cool evening breeze rolled across the lake. Her pale red hair streaming behind her as she alternated between walking and jogging each time a dementor approached her.

"Freaking slave drivers," Tracy muttered as she took off running as another dementor approached her, the ghostly hissing sounding like words in her mind. "Weakness."

"I am not weak," Tracy snapped as she slowed to a walk.

"In body," the next dementor said to her.

"Argh you will pay for that," Tracy grumbled as her break ended, redoubling her efforts. After several more sprints the dementors relented letting her rest. "At least it's getting smaller," She said panting hands on her knees as the last of the sun disappeared beneath the horizon. Smiling at the fact that her belly was looking and feeling smaller. "Almost there," Tracy said, running a hand over her slightly rounded stomach as it pressed against her shirt. Walking off the path she went down a small dip standing at the edge of the forbidden forest. "More target practice," Tracy asked only for a dementor to shake its head. "Are you going to finally teach me a spell," Tracy said as a smile grew on her face only to vanish as the dementor shook its head.

"Then what am I learning," Tracy finally asked. "Control" was the silent response in her mind. "Control, I can control my magic just fine," she growled. "Emotions," the dementor hissed.

"Control my emotions," Tracy asked.

"Yes," the dementor replied. "You are a spirited girl, with big dreams, but if you do not learn to control that spirit, it will lead to your downfall," the dementor said. "You seek to control others, to dominate them."

"Yes," Tracy said. "So, teach me how to…." Tracy demanded.

"You will never control others if you can't control yourself," the dementor said.

Tracy sighed. "You're right, I suppose I am relying on you like a crutch, draining my rage before it overwhelms me.

"Yes," the dementor said.

"It's just that little upstart walking around like she is something special pisses me off, while Daphne thinks she is the greatest thing ever, and now Pansy seems to be going all with it. We are magical royalty; they should be the ones fawning over us. No, they all should be the ones licking my shoes. Daphne isn't even acting like a Countess, if she can't hack it, she should let someone more deserving…" Tracy said looking at the dementor. "No not deserving, someone more capable, of handling the position, take it."

"A countess, no I am thinking too small, a princess, yes, that is much more to my liking," Tracy said. "A princess is calm, collected, elegant, graceful, powerful and above all else ruthless in all things. And you will make an excellent secret police force, so please teach me everything so that I may attain my goals, and give you what you have desired for so long." Tracy said sitting silently on the grass.

"She is strong willed," a dementor said as Tracy began to meditate.

"Yes, but she is wild, uncontrolled," another one said as they watched.

"And does not yet know her true strength," another said.

"Yes, but she has taken the first steps," they said.

"And knows of her connection to us," another dementor said.

"But what will she do when she gazes into the abyss," they said.

"You know it would be a lot easier to mediate if you stopped hissing and probably gossiping like a bunch of gossiping Hufflepuffs," Tracy said as her brow furrowed in frustration.

"Back to your training," a dementor said as they continued to talk.

Break

"Vater," Hermione said, approaching her father.

"Yes," Dan replied looking up from his book.

"There is something I would like to ask you," Hermione said softly.

"Of course, you can ask me anything," Dan said.

"I know that, but this is kind of big," Hermione said fidgeting nervously.

"Nothing is too big," Dan said, putting his book down and patting the spot next to him on the sofa. "So, ask away?"

"Are you sure," Hermione said, sitting down next to her father.

"Yes," Dan said.

Hermione took a deep breath. "Father as you know I have been trying to change myself for the better to be as mom says my best self. You also know of my taking up the name Johanna to avoid being picked on as a 4th year taking 2nd year classes," Hermione said.

"Yes," Dan said nodding.

"You are also aware of recent events that have altered a few things," Hermione said.

"That is putting it mildly," Dan said hugging his daughter.

"And in light of those events, I would like to formally change my name," she said before looking away. "That is of course if it is ok with you. I know it's the name you and mom gave me, but I don't really feel like a Hermione anymore."

"You don't look like one either," Dan chuckled.

"Vater," Hermione pouted as her father laughed. "I'm being serious."

Dan stopped laughing, looking his daughter in the eyes. "I know, and I am being serious when I say Johanna is a lovely name, and suits you perfectly."

"You think so," Hermione said.

"I know so," Dan said, hugging her.

"So, you and mom are ok with this," Hermione said.

"Yes, as long as it is what you want," Dan said.

"It is," Hermione said.

"Johanna it is then," Dan said, making her smile. "It will be a little while till we can make it official, but from now on you are Johanna Granger.

"Danke vater," Johanna said, feeling lighter as more of her hair turned silver, leaving a brown frosting on the tips of her hair.

Break

"Victoria, can I talk to you for a minute," Emma said, knocking on the door to her room.

"Sure, thing mom," Astoria said, putting her notes away. "What's up?"

"You know that I care for you very much," Emma said, taking a seat next to her.

"I know," Astoria replied. "You've always looked out for me, and worried about me more than Catherine ever did."

"I'm sorry you ever had to go through something like that," Emma said putting her arm around Astoria.

"It's alright, I'm a strong girl just like Johanna," Astoria said.

"That doesn't mean you should have ever had to go through something like that," Emma said gently stroking Astoria's hair.

"In a way I haven't," Astoria said.

Emma's eyebrows rose. "What do you mean?"

"You know how we were partially obliviated right," Astoria said.

"Yes, and I am still rather upset about that, and how she never said or did a thing about it," Emma said.

"Seeing as I am the spare I am not surprised," Astoria said as Emma just held her tighter. "But when Dumbledore obliviated me he took the worst of the memories. I still remember her as an evil woman, but the witch that used to be my nightmare is gone. She is not and never was my mother," Astoria said hugging Emma tightly. "You are," Astoria cried.

Emma eagerly returned the hug. "This makes things easier then," she said, elated and relieved.

"What do you mean," Astoria said looking up at Emma.

"What would you say if I told you that I want to carry through on my promise to steal you away," Emma said.

"Really," Astoria gasped.

"Yes," Emma said.

"Even though I am not," Astoria said. "And she could….."

Emma chuckled, rubbing Astoria's back. "If what I have planned works, Catherine Greengrass won't have a leg to stand on and you will be my daughter Victoria Granger in body, mind, and soul."

"Mom, what are going to do," Victoria asked.

"You'll just have to wait and see," Emma giggled taking a lock of Victoria's hair in her hand. "But it seems someone doesn't want to wait," she said showing Victoria the blue in her hair.

"It's blue," Victoria gasped looking at the sky-blue color emanating from the roots of her hair.

"Of course, it is silly, you do have blue hair after all," Emma giggled.

"But wait does that mean…." Victoria gasped.

"You are Johanna's twin sister, yes it does," Emma said.

"Mutter," Victoria cried, glomping her. "You're really doing it, you're really stealing me away."

"I never had to steal you away because you were always my daughter," Emma said softly as Victoria cried tears of joy.

Break

"You," Catherine growled as she appeared in a blank void standing across from Emma a rope made of wind running between Emma's glowing ball of light, and Catherine's flaming inferno.

"Hello Catherine," Emma said.

"It seems I am going to enjoy this dream," Catherine said, summoning a flaming whip with a crack of her wand.

"Hehehehehehe, Emma chuckled.

"Something amuses you, you dam squib," Catherine snapped.

"The fact that you seem to think I am powerless here," Emma said.

"You lack the gift of magic," Catherine said.

"Perhaps, but I have found something greater than any magic," Emma replied.

"Stronger than my magic," Catherine scoffed.

"Yes, love," Emma said.

"Love is the refugee of the weak," Catherine sneered. "My magic is more powerful than the great dragon Fafnir," she said, firing a jet of flame towards Emma.

"Panzerschild," Emma said extending her hand a white pyramidal shield forming in front of her effortlessly splitting the flames as an astonished Catherine looked on. "This is the light of my soul, my love for my family and friends, and the love they have for me. Your flames of rage are but a flickering candle compared to the brilliance of my love. Now you have something that belongs to me and I would like it back."

Break

"Why was I dreaming about her and why would I have anything related to that pathetic upstart of a woman," a groggy Catherine groaned as her alarm went off.