Chapter 51- Experimental design
November 1995
Thursday November 1st 1995- British Ministry of Magic department of magical law enforcement
"Just what kind of game do you think you are playing," Amelia yelled, dropping a large stack of papers on her desk.
"I have no idea what you are talking about, Amelia," Dumbledore replied sitting in a chair across from her desk.
"That is Madame Bones to you Dumbledore" Amelia shot back. "Falsification of documents, bribery, Illegal use of a magical artifact by a muggle, illegal residency, child endangerment, child abuse, kidnapping, spying, impersonation, good god man have you lost your bloody mind," Amelia yelled.
"I simply wanted to bring a number of potential crimes to your attention," Dumbledore replied.
"The Wizengamot makes the laws, or have you forgotten that fact," Amelia said.
"I have not, and it is the role of your department to enforce the laws," Dumbledore replied.
"Yes, so I would appreciate it, if you do not tell me how to do my job," Amelia said, pushing the papers towards him.
"I haven't told you to do anything, I simply provided evidence of potential criminality," Dumbledore said.
"I heard about your little stunt in Liechtenstein. Children leave Hogwarts all the time, what makes these two so special, that you went there personally to threaten their parents to get them to return," Amelia said.
"Madame Bones, threaten is such a strong word," Dumbledore replied.
"What else would you call accusing the Grunberg's of kidnapping unless they returned Johanna and Victoria to Britain to attend Hogwarts," Amelia said.
"And just how did you come across this information," Dumbledore asked.
"The Grunberg's have friends, friends who just so happen to pass a message along inquiring about the actions of one of our citizens," Amelia said leaning forward resting her chin on her clasped hands. "So, what will it be Dumbledore, walk away, or be investigated for interfering with diplomatic interference."
"You are playing a dangerous game Madame Bones," Dumbledore said standing up.
"So are you," Amelia replied watching him leave her office.
Tuesday November 7th 1995 Saint Hilde's Academy of magic Headmistress's office
Magical core expansion through the use of targeted exercise and meditation
By Johanna Grunberg, Victoria Grunberg, Padma Patil and Parvati Patil
It wasn't often that Headmistress Testarossa was surprised, yet once again the academy's newest students had her staring at them in shock. "You want to do what…." she said sitting back down in her chair.
"We want to run a scientific experiment," Johanna said flanked by her sister and the Patil twins.
"Yes, I understand that part, it is the rest of it that I do not understand," she said.
"We think that a person's magical strength is not strictly due to their genetics and that it can be changed," Johanna explained.
"Girls that line of thinking leads to very dangerous places," the headmistress said.
"No, it's nothing like that," a horrified Victoria chimed in.
"See we think that a person's magic is like muscles, and that with proper training you can grow your magical power," Padma said.
"I see," Fate said. "And how do you plan on proving this. The four of you are already very powerful so any further increases would be expected as you matured."
"We won't be the focus of the experiment," Johanna said.
"Then who will be," Fate said, eying the girls carefully.
"We will ask for willing volunteers to take part in the program," Parvati said.
"And they will be compensated for their time, 1silver thaler per day that they participate in the experiment," Padma added.
Fate was stunned leaning back in her chair. "And how are you going to afford this," the headmistress asked.
"My first album sold well in the European magical and non-magical markets so money is not a problem," Victoria said.
"I see," Fate replied. " But you know when I assigned you a research project this is not exactly what I had in mind?" she said.
"You did say it was a research project Headmistress Testarossa," Johanna said.
"Yes, and thought you would choose a historical period to research," Fate stated.
"Where is the fun in that," Parvati said.
Fate groaned. "Waver Meloi did warn me that they would be an interesting bunch." "I will green light your preliminary exploration of the topic, but I will require a detailed and well researched hypothesis and reasoning, experimental methodology, and safety protocols before allowing you to proceed," she said.
"Wunderbar, kamaal hai," both sets of twins exclaimed high fiving each other.
"Thank you very much headmistress," Johanna said.
"Yes, you will not regret this," Victoria said.
"You should pray that I don't, Waver warned me how crazy you can get," Fate thought, cracking a smile at the girl's exuberance. "I do have to ask what prompted you to come up with this line of reasoning and experimentation," she asked.
"I think saying that I've stumbled into a situation where reality seems to change around me, and I am trying to figure out what the hell is going on is probably the wrong answer," Johanna thought.
"It was Vivio and Einhart that gave us the idea," Parvati said.
"What did they do this time," Fate said leaning back in her chair.
"Nothing," Padma said.
"Somehow I doubt that," Fate replied.
"It was their adult modes that gave us the idea," Parvati said.
"Their adult modes," the headmistress asked, sitting back up.
"Yes, they explained to us how their body temporarily changes to support the full force of their magic," Parvati said.
"But how does that relate to enhancing your core through exercise," Fate said.
"If magic can change the body to support it, then perhaps the opposite is true," Victoria said.
"There have been many magical warriors and athletes over the centuries with no recorded instances of increasing their magical cores. Not to mention there is a large body research into the inherited nature of magical cores," Fate said.
"That is true, but there are many human traits that are inherited as a range, like height, where the environment plays a role in determining how tall a person is," Victoria said. "Therefore, it is possible that the strength of one's magical core is not set in stone."
"And even the strongest magicals never truly use their physical abilities and magic in tandem," Johanna said.
"That is incredibly difficult magic only a select few have been able to attempt," the headmistress said.
"Well, that's just because you haven't met my sister," Victoria chimed in. "She is the most talented witch I have ever seen, and she is too stubborn to quit. If there is even the slimmest chance that something is possible, Johanna will find it." Johanna's pale skin began to light up at her sister's words. "Necessity is the mother of invention and I didn't have much of a choice, it was adapt, or die, but I still wonder why, I couldn't have been the only person to do such a thing."
"That's right," Padma said. "She has a very unique way of looking at the world, instead of seeing it for what it is, she sees it for what it could be, even if there is a less than 1% chance of it happening"
"Got that right, Johann is the type that does not take no for an answer, and will find a way through any barrier you place in front of her," Parvati added as a bright red Johanna held her face in her hands.
"I do believe you meant go around or surmount," the headmistress said.
"Oh no, we meant through, as in blast through," Victoria said.
"She is the living embodiment of I reject your reality and substitute my own," the Patil twins said.
"Please stop," Johanna whined. "I didn't ask for any of this to happen, but I wouldn't have it any other way and I am not giving up without a fight."
"Never," Victoria and the Patil twins replied. "We have a lot of time to make up for."
"What you have to remember Johanna is that when you decided to take an icy flame to your tapestry of life and make a new one, we got caught in the blast radius. You are stuck with us whether you like it or not," the others said.
"Sie sind idioten, aber sie sind meine idioten," Johanna said hugging them.
"Alright I think that is enough," Fate said, placing her hands on her desk. "Now this project was meant to be historical in nature, so you will still need to submit a historical analysis for your history credit.
"May we work as a group for this project," Victoria asked.
"Yes, but only if you each write one section of the paper covering the political, social, economic, and geographic analysis of a country or distinct ethnic group," she replied.
"Thank you, Headmistress," the girls replied.
"You're welcome, now run along, as I have more work to do," Fate said.
"Yes, headmistress," the girls said as they stood up and walked out.
"What do you want to research for our history report," Padma asked.
"Fairies," Johanna exclaimed.
"I would have expected the HRE," Victoria said.
"Ditto," Padma added.
"Why fairies," Parvati asked.
"Because maybe I'll find out the trick to Fleur's wings and how she flies so fast," Johanna said.
"Still a little testy that I beat you in Monaco," Parvati giggled.
"No," Johanna said.
"Sis, but you just said," Victoria said.
"I know what I said," Johanna sighed. "You, Millie, and Cho, performed better during the race and as a result all of you earned your success, I let Hermione get to me, and lost my temper. Having lost control, I focused too much on Fleur and our rivalry."
"Rivalry with Fleur," Padma asked.
"I thought the race was the first time you met," Parvati said.
"Oh no, Fleur and Johanna go way back," Victoria said.
"Victoria no," Johanna protested.
"Victoria yes," she said.
Flashback to Christmas 1990
"Appoline, I am so glad you could make it," Emma said, welcoming Appoline as she walked out onto the patio snow lightly falling around them children playing in the snow.
"And miss your holiday party," Appoline replied.
"So cold," a young Fleur said, shivering in the lightly falling snow.
"Everyone here is in the know, so you can use your magic to keep warm if you'd like," Emma said.
"Really," Fleur exclaimed.
"Are you sure Emma," Appoline said.
"Ja, everyone here has knowledge of magic even if they do not have it themselves," Emma.
"You can use your flames, Fleur," Appoline said. Fleur didn't have to be told twice before a fireball appeared in her hands.
"Impressive," Emma said.
"It is her Veela heritage," Appoline replied.
"Bonjour Fleur," a blond-haired girl said.
"Bonjour Melissa," Fleur replied.
"Keeping warm I see," Melissa said.
"It's freezing," Fleur said.
"You'll get used to it," a girl with orange hair said.
"Cornelia, meet my friend Fleur, she's a Veela," Melissa said.
"Cool," Cornelia said.
"No, warm," Victoria added hugging Fleur.
"What are you doing," Fleur asked.
"Keeping warm," Victoria replied. "You're like an electric blanket that can walk," she said holding Fleur tight."
"Where does that leave the rest of us," Cornelia pouted.
"We'll share," Victoria said, moving so Cornelia could grab Fleur's other arm.
"Don't I get a say in this," Fleur said as Melissa giggled.
"No," the girls said.
"Great, who invited the flaming chicken," a girl with pale blond hair said.
"How rude," Melissa said.
"What else do you expect me to call a flaming bird," the girl said.
"Fleur is not a flaming bird," Victoria said.
"You're a meanie," Cornelia added.
"My name is Guinevere, not meanie," the girl said with a haughty tone and flip of her hair. "And honestly I am surprised they let a filthy monster like you out of the forest."
"I am not a monster," Fleur growled her flames growing in size causing Victoria, Cornelia, and Melissa to jump back.
"Then why are you on fire like the freak you are," Guinevere said.
"Shut up," Fleur yelled, throwing a fireball at the girl who dodged out of the way.
"Hi Fleur mom said you were…... Eek!" Johanna said, jumping out of the way of a fireball.
"So Veela's really are flaming chickens," Guinevere chuckled, skipping off.
"Johanna are you…." Victoria said.
"Sis your hair is on fire," Cornelia said.
"What, put it out, put it out, put it out," Johanna screamed, racing around in circles before finally stuffing her head in a snow drift.
End Flashback
"Wait, wait, wait," Padma said.
"Your feud with Fleur is all because she lit your hair on fire, after Guinevere caused her to lose control," Parvati said.
"Of course, that cost me two inches," Johanna said.
"I don't think she'd notice if we cut off 12 inches," Was the collective thought of Padma and Parvati as they looked at the silver waterfall running down Johanna's back. Free of its usual braid, the thick shimmering silver strands nearly touched the floor ending around Johanna's ankles almost touching the floor.
"Um, question," Padma said.
"Yes," Johanna said.
"Since when did you have a sister named Cornelia," Padma asked.
"I…um… we…. oh boy…." Johanna sighed. "Another sister, triplets, mom has always loved kids."
"What's one more," Victoria said.
"And you're ok with this," Johanna said.
"It would be hypocritical if I wasn't," Victoria said.
"True," Johanna said. "But that just leaves two important things."
"Who she is, and when the change occurs," Padma said.
"Make that three," Johanna said.
"How the change happens," Parvati said
"Ok four," Johanna said as she started blushing.
"What other changes will happen as a result," Victoria said.
"Five, then," Johanna said.
"Clearly we are missing something," the others said.
"She is going to be the little sister this time," Johanna mumbled blushing as the others laughed.
"Ok, but seriously do you have any idea who it could be," Padma asked.
"Not a clue," Victoria said.
"Me neither," Johanna added.
"It's probably someone in Slytherin," Padma said.
"That is the logical assumption," Johanna said.
"And it's probably someone you're close to," Parvati said.
"She will probably have issues at home," Victoria said.
"So, it's not Millie, or Sylvia," Johanna said.
"It sure as hell isn't Pansy, or Tracy" Victoria added.
"Or Hermione," Johanna added.
"I wouldn't rule her out sis," Victoria thought, thinking of the summers they had shared back when Hermione was Daphne.
"What about Liz," Parvati asked.
"I'm pretty sure Millie has claimed her," Johanna said.
"What about Elizabeth," Padma said.
"Given who her mother is, we can't exclude her," Johanna said.
"What about Anna and Belle," Victoria said.
"I don't know, neither one talked about home much," Johanna said.
"Another mystery to add to the list," the girls sighed.
Wednesday November 8th 1995- Beauxbaton Academy of Magic
"So are you finally going to teach me how you do that plant magic thing," Fleur said as Millie sat down across from her in the large cafeteria.
"You are not giving up on that are you," Millie said.
"No," Fleur said.
"She's like a dog with a bone," Steve hissed, popping his head up above the table causing Fleur to freeze up, her breathing increasing.
"Fleur is not a dog, and be nice or no Steve snacks for you," Millie said lightly tapping him on the head.
"Snake," Fleur said as Steve vanished.
"Yes, that was Steve," Millie said.
"And what is he doing here," Fleur said.
"Lunch," Millie said, putting a plate of roast turkey covered in sauce on the floor.
Underneath the table Steve's body trembled in delight as he looked at his meal a message written in parsel tongue using sauce. "Stage 1 desensitization training has begun."
"Right," Fleur said as a feeling of impending doom washed over her. Yet, the feeling vanished as quickly as it came. "Now I've let you get settled at Beauxbatons now you need to teach me how you do that plant thing."
"You are really insistent about this," Millie said.
"Of course, I am, you are able to do something that I have never seen before," Fleur said.
Millie giggled. "And you wouldn't happen to want this to have an edge against Johanna."
"No this is purely academic," Fleur said while her blushing cheeks said otherwise.
"Over course it is," Millie said. "But if I am going to teach you my super-secret plant and animal taming technique, I am going to need something from you."
"It's about time you asked," Fleur said.
"Wait what," Millie yelled, jumping out of her seat.
"Girl while this isn't Hogwarts, it is still a magical school, people don't just give up their magical secrets for nothing. There is a reason family magic exists," Fleur said waving her off.
"I think Johanna would say that is stupid," Millie replied.
"Yes, she probably would," Fleur said thinking of how her runes were serving as a basis for a sea change in magical figure skating. "But one of these days it might come back to bite her." "So, what is it that you want from me."
"Not here," she said quickly getting up and pulling Fleur along.
"Hey what about my lunch," Fleur cried out.
"Steve will get it for you," Millie said, pulling Fleur out into an empty courtyard double checking before finally sitting down underneath a tree.
"Ok, seriously Millie what is going on," Fleur said.
"It's embarrassing," Millie said nervously fidgeting with her hands.
"What is embarrassing," Fleur said.
"Well, um, you see," Millie stammered.
"See what," Fleur said.
"It's…." Millie muttered before Fleur slapped her on the back of the head.
"What is with you stupid English girls, just tell me already, I'm a Veela that can toss fireballs and fly, which isn't exactly normal even in a world with magic," Fleur huffed.
"Well, what if I don't want to be a stupid English girl," Millie said softly.
Fleur's gaze turned serious as she looked down at Fleur. "Who?"
"Who what…." Millie said looking up at Fleur.
"Tell me who bullied you," Fleur growled stomping her foot.
"Fleur…." Millie said.
"Tell me dammit!" Fleur yelled her wings popping out. "I don't care who they are, I will burn them to a crisp," Fleur exclaimed as Millie began to laugh.
"Thank you, Fleur," Millie laughed. "But no one bullied me, and if they did Steve wouldn't leave enough for you to burn let alone identify."
"Then what did you mean," Fleur said.
"Johanna wasn't the only one bullied at Hogwarts," Millie said.
"You poor thing," Fleur thought, hugging Millie.
"Thank you, Fleur, you're no Johanna, but it's nice having a friend," Millie thought.
"Is that why you said you don't want to be an English girl anymore?" Fleur asked.
"Yes," Millie said. "Mom and Dad have pretty much moved to Monaco full time, and have no love lost over it. Frankly, my life here is much better than my life in England."
"And you want to fully embrace your new life," Fleur said.
"Oui," Millie said softly. "Then I won't worry about ever turning back into her,"
"Well, if that's what you want," Fleur said.
"Oui," Millie replied.
"Then you came to the right place, I will turn you into a frenchiest French girl, that was ever French," Fleur exclaimed giggling with excitement. "This is going to be so much fun, like a real-life magical girl barbie."
"You don't think it's stupid," Millie said.
"No," Fleur replied looking her in the eye. "A bit extreme, but your friends with Johanna so that comes with the territory."
Millie shrugged. "Fair point."
"Now for the first and probably most important question?" Fleur said.
"What's that," Millie said.
"Picking your new name," Fleur said. "Do you have thoughts?"
"Well, I've always liked the name Melissa," Millie replied, pronouncing it malisa.
"Interesting, I would have expected you to pick Melisande," Fleur said.
"I considered it but Melisande is just the French form of Millicent and if I go back to England," Millie said.
"People might put two and two together," Fleur said. "While I can't say Melissa is the Frenchiest name around, it does have a nice ring to it.
"Melissa it is then," Millie said.
"Yes, but you are pronouncing it wrong Melissa," Fleur said correcting her pronunciation to meh lee sa.
"Right, Melissa," Millie said, working on her pronunciation.
"Not to worry Melissa, with my help we'll turn that boring English tongue into the sweetest of French flowers in no time," Fleur said. "But before all that, come with me," Fleur said, pulling Millie along.
"Where are we going," Millie said.
"To get you changed," Fleur said.
"What's wrong with my clothes," Millie said.
"Nothing," Fleur said. "But it's time to start your French Over."
"Don't you mean make over," Millie said.
"Nope, it's a French over," Fleur said, pulling her along. "It's time to put English Millie in a box and stuff her away, for it is Melissa's time to shine."
"No problem," Millie said. "And I'll turn it into fertilizer while I'm at it." Millie thought.
"No, it's d'acc," Fleur corrected.
"Got it," Millie said.
"J'ai compris," Fleur said as they walked along.
"D'acc," Millie said.
"Splendide," Fleur said as the language lessons continued all the way to Fleur's room.
"Now for a proper French outfit," Fleur said, opening her closet.
"Fleur what exactly makes a proper French outfit," Millie asked.
"A French outfit is one that is clean, well made, and highlights a lady's figure," Fleur explained, showing off her own slim hourglass figure.
"I am going to need to work on that," Millie thought, thinking of her own solidly built figure, that she'd prefer was a little smaller than it was. "A proper French girl has a narrow waist, like Fleur's," Millie thought looking at Fleur's waist.
"And above all else, it is an outfit that the wearer knows makes her look fantastic," Fleur said before diving into her closet "Hhhmm, maybe this one, no red not the right color, maybe blue…." Fleur said tossing clothes out of her closet. "Ah perfect," Fleur said, pulling out a mix of items. White bicycle shorts went on first, followed by a dress that was white on top turning green at her waist. The dress was cut up to her waist in the front showing her legs and allowing easy movement. Next came a brown corset around her waist, along with white thigh high stockings. Calf high brown boots and a green bolero jacket finished the look.
"How's the fit," Fleur asked.
"It's a little snug," Millie said softly tugging on the chest and hips of the outfit.
"But can you move in it," Fleur said.
"Yes," Millie replied. "Motivation."
"Excellent," Fleur said, pulling Millie in front of a mirror. "Now what do you think," she said.
All the blond could do was stare in shock at her reflection. "Is that me," Millie gasped in awe of her new look. "I actually have a waistline," she said, putting her hands on her hips. "But, I'm a fat ugly weed… this can't be…"
"Of course you do dummy," Fleur giggled watching Millie gape at her own reflection.
"Fleur, this isn't a charmed mirror or anything right, I mean I'm actually pretty," Millie said gazing at her reflection while Fleur fixed her hair. "Mom was right, I really am blossoming into a beautiful flower."
"Good god girl, yes, you are pretty," Fleur said. "Just what the hell have they been telling you at that school."
"Well, I'm not exactly like Johanna and Victoria….." Millie began.
"Of course, not stupid, their like…." Fleur said, putting a finger to her upturned chin. "Ok let me put it to you this way… Johanna is like a white wine with delicate and graceful femininity," Fleur explained. "While yours is more akin to a robust red wine," Fleur said.
"I know I'm kind of heavy," Millie sighed.
Fleur quickly cracked Millie on the back of her head. "Imbécile," She yelled.
"Oh, come on I was just saying the truth," Millie stated.
"Will you shut up and let me finish," Fleur snapped. "I was saying robust as in you have a bigger chest, and hips," Fleur said.
"That's because I'm…" Millie said only for Fleur to silence her with a scathing look.
"Melissa, that is my outfit, you are wearing," Fleur said.
"What…" Millie squeaked looking at herself in the mirror again. "Oh wow…" Millie gasped as Fleur's words slowly began to sink in. "Wait so if it's tight in the chest and hips…. Does that mean…." she muttered.
"Yes," Fleur said.
"Really," Millie said looking between Fleur and her reflection. "Because."
"Look I've seen your mother, and you'll have nothing to worry about and while you'll never be Johanna, it also means you'll never be Johanna," Fleur said cupping her chest making Millie giggle. "Which in this case is a good thing."
"I can't let Johanna win everything I guess," Millie said.
"Exactly," Fleur said, putting her hands on Millie's shoulders. "Now let me introduce you to Melissa Bellerose."
"Bellerose…." Millie said.
"Yes, because you are a beautiful rose," Fleur said.
"Merci beaucoup, Fleur," Millie replied. "Now I think this Rose is ready to teach the flower, some magic."
"It's about time," Fleur said excitedly as they headed to the greenhouses.
Monday November 13th British Ministry of Magic
"And why do I have the pleasure of you standing in my office on a Monday morning," Amelia said glaring at the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge.
"Because technically I am your boss," Cornelius said.
"Unfortunately," Amelia sighed. "That is true, but it doesn't look good when the Minister of Magic is seen interfering or influencing the Ministry of Justice," she said.
"That is true," Cornelius said. "But there are extenuating circumstances."
"And those are," Amelia said.
"We can't handle another scandal," Cornelius said.
"And this is my fault how…." Amelia said.
"Sirius Black," Cornelius said. "You didn't arrest him, or leave him in Azkaban for over a decade, but he did escape on your watch, and people are beginning to ask why there is no record of his trial."
"I am well aware of the situation surrounding Sirius Black, and his finding a safe haven in Monaco," Amelia said. "And yes, I have asked for him to be returned so that he may stand trial, but it seems that Monaco with the backing of the French have refused our requests."
"Yes, I believe they said something about falsely imprisoning and executing people," Cornelius said.
"So, they are still a bit miffy about Joan of Arc," Amelia said.
"Among others," Cornelius said, thinking of Perenelle Flamel.
"Lovely, but this isn't why you are here," Amelia said.
"It seems the Wizengamont is creating a committee to examine and review all of the actions taken by the Ministry of Justice since the fall of Voldemort," Cornelius said.
"And you just let them," Amelia gasped.
"It's not like I had a choice," Cornelius said.
"Dumbledore," Amelia growled.
"And Catherine Greengrass," Cornelius said.
"But she never takes such direct actions, is this some sort of power play," a surprised Amelia replied.
"Yes," Cornelius said.
"You know something," Amelia said.
"It seems Bellatrix Lestrange never received a trial," Cornelius said.
"Bullshit, I was there," Amelia said.
"Then why is there no record of it," Cornelius said.
"Of course, there is," Amelia said.
"I already had Delores check, the trial records for a number of people imprisoned in Azkaban are missing," Cornelius said. "You need to get your house in order Amelia."
"Trust me, I will get to the bottom of this," Amelia growled.
"I will let you get to work then," Cornelius said, taking his leave.
Wednesday November 15th 1995 Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
In more ways than one Liz felt lighter than she had in years, and that wasn't just because she was 13 inches shorter and 100 pounds lighter. Her heart and mind felt free, freer than it had in a long time as she did the things, she wanted rather than what was expected of her. Big or small her mother was still a controlling old shrew and going against her on the platform was a big step for her. Which only added to the conflicting memories of both being a friendly but awkward slip of a girl, and an evil sexy seductress at the same time. Yet, she was happy, she had actual friends instead of rivals where she could say what she wanted without worrying about them using it against her later.
"Hiya munchkin," Olga said, walking up to Liz as they headed to class.
"I am not a munchkin Olga," Liz protested.
"But you're really short, and cute," Olga replied, patting her on the head.
"I am not vertically challenged, you are just overly tall," Liz retorted.
"I am what I am," Olga laughed as Liz looked up right into Olga's chest grumbling about boob monsters.
"Ok everyone sit down," Professor Bins said floating into the room
"Oh, great Bins…" a number, students groaned as they sat down.
"Sadly, Professor Abernathy is feeling a bit ill today so he asked me to take over for your advanced history class," Bins said. "Now does anyone have any questions before we begin?"
"Oh I've got one," a Slytherin boy by the name of Darnic said.
"Yes Mr. Presstone," Bins replied.
"What is a Noblesse Oblige, and can it stunt a person's growth" he asked, smirking at Liz who was dwarfed by the students sitting around her.
"It does not," Liz snapped, leaping from her seat.
"And yet here we are sitting while you are standing and we are still taller than you," Lev called out.
"I am not small," Liz screamed, ripping her wand out only to fumble, launching it across the room. "No," Liz mentally screamed as her wand arced through the air. She made every effort to lunge for it, a part of her still thinking she had the reach of her old body only to come up short. Fueled by a burst of adrenaline Liz used her chair to jump up onto the rows of tables that served as desks. Johanna, Millie, or their friends could have pulled off dancing across the tables to reclaim her wand. Sadly, Liz was not them, and her uncoordinated body spun out of control, tripping and rolling down the row before landing in a surprised Vainsley's lap. Her braid undone, long frizzy blond hair exploding outward.
"Um hi Vainsley," Liz chuckled nervously.
"Get the bloody hell off me, you overgrown hairball," Vainsley growled, tossing Liz into the aisle where she rolled down the steps slamming into the wall.
Olga was a bit conflicted, on one hand it was nice to Liz on the receiving end for once, while on the other hand Vainsley was a prick for picking on a defenseless little girl. Vainsley lost the coin toss as Olga placed a hand on her shoulder squeezing tightly. "Do that again, and we'll see how you like being tossed like a rag doll."
"Is that a threat," Vainsley winced, tilting her head back to glare at the powerful Hufflepuff.
"Only if it has to be," Olga said with a smile tightening her grip before finally letting go.
"I'm ok," Liz called out, scrambling to her feet.
"Who let the runt out of third year anyway," several boys snickered.
"I am not a runt," Liz muttered marching back to her desk, face flush with embarrassment.
"Just keep telling yourself that," a few girls snickered.
"Not another word, or I will ask Peeves to do a few favors for me," Professor Binns said.
"Switch with me," Penelope said to the girl sitting next to Liz.
"Why," the girl said.
"I wasn't asking," Penelope replied glaring at her.
"Fine," the girl said, wilting under Penelope's gaze.
"Liz," Penelope said, patting her lap so she could fix the girl's hair.
"Why," Liz whispered, taking her offer and sitting on Penelope's lap.
Penelope pulled out a brush working on taming Liz's hair. "Because he inferred the responsibility of privileged people to act with generosity and nobility toward those less privileged," she said loudly as if making a declaration to the professor and the class. All while she continued to gently work on Liz's wild hair.
"Ah yes, the Noblesse Oblige or the inferred responsibility of privileged people to act with generosity and nobility toward those less privileged. A point of honor and respect in the muggle world."
"Yes, Professor, I understand that, but why do they come with special abilities in the magical world," Olga added as Lev's hand went up.
"Yes Mr. Lainur," Binns said.
"Professor, I don't think I have to remind you that some of what you are about to mention is restricted and speaking about it carries," Lev said before bins cut him off.
"I am well aware of the penalty, a sentence to Askaban if memory serves," Bins replied.
"That is correct Professor," Lev replied.
"Bahahaha," the ghost laughed. "I'm a ghost, what are they going to do, kill me. I'm already dead."
"They could exorcise you Professor," another student added.
"And send me to the great beyond, again I don't see how that is a punishment," Binns said. "Now Miss Clearwater what are the different types of spirits?"
"I don't see how that is relevant, professor," Penelope said as she continued to work on taming Liz's hair.
"There are divine spirits, elemental or nature spirits, animal spirits, wraiths, ghosts, and apparitions," Liz replied.
"Very good, Miss Tuttle," Binns replied.
"Dork," a few people snickered.
"Not a dork," Liz thought.
"Since it seems some of you have forgotten, let's review them quickly," he said, summoning several diagrams. The lowest level of spirit is the apparition, which is formed from the collective thoughts and feelings people leave behind over time. A ghost like myself is a human spirit that has a lingering attachment to the world?"
"What is your attachment professor," Vainsley asked.
"That is a rather personal question, Ms. Umbridge and one of the few student questions that I will not answer," Binns stated. "Now back to the topic at hand. Animal spirits are formed much in the same way as apparitions or ghosts, which is why most animal spirits are from pack animals, or animals that were magical or obtained magical power before they died."
"What about nature spirits," Olga asked.
"Little is known about nature spirits due to their rarity, but they are believed to form near areas with a high natural concentration of magic. And if some are to be believed manifestations of the planets will," Binns explained.
"Professor I thought Elemental spirits were simply witches or wizards who were extremely gifted in the magic of the element they are associated with," Liz said.
"I have no doubt that is possible, but I think my being here speaking to you offers evidence to the contrary," Binns replied as the students grew quiet. "This just leaves the final and most powerful category of spirit, the divine spirits," he said, putting up a diagram. "Some believe divine spirits to be extremely powerful and or gifted magicals. However, let's remember that the thoughts, feelings, and magic of a place can create a spirit."
"Professor, are you saying that divine spirits are the collective unconscious thought of humans, and magic given form," Penelope blurted out, dropping her brush.
"In a manner of speaking," Binns replied. "It is a fringe theory, but it does explain how the spirits formed and why they slowly disappeared over time."
"That's great and all but what does this have to do with noblesse oblige," Lev asked.
"The inferred responsibility of privileged people to act with generosity and nobility toward those less privileged," Binns said again to blank stares. "Tell me how many of you celebrated Queen Elizabeth's sapphire jubilee," he said as a number of hands went up.
"This matters how," Vainsley sighed.
"Wait professor, are you saying what I think you're saying," Penelope said.
"That depends on what you are saying," Binns said.
"That the noblesse oblige is formed by a ruler's subjects thinking about them," Penelope said as she began to braid Liz's hair.
"That's a load of crap," Lev snapped.
"No that actually makes sense," Olga said.
"No, it doesn't," Vainsley said. "My knight's stratagem has nothing to do with people."
"The same goes for my time of awakening," Lev added.
"But think about it, who are the rulers that were seen as the strongest in ancient history," Percy chimed in.
"The scariest, craziest, and the ones loved by the people," Mathew said.
"Power is given to those who are worthy or those who are willing to do anything to get it," Cedric added.
"I'm not worthy," was the thought that blew through her mind like a bludgeoning charm at full power. "No of us are, we were given this power by our people, for the purpose of helping them, not subjugating them," Liz thought. "But then how do we still have this power…. It should have dissipated over time…." Slowly her trembling hand raised into the air. "Professor Binns," Liz said softly.
"Yes," Binns replied.
"Professor if what I think you're saying is correct, then the noblesse oblige system was an attempt to recreate the power of divine spirits," Liz said as the students gasped in shock.
"Yes, some of the evidence certainly points in that direction," Binns replied.
"Then why hasn't the power of noblesse oblige faded over time?" Liz asked.
"That is because of our superior breeding," Vainsley said, earning a few dark looks.
"You are so full of shit," a number of students thought.
"While it's true you could breed humans like your families prized abraxans," Binns said, narrowing his gaze on Vainsley. "You will find breeding humans is much more complex, and quite frankly Eugenics is something that should be retired to the dustbin of history. Additionally, while magical power, and aptitude for certain types of magic, can be passed on unique traits and skills found in many noblesse oblige cannot"
"Ok, but why hasn't the power faded, and how is it passed from generation to generation," Mathew asked.
"Watch your questions mudblood," Lev whispered in his ear.
"Like I care, you bloody wanker. Your spells haven't worked on me in a long time," Mathew whispered back.
"Now that is quite the question isn't it," Binns said. "And one for which I do not have an answer," he said as Vainsley and Lev, breathed a sigh of relief. "But what I can say is that there are many ways magic can be used to transmit information?"
"Like the wizarding wireless," a student said.
"Or a howler," another student said.
"My power has nothing in common with a howler," Vainsley huffed.
"True but it is possible to place magic and information in a variety of objects," Binns said as the bell rang.
"It's an advanced form of a magical crest," Olga said to Penelope as she finished putting Liz's hair into a pair of long braids.
"All done," Penelope said as Liz hopped down off her lap.
"Thank you, Penelope," Liz replied. "And what's a magical crest."
"I'm not sure, but it's a unique form of Asian family magic, I heard Cho talking about it once," Olga replied as they left. Liz rushed to take multiple steps for every one of her friends long graceful strides in an effort to keep up.
"They're so tall and pretty, and nice," Liz thought, looking up at Olga, and Penelope as she struggled to keep up. "Not a runt like me."
Break
"What is she doing here," Marietta said as Liz sat down at the Ravenclaw table for lunch.
"Since when have you had a problem with Slytherin Marietta," Penelope said.
"I don't, I just have a problem with her," Marietta said.
"Me, what did I ever do to you," Liz replied.
"I could say that you Lizbeth Tuttle and a Marquees, yet you do not act like one, consorting with commoners, and failing to grasp the full gravity of your station," Marietta said.
"Like I care what someone 5 stations below me thinks," Liz replied.
"That is true that you out rank me, but then I do not look like some 13-year-old runt with the womanly charm of a prepubescent boy," Marietta said standing up causing Liz to rock back on her heels a blush spreading across her face.
"I am not a 13-year-old boy," a red face Liz snapped.
"You said it not me," Marietta chuckled, flaunting her curves.
"I suggest you leave while you are ahead little girl," Olga said.
"I would hardly say that I am a little girl," Marietta replied.
"But you are acting like one," Olga said, using her chest to knock her off her feet.
Marietta stood brushing herself off. "Humph, I little to gain from a rejected Swedish swimsuit model," Marietta said.
"I am not a swimsuit model," Olga said.
"Sorry my mistake, a lingerie model then," Marietta said before turning away and walking towards the Slytherin table.
"She's always been a little snot, but ever since she was inducted into the Ladies of Guinevere, she's become a real stuck-up snob," Cho said.
"True," Penelope said.
"But we didn't come here to talk to you about that," Olga added.
"Cho what can you tell me about magical crests," Liz asked.
"That's a rather unique question," Cho said.
"Please, Cho, it is important," Liz said.
"We had an interesting discussion with Professor Binns today when he took over advanced history," Mathew said joining them.
"Mathew," Liz squeaked.
"Merlin, she might not have her height or curves but she is still as cute as ever." He thought, looking at the new cuter Liz. "Liz, you are looking as lovely as ever today," he said as Liz blushed.
"Can it, lover boy," Percy said, joining them. "Cho whether intentional or not, Bins gave us a treasure trove of information about noble titles and their power."
"Do tell," Cho said.
"The short version is that the noble titles began as a way to try and copy the powers divine, nature, or animal spirits," Mathew said.
"You will have to give me the full version later," Cho said.
"No problem," Cedric said.
"What we don't know is why the power hasn't faded over time as the world moved away from monarchical and autocratic leaders," Penelope said.
"Or how it was passed from person to person," Olga said.
"But you think magical crests might provide the answer," Cho said.
"Yes, and you are more familiar with Asian magic than we are," Olga said.
"I see, but if you are thinking what I think you are, this is a level of magic on a level beyond what I know,'" Cho said.
"Just tell us what you can," Olga asked as the others nodded in agreement.
"Alright," Cho said. "We runes can be written on just about anything, and with anything. Runes while limited in some ways are limitless in others."
"That is true," Olga nodded. "Runes can only do what they are programmed to do, and they are bound by the language of the runes, be it information storage or casting a spell."
"Yes, but that can be expanded by magic circles," Penelope said. "The circle adds additional functionality by circulating magic."
"And Johanna proved multiple circles can be combined together, with her project last year," Olga said.
"And it can be boosted by gem-based magic," Cedric added.
"This is all great, but that doesn't tell me what a magical crest is," Percy said.
"A magical crest is a spell type of runic array that is not drawn or carved into anything," Cho replied as a memory surfaced in Liz's mind.
Flashback to Summer of 1988
"Liz, come with me," Evangeline said to her daughter.
"Yes, mother," Liz said, putting her book down.
"You have turned 11 and will be attending Hogwarts soon," she said, leading Liz through the sprawling mansion that sat on the Tuttle estate.
"I can't wait to go to a real school and meet other kids," Liz said, bouncing with excitement.
"Yes, you will meet many children at Hogwarts, but remember that Hogwarts is not a game, and you must uphold the Tuttle name at all times," she said, giving her daughter a stern look.
"Yes, mother," Liz said softly.
"To that end, it is time that you inherit the true power of the Tuttle family," she said, leading her into the basement.
"But I am already the heiress to the Marquee Tuttle," Liz said.
"Yes, but that is but a fraction of our true power," she said as they entered the basement.
"What is our true power mother," Liz asked as they went deeper, entering a large room lined with small glowing orbs.
"Invisible air, the most powerful noblesse oblige that the Tuttle family possesses, a power that once belonged to King Arthur himself," she said removing a glowing orb from a recess in the wall.
"What is that," Liz said.
"The power of the storms themselves," she said. "Now stand in the center," Evangeline said pointing to the runic circle engraved on the floor.
"Ok mommy," Liz said.
"Good now let us begin…." she said activating the circle. Liz gave a scream of pain before passing out.
Flashback over
"You're talking about a complex magical construct that can be implanted into a person," Liz said softly.
"Yes," Cho said.
"It is a painful and dangerous process," Liz said.
"It can be," Cho said. "But you already knew all that."
"Yes," Liz said. "And now I know what they are," she said softly, getting everyone's attention. "I don't know what they might have first been, but I know what they are today," she said as the others patiently waited. "The noblesse oblige as they are called are nothing but the crystalized essence of magical power, knowledge, and skill, of powerful witches and wizards. Any relationship that power had with the inferred responsibility of privileged people to act with generosity and nobility toward those less privileged has long since passed. I'm not worthy of this power, nor do I deserve it. I am just resting on the shoulders of our ancestors. I am the magical equivalent of trust fund babies resting on inherited power. I should be pushing magic forward, not this." Liz said as a strange feeling washed over her. Not unlike the feeling she had when she gave up her womanly charms. "Something else wants to break away, but what. This is more than just my hair, skin, voice or eyesight, she thought going over the traits of her old self that still remained with her."
"That's…." Penelope said as Mathew put his arm around Liz for support.
"Far more advanced than anything I've ever read about Magical crests," Cho said. "But it would be a logical expansion of what I do know."
"What do you mean," Olga asked.
"In some parts of Asia, magical families will pass down their most important secrets by engraving the spell, or potion formula onto the body via magical tattoos and some will do it on the persons magical circuits and very rarely the magical core. So, if you can do a spell you can probably do more," Cho said.
"So, what will you do now," Olga asked as Mathew put his arm around Liz.
"I don't know," Liz said. "Is it invisible air that is breaking away," Liz thought, closing her eyes. "Please if you are invisible, let me hold you a little longer. I do not have the right to use you, but please let me give you to someone worthy," Liz thought scrunching her eyes in concentration.
"Liz are you alright," Mathew asked.
"I'm ok," Liz said, opening her eyes. "Just a little tired."
"Well, I think we've had enough heavy discussion for one day," Percy said.
"Agreed," Cedric said.
"So, Olga, what's this I hear about you and my brother," Percy said.
"You're dating Charlie," a wide-eyed Liz asked, thinking of her one-time crush.
"I wouldn't say we're dating, but I have gone on a walk with him a few times," Olga said.
"How," Liz asked as some small part of her remembered trying her charms on him a few to many times to no avail.
"Turns out he likes smart, friendly girls," Olga said. "But these puppies did help," she added pointing to her chest.
"Lucky," Liz thought.
"Ok, now spill," the girls asked.
"Please a lady never kisses and tells," Olga replied before leaning in. "But I can say those muscles are real." she snickered.
"Since we're on the topic of relationships, have you guys had any luck," he asked.
"Marcus and I are the only decent ones in Slytherin and we're both taken," Mathew said.
"Seamus has potential," Percy said.
"I thought Justin might, but he's becoming a little too stuck up for my taste," Cedric chimed in.
"Boys, is there something you are not telling us," the girls deadpanned.
"Johanna's friends and her sister asked us for help finding a boyfriend for Johanna," Cedric said.
"And you are only telling us now because," the shocked girls said.
"I don't know," the boys shrugged.
"Seriously," the girls said as the bell rang signaling the end of lunch.
"Oh, hey would you look at the time," Percy said.
"We'd better get moving or we will be late," Cedric said.
"This isn't over," the girls demanded as they stood up.
"A topic for another time then," Percy said racing off.
"Get back here!" Penelope yelled racing after him.
"Hey wait for me," Liz cried out frantically scrambling to catch up.
Sunday November 19th Beaxbaton's Magical Academy Fleur's room
"Argh!" Fleur screamed, batting away another fireball from a piranha plant. "Will you cut that out," she yelled at the plant only to get a smile full of teeth in return. "Listen you, I am doing the same thing that Millie does," Fleur said as it shook its head. "I am not doing it wrong," Fleur growled as the Plant continued to shake its head. "Listen dammit," Fleur said pointing her wand at it and letting her magic flow towards the plant, a warm breeze washing over the plant before it pulled back into its pipe-like pot. "Hey we are not done yet," Fleur growled gazing into the pipe only to receive a fireball to the face. "Argh I have had it," Fleur yelled, cutting the fireball in half letting it dissipate into the air.
"You are still doing it wrong," Steve hissed looking over Fleur's shoulder.
"Gah Snake," Fleur screamed, leaping onto her bed with her wand at the ready.
"She's no longer freezing up, this is an improvement," Steve thought.
"Fleur are you alright," Millie said, throwing open the door.
"Melissa, your friends are trying to kill me," Fleur yelled pointing her wand at Steve and Audrey," Fleur said. "And what is that," Fleur said pointing at Millie.
"What this," Millie said, holding out a long pole with a large flag wrapped around it.
"Yes," Fleur said.
"It's my flag," Millie said.
"Your flag," Fleur said.
"Yes, I joined the color guard," Millie said proudly.
"I would have pegged you for the cheerleading team," Fleur said.
"That was a little too much sitting around and looking pretty for me," Millie said.
"There was always the dance team," Fleur said.
"That's your thing, and I needed to find my own thing," Millie said. "Plus, this way when we all end back at Hogwarts, I can add something unique to our performances." Millie thought. "Not to mention it's the closest I can get to training with a battle standard," she added thinking of the staff she used in the chamber of secrets.
"Is it good exercise," Fleur asked as Millie entered, giving head pats to Audrey and Steve.
"Give it a try," Millie said, handing the flag to Fleur.
"It's got some heft to it," Fleur said, taking the flag. "About 2.5 kilos give or take."
"Yes, but it can go up to 5 kilos for some of the bigger flags," Millie said.
"That would do it," Fleur said, handing it back.
"Oui," Millie replied.
"Still, I think it agrees with you," Fleur said.
"You think so," Millie said.
"Oui, you are more confident and graceful on your feet these days," Fleur said.
"French-like" Millie asked hopefully.
"Very," Fleur said.
"Avoir le sourire jusqu'aux oreilles," Millie said excitedly with a beaming smile on her face. "I've been working really hard to be as French as possible," she said dancing around the room before spinning and flopping onto Fleur's bed giggling happily.
"Crazy girl, but she's really following through on the French Over," Fleur thought. "Now I wish I could say my endeavors have been as successful as yours," Fleur said.
"Oh," Millie said.
"Your plant keeps attacking me," Fleur said. "It doesn't matter what I do, it either blasts me with a fireball, or tries to bite me."
Millie sat up looking at Audrey. "Audrey is this true," she said, waiting for the plant to pop back out of its pipe. Slowly the plant popped back out stretching out across the room to lay its bulb on Millie's lap.
"Oh, I see, wind or fire, that's a problem," Millie said gently patting the bulb. "But that doesn't excuse your behavior either."
"Millie what are you talking about," Fleur said.
"Well Audrey says that while you were letting your magic flow to her it was laced with wind and fire," Millie explained.
"Well duh, Veela's have a strong connection to fire," Fleur said.
"But my magic doesn't do that," Millie said, sending a pulse of magic out from her wand filling the room with the scent of flowers.
"That's not possible, a release of raw mana in the absence of a spell will naturally drift towards a person's natural element," Fleur said inhaling the scent of flowers.
"Natural element, what's that," Millie asked.
"The base elements that create the universe," Fleur said.
"Magical or non-magical," Millie asked.
"Magical," Fleur said.
"Greek, Subcontinent India, Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese, or alchemy," Millie asked.
"Since when is there more than one system," Fleur said.
"Um since forever if you consider places outside of Europe," Millie replied.
"Right, sorry," Fleur said.
"Pas de problème," Millie said. "I've just had more exposure to people from other cultures."
"Right the Patil twins," Fleur said.
"Oui," Millie said. "Now in the Greek system there is earth, wind, fire, water, and quintessence."
"We are made of a combination of those 5 elements, and we all have a stronger connection to one of those elements. Now normally this doesn't matter for most spells, but spells that directly involve your element tend to be stronger," Fleur explained using a basic flame charm to create a large fireball before extinguishing it.
"Ok, but I have a question," Millie said. "It is pretty obvious Johanna's element must be ice."
"Understatement," Fleur said rolling her eyes.
"But ice isn't one of the classical elements," Millie said. "And Audrey said that you either hit her with a gust of wind or a blast of flame, except for a few times where it was a hot gust of wind."
"Melissa, what are you saying," Fleur said.
"Air and Water make ice," Millie said. "Maybe some people can have two elements."
"A person can't have two elements," Fleur said as Audrey shook her head. "What do you mean no."
"Think about it, you hit her with wind, fire, or hot winds," Millie said.
"GAH!" why can't anything be easy with you," Fleur screamed, grabbing her head.
"Because that would be boring," Millie giggled.
"Understatement," Fleur groaned. "Ok quick question what elements in other systems you mentioned are different from the Greek system.
"Plant, metal, and void," Millie replied.
"Plant, metal, void," Fleur thought as she began pacing the room. "Ok, if Johanna's ice is truly her element, then a wind water combination makes sense. Air and fire make a hot gust of wind, but my Saint Elmo's fire is a combination of air and fire magic to create plasma. Ergo elements can be combined to make new elements using spells, but that's just basic transfiguration. But could it happen naturally," she thought lifting her hand to her chin as she paced back and forth. "Wait, this means I could make plasma…. Plasma melts ice…. Hehehe just you wait Johanna…." Fleur thought as she began to laugh.
"I think she's broken," Steve hissed to Millie.
"Be nice," Millie said playfully swatting Steve.
"But how do I prove Millie's theory, and how do I combine my elements to make plasma naturally, and what can I do with it," Fleur muttered sitting down at her desk. "I'll need test subjects, Millie for sure…."
"Are you really going to let Fleur experiment on you," Steve asked.
"I'm sure it won't be anything crazy," Millie said as Fleur began laughing again.
Tuesday November 28th a facility in the Ural Mountains
The sounds of battle reverberated through the facilities, as Baron Harkonen walked through the halls of one of the hidden facilities he had scattered throughout Russia. While recently built it sat on the grounds of one of Stalin's many Gulags built to purge the magical population after he discovered that the Russian magical population was hidden from him and that they supported the Czar. The magicals had fought bravely but their numbers were unable to stop the force of modern arms, and human wave tactics. This particular site was home to unspeakable experiments in order to learn the secrets of magic until they summoned a dark beast called Viy viy viy who destroyed the facility and all killed all who remained before the summoning ended. Only their lingering ghosts, thoughts, feelings, and magic remained driving all away until the Baron had arrived cutting a deal with them. They would allow him to use the facility if he promised to destroy those that had imprisoned and tortured them. Thus, it was the perfect place hidden to both science and magic. The pounding continued as he headed deeper into the facility eventually arriving at the observation deck.
"How is the girl," Vladimir said.
"Growing stronger by the day," a man said, pulling up an image of the girl as she laid on her bed taller and more fit as she moved from slender to athletic toned muscles running the length of her body. "She's grown another inch, and has added 14 pounds of muscle," he said as the baron examined the girl.
"And her magical core," he asked.
"Another 5% my lord," the man said.
"Good, but can she fight," he said.
"Watch," he said pressing a button causing a hidden panel on the wall to open.
"I already told you I was not going to die here," the girl yelled facing the camera before turning back to face the large world that entered the room. While her back was against the wall it wasn't out of fear, but rather a way to not let the beast get behind her as they circled the small room. Eventually the wolf struck first, lashing out trying to bite the girl only to feel her fists slam it into the ground.
"Bad dog," she yelled, jumping to the side as it tried to bite her. Her boot covered foot lashed out smashing into the dog's side with a sickening crunch throwing into the wall with a thud.
"Good instincts," Vladimir said. "But still defiant, and compassionate," he said as the girl pushed the injured animal into the opening from where it came before it closed.
"Yes, sir," he said. "She has yet to finish off any of the animals sent to fight her."
"I wish to speak with her," Vladimir said.
"I'm not sure that is advisable, she has tried to escape several times," the man said.
"Do I look like a man who cannot handle a girl," Vladimir said.
"No sir," he said.
"Good, now I want you to move her, but make it look like her transport was hijacked and she is being taken to a safe place. Then knock her out without her knowing and place her in a normal room. Then give her the next 24 hours off, a chance to clean herself, and a clean set of clothes," he said.
"Sir may I ask what you have in mind," the man said.
"A unique bit of leverage," the baron said.
Break
The myth of Anastasia Romanov's survival is a work of pure fiction, yet the story of her death is a rather elaborate ruse to hide her true nature. The fact was Anastasia was not killed with the rest of her family rather as a witch she was taken to a secret soviet facility and experimented on for years until dying in the summoning of Viy. Anger at being denied her happiness, and the suffering of her people, her soul remained attached to the mortal world, a wraith that haunted the hidden gulag.
"Czaritza Anastasia," Vladimir said kneeling in the center of an opulent room, one fit for an empress.
"Baron Harkonen, it's been far too long," a ghostly vision of beauty said appearing out of thin air.
"Yes, but I trust you have enjoyed my gifts" he said slowly, standing to look at the ghostly image of a young woman.
"Very much so," she said, spinning around the opulent room. "I just wish I could enjoy them more," she said picking up and cuddling a small stuffed bear for a moment before it fell through her ghostly body bouncing on the floor. "Have you good news?" she asked.
"Yes, your majesty," Vladimir said. "The soviets are shattered and we control directly or indirectly all but a small corridor between Saint Petersburg and Moscow. Where the International Confederation of Wizards led by Albus Dumbledore have stimmed our efforts."
"I see, and what off the areas that the communists cost mother Russia," she said.
"Eastern Ukraine and the Crimea are under your control as is Belorussia," Vladimir said.
"Excellent," she said.
"Czaritza, if I may beg your indulgence for a moment," Vladimir said.
"You may," she said.
"I have come across a girl who has lost her memory, as the result of actions by a soviet remnant," he explained holding up a hand. "And not to worry they have been dealt with."
"That poor girl, you have to help her," Anastasia said.
"I have and I continue to do so," Vladimir said as the girl floated inches from his face, anguish written on her ghostly face.
"Good, and what can I do to help," she said.
"I know not who she is, but she is a kind girl, that might be swayed to our cause should you talk to her," he said.
"Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I haven't talked to someone in years, no decades, what does she look, what does she like, oh I hope she likes me," the ghostly girl babbled.
"Not to worry, my dear Czaritza I am sure everything will be just fine. Just talk with the girl and share your story," he said. "If you do
"Ok," Anastasia said.
Break
"At least this one is a little nicer," the girl thought, feeling the soft bed beneath her as she woke up. "And the room," she said sitting up and examining her new room. It was still somewhat utilitarian but the metal walls had been painted a soft white color, and the lights were a softer more natural light than the harsh fluorescent lights she had been dealing with. "A carpet," she said surprised by the soft warm feeling beneath her feet. Her next thought was to scan the walls looking for any cracks or seems that might indicate the door they used to send animals in. "Maybe I was rescued like they said," the girl muttered, continuing to examine the room which had a second smaller room attached. "A real bathroom," the girl said happily entering the room. "And a mirror," she gasped, getting the first good look at herself since awakening with no memories. "Well, that was not what I expected." she said, raising a hand to her face. That's not to say she knew the color of her eyes or the color of her short-cropped hair that fell to the bottom of her ears. It was rather that deep red eyes, and bleach white hair was the last thing she would have guessed. If anything, she was expecting a boring brown color or something like that. "Am I a vampire," she said, opening her to check for pointy canines which she did not have. "Ok not a vampire," she muttered. "And I'm not bad looking either, I think,'' she said, checking her face, which was surprisingly clear of blemishes and injuries despite the constant bouts of violence against all manner of creatures. She eventually released a long sigh as no further memories returned to her as she continued to gaze at her reflection.
The sound of the door opening caught her attention, her body taking a fighting stance as she cautiously peered into the main room looking for attackers. Only to find a plate of food, a note, and a large package laying on the floor by the door. "Rescuers or not they are still sneaky," she said carefully checking the room before heading for the food and opening the letter.
Greetings fair maiden,
My name is Baron Vladimir Harkonen and I apologize for the rough handling and lack of a proper greeting, but after rescuing you from the Soviet wizards, we discovered that several delayed compulsion spells were placed on you. Now, not to worry, you will be perfectly fine after some real food, and rest while the spell breaks down. Once that happens, I would like for you to meet an acquaintance of mine. A girl that I think you will find you will have a lot in common with. As a show of good faith, I have provided you with proper clothing, and some reading material to pass the time. If you would like more food or reading material, or should the clothes not suit you simply ask and we will be of assistance. I have also asked that some music played for you as well. I find music soothes the tortured soul.
Till we meet in person fair maiden,
Baron Vladimir Harkonen
The soft tones of Russian classical music began to play as she put the letter down turning to the food. A hearty soup still steaming resting in a bowl next to several helpings of bread just waiting for her to eat it. Well at least it smells better than the other stuff I've had," she said picking up the bowl and drinking the soup. "Tastes better too," she muttered before quickly finishing the rest using the bread to soak up the remaining liquid. "Hey can I get some more of this," Lavender asked holding up an empty bowl.
"Da," a voice said before another bowl was teleported in front of her.
"Well so far they are living up to their word," the girl thought, taking the second bowl and downing it much like the first as more bread arrived. Her stomach satisfied, she turned to the package of clothes, discovering a simple school uniform. "You better not be peeking on me," the girl said, using the jacket from the school uniform to make an improvised screen to change behind.
Break
"How is she doing," Vladimir asked.
"She's open to the possibility that she's been rescued, but she has checked over the room, and seems to be aware that we are watching her," a technician said.
"What requests has she made," he asked.
"More food, a newspaper, and wants to know if we have any German pop music," he said.
"Clever girl," he thought, watching the girl as she sat quietly while closely scanning the room for clues. "Continue to give her food when she asks, tell her that we can play Russian pop music and give her that special the Moscow Times did on Natasha Romenko after the Monaco Magical Girl Grand Prix, but no pictures and not translated into English," he said.
"She won't be able to read that sir," the man said.
"I know, so when she does ask for something in English give her this," he said, removing a book from the pocket of his vest.
"What is it sir," the man asked.
"A girl's diary of her time spent in the gulag," he said.
Break
"I can't read Russian," she said, putting the newspaper aside after scanning it for pictures. "But why do the names Johanna, Millie, Parvati, and Hermione ring a bell," she thought before turning to the new book that appeared. "Thanks," she said as the new book was in English.
Schwipsig's Diary
June 18th 1911
Dear Diary,
Tatiana gave this to me for my birthday, and I'm writing it in English, so no one else around here will understand it.
Anna
October 20th 1913
My sisters said it was dumb but I took a picture of myself today using a mirror and a camera. I'm calling it a selfie, because it's just a picture I took myself. I mean how else can I take pictures of me without someone to work the camera. I wonder if this will be the start of a new trend.
July 30th 1914
I don't understand what is going on but daddy says we're now at war with Germany and Austria Hungary.
August 15th, 1916
Daddy is still at the front leading the fight against those big meany Germans. Oh, and I went to visit the soldiers recovering in the hospital. I tried to smile as best I could but it was so bloody.
March 14th 1917
Daddy abdicated today, because the people were really, really made at him. Daddy's always been nice to me, why do the people hate him.
July 17th 1918
I hate them, I hate them, I hate them. They killed everyone. I will never forgive the Soviets for what they did. You and Viy are all I have left. I don't know why they left me alive, but I heard someone saying I am special.
February 2nd 1919
Magic is real. I mean really real and they say I have it.
December 25th 1920
Make it stop, please I'll do anything to make it stop. No more animals, no more tests.
June 15th 1922
Dear Diary
Today is the day I turn 20. The others tell me that now I am truly an adult. Yet I do not feel like one. For all I have known for the last 4 years is pain and suffering. I have long since lost track of how many people and animals I have killed in their tests. The pain and suffering I once saw in the hospitals during the great war are but a trifle to what I have seen and endured. It is not I who killed them, but rather the red menace for creating this hell on earth. But that all ends tonight, for in their hubris they have sown the seeds of their destruction. Using my body as a medium I shall summon Viy the hunters of the night to destroy this hellish creation. So goodbye my one true friend, I had hopes to tell you one day about my first love, first, kiss, and seeing the world beyond Russia, but that is not to be. I hope to see you again in a gentler world.
Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia
Unable to take anymore the girl slammed the book closed with a scream of rage. "You bastards, how could you," the girl screamed to the four walls. Blood pounding in her ears as she marched across the room glaring at the plain walls of her room, the anger only grew. Rage brought by a shared experience, rage at what she and Anastasia had lost, anger at not knowing where or who she was.
Break
"Sir we have a problem," the technicians observing the girl spoke into the intercom as her body began to change.
"Yes, what is it," the baron replied.
"The girl is enraged, and growing," the technician said.
"Magically or physically," he replied as she rammed her body into the door leaving a small dent in the metal.
"Both sir," he replied as the girl slammed her fists against the door causing it to buckle.
"Explain," he ordered.
"I am not letting you hurt me or anyone else again," the girl screamed pounding on the door muscles surging with power rising up through the fabric of her clothes.
"She became enraged after reading the diary you ordered us to give her," he replied. "She is close to breaking out."
"Do nothing," he ordered.
"What if she breaks free," he said.
"I will handle it," he said.
"I…. am…. leaving…." she said, throwing her body against the door the sound of stretching and tear fabric. The seams of her jacket splitting as her shoulder widened, bulging quadriceps creating runs in her stockings. "Right…." she yelled as a large dent formed in the door. Pulling back her arm for one final punch her jacket finally lost the battle, the sleeves completely separating from the shoulders. "Now," she roared, throwing her fist forward, blowing the door clean off sending it flying across the hallway with a loud bang.
"We meet at least Miss, though I do wish you could have been a bit gentler on the door," Baron Harkonen said.
"Who are you," she growled glaring at the well-dressed clean-shaven man.
"My name is Baron Vladimir Harkonnen," he said approaching her.
"Is that supposed to impress me," the girl huffed readying herself for a fight
"It usually does, given how rare the nobility is these days," he replied, keeping his distance while still approaching her.
"I know several people with noble titles some of whom outrank you," she replied.
"That is wonderful news," he said with a smile holding his arms out wide.
"It is," she said, taking a step back.
"It means that your memory has returned," he said.
"No," the girl replied.
"But a fragment of it then," he said.
"No," she said. "I just know that I went to school with kids who outrank you."
"Outrank a Baron I'm impressed," he said. "Could she be the one they are looking for."
"Really that's so cool," Anastasia said, poking her head down out of the ceiling.
"I thought I asked you to wait, your majesty," Vladimir said.
"Well, I didn't want to," Anastasia said, floating down from the ceiling her ghostly body more substantial than that of a typical ghost as she floated half in and half out of the ceiling. "Um excuse me a moment," she said before tugging on her leg.
"Do you require assistance my lady," the baron said.
"No, I got this, come on you," she grumbled tugging on her leg until at last it popped free sending her crashing into the floor rather than through it. A pile of limbs in a big bulky dress.
"You are not a normal ghost," the girl said.
"You're not surprised that I am a scary ghost," she said looking up at her.
"No, and I don't think you're scary," the girl said, offering her hand to Anastasia.
"Really," she said as the girl helped her up.
"Yes," the girls said. "I am more surprised that I am able to touch you," she said.
"That's because I am not just any normal ghost, because of my magical and spiritual density I'm actually a wraith class spirit. Which means if I concentrate, I can condense my body enough to interact with physical objects," Anastasia said proudly.
"Like a poltergeist," the girls asked.
"No, a poltergeist is when the thoughts and feelings of a place gain a semi-physical form," Anna replied.
"That explains so much," the girl said.
"About what," Anastasia asked.
"That's the thing I don't know," the girl said holding her head.
"You poor thing," the ghost said hugging the girl.
"I um…. Thank you…." she stammered. "I think…. I mean seriously what the hell ever happened to normal…. Not that I have any knowledge of what normal is…."
"Miss…." Vladimir said.
"Go away, girl time," Anna said.
"My Lady…" Vladimir protested raising a hand.
"No…" Anastasia said. "She's been through so much at the hand of the Soviets and needs a friendly face."
"She did just…." he said pointing to the destroyed door.
"Because you were being stupid," Anastasia said. I mean just look at her clothes, they're all ripped and you promised me that you were taking good care of her," Anastasia said causing the girl to realize the state of her clothes.
"When did I get these," she muttered, looking at muscles that clearly identified her as a serious athlete.
"My Lady, we had her under observation in case the Soviets " Vladimir said.
"No, she's staying with me from now on, no more being locked in a room," Anastasia yelled.
"And if something were to happen," Vladimir said.
"I'm a ghost and the guardian spirit of this place, what is she going to do to kill me again," Anastasia said. "Now go away Baron Vladimir Harkonen.
"Yes Czaritza," he said turning on his heel and walking away. A smile growing on his face. "Exactly as planned, you are entirely too predictable, Grand Duchess."
The dumbfounded girl could only watch as a ghost told off a full-grown man like he was nothing more than a petulant school boy. "Wait did he say Czaritza," she finally said as Anastasia turned around.
"Yes, my name is Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia, the Grand Duchess of Russia, it is a pleasure to meet you," Anastasia said with a curtsey.
"You mean you're…." the girl gasped.
"Yes," she said before the girl hugged her.
"You poor thing," the girl said.
"You know…" Anastasia said, returning the hug.
"They gave me your diary to read," a shocked Anastasia said.
"Sorry, I asked for something in English, so it might have been the only thing around," the girl said.
"Don't worry about it," she said. "I am so turning off their heating tonight."
"Ok," she replied.
"I know you don't remember your name but I can't keep calling you girl, that's just rude," Anastasia said.
"Anything is better than nothing," the girl said with a shrug.
"I'll have you know a name is a very important thing for a girl," Anastasia said. "I know I'll call you Yekaterina after Katherine the great of Russia because I bet you are great just like she was."
"Yekaterina, it's very Russian," the girl said.
"Well of course it does silly your Russian after all," Anastasia said.
"I am," the girl said.
"How else could have been picked up by the magical remnants of the Soviet government," she explained.
"But I can't speak Russian," the girl said.
"You lost that when you lost your memory," she said. "And I bet you were an athlete cause you're all buff, that's what they say these days right," Anastasia said.
"I think so, and I guess," she replied, unable to deny that she was pretty muscular.
"Great so with more training I bet you will remember more of your memories," Anastasia said.
"I don't know, what if that's not who I really am," the girl replied.
"Then you just get some new skills when your memory comes back, it's not like learning Russian and athletic training can turn you into a new person," Anastasia said as girls in the Scottish Highlands, France and the Alps sneezed.