Harry Potter and The Princess of Liechtenstein

by crazyidiot78

A unique take on the Hermione is sorted into Slytherin story. Will Hermione survive in the den of serpents, surely a mask is needed, but what kind of mask. And what happens when the mask takes on a life of its own. Action, adventure, and mystery await, the world will never be the same. The story will deviate signifigantly from cannon as it progresses so consider it more of an AU.

48. Chapter 48

Chapter 48- Daphne no more?

August 1995

The evening of Friday August 4th

The whine of sirens filled the air as jets of flame shot high into the air illuminating the quaint suburban neighborhood outside of London. A woman's cackle could be heard as she danced in front of the house.

"This is what you get for crossing me you Nuevo rich commoner squib trash the woman ranted controlling the flames with gusts of wind from her wand. A massive blast shook the neighborhood as the roof was blown off the house.

"Stupefy," a man's voice yelled a red jet of light impacting the woman as she fell to the ground like a puppet with her strings cut. Unfortunately, without the mad woman's magic the flames took the form of a dragon as they billowed out of the house threatening to engulf the neighborhood.

"She was controlling Fiendfyre just who the bloody hell is she," the man's partner said.

"Evangeline Tuttle," the first one said, ripping off the woman's hood.

"Bollocks," the second man said as the house collapsed and the flaming dragon looked for a new source of fuel.

"Relax," Arthur Weasley said approaching them.

"Boss!" the pair exclaimed.

"This is the largest spike in magic we've seen in a muggle area since Voldemort, you think I wouldn't come," Arthur said as his wand slid out of his rode. "Fiendfyre, huh, haven't had to deal with you in a long time." he said looking up at the fully formed dragon made completely out of flames. "Who summoned it," Arthur said.

"The Marquee Tuttle," the first man said.

"Good that makes things easier," Arthur said.

"Easier it's fiendfyre!" replied as the dragon made of flames roared.

"Her element is air, not fire," Arthur replied.

"Why does that matter," he yelled as the dragon roared, directing its flames at them.

"Because mine is, and my family knows how to deal with dragons and fire," Arthur said flicking his wand at the creature. "Cadwyni rhwymo fflam," he said in Welsh wrapping the flaming beast in orange chains. The flaming creature roared in defiance trashing against the chains. "Shut up," Arthur said clapping an orange band of metal around its mouth. Beads of sweat began to slide down the side of his face as he locked eyes with the flaming magical beast brought forth by the caster's rage, and desire for wanton destruction. Slowly the beast began to shrink the flames that made up its body absorbed into orange bands. Flashing lights appeared at the end of the street as the flames seemed no bigger than a large dog. "Diffodd," he yelled, slashing at the flames causing them to disperse, the one mighty flames now ashes on the wind.

"Boss, we have to go," they yelled running to him as he fell to one knee

"Not yet," Arthur said, gasping for breath.

"Screw the statute," they replied as Arthur pointed his wand in the air.

"Digere paulisper surrexerunt ludere," Arthur yelled the strain evident in his voice, as the magic pulsed over the neighborhood.

"Go!" the men said vanishing with a pop as the first responders finally arrived.

The afternoon of Sunday August 6th

"I'm surprised the whole neighborhood didn't burn down," Dan said examining the remains of their old home outside of London.

"Magic," Johanna said.

"You know for once that actually makes sense," Dan chuckled, kicking a scorched hunk of wood as it disintegrated into ash.

"So now what," Johanna said, frowning as there seemed to be nothing left besides ash and twisted bits of blackened metal.

"I don't know," Dan said. "I'm just glad none of us were here for it," Dan said as Emma continued to look for something.

"What is mom looking for," Johanna asked.

"As you know now, we left in quite a hurry and left a number of important things behind after the attack," Dan said as Johanna frowned. "Relax everything turned out fine," Dan said, placing an arm around her shoulder. "Right, mostly fine," he said remembering what the Potter boy did to his daughter. "Anyway, we fully intended to come back after the PTA meeting but things happened and we forgot." Dan said as Emma seemed to find what she was looking for tugging on the top of a metallic box sticking out of the rubble. "Well, it looks like your mother found it."

"Found what," Johanna asked as the top of the box popped off in Emma's hands.

"The safe with all of the important documents, birth and marriage certificates and the like," Dan said as Emma froze staring down at the remains of the charred metal box.

"Dan it's," Emma muttered looking down at the small pile of ash sitting in the box.

"Burnt to a crisp," Dan said as a gust of wind carried the ash of their old British life away.

"It's all gone," Emma said softly.

"No it's not," Johanna said.

"Johanna, those were the only copies," Emma said.

"Of what," Johanna asked.

"Birth certificates, marriage license, financial documents, the deed to the house….." Emma said trailing off.

"And why do we need those," Johanna said.

"To prove…." Emma began.

"You mean to tell me that you need a piece of paper to prove that you and dad are married, or that Victoria and I are your daughters. And it's not like you needed the house or the money with what we have in Lichtenstein," Johanna said.

"She's got a point you know," Dan said.

Emma sighed slowly raising her head to look at them. "I know, but still."

"It's like watching a part of yourself blow away in the wind," Dan said.

"Exactly," Emma said.

"But is it a part you really want to keep," Johanna said. "I've seen how much more relaxed and happier you two have been since moving to Germany. Dad you actually get to treat patients and not worry about putting buts in the chair. Mom, I know what you lost, but I know you love what you do now, and wouldn't change it for anything."

"How did we raise such a kind and caring daughter," Emma said softly hugging Johanna.

"I dunno," Dan replied. "But she's got a point."

"I know, but…." Emma sighed looking over the ruins of their former house.

"The past is the past, and we can't change it," Dan said.

"We'll just have to see about that," Johanna thought.

"But I prefer to look to the future," Dan said. "And honestly is living in Lichtenstein all that bad, I mean we're practically full-time residents there anyway."

"True," Emma said looking up to the sky watching the clouds roll by. "Johanna, we've already changed your name, how do you feel about changing your nationality to," she said, breaking the silence.

Johanna's eyes lit up, a smile growing on her lips. "You mean it." she exclaimed.

"Yes, you love Lichtenstein," she said. "And we love Lichtenstein," she said, putting an arm around Dan. "So, what do you say, to leaving our old English selves behind and embracing our new German home," Emma said, her posh English accent shifting to German. "Eep!" Emma squeaked blushing in shock as her voice seemingly shifted.

"It seems like your mother didn't want to wait," Dan chuckled.

"Ja," Johanna said.

"It's not like that," Emma said, speaking in German.

"It looks like that to me," Dan said in German.

"It's all Johanna's fault," Emma said pointing a finger at her daughter.

"Me, why is it my fault," Johanna shot back as they continued to speak in German.

"Well, you were the one who wanted to visit Lichtenstein in the first place," Emma said.

"True," Johanna said.

"Not that I am complaining, but I still can't believe a little ice skating caused all this," Dan chuckled.

"Understatement," Emma said.

"Oh, come on I wasn't that bad," Johanna replied, stomping her foot.

"Yes, you were," Dan said ruffling her hair. "And I have the pictures to prove it."

Johanna looked around a smirk growing on her face. "Oh really, you have the pictures," Johanna said. "Because I don't see any pictures."

"She's got you there Dan," Emma laughed.

"Ja, you got me," Dan relented. "But maybe magic can help me with that."

"Meh," Johanna said, sticking her tongue out at him. "I'd rather you just remember Johanna I am today, rather than the Hermione I used to be."

"Save your energy for Monaco Johanna Helena Grunberg," Emma said.

"Grunberg," Dan said quizzically.

"It just slipped out," Emma said.

"Yes," Johanna mentally cheered.

"Of course, it did Emma Von Einzbern," Dan replied, poking his wife playfully.

"Von Einzbern, where did you cook that up," Emma replied.

"I dunno, but I think it fits my German wife," Dan chuckled.

"Perhaps, but I like my married name much better," Emma said.

"Married," Dan said. "Because I don't see a marriage license."

"Then you will just have to change that won't we," Emma said, pulling him close.

"Of course, but perhaps something more than just the magistrate this time," Dan replied.

"I thought it was usually the woman who wanted the big wedding," Emma chuckled.

"A preemptive strike," Dan said, pulling her close.

"And they accuse me of PDA," Johanna grumbled watching her parents giggle, until the sound of crunching wood caused them to snap to attention whipping their heads towards the sound.

"Einfrieren," Johanna called out, launching a blue diamond at Professor Dumbledore's feet who shattered it with a flick of his wand. "Nice try," Johanna said. "Eisketten," Johanna exclaimed, closing her fist causing the diamond shards to burst into chains of ice wrapping themselves around the Professor, who simply smiled.

"Impressive," Professor Dumbledore said, twisting his wand slightly before a flaming whip cut through them. "But this is not the first time I have seen gem magic."

"Panzerschild," Emma said the diamond on her bracelet glowing faintly as a series of white shields flashed to life between Dumbledore and her daughter. "Now what brings the headmaster of my daughter's former school to the remains of our 2nd home."

Dumbledore's eyes rose at the sight of the glowing white shields surrounding him. "I simply wanted to touch base with you after what transpired at the PTA meeting, and according to the Hogwarts book of students this was your primary residence," Dumbledore stated.

"Our primary residence in England," Dan said. "But this is not our home and hasn't been for some time."

Dumbledore paused stroking his long bead with one hand as he took in the destroyed house and its former residents. "Right, I will have to update the book then."

"I do not see how that is necessary considering that my daughters were expelled," Emma said, keeping the shields in place.

"That is what I hoped to discuss with you," Dumbledore said. "Now are these shields really necessary?"

"Considering what you tried the last time you had a talk with my daughter, they will be staying where they are," Emma replied glaring at him.

"A regrettable event," Dumbledore said.

"Only because it didn't work and you got caught," Dan said.

"I do what I do…." Dumbledore said.

"Get to the point," Emma snapped.

"If your daughters would agree to…." Dumbledore began to say.

"No," Dan snapped, cutting him off.

"Mr. Granger…." Dumbledore said.

"I said no," Dan repeated.

Dumbledore sighed. "Might I ask why you have refused my proposal without hearing it?"

"Ein, you allowed my daughter to be bullied for being different," Dan said walking up to him. "Zwei your substandard teaching practices strike down students who are driven to explore the world around them," Dan said glaring at him. "Drei, you tried to erase the mind of my daughters simply because they did not fit into the mold you created for them." Dan said.

"Don't you wish to be at Hogwarts with your friends," Dumbledore said, turning towards Johanna.

"While I will miss Millie, Neville, Marcus and the others, I couldn't in good conscience leave Padma, and Parvati alone in a new school, not to mention my sister," Johanna said. "Plus, I can always visit them during Hogsmeade's visits."

"And I believe that is the end of our conversation Mr. Dumbledore, now if you will excuse us we must be going," Emma said walking off with her family.

The morning of Wednesday August 9th

"Ready to go Mina," Victoria said as the maid entered her room.

"Yes," she said holding up a small suitcase. "And it's not a moment too soon, I just checked the family tapestry and you are no longer listed anywhere on it."

"Perfect timing then" Victoria said.

"Only you would say that," Mina chuckled. "But what if Catherine checks it before we leave."

"Then we do it the fun way," Victoria chuckled.

"Blowing up half the manor is not the fun way," Mina deadpanned.

"Maybe for you," Victoria said.

"No, but seriously, we thought that you would fade from the family tree after we left," Mina said.

"True, but we don't have to worry because while she does walk by the tapestry every day, she normally doesn't look at it too carefully, and when she does, she seems more concerned with checking on Daphne's continued slide away from the main Greengrass line rather than my shift. Plus, I can simply rile Daphne up a bit, to cause a distraction," Victoria said.

"It really is quite sad to see what has happened to her, but…." Mina said trailing off.

"It's nice to see her on the receiving end for once," Victoria giggled.

"Exactly," Mina said. "Now if Catherine…." Mina whispered.

"Be infected with the Daphne disease," Victoria laughed.

"I would be lying if I said no," Mina said.

"I don't know if that will happen, but I do know something we can do," Victoria said eyeing Mina.

"Victoria no," Mina yelped, jumping back.

"Victoria yes," Victoria said, locking the door.

"Victoria no," Mina pleaded.

"Victoria yes" Victoria chuckled lunging for Mina.

Afternoon of Wednesday August 9th

"I am really beginning to hate this thing," Liz sighed as she slowly wheeled down the pier looking out over the beach and the ocean. "Stupid legs, heal faster," she muttered looking down at the long skirt that covered her legs that were still stuck in casts. At least the weather is a lot nicer," she sighed stretching her arms out above her head. "But where is Millie…." Liz said scanning the pier. "She's probably made another friend or found some crazy plant…." Releasing another sigh, Liz relented to watching the waves roll on by looking down at the people enjoying their time in the water.

"Looks like someone is drifting too far out," she thought, waiting for a lifeguard or someone to notice as the person was moving closer to the end of the pier. "Not like it's my problem though," she muttered, blowing a bit of hair out of her face. "Looks like nobody noticed you're headed out to sea buddy, suck to be you," she said, watching the kid being swept out to sea. Only as she watched the kid edge closer to the end of the pier, she didn't see some random child, she saw Hermione, Millie, and the others she had hurt directly or indirectly through her lack of action. "No, not this time," Liz said, grabbing her wand. "Shit this is near a muggle area," Liz cursed, thinking of the statute of secrecy.

Flashback

"Hey Liz, can I ask you something," Millie asked as they sat watching TV.

"Sure," Liz replied.

"What exactly is invisible air, is it a skill that creates blasts of wind, or controls the air itself," Millie asked.

"You know I never really thought about it," Liz replied. "Mother only ever used it to create blasts or slashes of wind. I can do the same plus the windy shield but according to family legend it's why the Vikings called King Arthur the King of Storms, after he destroyed an invasion fleet before it made landfall by summoning a maelstrom."

"Impressive," Millie replied

"The skills attached to high-ranking titles are magic on a whole other level compared to what you learn in school," Liz said.

"True, but a tool is only as strong as the user," Millie replied.

End Flashback

"Well now is as good a time as ever," Liz said to herself, hiding her wand from view with her hat, her long blond hair blowing back down the pier towards the shoreline. "The wind is already blowing towards shore, so I don't need to create wind, and air is too fluid to charm…." Liz thought as her eyes lit up. "Wait, charms infuse your magic into an object allowing you to control it, so what if I," Liz whispered. "Now or never, I guess," she said as people finally noticed the kid almost blown out to sea. "Mana dispersion," she whispered, pushing her mana slowly out of her wand letting it flat away from her. "Ok now for the hard part. "Invisible air, mana control," she said gently flicking her wand releasing a small breeze pushing the mix of air and mana over the railing letting it float down to the frantic boy. "Zephyr," Liz whispered, cracking a smile as the air mana mix turned into a gentle breeze. The soft current of air slowly but surely began pushing the child back to shore. "There you go," Liz said, staying focused sweat forming on her brow as she continued to push the child slowly back to shore, dropping her spell as a wave finally washed the child onto the beach. With a sigh of relief, she leaned back a smile on her face even as she felt drained by the effort. "How do those girls do it, seriously making up something on the fly like that is tiring," she said breathing heavy. "But fun, and I'm helping," Liz thought as her eyes returned to the beach looking for anyone else who might need help. With a smile on her lips, she continued her unofficial lifeguard duty gently pushing anyone who floated too far out back to shore.

"I was wondering when nice Liz was finally going to come out," Millie thought with a smile as she watched Liz at work. "Someone seems to be enjoying herself," Millie said softly.

"Eek," Liz squeaked nearly losing her wand as she tossed it into the air before grabbing it. "Millie, when did you get here."

"Long enough to see you…" Millie said.

"I wasn't doing magic, or anything stressful, I swear," Liz blurted out.

"So that wasn't your spell that pushed those who drifted too far out back to shore," Millie said.

"No, and I wasn't using zephyr to blow anyone who drifted too far out back to shore," Liz replied.

Millie smirked, cocking a single eyebrow at Liz. "That is an oddly specific denial sister," Millie chuckled.

"It is not," a red-faced Liz shot back. "And why are you calling me your sister."

"It's because we have the same hair color, and I always wanted a sister," Millie replied.

"That doesn't make us sisters," Liz said as Millie began pushing her back down the pier.

"Not yet, anyway," Millie thought.

Thursday August 10th

"Millie," Johanna yelled, waving her arm in the air as she approached her friend on the boardwalk.

"Bonjour Johanna," Millie replied.

"So, we're doing French now," Johanna said in French.

"Oui, and it is the local custom," Millie replied. "And German or English all the time."

"Ja, I know, guess that means I need to brush up on some French," Johanna said.

"English, German, French, just how many languages am I going to have to learn to keep up," Liz said, wheeling over to them.

"I'm not sure, but is it really a bad thing," Johanna replied as they switched back to heavily accented English.

"Only according to my mother," Liz said stifling a giggle.

"Trouble at home," Johanna asked.

"Well, that's what she gets for silencing me at the PTA meeting," Liz grumbled. "And Johanna I want to."

"You don't need to apologize for that you were silenced," Johanna replied.

"Thank you, but that's not what I need to apologize for," Liz said.

"It isn't…." Johanna said.

"No," Liz said softly.

"Then what…." Johanna asked.

"Johanna, I don't know how you transformed yourself into another person, or why the world seems to be forgetting, but I do, and I know why," Liz replied.

"You do," Johanna said.

"Yes," Liz replied. "And I need to do this," Liz said. "Or the nightmares will never stop."

"Alright," Johanna replied as they moved under the shade of a nearby tree.

"Now what is it you need to do?" Johanna asked.

"I wish to apologize," Liz said, tears beginning to well up in the corner of her eyes. "I am sorry for everything I did to you, and everything I failed to stop. I should have stuffed those three in a trunk the first time they bullied you. I never should have forced you to be a maid, cleaning up after us. I should have helped you with your school work instead of ridiculing you. It doesn't matter if you are from a magical or non-magical family, or even magical at all," Liz said, tears slowly rolling down her cheeks. "Look, I know this is far too little far too late, and I saw Daphne earlier. So I know full well what is coming to me, and it is less than I deserve. I didn't just hurt you and Millie, I hurt so many others during my time as the so-called leader of Slytherin."

"Ok what happened to the Liz Tuttle I thought I knew," Johanna said.

"Um, Millie happened," Liz sniffled.

"That's what I figured," Johanna chuckled.

"What's that supposed to mean," Millie snapped.

"Just that you have an interesting way with people," Johanna whistled.

"Well at least I don't turn them into popsicles or blow them up," Millie retorted.

"No you just feed them to your plants," Johanna said.

"I do not," Millie said as green eyes met blue.

"Could have fooled me," Johanna said.

"Oh please, everyone knows you turned McLagan into a popsicle," Millie said as their argument continued.

"What did I miss," Victoria said, approaching them.

"I apologized for everything I've done, to them, and then they started arguing over whether or not they turn people into popsicles, or feed them to their plants," Liz replied looking up at Victoria. "Wait Victoria when did you get here," Liz gasped.

"A little while ago, it just took a while to give Cathy the slip," Victoria said. "So what did my sister say about your apology."

"They started arguing before I got an answer," Liz replied.

"Dumkoffs both of them," Victoria said, snapping her wand out and smacking both of them with a magical whip.

"Owe, hey what was that for," the girls whined holding the back of their heads.

"Honestly, Liz gives you a heartfelt apology, and all the both of you can do is start arguing when it's obvious you both don't know the meaning of restraint," Victoria said.

"Like your one to talk, I saw what you want to do for the concert," Johanna said.

"Are you saying you can't do it," Victoria said with a smirk.

"Of course, I can do it, but are sure you want to poke the dragon," Johanna replied.

"Oh please she is as dumb as a beanstalk, and besides, as of yesterday, I am officially off her tapestry," Victoria replied.

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

"Astoria Greengrass is officially dead," Victoria said, causing Johanna to cheer.

"Astoria Greengrass, who is that," Liz asked. "And why are you cheering for someone's death?" she said looking at Johanna.

"She doesn't know," Victoria said.

"Apparently not," Millie said.

"Wow this is much more potent than we thought," Johanna said.

"What is much more potent," Liz asked.

"Liz, what do you remember about Hermione Granger," Johanna asked.

"Wasn't that the fake English identity you were using to hide the fact that you are actually German, and that I was complicit in the bullying you experienced," Liz replied. "But it's kind of hazy, it's like I don't really remember Hermione, but I remember forcing her and Millie and a third girl to be maids and let the others pick on you…. Oh god, I used an advanced bludgeoning charm to blast you across the common room…" Liz gasped.

"Yeah, that one kind of stung," Johanna chuckled.

"But you, I mean you could have…." Liz said. "If I tried to blast you like that I'd be a frozen smear on the wall."

"Maybe now, but not then," Johanna said.

"I'm confused, why do I remember…." Liz said.

"How long has this been going on," Millie asked.

"How long what's been going on," Liz said.

"Your nightmares," Millie said.

"You know," Liz gasped.

"Steve," Millie said.

"Ugh," Liz groaned. "You make my brain hurt."

"You explain it to her," Millie and Victoria said.

"Why me," Johanna pouted.

"Because you started this mess," they shot back.

"Fine," Johanna huffed. "Now this is going to sound weird, but I was Hermione Granger."

"I know that was your fake identity," Liz said.

"No, that was the real me, short, fat, clumsy, ugly me, who was inept at magic," Johanna said

"No, this has to be some kind of joke," Liz said furrowing her eyebrows at Johanna.

"Liz would I lie," Johanna said.

"No, you wouldn't," Liz replied with a nod of her head. "But how, why," Liz asked.

"All I really wanted when I came to Hogwarts was to learn some magic and make friends," Johanna said. "But we all know how that turned out."

"Sorry," Millie and Liz said.

"Millie it wasn't your fault, in your position I might have even done the same," Johanna said.

"Merci, but you and I both know that's a load of dragon dung," Millie replied.

"Anyway, I figured that if I wasn't who I was, then maybe, the bullying would stop, and I would make some friends," Johanna said.

"Ok, but why a magical German figure skater from Lichtenstein, that's about as far from England as you can get," Liz asked.

With light pink coloring her cheeks Johanna snapped. "Refuge in audacity, and it didn't seem that crazy at the time, and figure skating just seemed like good exercise at first, plus…." she said pushing her index fingers together.

"Plus, what," Liz pressed.

"Nothing, it doesn't matter now, anyway and even that would be too crazy," Johanna blurted out.

"Wait a minute… no way… no freaking way…" Liz gasped.

"No, you can't…." Johanna squeaked.

"You figured out why she picked Lichtenstein," Millie said.

"No," Johanna yelped, moving to stop Liz only to get intercepted by Millie.

"Daphne was always flouting her title, and Lichtenstein is one of the last true monarchies in the world so you were going to…." Liz said.

"Be a princess or at least a duchess to shut her up," Johanna sighed. "It's crazy I know, you can laugh"

"No, you were only trying to do what you could to get them to leave them alone," Liz said, reaching out for her hand. "And knowing you it still might happen."

"Even I know that's crazy, me a princess," Johanna laughed.

"I'd believe it," Millie said.

"Me to," Victoria and Liz chimed in.

"What I still don't understand is how you literally changed your entire being, I mean that's incredible," Liz said.

"Hard work and magic I guess," Johanna shrugged.

"That's all," Liz said.

"I dunno, diet and exercise to lose weight, cosmetics for my hair and skin, with cosmetics, and some magic mixed in for my eyesight," Johanna said.

"In other words, you have no clue," Liz deadpanned.

"It's not like that, and I happen to like the new me, and things just kinda spiraled out from there," Johanna protested.

"If you are happy with yourself then I am happy," Liz replied.

"Thank you, Liz," Johanna said.

"I do have one question though," Liz asked.

"And that is," Victoria said.

"Does this mean Millie is going to end up being French because sometimes people call her Melissa and she doesn't seem to mind, and am I going to end up as her sister," Liz said.

"Oui," Millie giggled.

"Probably, but relax the process is painless," Victoria said.

"Not for me, I have much to atone for, before I can even think of moving forward," Liz thought.

"Possibly but only if that is what you want," Johanna said before turning to Millie. "And you're really going to do it."

"Oui," Millie said. "And I have a surprise for you."

"Wunderbar," Johanna giggled.

Evening of Saturday August 12th

"You know one of these days I am going to have to find my own band," Victoria said softly looking back at Alex and her band.

"True, but for now you have us," Alex said, giving her a pat on the back.

"I know but I keep pulling you away from…." Victoria said.

"We're making just as much if not more playing for you than we would on our own," the drummer said.

"Not to mention, the publicity," the keyboardist said.

"And playing with you is a blast," the bassist said.

"Well, there you have it now are you ready to rock this place," Alex chuckled shouldering her guitar.

"Think you can keep up," Victoria said, flipping the microphone in her hand.

"Don't forget who your teacher is," Alex smirked as the curtain rose.

"Oh, I know," Victoria said giving Alex one last look before turning to face the crowd. "Where monsters rampage, I'm there to take them down!" Victoria called out as Johanna gave her a thumbs up directing a light to illuminate Catherine who was standing at the back of the crowd, her scowl deepening as she realized what happened. "Where treasure glitters I'm there to claim it!" Victoria's sweet voice called out as illusionary gems appeared on stage. "Where an enemy rises to face me victory will be mine!" Victoria sang as the lights focused on Tracy, Pansy, and Daphne.

"I am not evil," Daphne said softly.

"I'd like to see you try," Tracy muttered as Pansy seemed content to tap her foot to the music.

"Feel the wind, and feel the fire, Roarin', gettin' higher, Risin' while my enemies face me down," Victoria sang as jets of wind and flames accompanied her song. "With the snap of just a finger, Time they got the picture, Boom! They're dead and buried and in the ground," she sang, snapping her fingers to an explosion.

"I'm a star, and I'm a knockout, Yeah, you better watch out, Ooh, but if you're jealous get out the way," Victoria sang, strutting out the runway that took her into the crowd and winking at the crowd who went wild. "Don't have time for hesitation, Pure annihilation, That's the only thing that my foes'll face."

"Hey, you wanna try it? Ooh, I wanna try it! Boy, you oughta know that I'm a wild girl," Victoria sang as Johanna used the lights to spotlight Marcus as she posed. "That was not part of the plan."

"Oh wow," Marcus gulped looking up at Victoria who smirked before turning around and dancing the other way.

"It seems Victoria is marking her territory," Mathew chimed in.

"Mathew, how long have you been standing there," Marcus yelped.

"Long enough," Mathew chuckled.

"So, um…." Marcus muttered.

"Just treat her right, and don't worry about what others think," Mathew said as several of the boys glared at Marcus.

"That's it," Marcus said.

"That and stay clear of the blast radius," Mathew chuckled.

"Good point," Marcus said as the song ended.

"This next song goes out to a good boy, who despite being housebroken is still a very dumb dog," Victoria said loudly. "I still remember when my friend brought him in for the first time and all he did was slobber over everything and behave like a mangy mutt, but he grew on us over time. Not that I blame him for the hard life he's had, so this one's for you, you dumb dog"

"A song about a dog, your daughter certainly has interesting friends, and sources of inspiration," Brian said walking into a private booth above the main floor of the concert grounds.

"Don't we all," Emma replied.

"True, but from anyone else I'd think that you were crazy," Brian said as the song began.

"A few years ago, I would have agreed with you," Emma chuckled. "However, it is actually a friend of a friend," Emma said waving for Maggie to come over with a large black dog walking at her side. "Maggie, this is Brian Murphy, a friend of mine and a reporter for the Leprechaun Times."

"You consider me a friend," Brian gasped.

"Of course," Emma said. "Now, Maggie I think Brian will be able to help you, so I will just let you two have a chat," she said before walking off.

"Mrs. Blustrode, let me say your reputation precedes you, and my wife simply loves your food," Brian said.

"Thank you, Mr. Murphy," Maggie replied but I think he needs to hear this song," she said tugging on the dog's leash.

"I feel like I am missing something very important," Brian said as they listened to the song.

"Days go on, I'm passing the time by thinking about all of my faults. It's in the past, it all happened so fast. That's yesterday, no point looking back. But what if time had just stopped and I stood there, Would I be happy with what I've done. That's the only thing that I would be thinking of," Victoria sang.

"Did you hear that you dumb dog, even they agree with me, so stop moping around or I will give Millie free reign," Maggie said sternly.

"Now I am even more confused," Brian said.

"I've welcomed too many mornings with my own tears. I now know that I can overcome my fears. And I will shine as bright as the star in the sky, called "Sirius" Victoria sang as Brian stared at the dog. Slowly he began to put the pieces together.

"You have got to be kidding me," Brian gasped.

"But for now, I'll keep on living, I don't have time to sit around and waste all my tears," Victoria sang.

"I am told that you are an objective and open-minded reporter so I can trust you with this," Maggie said.

"Something tells me there is more to this story than meets the eye," Brian replied.

"Understatement, but now let's enjoy the music," Maggie said.

You close your eyes, so you can't see a single thing. Only the stars within, your mind are sparkling," Victoria sang as visions of a lonely girl in a stately house began to appear. "Upon that canvas darker than the darkness night. Reach out your hand and add a single drop of light." she sang as the illusionary stumbled around in near darkness lost in the world around her while the girl's mother looked on with indifference.

"Lost and confused you find a small flickering dream, where a bright shooting star falls softly down your cheek," Victoria sang as another woman found the girl picking her up showing her love and car she had never known. All the while Dan and Emma had to force back a few tears at the song.

"I'll send my love to you. Your tears I'll wipe away, and clear the darkness that is standing in your way," Victoria sang as the woman's bond with the girl grew stronger. "Paint over the past. We are always told we can never change. With the colors of the rainbow. We'll paint a future that glows, I just want to see your smile," she sang as the illusionary girl's world began to change the woman lighting up the girl's life.

"What am I even doing here," Catherine said, marching off. "This music is terrible."

"Well, that hurdle is now gone," Tracy thought seeing Catherine leave the concert. "But, just to be sure…." Tracy thought, turning towards Daphne. "Your cousin's not half bad." she said to Daphne.

"My what…" Daphne said.

"I said," Tracy said leaning over slightly and grabbing Daphne's ear. "Dumbo ears that your cousin's not bad. I'm not a fan of her style, but she has talent."

"I do not have dumbo ears, and I don't have a cousin," Daphne snapped stumbling back.

"You don't, because I thought for sure you did," Pansy chimed in.

"No," Daphne replied. "And it sucks because mom is making me earn my title."

"Because you lost it you fat fuck, and you won't be getting it back," Tracy thought looking at Daphne who seemed to have stabilized somewhat. "Because it will be mine."

"I Say Yes I swear, I will always be forever here. No matter what is thrown away. I'm here to stay, I promise you can count, on me," Victoria sang.

"Mathew," Liz asked as they listened from the side.

"Yes," Mathew replied.

"I know you like me," Liz said softly, trying not to blush.

"Am I that obvious," Mathew said.

"Understatement," Liz said.

"Well then my plan is working," Mathew chuckled.

"Will you just shut up for once," Liz snapped. "I am trying to be serious."

"Alright," Mathew replied. "Now what is it you need to tell me."

"I might not show it, but I appreciate everything you've done for me, and well I kind of like you to, but I've been a bad person, and don't deserve someone like you," Liz said softly looking down at her lap. "I know you will say otherwise, but we both know it's true. I've done and allowed terrible things and for what, petty school yard squabbles. But that's over now," Liz said.

"Liz," Mathew said, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"I'm done with that, I am going to try… no I will be a better person," Liz said. "And I know I can't just turn nice and expect nothing to happen. There is a balance that needs to be paid, before I can move forward and…."

"Liz what do you mean," Mathew said.

"You are neither blind nor stupid, surely you must have seen…" Liz said, glancing at Victoria.

"Ah, that is what you mean," Mathew said before lightly bonking her on the head.

"What was that for," Liz snapped.

"Because dingus," Mathew said looking her in the eye. "I like you for what's in here, and here," he said, poking her forehead before pointing to her heart. "Everything else is just a bonus."

"Oh, come on that sounds like a cheesy romance line," Liz said.

"Yeah, yeah," Mathew said. "But seriously, I am happy you are letting good Liz out to play more."

"Even if that means," Liz said softly.

"Yes, even if you end up as a scrawny little nerd, or a fat clumsy dork," Mathew said.

"You're an idiot," Liz groaned.

"But I am your idiot," Mathew said.

"Don't push your luck," Liz said.

"Hey, it could be fatal nearly chance. When I first met you, I couldn't hear anything but your voice calling me," Victoria sang out as the spotlight once again fell on Marcus. "Johanna what the hell are you doing."

"Hex me now," Marcus groaned.

"Are you sure about that," Neville and Millie said.

"Yes," Marcus sighed.

"Ok then," the pair said, pulling out their wands.

"No, wait," Marcus yelped.

"Yes, even when life is testing us, I'm the one you can always trust, If we're together, we surely can do anything," Victoria sang as Marcus was thrown up onto the stage. "This was not in the plan." Victoria thought as a hush came over the stadium.

"Sometimes it's all a blur. And you get on my nerves, But through it all my heart is, Beating strong when you're looking at me," Alex sang, picking up where Victoria left off.

"Um, hi," Marcus said softly.

"Hi to you too," Victoria replied.

"Would you believe me if I said this wasn't my fault," Marcus said.

"Yes," Victoria said.

"Stay with me today, I will protect you always. We may be from different lands, But in your hands, I swear we're meant to be," Alex sang as the pair continued to stare at each other.

"So, you're finally free I take it," Marcus said softly.

"Ja," Victoria said softly.

"Great," he said, stepping forward and hugging her.

"I Say Yes I swear, I will always be forever here, No matter what the future holds, Or what unfolds, Let's call it home, Forever," Alex sang, trying and failing to hide the massive smirk on her face.

"Marcus is hugging me, Marcus is hugging me, Marcus is hugging me," Victoria muttered, turning beet red as she slowly returned the hug. All the while the crowd broke out in cheers.

"Somehow I feel like this is my daughters' fault," Dan sighed.

"Marcus would have done it sooner or later anyway," Dunstan chuckled. "That boy is to head strong for his own good."

"So is my daughter," Dan said as the music ended as the pair shared a chaste kiss on the cheek.

"My first kiss," Victoria said softly raising a hand to her cheek.

"Mine too," Marcus said.

"You realize you just ended the dreams of all the boys in the crowd," Victoria said.

"Preemptive strike," Marcus shrugged before Victoria suddenly kissed his cheek.

"Retaliatory strike," Victoria giggled as flashbulbs went off.

"In front of the media no less," Marcus said, forcing back a furious blush.

"I know, genius right," Victoria said.

"Exactly," Marcus said as a lightbulb went off in his head.

"Marcus, what are you thinking," Victoria said.

"Taking advantage of free publicity, to help find a friend," he said.

"Genius," she said, glomping him so hard they fell to the stage.

"Woohoo, yeah get it on," someone yelled from the crowd.

"Oh yeah," more boys began to holler.

"Please do not lewd my friends you naughty perverts," Millie said as the offenders suddenly found themselves encased in vines and dragged out of the stadium.

"Thank you all for coming tonight," Victoria called out, leaping to her feet. "But before you go and enjoy the rest of the festival, I would like to take a moment of your time."

"You can take all the time you want," several voices yelled.

"By now everyone has heard of the dementor incident at the Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry this past May," Victoria said as the crowd began to mutter.

"Look, do yourself a favor and read it from more than one source before passing judgement," Marcus added.

"And regardless of whether you think it was a dementor or not, a dear friend of ours was hurt," Victoria said as a projection of Lavender appeared on the stage next to them. "Her name is Lavender Brown, and she was removed from the Saint Mungo's Hospital in London and sent who knows where," Victoria said.

"The Hospital said it was for the best, but I say the hell with that!" Marcus added. "She is a person and a girl I am proud to call my friend," Marcus said.

"So please if you have any information about her please let us know," Victoria said. "And Lavender if you can hear this, just give us a signal and I'll let Johanna off the leash."

Sunday August 13th in the tunnels leading to the stadium

"Hello and welcome back for the 2nd annual Monaco Magical Girl Grand Prix," Ria announced to the large and boisterous crowd cheering in the stadium.

"Magical Girl," Daphne muttered nervously pressing her index fingers together.

"Dummkopf, we are girls who have magic," Johanna replied looking out at the crowd from where they stood in a tunnel leading out onto the stadium floor. "I do hope there is some real competition," she said turning up her nose at Daphne. "Because clearly you are not," she added as her long standing grudge against Daphne began to simmer once more. She had promised to play nice as long as Daphne kept her mouth shut, but even that was coming into doubt as Daphne's mere presence tried her patience.

"What is that supposed to mean," Daphne snapped stomping her foot sending a ripple along the tight fitting black and white outfit she was wearing proving without a doubt she was closing in on being twice the girl she used to be. Sans corset Daphne's stomach was forming a pudgy little pot belly unable to stay hidden behind her hands.

"What it means fettig, is I beat you when you were in peak condition, and now well let's just say karma is a cold mistress," Johanna replied from where she was leaning against the wall in a form fitting silver and blue outfit.

"I let you win last time, a mistake I will not make a second time," Daphne snapped.

Johanna laughed. "You let me win, honestly, I think you are beginning to believe your own lies."

"Like you are one to talk, Hermione," Daphne snapped.

"Unlike last year's race this year's race which was limited to ice skating, this year we will be allowing all forms of movement as long as you are racing with your own power," Ria explained as a map of the course appeared above her. "The course is longer as well covering a full 10Km, as it loops in, around, above, and below Monaco."

Johanna pushed away from the wall, a cold rage building as she turned her ice blue eyes on Daphne, hitting her with glare as cold as ice of a mountain glacier. "My name is Johanna, and you are one to talk, little miss I'll be your friend so I can learn your secrets."

Daphne flinched slowly backing away until she hit the opposite side of the tunnel. "No, your name is Hermione, and why would I need help from someone like you."

"Says you," Johanna scoffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder before turning away from her.

"While you can watch the race from anywhere along the course, you might have noticed 4 additional seating areas. Areas where the racers will have to perform artistic feats of magic, a charm, transfiguration, elemental manipulation, and a racers choice. The higher the score the more time is deducted from their time," Ria said.

"Yes, me you stupid, fat, ugly, 4 eyed dork of a mudblood peasant," Daphne snapped. "If it wasn't for me you wouldn't know…...," she said as Johanna spun on her heel to face Daphne again.

"Know what," Johanna growled as the ice dam holding back her long simmering rage began to crack the cold winds of her anger leaking out with each step as she walked towards Daphne, stopping mere inches from her face.

"Your place as my maid, you pathetic bitch," Daphne squeaked as the silver haired girl filled her vision, goose bumps forming on her exposed skin as a chill settled over the tunnel.

"I am not nor was I ever your maid," Johanna said softly her icy breath stinging Daphne's eyes and face.

"Yes, you were, or did you forget your time as the dorm maid, something I am going to enjoy very much when we return to school," Daphne said balling her fists as some of her old fire returned to her. "It's time you were put in your place, you jerk. I am going to teach you a lesson you will never forget, you worthless squib hack of a witch."

"Now it wouldn't be any fun to go to all of this trouble and not make it a real race with more than two competitors," Ria said. "So, let me introduce to you Monaco's very own Millicent but I prefer Melissa Blustrode," Ria said as Millie walked out in what looked like a green and white shorty wetsuit putting her growing swimmers physique and powerful legs on display while carrying a board of some kind. "Calm down boys Millie is spoken for and trust me you do not want to get on her bad side or you just might end up as food for her legion of plant and animal friends."

A blast of cold rolled off Johanna as the dam holding back her rage shattered, bursting forth forming frost on the tunnel walls as her ice blue eyes stared into Daphne's dull brown eyes forcing Daphne to gulp nervously. "I have not forgotten any of the so-called lessons you gave me, Countess Daphne Greengrass. I still remember every insult, every blow, every spell, that you delighted in carving into my body," she said, her powerful German accent causing every word to hit like a body blow as Daphne's whole body began to shake. "And despite all that I dared to show you kindness, dared to dream that maybe."

"Maybe what," Daphne stammered as Johanna's rage seemed to abate a kind look returning to her features.

"We could have been friends, sisters even," Johanna said as Daphne looked at her in utter confusion. "But no Daphne Greengrass couldn't stand being second fiddle to anyone in anything."

"That's not true," Daphne squeaked.

"Silence," Johana snapped as the cold returned with a vengeance. "I have had enough of your lies, and I will never forget what your actions nearly cost me."

"What are you talking about," Daphne yelled as Johanna grabbed her, lifting her up and slamming her against the wall.

"Everything," Johanna yelled. "Your actions nearly destroyed my family, erased my friends, and it drove the one I once cared about away from me." She hissed before dropping Daphne on the ground. "So no I will ever forget not after your actions that night. Despite all that, in a way I have you to thank for all this," she said standing tall as she stepped back running her hands down her lithe figure. "If not for you, I never would have become what I am."

"Now by winner of the coin toss with her twin sister, representing the nation of India," Ria said, as the crowd released a collective gasp. "Yes, I said the nation of India, and if you don't like then you must be British or a stick in the mud, but I digress. Without further ado I give you Parvati the dementor puncher Patil," Ria explained as Parvati jogged over to the starting line wearing a white and black athletic leotard that ended at her knees and elbows.

"And what is that," Daphne said, her voice cracking horribly as she forced herself back against the wall in an attempt to get away from the angry German girl.

Johanna smiled walking back towards Daphne hauling her off the ground so she could whisper in her ear. "Countess Daphne Greengrass, I am everything you could have ever dreamt of being, and it is all thanks to you and your little clique," Johanna said softly.

"We did this…" Daphne whispered her eyes wide in shock.

"Yes, and I have one final parting gift, for you," Johanna whispered, lifting Daphne off the ground once more a bone numbing cold sweeping over Daphne's body as if the warmth was being drawn from her very soul.

"You do," she said, breaking out in a cold sweat, her teeth chattering as she tried to avert her eyes. Her toes were once able to barely touch the ground now hitting nothing but air as they swung back and forth the ground growing ever more distant with each kick.

"Coming all the way from China we have Cho the flamethrower Chang, who is a fellow student of Hogwarts. The enigmatic beauty from China is a fellow student of Hogwarts, a Ravenclaw if what I have heard is correct." Ria said as Cho jogged out in a white and black full body leotard, hair in the classic Chinese double bun style while carrying a long spear.

"Yes, my gift to you," Johanna said looming over Daphne as she placed her on the ground, now noticeably stumpy and short, next to Johanna's long lean form. "For I am Johanna Helena Grunberg, everything you could have been and more," she said her hands pressing down painfully on Daphne's slumping shoulders, the distance between them slowly increasing as Daphne fell away like a shrinking violet.

"You are," Daphne muttered, unable to deny that Johanna was both beautiful and powerful in ways she never could have imagined with her otherworldly silver hair, ice blue eyes, porcelain skin and a perfectly lithe hourglass figure, a figure that seemed to radiate power and grace.

"Yes, now you shall be everything I was and more, Hermione Jane Granger, a rather weak first-generation muggle born witch and struggling 5th year student of the Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry, or as you put it a stupid, fat, ugly, 4 eyed dork of a mudblood peasant," Johanna said as each word tore into Daphne ripping part of her away with each word.

"Our next contestant comes with a warning label, the ever-lovely Fleur, my eyes are up here Delacour," Ria exclaimed. "Really boys, stop drooling it's pathetic, and it is going to take more than love sick glances to attract the attention of this personification of Venus," Ria said as an older teen with golden blond hair marched onto the field her head held high white cape blowing in the wind revealing a green leotard barely containing her stunning curves. A long thin rapier hung on her hip as her long legs in thigh high boots carried her across the field.

"My name is…" Daphne stammered, vision blurring as she hunched over struggling to breath. In her mind's eye she saw the once roaring flames of her magic quenched by the overwhelming cold until nothing but a few crackling embers remained.

"Hermione," Johanna said, softly looking Daphne in the eye.

"No, my name is," Daphne protested as Johanna pulled out a cloth slowly wiping away Daphne's makeup revealing freckles and bushy eyebrows.

"Hermione Jane Granger," Johanna said with a smile as she pinched Daphne's nose.

"Let go," Daphne squealed, squirming but unable to break Johanna's powerful grip as her hands flailed helplessly against Johanna's grip.

"Tell me your name and I will," Johanna said with a smile.

"Daphne Greengrass," Daphne replied.

"Wrong answer," Johanna said, tugging on one of Daphne's short ponytails delighting in how the frail brittle strands crumbled away between her fingers.

"Stop it," Daphne wined.

"Like you stopped when I begged and pleaded with you, I don't think so, now answer the question."

"Da…." Daphne whimpered before Johanna snapped off her other brittle ponytail, the remains of her hair disappearing into the cold breeze.

"Hermione Jane Granger, I thought you knew better than to lie to me, now what is your name, fetter arsch" she said, grabbing a handful of Daphne's flabby ass and squeezing hard. "I'm waiting…"

"Now don't get me wrong these girls are all serious competitors, but how will they fare against the silver medalist of Olympic figure skating, Jessica, take the bull by the horns Foster," Ria said as Jessica glided across the stadium.

"Hermione…. Jane…. Granger," Daphne whimpered her words barely audible.

"What was that, I couldn't hear you," Johanna said.

"Hermione, my name is Hermione Jane Granger!" Daphne cried out. "Please let me go!"

"Excellent, see how things are much easier when you tell the truth," Johanna said happily releasing Daphne's nose now bigger, wider, and flatter than before, a much better fit for her chubby cheeks. "See how much easier things are when you tell the truth Hermione."

"Yes..." Daphne stammered as she slumped to the ground.

Johanna smiled crouching down in front of Daphne. "Now tell me Hermione what are you again."

"I am a countess," Daphne mumbled.

Johanna giggled, tucking her hair behind her ear. "Oh, please even I know you have lost your nobility."

"I might not be a countess but I am still a noble, the baronetess of Beaumont," Daphne said as Johanna laughed.

"Really, Hermione, a noble, I think perhaps you need your vision checked, Johana said, placing a pair of glasses on her face. "Do you honestly look, sound, or act like a noble."

"Yes," Daphne protested as Johanna stood up glaring at the pile of fat, hair, and limbs.

"I do not appreciate liars Hermione, so I suggest you take a good hard look before you answer my question," Johanna said forming a mirror out of ice. Daphne gasped as she looked at her reflection, dull brown eyes looking back at her. Slowly the reflection raised its hands to pinch her large soft cheeks before touching a pug-like nose.

"This can't be happening, this isn't…." Daphne said touching her short-ragged hair that framed her oval face. "This has to be a dream," she muttered, hands hefting her belly and expanded curves. Tentatively poking her limbs watching as her fingers sunk into the soft flesh devoid of muscles a feeling of dread washing over her as she slowly tilted her head up to look at Johanna. "What's happening to me, what did you do to me?"

"Oh, but it is real," Johanna said, crossing her arms. "A reality of your own making, the curse of your own actions," Johanna laughed darkly. "So, tell me again, do you really look like a girl deserving of a noble title."

Taking a long look at the homely girl in the mirror with tears welling in her eyes. "No," Daphne whimpered.

"So, what are you," Johanna said.

"No…. please…. Don't make me say it…." Daphne whimpered tears rolling down her cheeks as something began straining her spirit.

"I asked you a question," Johanna pressed, forcing Daphne down with her foot. "And I expect an answer." Johanna smirked at the look of pain on Daphne's face as her internal struggle manifested on her face.

"I am a commoner, a lowly muggleborn," Daphne cried out, as her spirit cracked, feeling something flow out of her as she stared up at Johanna. The German girl appeared more imposing the longer she looked at her.

"Now what does that make me," Johanna said.

"I don't know…." Daphne gasped her chest heaving.

"Of course, if Jessica is here, Natasha the bear wrestler Vladimirovna isn't far behind, and unlike most American Russian relationships this one is rumored to be very spicy," Ria said as a spell was fired her way. "As you can see Natasha is as fierce off the ice as she is on it, so how will out competitors handle the figure skating gold medalist."

"Come now, you must have an opinion," Johanna said, doing a little spin showing off her figure her silver hair shimmering in the light, the almost otherworldly glow a perfect match for her blue and silver body suit that hugged her lithe body. No that wasn't right, Johanna was slim, but she had curves. Daphne thought rubbing her eyes as Johanna's hips widened slightly, while her waist narrowed, muscles appearing toned despite the body suit, especially her long legs. Legs that seemed to go on forever as Johanna demonstrated her flexibility pulling a leg to her shoulder. Again, her eyes betrayed her as the leg slowly dropped to the floor appearing longer than the other only for the other leg to grow until they matched moving Johanna's higher into the air. She also swore she saw silver hair growing longer until the thick braid capped with a blue ribbon touched the top of Johanna's knees. Gulping slightly as she watched Johanna's breasts grow slightly riding high and tight on her chest. Ice blue eyes brimming with power and knowledge, eyes that would be caring to her friends and ruthless to her enemies, and erasing any doubt in Daphne's mind at what she was looking at.

"You are without a doubt pureblood German nobility, a Ritter," Daphne said. "And a demon," she added mentally.

"Why thank you Hermione," Johanna said grabbing Daphne's arm and hauling her to her feet reveling in the heady feeling that washed over her. "Could that be the gift that was given to her as a baronet?" She thought. "Here you need to get ready for the big race Johanna said, pulling out Daphne's hair ties her short brown hair accentuating the round shape of her face, and chanting a quick spell as a gem on her outfit glowed before Daphne found herself cleaned off and her formerly black outfit now bright pink with dark pink highlights accentuating every curve of Daphne's body.

"You are a monster," Daphne said looking over her outfit.

"Representing Britain and last year's second place finisher," Ria said.

"More like last place," Johanna thought.

"Hermione Jane, don't call me Daphne Greengrass Beaumont Granger, wow that is a long name," Ria said.

"I am the monster you created," Johanna said, pushing Daphne out of the tunnel. "And I did not expect this," she thought watching Daphne stumbled out into the stadium. "I just wanted to give her a taste of her own medicine," Johanna whispered as Daphne tripped over her own two feet face planting into the dirt.

"Her fire magic was a sight to behold last year, and it looks like she has quite the fire in her belly," Ria said as Daphne stood up adjusting her glasses walking towards the others hoping to find someone to hide behind.

"She really does look like Hermione," Johanna thought as a small part of her subconscious wondered if maybe she took it too far as Daphne tried and failed to hide behind Fleur, Jessica, and Natasha.

Stadium floor

"And our final contestant needs no introduction, last year's champion Lichtenstein's very own Johanna Grunberg," Ria exclaimed as Johanna entered the stadium waving to the crowd. "The recently single Johanna is up for the taking gentlemen, but anyone looking to who our princess of the ice and snow, better be prepared because it is only the best for our Johanna."

"Oh god Ria, just stop, please," Johanna muttered as her whole body lit up in a furious blush.

"Hey they made me the announcer so live with it," Ria thought, winking at Johanna.

"So this was your surprise," Johanna said to Millie.

"Oui," Millie replied with a smile. "Ria wanted more competition."

"And you wanted a chance to exact some revenge," Parvati said.

"You said it not me," Millie said.

"But I'm not wrong," Parvati said.

"Bonk," Cho said lightly tapping the girls on the head with the shaft of her spear.

"What was that for," Millie, Parvati, and Cho blurted out.

"Look, I won't claim to know exactly what is going on, and I know that Daphne, or whatever her name is now certainly deserves it or her past actions, but don't overdo it, and become that which you hate," Cho said. "Oh, and Johanna, if you don't take me as a serious competitor, I will bonk you." she said spinning her spear around before thrusting it forward.

"What is this Cho Chang is talking smack," Ria said.

"Just start the race already," Alexandra's voice boomed over the PA system.

"Alright, already," Ria shot back. "Racers assume your positions," Ria said as the girls took their places on the starting line. "On your marks," Ria said as they all took a stance. "Get set," she called out as the girls fingered their wands, Cho's spear, Millie's long wooden board, or in Johanna's case gems. "Go," Ria yelled, diving for cover as the starting line exploded.

Race begins 0-2kn mark

Millie's longboard flashed sideways smacking Daphne in the face with a satisfying crunch as she launched her body forward looking to beat Johanna's gem already shattering on the ground. An explosion of snow obscuring her vision as her body was thrown into the air.

"Oh my, Millie was not fast enough and was blasted into Johanna's snow bank," Ria said.

"That's a lot bigger than it should be," Johanna thought, sparing a look back to see Parvati had beat her spell and not far behind her. What she missed was Millie placed the wooden board under her feet using it to snowboard down the large drift wheels forming as she hit the track. The drift didn't last much longer as Fleur and Cho blasted through it with jets of flame rushing to catch up, leaving Daphne clutching her stomach as she stumbled forward.

"She really shouldn't have left us this nice building material," Jessica and Natasha said, sharing a look as they transfigured the remaining snow and ice into horses for them to ride.

"The snow drift and fire were nice, but that is what we are hoping to see," Ria said as the lifelike horses galloped off.

"My teeth," Daphne whimpered, putting her hand to her bleeding lip, feeling her perfect smile slip out of place leaving her with a smile only a mother could love. Struggling to push her transforming mind, body, and soul out of mind she began pushing her way through the snow Daphne tapped her shoes with her wand creating a pair of roller skates in an attempt to catch up to the others as everyone turned their eyes to the view screens as the contestants left the stadium.

"Johanna might prefer the ice but that doesn't mean she can't rollerblade," Ria said as Johanna tore across the streets. "But with that boost from the snow Millie is quickly closing the gap on her skateboard," she added before a yellow and brown blur raced over head. "Wait what is this ladies and gentlemen Parvati Patil has taken the lead with a massive 60ft leap," Ria said as Parvati landed in front of them. "Is this the fabled body reinforcement magic that Empires from the Macedonians to Mongols feared?"

"Did you teach her that," Millie said, pulling even with Johanna.

"Yes, but that's far beyond what my reinforcement can do," Johanna said as electricity arced over Parvati's body for an instant before she leapt another 60ft.

"Her element must be electricity," Jessica said.

"And she's using it to strengthen her muscles," Natasha replied as they shot past them on horses.

"What's this Johanna has dropped to 4th place," Ria's voice announced.

"Well two can play that game, Verstärkung," Johanna said before rocketing after them with long powerful strides.

"Wait for the water section," Millie said to herself as Fleur flipped through the air using the awnings as springboards to move ahead.

"Hey Millie," Cho's voice called out just as a blast of flame slammed into her knocking her off her skateboard. "Bonk," Cho said. "That's what you get for smacking Daphne just as the race started. Come on you are better than that."

"I'll show you bonk," Millie growled, pulling herself out of the guide rails as Cho left propelled by her flames.

Charms performance arena

"That was fast, it looks like they have reached the 2km mark and the first performance area already, now what charms will our lovely ladies perform for us," Ria said as Parvati landed in the performance square breathing heavily. "Of course, you have to remember that to count as a charm the racers must enchant another person or object."

"Bugger," Parvati said, looking around the arena for something to work with.

"Natasha what are you doing," Jessica yelped as she found herself dancing and chanting oyi as she performed a traditional Russian squat dance.

"Who knew an American could do a Russian dance so well," Natasha giggled waving her wand.

"I'll show you, dance," Jessica said, fighting off the charm only for Johanna to beat her to it causing Jessica's horse to buck, throwing her off before prancing around the arena leaping Jessica, Parvati, and Natasha in an impressive display of dressage. The display ended as she directed the two horses to ram each other causing them to shatter.

"Impressive but how about this," Cho replied, drifting into the air on her spear using it as a floating bar that darted over the arena as she spun and twisted above them, the spear always moving to her position.

"It might not be the flashiest of charms, but when combined with Cho's gymnasts even a simple charm can look impressive," Ria said as Cho spun around several times before throwing herself out of the area sticking the landing before summoning her spear back.

Parvati spotted Daphne in the distance approaching the arena. Smirking she aimed her wand at Daphne chanting in Hindi, firing a spell at Daphne. The shocked girl suddenly sped up as Parvati took control of the poor girl guiding her expertly down the race track, her body forced into a tucked position.

"I can't stop," Daphne screamed as something forced her to leap into the air twisting and turning before landing her speed slowing as she passed Cho. "Thank merlin," Daphne gasped before slamming into the barrier. "At least nothing changed this time."

"That was something, but I can't help but think the artistry was lacking," Ria said as a smirking Parvati took off.

2-4km

"Overkill much," Cho said, shaking head, sparing a glance at Daphne as she flashed by.

"Are you going to bonk her," Jessica asked.

"Isn't that Johanna's Daphne, you know the one Ria told us about," Natasha said.

"Yes, it is that Daphne, and she does deserve some punishment, but that was a bit much," Cho sighed.

"Girls got a point," Jessica said.

"True," Natasha said as they began to pull ahead.

Cho's arm holding her spear shot behind her as it began to spin, the tip glowing red leaving a trail of flames in its wake creating a flaming circle. "Zhú què zhǎo," Cho exclaimed holding the spinning spear above her before slashing downward launching the fiery wheel of destruction at them.

"Nice try kid, but you'll have to do better than that," Jessica laughed, cutting through the wheel of fire with a slash of wind from her wand.

"But as a show of good sportsmanship consider your bonk delivered," Natasha called out as she collected the flames into a ball her wand spinning circles around slowly turning it into a glowing pink ball. "Bonk bullet," Natasha called out, firing the pink ball at Parvati hitting the unsuspecting girl in the small of her back, throwing her off course.

"Bonk bullet, really Natasha I think you need to go back to English class," Ria sighed not realizing everyone could hear her as she ran a hand through her hair while a series of fireworks exploded in the air. "Like you're one to talk dingus." the letters read.

"We agreed that never happened and swore to never mention that again Jessica," Ria screamed as the girls came to the end of the pier.

"This is Alexandra checking from the sea as the girls approach the final obstacle before the second performance checkpoint," Alexandra said as the view shifted to the entrance of the Port of Fontvieille and the imposing 1,000m gap that was the entrance to the port. "Perhaps today is the day, we will finally see if the rumor of Veela being able to fly with their wings is true."

"You will but not yet," Fleur thought, smirking a little as Johanna took the last turn without slowing down. "And you should have paid more attention to the race track preview during the introductions, raclure de bidet," Fleur said as Johanna came to a screeching halt while she landed lightly on the railing at the end of the pier. Fleur smiled tensing her legs flying high in the air wings unfurling as she floated across the gap.

Gorgeous with blond hair, blue eyes, and making a wisecrack, while looking down at Johanna was a bad idea on most days, let alone a day where Daphne had already set her off. "I'll show you who the bidet scum is Pansy," Johanna roared, ripping a gem of her outfit. "Eisbrücke," she yelled as the gem skipped across the water creating a bridge of ice. Her body smashed through the railing at the end of the pier skates forming on her feet before rocketing across the bridge of ice that blocked the entrance to the harbor.

Stands

"Fleur what did you do this time, Johanna you are overdoing it," Apoline and Emma sighed watching their daughters.

"Our Fleur can be a bit of a smart ass at times," Claude said.

"And Johanna has some pent-up anger issues," Dan said as Johanna tried to blast Fleur as she floated through the sky.

"What's the worst that could happen," Maggie asked as Fleur returned fire with a torrent of flames.

"Collateral damage," Alex said as Johanna turned a wave into ice to block the flames.

"Good point," Maggie said as the others used Johanna's ice bridge to cross the gap.

2-4km section

"God fucking dam it," Daphne gasped slamming into what was left of the railing. "When did everyone get so bloody powerful." she said her chest heaving as Natasha and Jessica made ice skates and took off. "They were never this strong before."

"It's simple really,'' Cho said, stopping to judge the distance.

"What, how, tell me," Daphne blurted out as she struggled to stand.

"We never stopped," Cho said, backing up taking aim with her spear. "Striving to improve," Cho said as she launched the spear across the gap, racing down the end of the pier leaping high into the air landing on it.

"Impossible…" Daphne said watching Cho use a blast of flame to propel her forward. "Even the chink is stronger than me now, this is nightmare, it has to be." she said carefully moving to the end of the pier glancing down at the bridge of ice. A sharp crack was all she heard before she fell screaming onto the ice bouncing off her large chest before landing on her face. "Ouchy," Daphne groaned, fixing her glasses. "Come on Daphne wake up, and everything will be back to normal, just wake up," she said, turning her shoes into skates slowly making her way across.

"And with that everyone has cleared the first big barrier, but there is an even bigger one to come, but before that I will pass things off to Jessica Atraides for the transfiguration display," Alexandra said.

Transfiguration arena

"Thank you, Alexandra, and now our contestants will have to wow us with their transfigurations and the more elegant the better. Now who will…." Jessica Atreides said as an explosion cut her off smoke filling the screen. "Oh my it seems our contests are putting the magic in magical girls, but can they show a gentler side," Jessica said as Fleur and Johanna were blown to opposite sides of the stage, while Natasha and Jessica casually walked in.

"You've got power and skill girls, but your experience is lacking," Jessica said casually twirling her wand.

"Yes, not everything needs to be solved with a bigger boom," Natasha said.

"Remember that to count as a transfiguration you must turn one substance into a completely different substance," Jessica said.

"But of course," Jessica and Natasha said, bowing to the crowd with a flourish, while aiming their wands at the stage itself.

Muttering in Russian and waving her wand like a conductor, Natasha slowly began turning the wood into a giant metal statue of Vladimir Lenin. While Jessica created a scale model of the statue of liberty. "Oh, you just had to go and make that didn't you," Jessica said.

"Why not, do you have a problem with me honoring my homeland," Natasha quipped.

"He's a freaking communist," Jessica said. "Here, have some freedom," Jessica said, draping the statue in an American flag.

"So that's how it is," Natasha said.

"Yes," Jessica cackled as Natasha draped a Russian flag over the statue of liberty.

"Now that is playing dirty," Jessica said.

"And it gets you fired up every single time," Natasha laughed.

"Shut it you," Jessica growled, blasting Natasha's statute to pieces.

"Violence isn't the answer to everything you typical American," Natasha laughed, blowing up Jessica's statue as the pair raced ahead.

"Well Jessica certainly lives up to the name go big or go home, and Natasha shows us why is the consummate competitor. Why even Johanna and Fleur are stunned by that display, I wonder what they will do to top that." Jessica said.

"Blast, gem magic isn't well suited for transfigurations," Johanna muttered trying to think of something. "Screw it, I'll take the time penalty," Johanna said, running to the exit only to slam into an invisible wall.

"tsk- tsk, no transfiguration no leaving Johanna," Jessica said as the rest of the pack began to filter in. "And don't bother trying to blast your way out of this one," Jessica said as Johanna threw an exploding gem at the exit. "Yes, yes, we know you nearly blew up a castle once, but Perenelle Flamel herself made this one." Johanna growled sitting on the ground and crossing her legs, closing her eyes in concentration.

"Pouting like a child is not a good look," Fleur said.

"It's called meditation bird brain," Johanna quipped.

"I am not a bird," Fleur growled, firing a spell at Johanna only for it to roll off her like a drop of water. "Fine you have some magic resistance," Fleur said, chanting in French only for her spell to once again roll over Johanna.

"Now that's what I call artistry," Jessica said as Cho danced across the stage, her outfit morphing as she danced. "Behold the power of cosplay," Jessica laughed as Cho's outfit changed from a skintight bodysuit to a traditional Chinese dress, her spear a sword, before shifting again to a monks outfit, before turning back to normal.

"Argh," Fleur growled in frustration as Millie turned the broken statues into a small swarm of forest creatures skipping happily off the stage.

"A cow, really Millie," Parvati said looking at the cows blocking the exit.

"What some of you may not know is that cows are a revered animal in Hinduism and are not to be harmed," Jessica said.

"Too bad they are just transfigurations and not real, which means I can do this," Parvati said, turning the cows into statues of Aditi flanking the exit.

"Oh, dear it looks like Fleur is too focused on Johanna and Johanna has yet to figure a way out," Jessica said.

"Would you stop that," Johanna yelled, batting away Fleur's latest spell with a shield of ice.

"Oh god, gonna die, gonna die," Daphne panted as she stumbled onto the stage and right into Fleur's spell sending her screaming and rolling across the stage.

"I did not see that coming," Jessica said as Daphne laid there her outfit morphing into a short low cut frilly cute outfit that was rather lewd considering her well-endowed chest. "But I have to say not, bad," Jessica said as Daphne pulled herself to her feet teetering on the high heels. Daphne also happened to be in the perfect position to hex Fleur who hadn't realized her spell had been deflected. And despite all she lost, she hadn't lost the ability to fire a spell into someone's back, unfortunately her vision was not what it used to be and her spell missed Fleur heading right for Johanna who had opened her eyes.

"Might as well try mom's trick," Johanna thought, catching the spell altering it before firing it back at a Fleur sending the squawking girl flying through the air. Wings erupted from Fleur's back as she righted herself floating to the ground in a lacy white opera dress, her sword now a bouquet of flowers.

"Hide or beg, hide or beg, hide or beg," Daphne thought, watching Fleur float to the ground turning the stage into a scene from Les Miserable. "Please don't kill me," Daphne whimpered as Fleur looked at her.

"Look I don't know what you did to piss her off so much before the race, but that was an approved spell fired during a competition, so you have nothing to fear from me," Fleur said before racing off.

"Thank merlin," Daphne said slumping to the ground as she fixed her outfit with a basic transfiguration speed walking off the stage.

4-6km

"Moving fast on land, and jumping a large gap is impressive but how will the girls handle a 2km track out into the ocean and down to the undersea stage for elemental transfigurations and then another 2km underwater back to land," Ariel said taking over the announcing. "So, I am afraid you are not going to be able to jump this one."

Millie let out a shrill whistle placing her board beneath her feet while making a long rope attached to her wand with a large loop at the end. "It's time Bruce," she cheered as a Great White leapt out of the ocean the loop in his mouth. Jaws dropped as Millie rocketed out to sea riding her board through the waves.

"It's pushing the line, but seeing as it is a tamed familiar, we will allow it," Ariel said.

"Time to swim I guess," Jessica said, making a pair of fins.

"Suit yourself," Johanna said, arriving with Fleur. The blond took to running up the beach while Johanna walked into a shallow tidal pool. Plucking a large sapphire off her hairband and whispering "Eisgeysir," Johanna dropped it in the warm salty water bracing her legs before a giant frozen geyser erupted beneath her launching her out to sea. "It wasn't supposed to be this powerful." She thought spinning through the air until she could summon glowing wings from her back steadying herself.

"Impressive, but can those wings actually propel you," Fleur said, pulling even with Johanna.

"Can yours," Johanna replied.

"Yes," she smirked, flapping her wings rocketing forward as Johanna was thrown towards the ocean by a sudden downdraft.

"I am going to rip those wings off and stuff them down your throat," Johanna growled creating a series of ice platforms as she leapt across the ocean. Which inadvertently left a path for Parvati to follow as she raced along body crackling with electricity.

"I think you are forgetting something, Parvati," Natasha said looking back at the Indian girl as she closed the distance. "Water and electricity don't mix," she said blasting the water sending a giant wave washing over Parvati.

"GAH!" Parvati screamed as she shocked herself.

"Yes," Millie cheered as she pulled ahead. "Good boy Bruce we are in the lead," she said before he suddenly veered off course making a beeline for a large seal floating in the water. "No bad Bruce…" Millie yelped before crashing into the waves as Bruce tore into the seal.

"That's the danger of using a familiar," Jessica said as she passed in a small boat with Natasha.

"Bugger," Millie said, slapping the water.

"Millie I'm sorry the seal was a lie," Bruce whined tears in his eye as the seal was now a deflated beach ball stuck to his teeth.

"Bruce, sink that boat," Millie ordered, pointing towards the wooden boat racing ahead.

"Yes," Bruce exclaimed, diving into the water while Millie began swimming.

"Shark!" Jessica and Natasha screamed as their boat broke in half.

"You have to be fucking kidding me," Daphne screamed falling to her knees as she looked out to sea.

"Is this our first drop out of the race," Ria's voice said.

"Shut up," Daphne said, dragging herself to her feet through stubborn determination. "I am Daphne Greengrass, the countess of Greengrass and I will," Daphne said as a wave knocked her over, sweeping her out to sea. "Gah, gonna die, gonna drown," Daphne thought, struggling to keep her head above water until the tide carried her past the waves. "At least my floating has improved," she thought as her body popped up on the surface. "ARGH that just means I'm fat," she grumbled slowly paddling after the others.

"Hermione always was as stubborn as a mule," Ria said.

Elemental manipulation arena

"Frien," Johanna's voice called out from above as she froze the exit to the underwater stage preventing Fleur from taking the lead.

"I do hope we will see more than that from Lichtenstein's very own Princess of the Ice," Ariel announced.

"Just leveling the playing field and setting the stage," Johanna called, freezing the floor into crystal clear ice. "And cooling your head flame brain," Johanna said, smirking at Fleur as she began to skate as torrents of seawater began to pour in swirling around Johanna, taking the shape of a frozen palace. The ice took on various shades of blue and green giving it a mythical appearance as it filled the entire stage. "And not the whole stage," Johanna thought as the castle grew large. "Ok, seriously, stop already, not supposed to be that big," Her thoughts raced as it slammed into the barrier around the stage. Even Cho and Fleur's flames only slowed it down as it repaired the damage.

"As artistic as this is, the judges would prefer if you didn't break the stage," Ariel said.

"Change of plans," Johanna muttered, bringing the inside outside changing her palace into an imposing frozen dungeon trapping the others inside. "Hehehe, good luck getting out of the maze," Johanna said as she left.

"From a castle to a maze, Johanna has managed to impress the crowd and delay her fellow contestants at the same time," Ariel said as the girls began looking for a way out. "I just hope no one decides to use anything crazy."

"Please there are alternatives to fiendfyre," Fleur said unsheathing her sword, the blade glinting in the light as she held it in front of her. "Oh, mystic flames that bring hope to sailor's lost and adrift at sea, come and aid me in my quest," Fleur chanted in French as wisps of blue flame began to appear on her sword, slowly turning it into a raging flame. "Saint Elmo's Fire," Fleur exclaimed, thrusting forward a beam of blue flames slamming into the wall.

"It might not look the most artistic but we are witnessing a stunning display of elemental manipulation ladies and gentlemen, because despite its name Saint Elmo's fire is actually a plasma created through wind, and fire manipulation," Ariel explained as Fleur cut her way through the maze.

"Look out below," a screaming Daphne wailed as she plowed through the entrance smashing through some of the ice decorations taking out Parvati in the process, before they both slammed into the wall.

"This is no nightmare, this is a night terror," Daphne groaned.

"Ugh what hit me," Parvati groaned from underneath Daphne.

"Um, hi Parvati, would you….." Daphne stammered.

"Monovolt," Parvati snapped channeling electricity through her outfit and into Daphne shocking her before pushing her off. "Reflexes and she slammed into me so don't even think about bonking me," she said looking at Cho.

"Tingly," Daphne muttered, stumbling to her feet as her hair poofed out full of frizz but with a touch more energy than before. Enough energy to try her hand at a spell. "Agnus flammae," she said waving her wand to no effect. "Agnus flammae," Daphne cried again as Cho summoned all manner of flames as she danced cutting her way through the ice. "Focus Daphne, your flames are that of the Welsh Dragon," she said closing squeezing her eyes shut in concentration desperately fanning the flames that were her magic. "Agnus Flammae," she screeched a small jet of flame erupting from her wand. Sweat pouring down her body she focused on the flames forcing them to form a small dragon that she directed around the stage staying far away from the ice lest it quench her fire. Yet despite her best efforts the small ailing dragon grew weaker, shrinking in size, its flames turning into mere embers. "No, not yet," Daphne pleaded, forming more magic into the dragon forcing it to give a feeble roar before the jaws of a carnivorous plant snapped shut around it. "No Daphne cried.

"Thanks for the meal," Millie said before the plant burped up a shower of sparks that drifted down around Daphne.

"My flames," Daphne muttered watching the sparks fall into her thick rough hands feeling like she'd just lost something again. "Could they have…"

"Why thank you Daphne," Millie said examining the soft smooth skin of her hands.

"No, not again," Daphne gasped as seaweed grew around them hiding them from view.

"No, what," Millie said, walking over to Daphne.

"Please no, I can't, if I lose anymore, I won't be…." Daphne pleaded.

"Be what," Millie said.

"Be Daphne," Daphne said. "Please, don't turn me into Hermione." Saying her new name like it was a curse.

"You will always be you, Hermione," Millie said, sauntering over to her.

"But the race," Daphne whimpered.

"I'm a better swimmer than the others and Steve is mapping the maze for me, so I have a few minutes," Millie said.

"This isn't real, I'm hallucinating," Daphne said as Millie kneeled down next to her spitting metal into her hand as her braces fell out.

"I may not have been bullied as much as she was, but you forced me to betray my friend, and for that you shall pay restitution," Millie said.

"I have money, I can pay," Daphne blurted out.

"Money is nice, but I am thinking of other things," Millie said as seaweed held Daphne down forcing her mouth open. "Those teeth are just terrible, I think you need braces," Millie said, holding up the remains of her braces, smiling with delight as they slowly descended latching onto Daphne's yellowed misshaped and misaligned teeth.

All Daphne could do was ball her fists and curl her toes in pain as the braces attached themselves to her teeth feeling as if they were going to be torn out. "Please, I'll give you anything," Daphne cried out as Millie reared back slugging daphne right on the jaw with a satisfying crack as her once proud chin became a weak receding jawline.

"That was beating me up when dared to protect my friend," Millie said.

"Please, I'll give you anything," Daphne shrieked, holding her mouth and chin.

"Anything," Millie said.

"Yes, anything," a teary-eyed Daphne cried out. "Just stop changing me."

"Ok," Millie said with a smile. "Now I am not a greedy person, I will only ask for compensation for what was done to me."

Daphne, breathed a sigh of relief as Millie's eyes roved over her body. "So how much do you want…."

Millie's eyes narrowed as she chuckled darkly. "Oh, I don't want money, your actions damaged my sense of taste and smell, cutting into my cooking skills, so I would like yours. It won't come close to what I lost, but it's better than nothing,"

"That's not what I meant," Daphne said as she felt the tearing sensation that was becoming all too familiar as something was torn away.

"Yes, but it is what I meant," Millie said as Daphne began shaking in abject terror. "Now, now. I am not a greedy person, so I will not be taking much" Millie said. "Not that you have much left."

"What… Do… you…. Want…" Daphne said.

"You spent two summers with her, and her family," Millie said looking down at Daphne.

"No please, not that that, anything but that," Daphne pleaded.

"Your actions played a part in costing me a year with my best friend," Millie said. "That is time I can never get back."

"No please, I'll do anything, just don't take that from me," Daphne cried.

"Why should I listen to you,' Millie said.

Despite the pain Daphne scrambled forward throwing herself at Millie's feet as the memories began to fade. "No, please, I'll give you anything but that, just don't take her away from me." A horrified Daphne said, grabbing Millie foot, tears pouring from her eyes.

"And who is that," Millie asked.

"Mrs. Granger," Daphne said.

"Why," Millie asked.

"Because she was the only person who was nice to me," Daphne said, pawing at Millie. "She saw me for me, and not a tool," she cried out. "She cares… please I'll give you anything just don't take that from me."

Cho's words from earlier rang in her ears as she looked down at Daphne. Once the epitome of what is meant to be a noble British pureblood begging at her feet. Barely a trace of the girl who had tormented Millie for years, was left in the sniveling mess at her feet. "It would be so easy to break her, but I am not them, I refuse to be them." Kneeling down she gently patted Daphne on the head. "I only want your memories with her daughters and your social skills, you may keep your memories of her."

"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Daphne cried as her memories of two summers with Hermione faded along with the knowledge and skills she'd gained during that time. "No thank you for the music, and magic lessons."

"What lessons," Daphne muttered as memories disappeared from her mind.

"Oh nothing," Millie said. "Now I would love to chat more, but we are in the middle of a race." she said walking off leaving a path of flowers in her wake. Following the sounds of explosions, she soon found Cho carving her way through the ice.

"Cho," Millie called out.

"Millie, I saw the seaweed dome, do I need to bonk you again," Cho said, turning towards her.

"No, and thank you for the bonk, without it I may have gone too far," Millie replied. "Johanna well and truly broke her, but I have no wish to see her destroyed."

"Good," Cho replied.

"Here you can use this better than me," Millie said, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Is this her," Cho gasped her flames growing in size.

"No, just her affinity with fire," Millie said. "And before you say anything, it was not something I planned, but I think you can consider it a small recompense for the century of humiliation." She said before leaving.

6-8km

"It goes without saying, that under the sea, darling it's better, down where it's wetter, take it from me," Ariel sang. "But more importantly how will the racers handle having to swim back to the surface.

"It just had to be underwater," Fleur growled, feeling weak submerged in the water as she used the bubble head charm to keep going. Johanna was easy to spot with a glowing diamond in her hair as she swam. "Freaking girl has gems for days, and where the hell is her wand?" However, both of them had to scowl as Millie rocketed past them, her powerful legs easily propelling her through the water as she held a streamline position.

Stands

"What a surprise, I knew Millie was a good swimmer, but wow she is nearly at home in the water as we mermaids are," Ariel said excitedly watching the hometown girl take the lead.

"I see Millie isn't the only one who has been enjoying the water," Emma said, poking her friend.

"I wake up and see the ocean every day, I can't help it," Maggie replied. "And Alex has been very appreciative."

"Oh I bet he is," Emma giggled. "But what I really have been meaning to ask you is are you sending Millie back to Hogwarts, since she wasn't kicked out. I can get you a spot at Saint Hilde's if you'd like."

Maggie smiled. "Thank you, but we talked it over and Millie has decided to attend Beaxabom's."

"I'm sorry but did I hear that Millie is going to be attending Beaxabom's," Appoline said.

"Yes," Maggie said.

"Oh, I hope she can be friends with Fleur," Appoline said as Millie was the first to reach the free performance arena, an area of sand right on the beach. "As a Veela she can struggle sometimes…."

"She is just a free spirit," Maggie chuckled as Fleur and Johanna returned to blasting each other.

Freestyle Arena

"Now this section is what I like to call the freestyle arena, where anything short of illegal spells is allowed. Now impress us with the power of magical girls," Maria laughed.

"Anything goes," Millie, Fleur, and Johanna said looking at each other.

"Blowing up the beach is forbidden," Maria quickly added as another battle broke out.

Stands

"Cho is going to win," Liz said slowly moving her wheelchair over to them.

"She is," the others said.

"Well, it sure isn't my 2nd niece, Catherine said from the side of the room.

"Yes," Liz said. "Johanna and Fleur are so busy trying to one up each other that they haven't noticed.

"What makes you say that," Maggie and Emma asked.

"They are getting wrapped up in blasting each other for one," Liz said.

"And yet the oriental hasn't made it back to shore yet," Catherine said, causing some to glance in her direction. A few even looked ready to speak, yet Liz beat them to it. Spinning her chair around and wheeling right up to her.

"Her name is Cho Chang, now apologize," Liz said.

"You expect me to apologize," Catherine said looking down at her.

"Yes," Liz said.

"And you expect me to listen to a girl who can't even stand up," Catherine said.

"That's…." Maggie said as Liz placed her hands on the chair slowly pushing her body into a standing position.

"You were saying Lady Greengrass," Liz said, forcing back the pain in her legs. "Now I expect you to apologize or…."

"Or what little girl," Catherine said.

"My name is Lizbeth Cecilia Tuttle, Marquess Tuttle," Liz said looking her in the eye as her legs trembled. "But you knew that didn't you."

Grinding her teeth Catherine responded. "I am aware."

"Then you should also be aware that I can break you in an instant," Liz said.

"You break me," Catherine laughed. "You can barely stand let alone break me."

"Then you are a bigger fool than my mother," Liz said, silencing Catherine. "Hogwarts might have extended the school by two years, but the Wizengamot kept the age of majority at 17 and I am going into my 8th year at Hogwarts. Which makes me a fully-fledged adult and the Marquees Tuttle."

"Which means nothing," Catherine said.

"Your poker face is excellent but I know you're lying," Liz said leaning closer so only Catherine could hear her. "I don't claim to be the smartest witch, but I have friends, friends who like to do research and I know something, you've tried very hard to hide."

"You…" Catherine growled.

"The Tuttle family was the one who granted the Greengrass Family their current holdings, so I suggest you apologize right now or I will call on my ability as your liege lord and make you kowtow to them," Liz growled.

"You wouldn't dare, your mother…." Catherine said.

"Can't stop me, and do you really want to go against a skill that comes from the king himself," Liz said.

"You will pay for this," Catherine said.

"I will pay, but not for this. This is just a small down payment on what I owe," Liz said before slumping back into her wheelchair.

"Liz," Maggie said, rushing to her side.

"What did you do," Emma said confronting Catherine.

"Nothing, the poor thing just over exerted herself," Catherine said before walking over to Cho's parents. "And my apologies for the crude language, Mr. and Mrs. Chang it seems the wine was a bit stronger than I thought," Catherine said before making her way out.

"What did you say to her," Maggie asked.

"That as her liege lord, I out rank her," Liz said softly. "And that is why Cho is going to win," Liz said pointing to where Cho was helping Daphne out of the water.

Freestyle Arena

"Why…." Daphne coughed.

"Why what," Cho said.

"Help me," Daphne said coughing up water

"Look you're a stuck-up snotty prick, and a bully, but you were floundering like a bloated whale, and it wasn't like I was just going to let you drown," Cho said, dropping Daphne on the beach.

"How…." Daphne said, staring at the sand.

"In China there is something called the Tao which is a path or state of being with the universe. Now I won't claim to be an expert, but everyone has a path laid before them, some follow it like lemmings even if it sends them off a cliff," she said looking down at Daphne. "While others," she said, turning back to the girls battling on the beach.

"Are gifted with better ones," Daphne said softly.

Cho burst out laughing holding her spear. "Perhaps, but personally I think Johanna, said screw this and forged her own path, while the rest of us are just close enough to be caught in the blast radius," Cho chuckled before racing off.

"That's…." Daphne muttered watching as Cho leapt high in the air diving straight towards the ground with her spear. Sand exploded into the sky as Cho stood in the center, her spear a light with flames lashing out as the sand turned into glass locking everyone in place. "Amazing, ... They are amazing…..." she muttered as Fleur and Johanna began to flash blue and red their ice and flames slowly creating cracks in the glass until it shattered leaving the pair gasping for breath hands on their knees.

"Millie…." Parvati said looking at her friend.

"Parvati," Millie replied.

"Run," the pair said, racing off as the beach erupted once more. Fluer shot into the sky wings a flame as she blasted forward. Johanna shot out of the sandstorm boots turning back into inline-skates as she hit the ground moving.

"I am going to clip those wings," Johanna growled.

"Oh, please like your fat ass can catch me," Fleur cackled.

"My ass is not fat you overgrown chicken," Johanna shot back. Explosions of ice and fire echoed across the race track as the pair traded blows.

8-10km section

"Well, I'm done," Jessica said, slowing to a walk as the stadium appeared.

"You're done," Natasha replied. "It's not like you give up so easily, or are you just showing your age."

"It's not like that and you know it," Jessica replied.

"I heard it too, girl Johanna was royally pissed," Natasha said.

"And rightly so if even half of what we heard is true," Jessica said.

"But what's worse…." Natasha said.

"Ego, and us placing won't help," Jessica said.

"So, let them take it," Natasha said.

"Works for me," the girls said, concealing themselves so Cho, Millie, and Parvati could pass by.

"Oh, my this is quite the upset, Cho Chang representing China is the first contestant to make it back to the stadium. An underdog coming into the race she has shown amazing skill and sportsmanship," Ria announced as the crowd erupted in cheers as Cho crossed the line just as Parvati entered the stadium just barely beating out Millie. "Oh my ladies and gentleman who could have imagined this upset.

"What," Fleur and Johanna yelled as they caught wind of what was happening.

"And now we have Jessica and Natasha taking 4th and 5th place," Ria announced.

Their eyes locked for a split second before streaks of silver and gold raced for the stadium.

Finish line

"I won, you flaming parakeet," Johanna said before collapsing.

"No, I won, you frozen sheep," Fleur replied, falling on the ground next to her.

"No, you both lost," Ria said, walking over to them.

"At least I got 6th," they both replied, glaring at each other.

"And you tied for 6th place," Ria said looking down at them, giggling as a look of shock and horror slowly appeared on their faces. "Don't look so surprised," Ria said. "While you were admittedly the favorites going into the race."

"You got so wrapped up in fighting with each other," Natasha said.

"That you forgot about everyone else," Jessica added.

"Never forget that the other fish are not always as small as they look," Ria said, turning towards Cho, Parvati, and Millie waving to the crowd. "And always keep an eye out for the small fish as they still might surprise you." Ria said view screens shifted to Daphne half dead on the feet still plodding along.

The call of "Oh come just give up already. You never had a chance from the start. What a fat ass. Give up already, wide load," slowly started coming from the crowd.

"She's still going at it," Johanna said. "I didn't think she had anything left."

"Well, she is Hermione Jane Granger, and that girl just doesn't know when to quit," Ria chuckled.

"You will be everything I was and more Hermione Jane Granger," rang loudly in Johanna's mind. "Your right, she always was too stubborn for her own good." Johanna said.

"On that we can agree on, German," Fleur said.

"I have a name Frenchie," Johanna replied.

"As do I, you warmongering kraut," Fleur said slowly standing up.

"Yeah, yeah you cheese eating surrender monkey," Johanna sighed. "What do you say we put this to rest."

"I agree it is quite rude," Fleur said.

"So, do you want to go first or should I," Johanna said.

"I'll do it," Jessica said, grabbing the microphone from Ria. "Hey, you. Shut the hell up," Jessica yelled to the crowd shocking them into silence. "Much better, now listen up, Daphne is out there trying her best."

"If that's her best," a voice called out.

"I'd like to see you try and survive a 10mk race on land and water all while fighting against 8 other people," Jessica said as the others walked back for Daphne. "Because she did, and is still moving." she said pointing to the screen. "So shut your trap, or I will shut it for you."

"This is why we can never go anywhere nice," Natasha sighed as the girls made their way back to finish the race with Daphne.

9km mark

"Why…." the confused girl stammered as they all came back to walk with her the rest of the way.

"We're not you," Parvati said.

"And Daphne would have given up, but you didn't," Cho said.

"But I am Daphne," Daphne said as Johanna shot her a look making her flinch.

"You really do not like her," Fleur said.

"What's it to you," Johanna said.

"Nothing," Fleur shrugged.

"Then mind your own business," Johanna snapped.

"Don't tell me what to do," Fleur said.

"Girls got anger issues," Jessica whispered to Natasha.

"You would too, if someone made your life a living hell for the last 4 years," Millie said.

"I guess," Natasha said looking at Daphne.

"But I think they will be good for each other," Millie laughed as Fleur and Johanna glared at each other.

"Is this before or after they blow something up," Jessica said.

"Bonk," Cho yelled, whacking both of them on the head.

"What was that for," Fleur and Johanna yelled.

"The race is over, you can stop now," Cho said.

"Never," the pair growled causing the rest to laugh, as the girls turned away from each other in a huff.