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.

52. Chapter 52

Chapter 52- Preparations

December 1995

Wednesday December 6th Vaduz Liechtenstein

"Anna what a pleasant surprise," Dan said, opening the door to a shivering Anna Matou doing her best to keep warm on the porch.

"Gah how do you survive here, it's so freaking cold," Anna said through chattering teeth.

"You get used to it," he chuckled. "But please come in," he said, allowing her in.

"Thanks," she said, rushing inside.

"But what brings you so far from the warm beaches of Greece," Dan said.

"I wish it was for more pleasant news," Anna said, pulling a file out of her cloak.

"So, he's really going to do it," Dan sighed looking at the thick file.

"If by he you mean Dumbledore, and by doing it, you mean convincing Magipol to investigate you, then yes," Anna said.

"How bad?" Dan asked.

"Is Emma around?" Anna nervously said with her eyes checking every corner as they entered the living room.

"No, she's otherwise occupied for the day, some kind of conference," he replied.

"Ok," Anna said, breathing a sigh of relief sinking down into a large comfortable chair. "But I can give you some good news to pass onto her."

"Oh," Dan said, laying the paper out on the table.

"My sisters recently destroyed a human trafficking ring, and one of the victims mentioned a comatose girl matching Lavenders description being bought in September," Anna said.

"I don't see how that is good news," a visibly surprised Dan said.

"It's good because it means we know she is still alive," Anna said.

"Any idea who bought her," Dan asked. "And you better hope we don't find you first."

"Sadly no, but we do know that the man who did buy her had a heavy Russian accent," Anna said. "Which means she isn't going to the Middle East."

"It's a start, and when you say destroyed," Dan asked.

"Like Troy," Anna said with a tone of finality in her voice.

"Good," Dan said before opening the file, his eyes narrowing as he read the top sheet.

"That is just the list of initial charges they are investigating in the hopes of finding more," Anna said as Dan read on his frown growing.

"Anna this is everything short of the kitchen sink," Dan replied.

"Dumbledore is a chess master, half of these could be ruses, and bluffs, but we don't know which ones. If we focus too much on one charge, he'll use another," she replied.

"How did you get this," Dan asked.

"My name popped up as a person of interest, in the case, so I had a friend at Magipol look into it," Anna said.

"Anna did you…." Dan asked looking up at her.

"Oh, please I have other charms besides my eyes," Ann replied, crossing her arms under her above average chest.

"Of that I have no doubt," Dan replied before looking down at the file. "I just made some coffee, feel free to help yourself," he said, focused on the file.

"Thanks," Anna said heading to the kitchen, returning a few minutes later relishing the warm drink in her hands.

"Anna," he said looking up at her. "I know you're not an expert on British Law, but correct me if I am wrong here. This charge for bastardry," Dan said pointing to the charge.

"I think it's one of Dumbledore's ruses," Anna said.

"Yes, but he's using it to call for Johanna and Victoria to be made wards of Hogwarts until they've completed their schooling," Dan said.

"Yes, but couldn't this be negated simply by claiming them as our own," Dan said.

"True, but he's not going to allow a couple with a fraudulent marriage to adopt them," Anna replied.

"Then how would you like to be a bridesmaid at our second marriage," Dan said.

Anna's jaw dropped. "Dan did you just say what I think you said."

"Yes," Dan said. "Emma and I only ever got married by the Justice of the peace the last time, and those records were destroyed. So why not give her a big wedding while inviting a number of famous and important dignitaries."

"Dan that's…" Anna muttered.

"Genius right," Dan laughed.

"I was going to say insane, but it might just work. Actually…. Wait, I'll have to check, but I think some of these other charges are connected to the false marriage, and British magical law doesn't apply retroactively in some cases," Anna said.

"Excellent," Dan said.

"It won't stop him, as he'll still have some use of magic charges, and child endangerment charges, but they will look a little suspect," Anna said.

"So, operation, throwing my wife a secret giant wedding is a go," Dan said.

"Wait, secret," Anna said.

"Well duh where is the fun in that," Dan laughed.

Thursday December 7th Vaduz Liechtenstein

"Good afternoon ladies, Hans," Dan said, meeting Alexandra, Belldandy, Ria, and Hans in Belldandy's store.

"What can I help you with Dan? You said it was urgent on the phone," Belldandy said.

"I need the four of you to help me plan Emma's Christmas surprise," Dan said.

"I can see why you'd need Belldandy's help but why the rest of us," Alexandra said.

"By now I am sure you have heard the rumors," Dan said.

"Yes, and it's a real pile of puke if you ask me," Alexandra said as the others nodded in agreement.

"Thanks for the support, and I am hoping I can get your support for a surprise for Emma, the girls, and well pretty much the whole country," Dan said.

"Please tell me you aren't going to freeze something or blow something up," Ria said, growing a bit nervous.

"And why would I do that," Dan said tilting his head to the side.

"Because you are their father, seriously those girls don't know the meaning of restraint," Ria said.

"I blame their mother for that," Dan said.

"I'd believe it," the others said.

"Now, what I want to do is simple," Dan said.

"Dan, I hate to break it to you, but simple, does not run in your family," Hans deadpanned.

"Anyway, what I want to do is throw Emma a very large, very public wedding inviting all of her friends, some important dignitaries, and the entire town. We'll do it under the guise of the winter festival," Dan explained.

"Dr. Grunberg, may I ask a question," Alexandra said.

"Yes," Dan said.

"Why…." Alexandra said.

"A number of charges against us are connected to no marriage or a fake one, so if we're married they no longer exist, and it will be hard to hide a big flashy wedding. Secondly it would make a good Christmas present for Emma, third, I never gave her a big wedding the first time around, four I think it will be a lot of fun, oh and five why not," Dan said.

"This is insane," Ria said as Hans laughed.

"Count me in," Alexandra said.

"Great," Dan said. "Now Belldandy can you make the dresses in time," Dan asked.

"No problem, I will get right on it," Belldandy said.

"Hans we would love to do it around the lake," Dan said.

"Consider it already reserved," he replied.

"Alex," Dan said, turning to her.

"My band and I will work with Victoria," she replied.

"Ria," Dan said.

"Let me guess everything else right,' Ria said as her shoulders slumped.

"Maggie and Alex will handle the food, if that's ok with you Hans," Dan said.

"Not a problem," he replied.

"Get Thormir to make the rings," Ria said. "And what about security, Guest list invitations, argh!" she groaned, pulling her hair.

Saturday December 9th St. Hilde

"What!" The Grunberg twins roared in unison during the middle of breakfast silencing the entire hall.

"What hell is Dad thinking," Victoria said.

"Mom is going to flip," Johanna added as they looked up from the notes they were reading.

"I know right, it's crazy even for dad," Victoria said.

"True, but it's also crazy enough to work," Johanna said.

"Ladies, is there a reason you have the entire hall in stunned silence," Professor Scyra said.

"Sorry it's just that our dad is going to do something very crazy," Johanna replied.

"And that is," Padma said.

"Since their original marriage certificate was burned in the fire, and the British aren't recognizing the copies, Dad is going to marry mom all over again," Johanna said.

"Now I know where she gets it from," Parvati said.

"Hey!" Johanna protested.

"You do know what this means right," Victoria said.

"What," Parvati said.

"That A you're coming and B my dad wants your dad as one of the groomsmen and your mom as a maid of honor," Johanna explained.

"Sure, but why…" Padma said.

"Your friends and something about how having married couples in the bridal party means the marriage will be true or something…." Johanna said.

"What my sister means is that the magic used in the ceremony is reinforced by having married couples in the bridal party, because successful marriages won't recognize ones born from false pretenses," Victoria replied.

"And how do you know all this," Parvati asked.

"Girls got to plan ahead you know," Victoria chuckled.

"Your 15," Johanna deadpanned.

"And I found my one already," Victoria said proudly with a smug grin.

Sunday December 10th Monaco

"Maggie," Alex called out.

"Yes," Maggie replied from another room.

"Are you holding anything important right now," he said.

"Just folding laundry," Maggie replied.

"Good, because we just received the biggest job of our life," Alex said entering the room.

"What's that," Maggie asked in the middle of folding a shirt.

"Dumbledore somehow got Dan and Emma's marriage revoked so they are getting married again, and we've been asked to cater it," Alex said.

"WHAT!" Maggie screamed, dropping the shirt she was folding. "I knew there was some bullshit, but nothing like this," Maggie said.

"Yes, apparently with their marriage annulled, Dumbledore is declaring Johanna and Victoria bastards to make them wards of the school," Alex explained.

"That unbelievable bastard," Maggie growled. "This just proves how far-gone society in Magical Britain is."

"Agreed, it makes the choice to stay in Monaco so much easier now," Alex replied as Maggie nodded her head. "Oh, and one more thing."

"What's that," Maggie asked.

"Well in addition to catering the wedding you are the maid of honor and I am the best man," Alex said.

"That is an incredible honor," Maggie said.

"Understatement, I don't think they know just how influential they are," Alex said.

"Don't tell me you have the guest list already," Maggie said.

"No, but it's asking for food fit for humans, dwarves, fairies, mermaids, and Vampires," Alex said.

"This is going to be expensive," Maggie said.

"Yes, but Dan said and I quote you are not doing this pro bono, now shut up and take my money," Alex said, showing her the letter.

"Great, but where are we going to get the staff for this, it's much bigger than anything we've ever done," Maggie said.

Hogwarts

"Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god," Anna and Belle exclaimed their girlish screams rising over the din of the Great Hall.

"For the love of Merlin will you shut the hell up," Vainsley yelled.

"Who asked you," Anna shot back.

"What!" Elizabeth exclaimed.

"You got one too," Sylvia said.

"Yes," the girls said holding identical letters.

"I see your letters came," Marcus said.

"You knew," the girls said.

"Knew what," Pansy asked.

"The cooking club got invited to help cater the wedding," Anna said.

"And I care because," Pansy said.

"You wouldn't," Marcus said.

"But I do care," Pansy said.

"It's not like you can come anyway," Marcus said.

"Oh, and why is that," Tracy said.

"Because…" Marcus said, trying to think of a way out of the situation.

"You weren't invited," Mathew said. "And I think you'll have trouble throwing your weight around outside of Britain."

"We will just have to see about that," Pansy said with a huff, walking off with Draco.

"Thanks for the save," Marcus said. "Victoria will kill me if I'm the one who spills the beans about the wedding."

"Wait you mean," the girls said.

"Yes," Mathew said, showing them his letter and the line about keeping it a secret.

"Oops, I guess we didn't see that part," they said sheepishly.

Friday December 15th Greengrass estate

"Good evening Tom," Catherine said entering the small sitting room.

"Good evening Catherine," the rather nondescript average looking man with brown hair and eyes replied.

"I will say your new form is rather plain looking," Catherine said.

"That is by design my dear," Tom Riddle aka Lord Voldemort replied.

"It will make it easier to cover up this time," Catherine said.

"That will not be necessary," Voldemort replied.

"I was not aware that Baron Harkonen had completed your new body," Catherine replied.

"He has not," Voldemort said.

"I gave him the samples three years ago, certainly he should have some results by now," Catherine said.

"As it turns out those samples were not humans from the age of the gods," Voldemort said.

"Then what were they," Catherine asked.

"Nephilim," Voldemort replied.

"You mean to say they are real," a visibly stunned Catherine replied.

"Yes, it seems that a great many things that were only rumored to be true are in fact true," Voldemort said thinking of his experience in the chamber of secrets. "Which is why I asked you to work on getting our fellow members released from Azkaban.

"Are we moving up the time table," Catherine asked.

"No, quite the opposite in fact," Voldemort replied.

"Then why push for their release," Catherine asked.

"How much do you know about what happened in the chamber of secrets," Voldemort asked.

"I have conflicting reports, some say the Potter boy got lucky stabbing the Basilisk in the mouth, while others say that the German girl and the Potter boy worked together to destroy it," Catherine said.

"It was the latter," Voldemort said. "And in doing so they inadvertently revealed the truth of Hogwarts."

"It is older than the founders," Catherine said.

"Much," Voldemort said. "It is how I created this body."

"Impossible…" Catherine blurted out before scanning him with her wand. "A golem, this complex, and life like."

"Yes, it is not a perfect body, but it is a step above possession, or being a wraith," he replied.

"Why tell me this," Catherine asked, narrowing her eyes at him.

"Experiencing the cold icy hand of death has opened my eyes, and the events of the past few years has broadened my horizons," he replied. "You and I have been thinking far too small, ruling Britain and purging the magical society of the undesirables is far too pedestrian."

"I would hardly call wanting to restore magical society small," Catherine said.

"It is when you could be ruling over all of Britain instead of just the magical half," Voldemort said. "Magic is part of the world, why should we have to hide it away," Voldemort said.

"Because of the statute of secrecy and the rest of the world will," Catherine began to say as Voldemort held up a hand.

"Is this the same world that fears the collection of artifacts stored in the ministry," Voldemort said.

"Yes, but…." Catherine said.

"You are right to be skeptical, Catherine, the muggles have developed frightening technologies raining fire from the sky and weapons that can obliterate entire cities in an instant. But how is this any different from the Protestant wind which can sink entire armadas, and reshape the coastline or the legendary Aegis which can block any attack," Voldemort explained.

"Point taken, but they do have the advantage of numbers," Catherine said.

"As Baron Harkonen likes to say, quantity has a quality all of its own, and while the Baron has been less successful in some areas, he has been more successful in others. It seems that the mysterious tooth you sent him with the blood sample was none other than Typhon himself."

"The Typhon," Catherine said.

"Yes, and it seems that the DNA he extracted from the Tooth," Voldemort said.

"DNA what is that," Catherine asked.

"Deoxyribonucleic acid," Voldemort said.

"Sounds muggle," Catherine scoffed.

"And you are a fool for dismissing it," Voldemort said. "Magic may have discovered the spark of life and how to breath it into things, but the muggles discovered the blueprint of life, and our dear Baron Harkonen has begun to experiment with rewriting that blueprint."

"Surely you jest," Catherine said with an incredulous look. "That is reserved for the realm of the gods."

"I am not," Voldemort replied. "It was through this power that he was able to bring down the magical soviet government."

"I have heard a number of the beasts used in the fighting to be more powerful than predicted," Catherine said. "But do you worry about giving a Russian so much power?"

"Perhaps a demonstration then," Voldemort said.

"What sort of demonstration," Catherine said.

"I noticed that despite your new landscaping the scars of battle remain on the estate," Voldemort said.

"Yes, I was perhaps a bit too exuberant in showing my displeasure to the rude German upstart," Catherine said as the furrow created by her spell remained washing out each time it rained.

"Then allow me to fix it for you," Voldemort said standing up. The pair walked silently to the gardens and the long grassy divot running through it.

"Do you require a wand," Catherine asked.

"Not for magic such as this," he replied. A moment of silence passed before he took a deep breath raising his arm out towards the divot. With a tamp of his foot the ground trembled, the rough edges of the divot shrinking as the ground smoothed over, a smooth carpet of grass running where the divot once lay. Thankfully his clothes hid the cracks forming on his body. "It still falls apart the moment I focus the power of Earth elsewhere," he thought. "I am missing something but what? Could it be the curse, or is the process incomplete…"?

"Wandless earth magic, that is not a skill he had previously," Catherine thought. Wandless magic was as difficult as it was rare and most could use what muggles might call telekinesis or telepathy. A few more could perform minor elemental manipulation of their natural element, like she could with fire.

"I can see you are surprised by my master of earth magic, when my natural element is fire," Voldemort said. "And to think I have Johanna Grunberg and Harry Potter to thank for that."

"That girl…." Catherine growled.

"Has a name, and she is not one I would take lightly," Voldemort said.

"She is a child," Catherine growled.

"Who forced you to use a dragon flame buster to knock her unconscious, and she defeated the Basilisk," he replied.

"Power and skill is to be respected whether we like the person or not. I took James and Lily Potter too lightly and it nearly killed me. That is a mistake I will not make a second time. I watched Johanna Grunberg conquer the nightmare of the Mirror of Erised, and later wield the scepter of Slytherin," Voldemort explained.

"Again, why tell me this?" Catherine asked.

"Because you might be short tempered and prone to violent outbursts, you are by no means a stupid woman," Voldemort said. "Intimidation and violence did not work last time, so it would be foolish to try it a second time."

"Yet you were on the verge of winning," Catherine said.

"Perhaps, but true insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results," Voldemort said.

"I suppose there is some merit to that," Catherine said. "But what is this new plan of yours?"

"We continue working to have our brethren released from Azkaban but have them released to a new outpatient facility meant to monitor them and rehabilitate them while they await trial," he said.

"And you expect me to run this facility, because Bellatrix and I," Catherine said.

"No, you will hand it off to my new alias, so you will need to create the necessary documents," Voldemort replied.

"That is easily done, but how will you get approval for such a facility," Catherine asked.

"Lucius is already laying the groundwork," Voldemort said as a letter arrived via eagle.

Dear Lady Greengrass,

Your advice is much appreciated as I find my own mother to be a bit lacking when it comes to offering advice to a maturing young lady. In fact, your advice has proven to be helpful, and if I may be so bold, I would like to visit with you over the upcoming break to properly show my appreciation. Additionally, I have come across a bit of information that might be of interest to you. It seems that the headmaster has declared the Grunberg twins' bastards and that in an effort to circumvent this their parents are having a second wedding ceremony in the near future. It also appears to be something of a surprise for the mother, now given the Grunberg family's propensity for grandiosity, this wedding will not be a small affair. While I have no doubt that obtaining an invitation will be a near impossibility, attending it is not. For larger events my mother used staffing agencies to supplement her usual staff. Maggie Blustrode uses some of the same agencies. If it pleases you, I would like to try and be hired on as staff for the event.

Thank you,

Tracy Davis

"Clever girl," Voldemort said, having read the letter over Catherine's shoulder.

"I fail to see how attending this event will help," Catherine said.

"It matters because knowing the resources and allies your opponent can draw upon allows you to plan for their inclusion in the battles to come. Additionally, it provides an excellent opportunity to test Vladimir's latest creations," Voldemort replied to a skeptical Catherine.

"Why not use them to attack Hogwarts and kill Dumbledore," she replied.

"There is a risk that the beasts may indiscriminately kill the children, which even in the death of Dumbledore could cause the people to rally against us," he said. "However, if your informant is correct and this will be an event attended by a number of dignitaries, having them die to the hands of a rampaging beast that escaped from Russia, well that is a different matter entirely."

"And should the attack fail, we are out a powerful weapon," Catherine said.

"True, but this is a test of a weapon, so failure is always a possibility," Voldemort said. "Which is why I will be attending as a server as well to observe the events and see the strengths and weaknesses of our weapons and opponents first hand," Voldemort said.

"You seem to be taking this girl very seriously," Catherine said.

"The mother with no magical training whatsoever walked through a muggle repelling ward, and the daughter has shown spurts of powerful magic," Voldemort said.

"What can they truly hope to accomplish against those with long magical lineages," Catherine said.

"You are no fool, but your arrogance blinds you, Catherine." "Neither did Lily Potter and we know how that turned out," Voldemort said. "Now make the arrangement for Tracy and myself to become servers at this party."

"Shall I inform Tracy of your presence," Catherine said.

"No, I wish to observe how she handles things without interference," Voldemort said.

Monday December 18th Hogwarts

"Please try and do better next time Miss Tuttle," Flitwick said, handing back their latest practical quiz.

"What…." a surprised Liz gasped looking at the giant P written on her evaluation. "But I was sure I got that one right."

"Ha, I knew you were a dumb blond," someone called out.

"I am not a dumb blond," Liz shot back.

"Then why did you fail," another student said.

"I just have a lot of stuff going on right now," Liz protested.

"Oh please, like a scrawny little shrimp like you has anything going on," the group said.

"Professor aren't you…." Liz said but Flitwick had moved on.

"Oh, look the runt is asking another runt for help," another student said.

"Shut up," Liz screamed her voice cracking.

"The truth hurts, go back to third year you giant walking hairball," the others said pilling on.

"Shut up, shut up, shut up," Liz screamed before bolting from the room.

"That will be 5 points from each of you for your behavior," Percy said, arms crossed over his chest blocking the doorway as he glared at them.

"You don't have the authority," they said.

"I am a prefect, in case you have forgotten," he said.

"And I do not appreciate prefects interrupting my class," Flitwick said. Now in any other world Percy would have immediately backed down or quoted some obscure regulation, but in this brave new world his answer was rather surprising.

"Then do you bloody job Professor," Percy said, causing everyone present to gasp in shock.

"What did you say," Flitwick growled.

"I said do you bloody job," Percy repeated. "A teacher's job is to teach…"

"Don't you dare tell me how to do my job Percy Weasley," Flitwick said, marching up to him.

"Then how can you teach in a learning environment that fosters fear and intimidation, Professor. How many more students do I have to watch being bullied," Percy said.

"Then learn to look the other way, because if you try and take the world's problems on your shoulders they will crush you," Flitwick said.

"I am sorry sir my father didn't raise me like that, and I couldn't live with myself if I did," Percy said. "Now if you will excuse me, I believe that is the bell," he said before walking out as the students erupted into chaos.

"Merlin did you see that, who knew Percy had it in him," a girl said.

"I need to find Percy right now," a blushing Penelope said.

"And kill him for the trouble he just got into. I mean I thought he was the responsible Weasley," the girl said.

"No," Penelope replied.

"Then what," the girl said.

"Snog him senseless," she said before racing off.

Break

"Ok, spill, what the hell happened to you and where is the real Percy," Cedric said catching up with him.

"Still me, just sick and tired of all the bullshit," Percy replied.

"You and me both," Cedric said.

"Is it just me or has the bullying been getting worse as of late," Cedric asked.

"I dunno," Mathew said, joining them.

"How is Liz," Percy asked.

"A little shook up by the grade but otherwise fine," Mathew said. "Thanks for asking."

"It's the least I could do," Percy said. "I couldn't do anything for Johanna back then, but I sure as hell can now."

"What changed," Cedric asked.

"Dad sat me down and said doing the right thing is what matters and nothing else trumps that" Percy said.

"Aren't you worried about the blow back," Cedric said.

"Apparently stopping Evangeline Tuttle from causing another Fire of London has improved his standing at the ministry," Percy explained.

"That would do it," the other two nodded in reply.

"Speaking of standings and such, were the two of you invited to the you know what," Mathew whispered.

"Yes," the boys replied.

"And were you asked to be," Mathew continued.

"Yes," they said.

"You do realize this means we have to get suits," Cedric said.

"Don't remind me," Mathew groaned.

"Honestly it's not that bad," Percy said. "But I do have to wonder why us though?"

"It's a big wedding and I think they are making a statement," Cedric said.

"About what…." Percy asked.

"I guess we'll just have to wait and find out," Mathew said.

"Percy," a breathless Penelope called out as she raced up to him.

"Is something wrong Penelope," Percy asked.

"You can't just do something like that and walk off," Penelope said.

"Sorry, but it had to be said and I felt like it was best to leave at the end of class," Percy said.

"I know, and that's not what I'm talking about," Penelope said.

"Then what," Percy said.

"Well, you see…." Penelope began to say.

"See what," he said.

"Oh, screw it, come here," she said, dragging him towards an abandoned broom closet.

"Ok, nothing to see here," Mathew said, clearing the hallways.

"You heard the man move it," Cedric said, trying and failing to keep a straight face.

Tuesday December 19th Saint Hilde's

"You do realize it is a small miracle your mother hasn't figured out yet," Padma said as she sat with Victoria in the library.

"Klaus is keeping her busy to keep her mind off of things, and Ria is hiding the preparations under the guise of the winter festival," Victoria replied.

"I see," Padma replied as they returned to their studying. "Say Victoria, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure," Victoria said.

"How did your name end up on the Hogwarts list," Padma asked.

"The new version or the old version," Victoria replied.

"The new one as the old one is obvious," Padma said.

"Just checking," Victoria said. "Apparently Mom and Dad were at some kind of conference and well we just had to come early. While non magical British Law doesn't have birthright citizenship, magical Britain is…"

"A little behind the times and they never updated the charms for the Hogwarts registry," Padma said.

"Ja," Victoria said.

"Is that why you attended Hogwarts instead of Saint Hilde's," Padma said.

"We wanted to broaden our horizons and experience new stuff, plus Hogwarts had the reputation as being one of the best schools," Victoria replied.

"That's the same thing my parents said," Padma stated.

"But why ask me all this," Victoria said.

"Just trying to sort some things out," Padma replied.

"I understand the memory reshuffling gets confusing at times too," Victoria said.

"Doesn't it scare you," Padma asked.

"How so," Victoria asked.

"Aren't you afraid you'll wake up and discover that you aren't you know you anymore," Padma said.

"Why didn't you say something sooner," Victoria said, moving her chair so she could put an arm around her.

"It's not like I can just ask someone, how do you deal with two sets of memories in your head because reality is changing," Padma replied.

"Relax, one thing I can tell you is that regardless of what happens you will remain who you are," Victoria said.

"You say that but…." Padma said.

"You dingdong," Victoria said, chopping her on the head. "Owe what is your head made of," Victoria whined holding her hand.

"Padma's element is electricity, and mine is metal," a smirking Padma replied as Victoria cradled her hand.

"As I was saying, aside from memories the most you might see is some improvement in your looks, or athleticism," Victoria said. "The major events haven't changed."

"So that is why you stayed behind to keep the Cerberus asleep instead of descending into the chamber, and why you were at a concert during the basilisk affair," she said.

"Yes," Victoria said.

"So, I'm not going crazy," Padma said with a sigh of relief.

"No," Victoria said.

"Good to know, but that still doesn't answer one question," Padma said.

"What's that," Victoria asked.

"Where do I find a guy as good as Marcus," Padma said. "I mean how did you do it?"

"I really don't recommend taking over brewed Polyjuice potion, with hair from two different people," Victoria said.

"So that's how you did it," Padma said.

"More or less," Victoria said.

"And Johanna…." Padma asked.

"Cho still said it the best, I reject your reality and substitute my own. She didn't like the path the Norns laid out for her so she blew it up and is making a new one," Victoria said before flipping through a large book.

"Do you ever wonder what else might be happening as a result of what has been happening," Padma asked.

"Like what," Victoria asked.

"I dunno, a butterfly flaps its wings," Padma said.

"And that matters how," Victoria said.

"Ripples in a pond," Padma said.

"Sorry, not ringing a bell," Victoria said.

"Look, you and your sister are the only ones who have a full scope of the old reality and the new one, but only in regards to events that apply to you or that you personally witnessed," Padma said watching as Victoria's jaw slowly dropped.

"Do you think whatever is doing this is that potent," Victoria said.

"Your guess is as good as mine," Padma said.

"Right, got any ideas on what to do now," Victoria said.

"Tread carefully, I guess," Padma said.

"I always do," Victoria said.

"I doubt that," Padma said.

"Hey what is that supposed to mean," Victoria protested.

Break

If the focus on project-based learning was the first major difference between Hogwarts and Saint Hilde's in terms of its curriculum. The second difference was real practice areas for magic practice and experimentation, practice areas Johanna and Parvati were making full use of.

Eyes closed on concentration, Parvati held her wand out, the faint popping of static electricity filling the air, "Sagitta fulgur minoris molimenti ea," she exclaimed opening her eyes as a volley of arrows made of lightning flying towards a giant block of ice shattering it with a boom.

"Not bad, Parvati," an Amazonian woman with long red hair said.

"Thank you, professor Vita," Parvati said.

"Professor, how is it that her lightning spell is effective against ice, because ice isn't a conductive material?" Johanna asked.

"That is true," Vita replied. "But the lightning was magically created, and magical lightning has a natural piercing quality, that's why it is effective at shattering defenses. The downside is that it does not have the blast radius of other spells."

"But can it still be affected by lightning rods," Parvati asked.

"Yes, despite being magically created it will behave like normal electricity, for the most part," Vita replied.

"Parvati, do it again," Johanna said.

"I hope you have something in mind besides making it bigger," Vita said.

"Ja," Johanna said, spinning her wand around.

"Crystal ice palace, lightning rod battlements," Johanna called out as she knelt touching the end of her wand to the frozen lake. A low rumble sounded as a large wall of ice rose from the surface of the lake, the wall bristling with needle-like projections.

"It looks different but it's going to be the same as the last time," Parvati said, aiming at the wall of ice. Lightning arrow barrage," Parvati yelled, firing off a flurry of lightning bolts in the shape of arrows. The arrow flew true rocketing towards the barrier, however as they got closer to the wall their paths seemed to change, being drawn towards the tips of the spikes on the wall. Flashes lit up the wall as the arrows nailed the spikes, streaks of yellow energy entering the wall before being channeled down into the lake with a brilliant flash.

"You were saying," Johanna said proudly standing next to her wall.

"I thought the whole point of this was to work with our elements," Parvati said.

"I did," Johanna said.

"I'm calling shenanigans," Parvati said, hands on her hips.

"Ok, Johanna what did you do," Vita asked, approaching the wall.

"I gave it a lightning rod," Johanna said.

"Lightning rods are metal," Parvati said.

"But lightning takes the path of least resistance," Johanna said.

"True," Vita said. "But how did you create a path in your ice wall?"

"Millie and Fleur contacted me asking how I made my ice a few days ago," Johanna said.

"And this matters how?" Parvati said,

"Fleur thinks that I am combining water and air to make ice, because they both have cold aspects in them," Johanna explained.

"You made channels of salt water inside your wall and the spikes tipped with salt water which has a higher conductivity than ice. Thus, they acted as lightning rods channeling them into the lake to avoid the magics' piercing qualities," Vita explained.

"Yes," Johanna said proudly as something exploded out of the lake shooting high into the air in a plume of ice and water. "Ok, for the record I did not do that," she added as they watched the object arc through the air before plummeting back down to earth with a thump.

"Of course, you didn't,' Parvati said, rolling her eyes as they went to inspect the rock ejected out of the small lake.

"What is it," Johanna asked, looking down at the rock.

"Aren't you the expert on this sort of thing," Parvati replied.

"Precious and semiprecious gemstones, not," she said looking down at the stone. "Well, whatever the heck that is." She added pointing at the rock laced with brown streaks and black cuboidal protrusions.

"It's magnetite," Vita said, poking at the rock with her wand.

"Magne what….." the girls replied.

"Magnetite, it's a type of iron ore, and for how it got in the lake, this valley used to be on an ancient trade route and there are several nearby iron mines. So it's not too surprising that a bit of ore fell into the lake at one point," Vita said.

"My spell must have hit it when Johanna redirected it into the lake," Parvati said.

"Ok, but that still doesn't explain how it was launched out of the lake," Johanna said as Vita stepped back waiting for their conversation to continue.

When none came, she stepped in. "Girls what happens when electricity is applied to a ferrous metal."

"An electromagnet," Parvati said.

"And what happens when you put two magnets of the same type against each other," Vita said.

"They repel," Johanna said. "But if Parvati's spell charged any similar rocks in the lake, they would be propelled sideways exiting the lake at an angle and not straight up."

"There are other magnets present besides the ones created by Parvati's spell," Vita said.

The Indian girl's eyes shot open in surprise. "Wait are you saying that the earth's magnetic field repelled that rock."

"That's," Johanna said.

"Magic works in strange ways," Vita said.

"No, it doesn't," Johanna said.

"It just means we don't understand it yet," Parvati added.

"Hahahahahaha," Vita laughed. "I knew there was a reason Fate let you in besides the fact that it's a giant black eye to Hogwarts."

"Professor Vita," Parvati asked.

"Yes," Vita replied.

"Professor, is it possible that because it was magic lightning that magnetized the rock, it's magnetic field was stronger than usual," Parvati asked.

"Yes," she replied. "Magic can be used to make very powerful magnets, it's part of how most magical airships work."

"Wait so magnetic levitation is actually a thing in the magical world," Johanna said.

"Yes, but outside of large magical airships it's not really used all that much, as levitation charms are more effective and easier to control.

Parvati turned quickly to look directly at Johanna. "Johanna, are there any magnetic gems?"

"Yes, " Johanna replied. "Bornite and pyrite come to mind."

"And gemstones hold their magic for a long time right," Parvati said.

"Yes, and it is proportional to their size, and amount of magic pumped into them," Johanna said. "That's why some ancient magical artifacts are still tricky due to the gemstones powering them.

"Where are you going with this," Vita asked.

"Professor, I think I know where Tuatha Dé Danann is," Parvati said.

"As in the mythical homeland of the fairies," Vita said.

"Yes," Parvati replied.

"And how did you figure this out," Vita said.

"Wait a minute Parvati, you're not saying what I think you are saying," Johanna said.

"You're the only one who saw it first hand, but based on what you said, theoretically speaking," Parvati said.

"It's a stretch, but I can't say that you're wrong," Johanna said. "And it doesn't tell you where it is, and that brings up more questions."

"But it does," Parvati said.

"It does," Johanna said.

"Yes," Parvati said.

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

"Professor Vita, Saint Hilde's wouldn't happen to have a secret underground chamber that contains a gem the size of an american football," Johanna said.

"No," Vita replied, growing confused.

"That's what I thought," Johanna said

"I feel like I am missing something very important," Vita said, growing concerned.

"Understatement," Parvati replied.

"Fate's office now," Vita barked, pointing towards the main school building.

"Yes, Professor," the girls said.

Break

"Would you believe me if I said it was not my fault," Johanna said to Victoria as they stood in the headmaster's office.

"No," Victoria said.

"Some sister you are," Johanna grumbled. "But I will have you know it is entirely Parvati's fault."

"And how is it my fault," Parvati shot back.

"Because you're the one who figured it out," Johanna said.

"Only because you provided me with the information," Parvati said.

"Ladies, I suggest you start from the beginning," Headmistress Testarossa said.

"The beginning or the prologue," Victoria said.

"Can we trust them," Padma whispered to Johanna.

"I think so, and she doesn't seem like Dumbledore," Johanna replied.

"Well, I would hope not, Fate is much better looking than that old geezer," an attractive Japanese brunette said.

"Not now Nanoha," Fate sighed, causing several others to laugh. "And skip to the important parts."

"It was during the third year that we confronted a fragment of Voldemort placed in a book that possessed several students. His ultimate goal was to regain a corporeal body," Johanna explained.

"I thought he had one when he left after the mirror incident," Victoria said.

"You can thank Nicholas Flamel for that," Nanoha said.

"But he had the stone," Johanna said.

"Age and experience girls," Vita said.

"And there is none older or more experienced than the Flamels. Voldemort might have had the stone, but they created it, and knew it's strengths and weaknesses," Nanoha said.

"But how does this connect to the location of the city of the fairies," Yuuno asked.

"The blast that destroyed the Basilisk, broke open a hole in the wall revealing a large gem that pulled the fragment of Voldemort and the Basilisk into it. He said that Hogwarts was one of them and that's why he wanted to be a professor there and that he would not take one destined for greatness so lightly again," Johanna explained before nodding to Padma and Parvati.

"We have some evidence proving that the Alterans, an ancient magical civilization from the bronze age, existed. We also know that the dwarves, mermaids, and fairies claim to be from the survivors of the collapse of the Alteran civilization," Padma said.

"Those are just stories," Fate said.

"Professor, talk to Anna Matou and Alucard Tepes, they will confirm that the Nephilim and Typhon were indeed real," Johanna said.

"The black site on Santorini," Nanoha whispered to Fate.

"Continue," Fate said.

"We learned through Millie that Atlantis, while rendered uninhabitable, was still mostly intact before it was abandoned and lost to the sea. According to the mermaids it also contained a large gem at the center which powered the shields of the city. Atlantis was the city of water and it spawned the mermaids. Therefore, we think that the other demihuman magical races also descended from the remnants of the alteran civilization," Padma said.

"Your logic is sound, but your evidence is a little shaky," the school librarian Yuuno Scyra stated.

"And this still doesn't tell us where the legendary city of the fairies is," Vita said.

"In theory each of the Alteran cities was powered by a gemstone located at the center," Parvati said.

"And each city was associated with an element, mermaids for water, and fairies for air. So of course, the home of the fairies is in the sky," Padma said.

"And what better way to lift a city into the sky than with magically powered magnetic levitation," Parvati exclaimed, thrusting her fist into the air. "See I got the idea after my magic energized a magnetite stone to briefly shoot into air on account of being repelled by the earth's magnetic field. Which made me think that with a large enough gem you might be able to float a whole city," Parvati explained.

"And we haven't noticed this until now why?" Vita asked.

"Any civilization advanced enough to put a whole city in the sky is advanced enough to hide it," Parvati said.

"Point taken, but that is a lot of sky to search," Yuuno said.

"Oh, that's the easy part, it's floating in the polar jet stream," Parvati said.

"And your proof," Yuuno said.

"The strongest point in the Earth's magnetic field is magnetic north or magnetic south. They wouldn't have put the city in the south so far from their other cities which means it has to be in the northern polar regions. And it must have drifted into the polar jet stream as several cultures have reports of mystical cities near the path of the polar jet stream," Parvati explained.

"Which means all you have to do is look for large distortions in the Earth's magnetic field that are not explained by other phenomena and bam there it is," Padma finished.

"And we need to find it," Johanna pressed.

"You think Voldemort is still alive and is after the ancient secrets of the Alterans," Fate said, focusing her gaze on Johanna.

"Yes," Johanna said.

"Why tell me this," Fate asked.

"Because I needed to tell someone and Perenelle has been incognito for a while now," Johanna said.

"I see," Fate said leaning back in her chair.

"We're very sorry Professor," the girls said.

"Don't worry, you're not in trouble," Nanoha said.

"We're not," Johanna said.

"No," Yuuno said.

"No, you're not in trouble," Fate said. "You filled in some blanks to be honest. Dumbledore always claimed Voldemort would return."

"And there has been an upswing in people searching for the lost cities over the last several decades," Yuuno added.

"And one more thing," Johanna said.

"And what is that," Fate said, directing a stern look.

"Do you have any books on celestial mana manipulation because I kind of absorbed some and it's still in my system," Johanna said with a sheepish grin.

"Dam kid, you don't do anything halfway do you," Vita said.

"Yes, well it's being stupid, so I thought maybe," Johanna said as Fate began pounding her head on the desk. "Um is she going to be ok," Johanna asked as the banging continued.

"Oh, she'll be fine," Nanoha said, restraining Fate.

"Where did you come across celestial mana," Yuuno asked.

"A tantric mana transfer spell, so that she could drive off the dementors attacking Hogwarts," Victoria said.

"And no, we are not telling you who," Padma said.

"Good," the professors said.

Russia

"Some days I really want to kill that man," Yekaterina groaned as she stumbled into the room she now shared with Anastasia, that is if you could call the massive sprawling space a simple room. If they were aware of new muggle housing trends one might call it an open concept on steroids. Yekaterina was sure that the place was easily the size of the Great Hall, whatever the hell that was.

"What did he make you do this time," Anastasia asked.

"Fencing," Yekaterina said before collapsing into a large soft chair.

"Oh, I've seen fencing before," Anastasia said. "Did you use the epee, the saber, or the foil."

"It was some kind of great sword," Yekaterina said as the ghost floated over. "I thought it was going to rip my arms out."

"I doubt that," Anastasia said looking at her still living friend's massive biceps. She thought buff before but her arms were as big as some of the soldiers now.

"Yeah, I know," Yekaterina groaned. "And who fights with a giant sword anyway."

"Giant sword," Anastasia asked.

"Yeah, it was 4ft long and heavy," she explained. "It was hard enough lifting it after wrestling training, but then I had to block a half giants attack,"

"How are you still in one piece?" a horrified Anastasia gasped.

"I'm stronger than I look," Yekaterina shrugged, wincing as pain shot through it.

"Here let me," Anastasia said, pushing her back into the chair.

"Forgot you could do that," Yekaterina said, still getting used to the pushy Russian ghost who could actually touch things.

"Most of the people around here do," Anastasia said as she began working on her shoulder.

"Where did you learn how to do this," she asked as the ghost massaged her shoulder.

"I used to have to do it for my brother but in retrospect it was probably not the best thing for him," Anastasia said.

"What makes you say that," Yekaterina replied.

"Rasputin was the one who said it was a good idea," Anastasia said.

"Who is Rasputin," Yekaterina asked.

"Rasputin was a con man who used magic to make it seem like he had miraculous healing powers," Anastasia said.

"What did he do," Yekaterina asked.

"He claimed to heal my brother, who had bleeder's disease, when all he really did was use blood replenishing potions to prevent him from bleeding to death," Anastasia said.

"Why," Yekaterina said.

"Money, power, and control," Anastasia said. "I loved my father, but I will admit he was a vacillating man who was easily controlled and he dearly loved my mother, so he would do whatever she asked. Don't get the wrong idea, I love my mother as well, and it is not her fault, but she was so concerned over Alexi. She would have convinced my father to do just about anything to save him."

"So, he was a controlling old coot who thought he knew what was best for people," Yekaterina said.

"Exactly," Anastasia said. "It sounds like you have experience with the type."

"Maybe… I don't know…." she groaned as a headache set in.

Thursday December 21st Hogwarts- Headmasters Office

Dumbledore sneezed as a number of his staff entered his office. "Excuse me," he said looking at the group.

"You're excused," Ponma said.

"Does that mean," he said.

"No," Ponma said, glaring daggers at him.

"Then might I ask what this is about?" He asked.

"We know you're invited," Babbling said.

"Invited to what," Dumbledore asked with a confused look plastered on his face.

Waver sighed, running a hand through his hair. "The doddering old fool look is beneath you Dumbledore. We know you were invited to Dan and Emma's vow renewal ceremony."

"And we expect you to behave," Septima chimed in.

Dumbledore chuckled.

"Something amuses you," sybil said.

"You to Sybil," Dumbledore said.

"Yes me, you think I would miss a chance to see one of my more promising students. A student you pushed out," she replied.

"That was…" Dumbledore said.

"Can it," Waver said.

"I don't suppose one of you could do this old man a favor and accompany me," Dumbledore asked.

"Find your own date," the ladies huffed.

"Just ask Minerva," Sybil said as the others looked at her. "Oh, please I don't need to use divination to know she's been pining over him for years." The others just stared at her. "Oh please, for a Scott she is terrible at holding her liquor.

Friday December 22nd Vaduz Liechtenstein

The normally bustling city was busier than usual as the town prepared for the annual winter festival, the small event having grown into something special as people came from all over to see Grunberg girls perform. There were even rumors of a special big event, yet despite this one Emma Grunberg remained clueless to the truth. "Maggie why didn't you tell me you were coming," Emma exclaimed rushing across the street towards her longtime friend.

"Oh crap," Maggie thought as Emma jogged towards her. "Well Millie wanted to surprise Johanna for Christmas," she said quickly.

"That's so sweet of her," Emma replied. "And I must say you look great, Monaco's been good for you," she said marveling at her friend's robust figure.

"I'll say," Maggie chuckled. "It's like everything here," she said, grabbing her nonexistent belly. "Got sucked into here and here." she said, bouncing her chest and hip checking Emma lightly. "And speaking of being good, did you get taller again?" Maggie added having to tilt her head up to look Emma in the eye.

"5'11" it's like all the fat in my belly was sent to my legs," Emma said, placing her hands on her narrow waist.

"I don't see how that is a problem," Maggie chuckled looking down at the long shapely legs flowing out of her friend's skirt.

"I mean it's great, but it's weird," Emma said as they walked along.

"What's weird," Maggie asked.

"Well ever since that dam leth curse scrambled my brains it's like I can remember being a short stubby English woman, practically a foot shorter, but I also remember being well me," Emma said standing tall, now a leggy woman with long blonde hair.

"Mind magic's tricky, and perhaps it's something that they tried to implant into your head. So, in my decidedly unprofessional opinion, I say go with the memory that is more comfortable," Maggie said as they walked along in silence enjoying the crisp mountain air.

"Well, it does make sense that my real memories would feel more comfortable than fake ones," Emma thought, smiling and waving at the people they passed. "And why would I have so many memories of England when my primary residence is here. Plus, really, only an idiot would give me memories of being a foot shorter. I mean yeah Johanna went to Hogwarts for a while because it has a good reputation, but Dumbledore is so pushy. Seriously, they had to go there just because the girls decided to come early, ""Thanks, Maggie I think I will," Emma said.

"Good," Maggie replied. "Oh, thank god she still doesn't know." "But if you want to be weird, I think Millicent wants to change her name," Maggie said.

"Really," Emma said.

"Yes, I heard her and Fleur talking, and she kept calling her Melissa," Maggie said.

"The Delacour's are here too," Emma said. "Why didn't she tell me?"

"Crap…." "Well, um, I think Ria wanted Fleur to do something for the festival," Maggie blurted out. "Come on get it together Maggie, don't blow it now."

"But I thought Fleur hated the cold," Emma said as they caught up.

Break

"Johanna," Elizabeth, Sylvia, Anna, and Belle yelled barreling into their friend, knocking her over and taking all of them into a snow drift.

"Guten Tag," Johanna groaned from the bottom of the pile.

"Sorry they got away from us," Mathew said, walking over at a more sedate pace with a tiny blond-haired girl walking next to him.

"Um, Mathew, who is that standing next to you," Johanna asked, staring at the girl who pouted, stomping her foot in the snow-covered ground.

"Oh, come on, seriously, you don't recognize me," the girls huffed.

"That's Liz," Elizabeth explained as they pulled themselves out of the snow.

"You're kidding," a shocked Johanna replied as her jaw dropped.

"No joke, that is Liz," Anna explained.

"Seriously," Johanna said, blinking several times as she brushed the snow off her face.

"Yes," Belle added.

"Look, I'm trying to be a better person, and well it wasn't planned, but it beats the alternative," Liz explained.

"I know, I just didn't expect you to be," Johanna said looking down at a barely 5ft Liz.

"I am not a munchkin," Liz huffed, craning her head up to look at Johanna.

"I was going to say skinny," Johanna said.

"Yes, well she fought it, while I accepted it, and decided to help people, by giving gifts to people who deserved them." Liz said proudly.

"You don't say," Johanna said.

"She really did, just wait till you see Olga," Mathew said.

"Noted," Johanna said. "But honestly I was expecting her to be pudgy and wearing glasses." She thought while circling Liz. "Hair's still long and blond, but it is quite frizzy. Perhaps voluntarily giving up those things affected the outcome."

"I'm surprised you are not on the ice, cousin," Olga said walking over with Charlie Weasley.

Given her rather interesting life, not much truly surprised Johanna to the point where her jaw literally dropped as her brain was forced to reboot. The new and improved Olga Marie Animusphere calling her cousin just so happened to be one of them. "How the hell is she so stacked, she's bigger than Liz ever was. And cousin who the hell broke reality…." Johanna thought looking up and down the girl with amber eyes, light blond hair, and a body any woman would kill for. "DOH! This time it really is my fault…."

"You're her cousin?" Charlie said.

"Well, second cousins if you want to get technical. Our grandmothers were sisters," she said with a shrug.

"Thank goodness for Charlie," Johanna said, breathing a sigh of relief.

"Wait, does that mean your…" Charlie asked.

"Nope, my grandmother married a Norwegian, so English and Norwegian for me," Olga explained.

"Then why didn't you go to Durmstrang," Charlie asked.

"Because their Astronomy program is terrible and well it seemed like a good idea at the time," Olga replied.

"So, you and Charlie," Johanna said in German.

"Ja, it's only Ron and Ginny who are a pain, the other Weasley's are alright," Olga giggled as they conversed in German. "You know Bill is available, I can put in a good word if you want."

"I can find my own boyfriend thank you very much," a blushing Johanna huffed before turning to Charlie. "Now, you better treat my cousin right or else," Johanna said in English.

"Not to worry, I know better than to annoy the Ice Princess of Liechtenstein," Charlie said.

"Good," Johanna said.

"So can you point us in the direction of Belldandy's shop," Olga said.

"Sure," Johanna said, giving them direction before sending them off with a wave.

"Johanna did I do good," Liz whispered looking up at the silver haired girl with hope filled eyes.

Cracking a smile Johanna gently patted Liz on the head ruffling her hair. "Ja, you did good," Johanna said.

"Thanks," Liz sniffled.

"I'm assuming you are Mathew's plus 1," Johanna said.

"I hope that isn't a problem," Mathew said.

"Nein, not anymore," Johanna said. "Do you have anything to wear?"

"Um…. in light of recent events…..." Liz stammered.

"Mathew, take her to Volupsa and tell Belldandy it's on me," Johanna said.

"Really," Liz gasped.

"Ja," Johanna said.

"Thank you," Liz said.

"You just keep working on being nice Liz, okay," Johanna said, ruffling her hair again.

"I will," Liz said before leaving with Mathew.

"I trust you girls are ready," Johanna said, turning back to her friends.

"Ready, willing, and able," the girls said.

"Excellent," Johanna said. "And thanks again for helping out."

"Are you kidding, our club is getting to work at one of the biggest events ever, with one of the best chefs ever. Do you have any idea how big this is for us?" Elizabeth said.

"It's just a renewal of vows," Johanna said.

"How can you still be so clueless," Sylvia sighed.

"I am not clueless," Johanna snapped.

"Johanna, you're our friend and we love you, but Flamel, Tepes, Atreides, Matou, Windsor, Metternick, your guest list is a who's who of the magical world plus a number of important muggles as well," Anna and Belle explained.

"They're friends," Johanna sheepishly shrugged.

"Only you would call making connections with very important and powerful people friends," Elizabeth sighed. "But I'll admit that is probably the right way to do it."

"Progress," Johanna thought. "But enough about the guest list, I have something important to discuss with you."

"What's wrong," Elizabeth asked.

"Why would something be wrong," Johanna replied.

"Because trouble follows you like Vincent and Gregory follow food," Sylvia said.

"What is that supposed to mean," Johanna shot back.

"Johanna you are the living embodiment of may you live in interesting times," Anna said.

"Hey, those were not my fault," Johanna protested.

"We know," Belle said.

"So, what is it that you wanted to discuss with us," Elizabeth said.

"Working with my sister and the Patil twins we have come up with a training regime that we think could increase the size of an individual's magical core," Johanna explained.

"And you want us to be test subjects to see how effective the regime is," Sylvia said.

"Ja," Johanna said.

"What does the regime entail," Elizabeth asked.

"It is a combination of diet, exercise, meditation, and studying," Johanna said. "The diet is a nutrient dense high protein diet which isn't all that hard to stick to besides cutting back on the sweets. The meditation is a variation on yoga that is focused on harnessing your innate magic."

"And the exercise is figure skating," Elizabeth said.

"That depends on what you want to do," Johanna said.

"What do you mean," Anna asked.

"A key component of this system is using magic simultaneously while exercising," Johanna said.

"You're talking about artistic sports," Sylvia said.

"Yes," Johanna replied. "While I can help you with figure skating, dance, and gymnastics, there are other options."

"And the studying," Belle asked.

"Meditation trains the spirit, exercise trains the body, and studying trains the mind, again you can pick the subject, but mental stimulation is the final part," Johanna said.

"Not unlike the training you put yourself through," Sylvia said.

"You remember that," Johanna said.

"Not exactly, just a feeling, like a fading dream," Sylvia said.

"What do you mean," Elizabeth asked.

"I am a year older than you girls so I remember a time before Johanna, though that memory is changing," Sylvia said.

"I see," Johanna said. "And what do you remember?"

"I remember a Hermione Granger that was ruthlessly bullied by the so-called royal trio of Slytherin, and who was quite skilled at braiding even before she had the hair for it," Sylvia said.

"You wouldn't happen to have any idea as to when things began to change," Johanna asked.

"I don't, but I do remember you muttering about having seen your dream, you would make it a reality while cleaning up after a rather messy tea time," Sylvia said.

"The mirror, I can't believe I forgot about that," Johanna exclaimed. "Thank you, Sylvia," Johanna said, hugging the girl.

"Um, you're welcome," Sylvia stammered as the others looked on with a bit of jealousy.

"Confused, but whatever," Elizabeth said. "Now what is the big deal with this training regime of yours that you couldn't tell us in person."

"There might be some side effects," Johanna said.

"Side effects, what kind of side effects," Anna asked.

"The kind where we might change," Sylvia asked.

"Yes," Johanna said.

"How," Belle asked.

"I don't know," Johanna said. "Worst case you just get more fit, and more in touch with your magic."

"And the best case," Elizabeth asked.

"You know what Hermione looks like," Johanna said.

"Yes," the girls replied.

"I used to look like that before I began using similar methods," Johanna said.

"So, it will make us German," Elizabeth asked.

"Unlikely, but it could lead to some dramatic changes," Johanna replied.

"Why," Sylvia asked.

"Why what," Belle asked.

"I can understand why you did it, but why ask us to go through the same thing," Sylvia asked.

"You all know what happened to Lavender," Johanna said.

"Yes," the girls replied.

"As the Hogwarts motto advises against, I tickled the sleeping dragon, twice. The world might seem peaceful, but things keep happening, and I just want to give my friends a fighting chance, so what happened to Lavender won't happen to anyone else I care about," Johanna said. "I'm not asking for a decision right away, so just think about it."

"Ok," the girls said.

"Now if you will excuse me, I need to run, secret wedding planning and all that," Johanna said before running off.

"Well, that happened," Belle said.

"I'm in," Elizabeth said.

"Just like that," Sylvia said, turning to face her.

"You saw the headlines, there is no way I am going back to my mother, so bloody hell yes I am in," Elizabeth said. "The only question is what nationality and sport to choose." She said, "I mean would Johanna and Victoria mind another sister, but then there is Millie, or the Patils, and what about Olga she could be a cool big sister."

"You would go that far," Sylvia asked, pulling Elizabeth from her thoughts.

"Yes," Elizabeth said, looking Sylvia in the eye.

"Ok, way too heavy for me," Anna said, stepping between them.

"Yes, and we're late for meeting up with Mrs. Blustrode," Belle said.

"Crap," the girls exclaimed before racing off.

Break

"This is quite the number of people for a wedding," an older teenage boy said to the blond-haired girl standing next to him.

"Not really," the girl next to him replied.

"There's got to be 200 people here," the boy replied.

"I heard the whole town was invited, plus the other guests, which means you have around 4,000 guests give or take which means about 400 tables, at 5 tables per server that's 80 right there. Another 20 for the bar service, so an even 100 for the front of the house, so if anything, it's probably a little on the small side." the girl replied.

"You are quite knowledgeable Miss…." the boy said.

"Guinevere Tudor, and I've done some catering work on the side and helped out with the cooking club at the magical side of the King's School," the girl replied with a flip of her long strawberry blond hair.

"Really Catherine, your snobbery knows no bounds, and it's not even that good of a magical school. I do like the name though, it shows an appreciation for the classics, and magical heritage," Voldemort thought. "Impressive, The King's school is even older than Hogwarts and has had many famous alumni," Voldemort said.

"I am surprised you've heard of my school seeing how Hogwarts is the premiere school in Britain," Tracy replied.

"I try to keep my ear to the ground and keep an open mind," he replied.

"I take it that includes the fact that Grindelwald graduated from Kings after he was expelled from Durmstrang," Tracy said.

"Guinevere, Grindelwald was many things but a talentless squib he was not," Voldemort said. "You can disagree with his ideals, and his methods, but you must admit he was extremely talents and powerful when it came to magic.""

Tracy cocked an eyebrow at his words. "That is an interesting statement Mr.…"

"Please call me Agravaine, my fair lady," Voldemort replied.

"Agravaine, that is a name you do not hear every day," Tracy said.

"What can I say my parents had a love of the classics," Voldemort replied.

"I see, Agravaine the knight of the round table that was a spy for Mordred and led to the downfall of King Arthur," Tracy said.

"True, but there is always another side to every story," Voldemort said.

"A very interesting story that I would love to hear, but perhaps we should listen to the duty assignments," Tracy said as Maggie finished up the introductions.

"You're the expert," Voldemort said.

"Ok now I know we are stretched tight, but I have a number of junior servers we can use to fill in the gaps, and before you say anything they come highly recommended," Maggie said as the cooking club stepped forward along with a few others. "That means you better be on your best behavior or what the Grunberg's might do will be the least of your worries. Additionally, as I am part of the wedding party Hans will be running the show during the event," Maggie explained.

"I guess I shouldn't be surprised that those runts are here too," Tracy thought, focusing her gaze at Johanna's friends. The quartet practically bounced with excitement while huddled close together unused to all of the eyes focusing on them. Their immaculate outfits were a perfect match for the occasion while having a cute flare to them. "And the clothes are courtesy of Volupsa no doubt."

"As you imagine the structure of this is going to be a bit different than usual. We will be starting with a standard cocktail hour that will take place both indoors and outdoors to mark the start of the winter festival," Maggie said as a number of people groaned. "Hey I agree with you it is far too cold, but you will be provided with gem powered warming charms if you want them. At the end of the cocktail hour, Dan will be popping the question at which point Hans will be taking over and the service continues as Emma changes and Johanna builds the church. So, unless you want to be frozen in ice for a while stay out of the roped off areas. After the ceremony is complete, we'll all be serving drinks and checking on tables as everyone finds their seats. Since we're coming from a number of different places with different drinking ages Dan asked that we do not serve anyone under 18 and for heaven's sake check with an age charm if you're not sure."

"Come on Maggie get to the point," one of the more experienced servers called out.

"Yeah, what are our assignments," another one added.

"What are they talking about," Voldemort asked Tracy.

"Who is serving the bride and groom," Tracy replied.

"And that matters why," Voldemort asked.

"Normally the hardest job, but the one with the highest reward in terms of a tip and building connections," Tracy replied.

"I see, have you had the pleasure of serving the bride and groom," Voldemort asked.

"No," Tracy replied. "That is reserved for the most experienced servers, which means this is going to get interesting." She said as the crowd grew restless.

"Alright, look we are not going to fight over this as all of you are equally qualified, and there are plenty of VIPs to go around," Maggie said. "So instead of fighting over it like a bunch of children, let's have the children handle it."

"Wait what!" Johanna's friends exclaimed along with the rest of the crowd.

"You heard me, Elizabeth, Sylvia, Anna, Belle, Guinevere, and Agravaine," will cover the bride and groom, while the rest of you cover the other VIPs," Maggie said. "And if you have a problem with that, then perhaps I should introduce you to Millie's pet snake Steve," Maggie said as the snake appeared as if summoned.

"Shit, I didn't plan on that blasted thing being here," Voldemort thought looking at Steve who looked to have grown since the last time he saw the snake.

"Shit, I was hoping to hide in the crowd, if I'm working them this is going to be a problem," Tracy thought looking at the girls.

"Problem," the pair said at the same time, making Tracy blush slightly.

"Go ahead," Voldemort said.

"I have a history with those girls, and Mrs. Blustrode and I would rather they not discover I am here right now," Tracy said.

"That was a rather quick reveal," Voldemort thought, carefully examining Tracy. "Why tell me this," he asked. "Are you not afraid I might out you right here and now?"

"He is smarter than he appears, but why is he afraid of Steve," Tracy thought. "You are afraid of Steve," Tracy said. "Millie's snake is surprisingly perceptive, so it seems we both have something to hide."

"Clever girl," Voldemort thought. "So perhaps we can help each other out," he replied.

"What do you have in mind," Tracy asked.

"A few simple charms to slightly alter your appearance," Voldemort said.

"I am listening," Tracy replied.

"The best disguises are subtle," Voldemort said. "Charm your hair light blond and put it into an updo. Also, you could charm your eyes green, that should be enough for plausible deniability," Voldemort said.

"And you can do this," Tracy said.

"Child's play," Voldemort said.

"And in return you would like," Tracy said, narrowing her eyes at him.

"Snakes are not my forte, so if you could do something about that," Voldemort said, lying through his teeth with his silver tongue. "Now let's see what you can do Tracy Davis."

"I've never done it on another person, and it won't be perfect, but it should confuse that bloody snake well enough," Tracy thought, a pensive look crossing her face as she focused on the problem at hand. "I have a spell that will create a bubble around you that should dramatically reduce the snake's ability to sense you," Tracy said.

"Oh, and how does that work," Voldemort asked.

"It will create a void barrier around you blocking the snake from seeing, hearing, or smelling you," Tracy said.

"Impressive," Voldemort said. "How does it work?"

"Now, now a girl can't reveal all her secrets," Tracy said, winking at his impassive face. "Oh, come on, a cutie winks at you and I get no response. I can get Ron Weasley to blush and he hates Slytherins." Tracy huffed. "Fine if you must know, it simply blocks the signals that your body gives off that snake can detect."

"Then castaway fair maiden," Voldemort said, giving her a smile causing her to blush slightly.

"Stupid sexy Agravaine," Tracy thought as she fell for his lady killer smile. Taking a breath to center herself she pulled out her wand. "Sensory void bubble snake version," Tracy said in Latin. "Block any sounds, sight or smell that a snake could detect from passing through the void around this man," she thought, layering the spell over him.

Voldemort carefully analyzed the spell as Tracy layered it over him. "Catherine, you didn't tell me Tracy was capable of using Void magic," Voldemort thought, cracking a smile.

"A spell impresses him, what is with this guy," Tracy thought. "Now this will also block you from detecting anything a snake can also sense," she explained.

"That will not be an issue, a snake's senses operate outside of human range," Voldemort replied.

"You know for a man who doesn't like snakes you seem offly familiar with them," Tracy said.

"I simply have a healthy respect for them," Voldemort replied.

"I see," Tracy said. "Now about those cosmetic charms," Tracy said as they hung near the back waiting for the meeting to finish.

"Of course," Voldemort said, pulling out a wand. Not his prized Olivander wand, but a suitable enough replacement. With a few simple twists and pokes Tracy's hair flashed to a shimmering pale blond before pulling into a braided bun. She blinked as her blue eyes turned into an emerald green. The color also began to drain from her already light skin tone leaving it visibly pale, yet rather than sickly it appeared almost exotic.

"You do good work…." she said checking her hair before grabbing her throat.

"I took the liberty of tweaking your accent," Voldemort said to the befuddled girl.

"You can do that," Tracy said with a slight Yorkshire accent.

"Oh please, you should see what I did to Bellatrix," Voldemort thought. "Yes, it will wear off in a few days, which is more than enough to get you through the event."

"Thank you," Tracy replied.

"You are welcome fair maiden, and I must say your beauty is one for the ages," Voldemort replied.

"Can it, lover boy," Sylvia said, bonking Voldemort on the head as Tracy was once again blushing. In any other setting this would have ended with Sylvia being a charred stain on the wall, but discretion prevailed as one of the most feared dark lords settled for a glare.

"So, it looks like we're working together for the wedding," Elizabeth said.

"Indeed, I look forward to working with all of you," Voldemort said.

"Great," Anna said.

"Your skin is so pale, are you sick," Belle asked as Anna face palmed.

"No, I simply prefer to avoid the sun," Tracy replied.

"Oh, so your night person," Belle replied.

"I wouldn't say that," Tracy said.

"A shut in then," Belle pressed.

"I am not a shut-in," Tracy replied, forcibly resisting the urge to snap at them.

"But you have book nerd but, like a girl who spends too much time in the library," Belle said.

"Is there a point to all these questions," Voldemort asked.

"Just checking," Elizabeth said.

"Checking what," Voldemort asked.

"We thought you might be an acquaintance of ours in disguise," Sylvia said.

"And the questions," Voldemort asked as Tracy kept a straight face.

"If you really were Tracy, she would have snapped by now," Belle said. "And sorry about the book worm but, it's not really that big."

"You're damn right, I didn't put myself through hell for nothing," Tracy thought. "For the record my name is Guinevere Tudor."

"Like the house Tudor," Elizabeth asked.

"Yes, the same Tudor that once ruled England," Tracy replied proudly.

"I see," Sylvia said.

"Is this going to be a problem," Voldemort asked.

"Are you a stuck-up traditionalist prick," Elizabeth asked.

"I may have a healthy respect for English history or culture but I am in no way a prick, and Guinevere is a nice girl," Voldemort said lying through his teeth.

"Close enough," Sylvia said.

"Now what do you say we start prepping," Guinevere said. "And see what else you reveal."

Saturday December 23rd

Properly bundled up in a fur trimmed dress, with a hooded cloak, and gloves, loaded with heating charms, Fluer was ready to do battle with the cold. Her boots lightly crunching the snow as she looked over at her nervous friend. "Nervous," Fleur asked.

"Well, it's been a long time and…" Millie stammered.

"Seeing as your mother is borrowing Steve at the moment, allow me," Fleur said before smacking Millie on the back of the head.

"What was that for," Millie whined.

"Because you're an idiot," Fleur said.

"I am not," Millie shot back.

"Yes, you are," Fleur yelled. "You look fantastic, and have nothing to worry about."

"Well, what if Neville doesn't like the new me," Millie said.

"Then you dump him faster than a hot rock," Fleur replied, crossing her arms.

"Though I would prefer you ask me first," a male voice said from behind them.

"How rude," Fleur said, spinning around to face him. "Didn't your mother teach you not to interrupt a lady…." Fleur trailed off looking at the boy, no young man looking at him. The strapping teenaged boy had dark brown hair with broad shoulders and a strong jaw. But the most shocking feature was his dark eyes, which were willed with nothing but warmth as he looked towards Millie.

"Hello Millie or should I say Melissa," Neville said.

"Neville, how did you know about that," Millie squeaked.

"You started signing your letters Mellissa, and given what Johanna did, I figured you were doing the same," Neville said.

"So, it's not weird," Millie said as Neville stepped past Fleur.

"Of course, not my fair lady," Neville said gently, taking her hand and kissing it, turning Millie's face into a furious blush. "And I must say France has been good to you."

"You think so," Millie said, fidgeting which only drew more attention to her growing feminine charms.

"I know so," Neville said. "Now what do you say, we enjoy the festival before the real fun begins my beautiful rose."

"Oui…." Millie stammered her face as red as the aforementioned flower.

"Then allow me to escort you my fair lady," Neville said, offering her his arm.

"Merci," Millie said, taking his arm as they walked along leaving Fleur to observe.

"Did Mathew help you with that," Millie finally asked.

"Was I that obvious," Neville said.

Millie chuckled. "Yes, but I appreciate your effort, and I am sorry for not telling you sooner."

"Please there is no need to apologize," Neville said.

"But I'm trying to be…" Millie said.

"Changing your name doesn't change what is in your heart, and if it was truly something wrong Steve would have smacked you out of it," Neville said.

"True," Millie said.

"And besides who wouldn't want a fabulous French girl for a girlfriend," Neville said.

"It's Monaco actually," Millie replied.

"Close enough," Neville shrugged. "But seriously, Beauxbatons has been good for you."

"It's very different from Hogwarts," Millie replied.

"How are the green houses," Neville asked.

"They are quite expansive, but the professor is not quite as good as Professor Sprout," Millie replied.

Break

"MARCUS!" Victoria cried out before tackling the poor boy into a snow drift.

"She certainly knows how to make an entrance," Abigail said.

"Understatement," Dunstan laughed at the shocked and confused look on his son's face.

"Victoria," Marcus said looking up at his girlfriend's smiling face.

"Did you miss me," Victoria said looking down at him.

Marcus smiled looking up at the blue haired beauty. "Every day," he replied. "Without your angelic presence, Hogwarts is a dark and gloomy place."

Victoria alternated between blushing and laughing as they pulled themselves out of the snow. "How is quidditch going? I wanted to make it to one of your matches, but you know Dumbledore and all that."

"Don't worry about it," Marcus replied.

"Well, I do worry about it, you're on a team with Draco, Vincent, and Gregory," Victoria said.

"True, but Lucian appreciated my plan last year, and he puts his foot down on anything that interrupts quidditch," Marcus replied.

"Good, but I still don't like it," Victoria said.

"I know, but I've been putting some of what you taught me to good use," Marcus said.

"Really," Victoria said.

"Yes, mostly just the stuff about being more observant of my surroundings and my reaction time," Marcus said.

"That's great," Victoria said.

"I know, and it's really improved my accuracy. You should have seen Oliver Wood after our last game," Marcus said.

"I'm just sorry I missed it," Victoria said.

"Then I'll just have to give a repeat performance then," Marcus said.

"I'm looking forward to it," Victoria replied.

"Abigail, Victoria didn't tell me you were coming," Emma called out to her.

"Marcus was raving about the winter festival so we thought we could come and see it," Abigail replied.

"But in your state, I mean when is the baby due," Emma replied looking at her large baby bump.

"Early February," Abigail replied.

"That long you look ready to burst," Emma replied.

"Marcus was a big baby as well, so I'm used to it," Abigail replied.

"Magic helps," Dunstan said.

"Using magic is safe during pregnancy," Emma asked.

"The magic itself isn't the problem, and low-level use is fine for most of the pregnancy. The real issue is the magic of the baby interacting with the magic of the mother," Abigail explained.

"That explains a lot," Emma thought, thinking of her own pregnancy and all the craziness involved. "And it doesn't stress you or the baby."

"It's not much different than exercising during pregnancy," Abigail replied.

"That makes sense," Emma replied.

"The real issue that you have to be careful about is that you do not cast any magic on the child as it is in a very immature state physically and magically. Which is something I wish more traditionalist parents understood," Abigail said.

"Something tells me I do not want to know," Emma said.

"Let's just say some mothers cast charms on the fetus to prevent things like the baby kicking, and it can cause complications not dissimilar to drug or alcohol use during pregnancy," Abigail explained.

"Thank you for explaining things, but perhaps we should talk about happier things," Emma said.

"Agreed, but what I can say is that using magic to treat problems like pain and swelling in the mother are a godsend," Abigail said.

"That does sound nice," Emma said.

"Indeed, now how is that new NGO of yours working out," Abigail asked.

"Slow going, it seems that magical charities are rare, and it's been proving difficult to find good workers. Everyone keeps thinking I am out for something," Emma said.

"Sadly, that doesn't surprise me as it is very common for the old families to use their charities to advance personal agendas," Abigail said.

"And many still remember Grindelwald, and think the worst of the German speaking world," Emma said.

"Unfortunately, eastern Europe was hammered by Grindelwald, and the magical communist governments," Abigail said. "Not to mention the Poles still remember the partition of Poland."

"I did not think of that," Emma said sadly, slumping her shoulders.

"Hey cheer up, this is supposed to be a festival," Abigail said.

"I know," Emma said. "And I know Dan is planning something big."

"She knows!?" Abigail thought. "Really…"

"Yes, but I have no idea what it is," Emma said.

"Really no clue," Abigail said.

"Not one, Dan can be pretty sneaky when he wants to be," Emma said. "But I know enough to know that Maggie usually caters the holiday parties in Monaco, so seeing her here means Dan is up to something."

"You don't say," Abigail said.

"Yes," Emma said.

"So, what do you think about baby names," Abigail asked.

"Ooohhhh do you know yet," Emma said.

"No, we decided it would be better to be surprised," Abigail said, giving a thumbs up to Dunstan behind her back.

"Ok, Dan we are good to go," Dunstan said at his wife's signal.

"Thanks, I was worried Emma might realize something at the last minute," Dan said.

"Hey women and baby's," Alex chimed in.

"Exactly," Dan replied. "Now it's time to get this show on the road," he said as they signaled for people to begin filtering into the main festival area around the lake.

Break

"You ready for this," Parvati said as Johanna laced up her skates.

"Ja, no problem," Johanna replied looking up, spotting a familiar black hair green eyed boy arm in arm with a red head walking around the festival. "Oh, you have got to be kidding me," she groaned.

"What," Parvati said.

"He is here," Johanna said, glaring at the boy.

"He who," Parvati said.

"Potter," Johanna growled. "And he's here with Ginny of all people."

"But didn't you know that your dad invited the Weasley's," Parvati said.

"Ja," Johanna replied.

"He must be Ginny's plus one," Parvati said.

"How does it feel to be replaced by the Weasley runt," a familiar female voice said.

Both girls turned to see one of the last people they could have ever expected. "Pansy," they growled.

"So, you do remember me," Pansy said proudly.

"Like I'll ever forget, now what exactly are you doing here," Johanna said.

"Simply enjoying the Lichtenstein winter festival," Pansy replied. "It is open to everyone is it not."

"Indeed, it is," Parvati said. "Now if you don't mind Johanna is about to kick things off."

"Really, they are letting you kick off the festival," Pansy said.

"Is there something wrong with that," Parvati said.

"No, I'm just confused they would use Johanna when everyone that beat her in Monaco is here," Pansy said.

"Watch and find out why they picked me to kick things off," Johanna said standing up towering over Pansy in her skates.

"Fine maybe I will," Pansy huffed.

"Johanna, you ready to go," Ria said walking over.

"Ja," Johanna said, stepping onto the ice.

"And Johanna," Parvati said.

"Yes," Johanna said, turning back to face Parvati.

"Show everyone who you really are, Johanna Helena Grunberg, the ice princess of Liechtenstein," Parvati said.

"I intend to," Johanna said, skating to the center of the lake.

"Ladies and gentlemen welcome to the annual Lichtenstein winter festival," Alexandra's voice boomed over the PA system. "Now I'm not one for big speeches and we'll get plenty of those later."

"God Dammit Alexandra," Ria groaned, slapping her forehead.

"Thus, without further ado please direct your attention to the ice for Lichtenstein very own ice princess Johanna Grunberg," Alexandra said as spotlights lit up the frozen lake revealing Johanna in an elegant silver and blue skating outfit that shimmered in the fading afternoon light. Soon the music began to play as Johanna danced across the ice, her skates carving lines into the lake's mirror-like surface like a graceful fairy dancing to the music.

"She's really improved," Jessica said to Natasha.

"Agreed, her blade work is phenomenal," Natasha said, paying close attention to Johanna's footwork as she made her way around the lake.

"She's going to be a force to be reckoned with at Nagano," Jessica said as Johanna nailed a series of jumps.

"Understatement," Jessica said. "Oh, and I heard an interesting rumor.

"Do tell," Natasha said.

"It seems that they might be adding an event to the summer Olympics," Jessica said.

"There is no ice skating in the summer Olympics, genius," Natasha replied.

"I know that, but it seems this event is something that we've both competed in," Jessica said.

"This is all Ria's fault," Natasha said as the ice began to glow blue.

"I don't think you can blame Ria for this one," Jessica said as a variety of ice sculptures rose out of the ice.

It was a much more elaborate scene compared to her last full-scale performance with multiple people and buildings creating a full scene including life-like versions of her parents.

"Dan, what is Johanna doing," Emma asked, glaring at her husband.

"I believe she is telling the story of our first date," Dan replied.

"Please no," a red-faced Emma groaned.

"So, this is the wrench story," Gimley and Thormir said to each other as they watched the ice Emma pick up a wrench.

Sadly, the scene of Emma pulling out her wrench and smashing the front desk was lost on Harry as he was still stuck staring at the silver haired fairy dancing around the ice. The setting sun glinting off her outfit as she spun through the air. "Who is that?" he muttered.

"That's Johanna, you know the pain in the ass German girl who got expelled," Ginny said.

"That's Johanna," Harry said.

"Yes," Ginny growled, growing angry as her friend was paying more attention to the girl on the ice than her.

"Oh wow," Harry said clueless to the growling red head next to him. "She's really pretty."

"Really Harry," Ginny said, snapping him out of it as Emma marched her way through the police station.

His face turned red as he looked at the fuming Ginny. "Sorry…" he muttered as the scene played out.

"I still can't believe I did that," a red-faced Emma muttered.

"In your defense, leaving you hanging like that was rather rude," Dan replied.

"Still, it was a little overkill," Emma muttered as the scene changed to ice Dan now kneeling before ice Emma, as the last rays of sunlight reflected off the ice illuminating her parents.

"Johanna certainly has a flair for the dramatic," Emma said gazing towards the ice. "But what is everyone looking at?" Emma asked as the crows looked towards her.

"I believe they are waiting for an answer," Dan said, kneeling in front of her as he opened a small box, the diamond ring sparkling in the light.

"Dan what are you…." Emma trailed off as she slowly began to realize the style of ring she was looking at. "Doing," she finally said.

"We only got married in the courthouse last time, and well since people don't seem to think we're married why not do it all over again," Dan said with a smirk filled smile. "So, what do you say…."

"Yes," Emma said, hugging and tackling him into the snow.

"Now I know where Victoria gets it from," Marcus thought while watching the display.

"I'll take that as a yes," Dan laughed.

"Of course, it's a yes," Emma said as Dan put the ring on her finger.

"Excellent, that means part 2 is now a go," Dan said.

"Part 2…." Emma asked.

"The wedding," Dan said.

"Dan, we can't just…." Emma said as the pieces began to fit. "Your sneaky little devil you used the festival as cover for preparing for the wedding."

"Guilty as charged," Dan said as Maggie, Belldandy, and Maria came over. "I will leave her in your hands for now ladies."

"Now it's time to get ready," the ladies said as Johanna began activating various runes as a cathedral of ice began to grow out of the lake and surrounding area.

Break

"You didn't come here just to provide food for the festival," Emma said as the ladies led her to a room setup for their use.

"Non," Maggie replied.

"And Dan got you to make a dress," Emma said looking towards Belldandy who stood by a curtain.

"Ja," Belldandy said, pulling the curtain revealing a very unique white dress.

"That is not a normal wedding dress," Emma said looking at the white dress with gold trim, and what looked like a crystalline corset, and shoulder pads. "Is this armor…." she said tentatively poking the crystalline sections.

"Yes, this gown is meant to be multifunctional, the white color means it is good for a wedding, but it's overall design means you can use it for any formal event, and we made it strong enough to be used in combat," Belldandy said.

"I like the multifunctional use, but combat really," Emma said.

"We know you," all of the women said.

"Oh, come on," Emma sighed.

"This from the woman who walks through random barriers, and throws wrenches at people," Maggie chuckled.

"Ok, fine you got me there," Emma said. "Now what is it made of," Emma asked as she began to change.

"The actual dress is made from the silk of a moonlight butterfly, and Chrysomallos wool," Belldandy said.

"Wait, this is from the golden fleece," Emma gasped in shock.

"No, not the golden fleece, that was just one that escaped from its flock and became revered in Colchis for its strength and healing properties," Anna explained.

"And the corset," Emma asked as it was gently laced up pulling snug against her waist but not tight as she was at the point that she didn't really need it from a figure correcting standpoint.

"Is white dragon leather, with mithril accent pieces," Belldandy said. "While the shoulder and hip guards are adamantium."

"Belldandy please tell me you didn't do this for free," Emma said as she finished getting into the dress.

"I tried, but Dan said and I quote, shut up and take my money," Belldandy giggled while Emma nodded in approval.

"Who made the boots," Maggie asked as Emma slipped her feet into a pair of high heeled boots clad in mithril. Then dining the matching bracers on her wrists.

"The dwarves helped me come up with those," Belldandy said.

"Oh wow," Emma said, marveling at her reflection in the mirror.

"Understatement," Anna said.

"Belldandy you'll make Anna's dress when the time comes," Emma said to her friend.

"Of course," Belldandy replied.

"But…." Anna stammered.

"It was slow going at first but the Lockhart puzzle is starting to come together, so don't you worry, Dan and I will have him back to normal in no time," Emma said placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Thanks," Anna said, wiping away a tear.

"Now what do you say we get this started," Emma said.

"But we are not done just yet," Maria said.

"We're not," Emma replied.

"Something old," Claus's wife Olive said, pulling a wedding veil out.

"Olive," Emma muttered.

"It's a family heirloom, passed down through my family for generations, and since I never had any daughters, this seems like a good cause," she said, placing the tiara and attached veil on her head.

"Something new," Maggie said, putting a pearl necklace around Emma's neck.

"Maggie…" Emma gasped.

"I had the mermaids create it for me," Maggie replied.

"But the cost," Emma said.

"Apparently no one ever thought to make an oil-based soup and market it to mermaids," Maggie said.

"Oil based…." the ladies said.

"Oil and water don't mix so you can eat oil-based soups underwater," Maggie shrugged.

"Looks like I'm up," Elaine said, stepping forward. "Something borrowed," she said, affixing a royal blue cape trimmed with white fur to her shoulders.

"And something blue," Maria said, tying a blue and silver ribbon to her hair.

"Is this magical," Emma asked, feeling a tingle in her hair as Maria styled it.

"Yes, it is a ribbon," Maria said.

"As is that ribbon," Elaine asked.

"Do you really think?" Anna said.

"No, but there is nothing wrong with being cautious," Maria said.

"I feel like I am missing something important," Emma asked.

"The ribbon is a very old, very rare, and very unique magical artifact," Maria said. "While it looks like a ribbon it is actually a powerful defensive item, specifically against mental charms."

"I'm getting ready for a renewal of vows, not a battle," Emma replied.

"You can never be too sure," the others said. "And you look gorgeous."

"Thank you," Emma replied.

Break

"Impressive," Voldemort thought, looking over the runic arrays carved into the snow, as they began to glow. The piles of snow built up next to the runes began shrinking as blocks of ice rose out of the snow-covered ground. "She's using a layered array the outer circles are drawing in the snow converting into ice, for the inner array to do the actual construction. She might be able to power one of these on her own, and there is no tapped leyline here."

"Agravaine, stop staring at the runes, and get to work," Tracy hissed, grabbing his arm with one hand, a tray full of drinks and horderves in the other.

"My apologies," Voldemort replied as Tracy pulled him along.

"Don't apologize, just do your job," Tracy hissed.

"Of course," Voldemort said. "Temper, temper, Tracy, and in any other setting you would be a smear on the wall right now."

"And if you must know she is powering them with gemstones, girls got gemstones on the brain," Tracy said.

"At least you admit that your opponent is skilled, which is more than I can say for Catherine most of the time," Voldemort thought, returning to work weaving through the crowd offering food and removing trash and used glasses.

Break

"So what do you think," Johanna said proudly as the last bits of her ice cathedral finished growing.

"It's too freaking cold for this," Fleur replied. "I mean really it's cold enough already and you have to go and make an ice Cathedral."

"Where else were we going to find a venue large enough at the last minute," Johanna replied.

Fleur sighed. "Fine you got me there, but it's still too cold. That said your elemental transfiguration is quite impressive."

"Why thank you Fleur, I think that is the nicest thing you have ever said to me," Johanna replied.

"Really, you're not even going to hide the snark," Fleur said.

Johanna sighed. "Fine you got me."

"Let me guess, some old friends showed up that you didn't account for," Fleur said.

"Yes, but how did," Johanna said.

"Melissa told me," Fleur said.

Johanna's eyebrows rose. "She did."

"Not directly, but I know of the Malfoys," she said, pointing out Draco.

"You do," Johanna replied.

"They speak French like a Spanish cow, and still seem to think they hold power in France despite fleeing in terror from Joan of Arc," Fleur said. "And played a part in getting her burned at the stake."

"That does not surprise me, and it explains a lot," Johanna said.

"True," Fleur said. "But I do have one question,"

"And that is," Johanna said.

"How could you think I look anything like Pansy," Fleur said. "I mean honestly," Fleur huffed with hands on her hips

"It was the hair and eye color," Johanna replied with a sheepish shrug.

"Oh, look if it isn't the kraut, and the frog," Pansy said, having heard her name spoken.

"Pansy, just this once could you not," Johanna said.

"Not what," Pansy replied.

"Could you please not be an over entitled self-absorbed twit, for once in your life," Johanna said.

"Or what, ruin this farce, that is trying to cover up you being a bastard," Pansy said with a smile.

"Now that is crossing the line. You can make cracks about her love of the cold, being frigid and that ridiculously long hair, I mean seriously how is she not stepping on it, but a bastard, yeah no, not happening." Fleur thought as Johanna clenched her fists.

"Considering how special today is this one a freebee," Fleur said looking at Johanna before turning to Pansy.

"Thanks Fleur," Johanna said.

"Now listen up Tommy, I will not have you ruining such a joyous occasion," Fleur said.

"My name is Pansy and what's it to you," Pansy huffed.

"Little girl I am a Veela, and we do not take interference to love and passion lightly," Fleur said, pulling her along.

"Hey…" Pansy huffed.

"Behave or I will make that big forehead of yours even bigger," Fleur whispered in Pansy's ear as people began filtering into the ice cathedral.

Break

"I thought this was just a wedding," Diana said to Charles as Mathew directed them to their seats in the elegant ice cathedral.

"It's much more elegant than ours was," Charles replied, stunned by how much majesty Johanna had stuffed into the temporary structure.

"I am told she took inspiration from Cathedrals all over Europe," Mathew said.

"Really," Diana said as they sat towards the front with their boys.

"Yes, Johanna has always had a flair for the dramatic," Mathew said.

"And she doesn't do anything halfway," Charles said.

"That would be an understatement," Mathew replied.

"Really, do tell," Diana said with a smile

"Um, well you see the thing is your majesty….." Mathew stammered.

"Did she really blow up a castle," her son Harry asked.

"No," Mathew said.

"But she did cause an earthquake right," he pressed.

"Yes," Mathew said. "But I was unaware it was felt that far away."

"The seismographs picked up a weak tremor in Scotland, confusing the geologists," Charles explained.

"Oh boy," Mathew sighed.

"Not to worry, mother explained things to them," he said.

"That's good," Mathew said, breathing a sigh of relief.

Break

"Holy fucking shit, would you look at this place, I can't believe she made this," Jessica whispered to Natasha as they took their seats.

"Understatement," Natasha replied marveling at how the ice looked like real blocks of stone, and wood beams, with ice candles topped with gems providing the light.

"And is that the crest of Liechtenstein," Jessica said looking up at the front of the ice cathedral.

"I think so," Natasha said. "But what about that one," she asked pointing to a second crest positioned in the back of the Cathedral.

"That would be the emblem of the Holy Roman Empire," a woman with dark hair said.

"Thank you," Natasha said, blinking as she stared at the woman.

"Natasha what are you…. Oh my god…." Jessica said, her jaw dropping.

"This is all your fault," the man sitting next to them said.

"My fault, why is it my fault," the woman huffed.

"Pinch me," Jessica said. Natasha obliged, pinching her friend who yelped. "Are you Christopher Dean," Jessica asked.

"And your Katerina Witt," Natasha said.

"Yes," the pair chuckled.

"This explains so much," the girls said.

"Technically all I did was show Johanna some basics a few times," Katerina said.

"Only the basics," Christopher said, rolling his eyes.

"Says the one who taught her ice dancing," Katerina said.

"We are so screwed in 98," Jessica said.

"You should be more worried about 96 first," Katerina said.

"That's the summer Olympics," Jessica said.

"Yes, but it seems that the magical side wants to add something, you both have experience in," Katerina said.

"Wait, but you, laws, secrets, things," the girls sputtered.

"I grew up in East Germany girls, they had a different take on things, and Johanna may have accidentally shown me a few things," Katerina chuckled thinking about some of Johanna's more amusing accidents.

"That explains a lot," Natasha said.

"Excellent, and I do hope both of you will be at the Atlanta games, being part of a sports inaugural game must be so exciting," Katerina said.

The two looked at each other. "I blame Ria for this," they said in unison looking towards Ria who was upfront with the other bridesmaids as the music began to play.

Johanna and Victoria entered first spreading flower petals followed by a resplendent Emma, who looked equal parts blushing virginal bride, and ruling queen about to be crowned.

"Oh wow," Dan gasped, blown away by his wife's beauty as if he was seeing it again for the first time. "Was it the same for you Alex," he whispered.

"Pretty much," the smirking Alex and Rama replied.

"You look amazing," Dan whispered as Emma finally arrived at the front of the cathedral.

"Thanks," Emma said, her blushing face obscured by the veil. "You too," she replied.

"Relax, it's not the first time we've done this," Dan replied.

"But there weren't nearly as many people watching," Emma replied with a hint of nervousness in her voice.

"True," Dan replied. "But I mean it's no different than some of the conferences you had to speak at," he added.

"Point taken," she said, taking a quick look back at the crowd spotting many of her friends old and new, from Helen Mirren to Franz Metternick, as she panned the crowd before finally stopping on her daughters who gave her a thumbs up. "Alright let's get this show on the road," she said, turning back to the front.

The ceremony was a rather quick affair as the couple had decided to pass on the nuptial mass and instead just had the rite of marriage ceremony. Which was probably a good thing, because while heating charms were a thing, it was still a Cathedral made of ice, and everyone except Johanna and a few others thought it was too cold.

"Please tell me our wedding will not be this elaborate," Marcus whispered to Victoria.

"Hey who said you could marry my sister," Johanna whispered back.

"So over protective," Victoria thought, rolling her eyes. "No, and you have to ask me first."

"Right, sorry, let's come back to that later," a beat red Marcus whispered as the happy couple exchanged vows.

"Good boy," Victoria cooed.

"Charles, that is not a normal wedding vow," Diana whispered.

"No, honoring to defend the country and its people is not a normal wedding vow," Charles replied. "But it is one that would be present in a coronation."

"That's what I thought," Diana replied. "But why include it."

"Insurance my dear," Klaus, who was sitting next to them said.

"What sort of insurance," Charles asked.

"The type that helps against people playing dangerous games," Klaus said.

"Oh, shush you we are about to miss the best part," his wife Olive hissed.

"If anyone has any reason why these two should not be wed speak now, or forever hold your peace," the priest said.

Dumbledore began to shift his weight preparing to stand. "Don't even think about it," a woman whispered harshly, her lips right by his ear.

"Think about what," Dumbledore replied.

"Interrupting," the woman said.

"And you are," Dumbledore asked.

"You forgot me again," Mina giggled, a hand clamping on his shoulder.

"Mina Harker," he gulped, reaching for his wand.

"Now, now none of that, or I might just have to take a taste, to see if it's anything like what grandma wrote in her diary," she said, placing her chin on his shoulder.

"You're a…." Dumbledore gasped frozen in shock.

"Maybe…." Mina giggled, pulling away.

"You may now kiss the bride," the priest said.

"Oh, dear too late," she giggled, releasing Dumbledore whose hand was now firmly on his wand. "Did that ruin your plans a little," she said, only to get no response. "I really hope it did," she whispered before releasing him.

Now you would think that being married to someone for almost 20 years would remove the surprise, yet Dan was still stunned by how beautiful his wife looked at that moment. A radiant fresh-faced bride that had an air of maturity about her.

"You're taking too long," Emma growled before grabbing and kissing him in a surprising reversal of the typical wedding ceremony. Adding to the surprise was a small pulse of magic washing over the crowd and the entire countryside that was only felt by some.

"It's about time," Belldandy whispered to Urd.

"Agreed," Urd replied.

"I can't think of anyone better, when the time comes," Hans added,

"Now I know where you get it from," Marcus said, watching the pair share an energetic kiss.

"Get what," Johanna said.

"You really need to get a boyfriend," Victoria said as the crowd cheered.

"Yeah, yeah," she said, her eyes passing over Harry and the red headed troll attached to him, before cheering as her parents walked out of the Cathedral.

Harry shivered as Johanna's frigid eyes locked with him.

"Is something wrong," Ginny asked.

"I don't know, I just feel like I did something to piss her off," Harry said.

"Well yeah you called out her double life bullshit," Ginny said.

"Then how the heck is she here when we both saw Hermione stay at the castle for the break," Harry asked.

"Maybe Dumbledore brought her along or something," Ginny said as people began to filter out.

The party started almost immediately after the happy couple left the cathedral with the buffet ready to go as soon as everyone flowed out of the Cathedral. "Hey dad can we eat," Henry asked his father as they exited.

"I think there are a few speeches first Diana replied.

"Aww man I'm hungry," William groaned.

"You'll live," Diana said with a smile.

"Bugger," the boys grumbled kicking the snow.

"You're up, Karl," Alexandra said, handing him the microphone.

"I don't think…" he replied.

"Yes, I know it's technically the father of the bride's job, and well you're the closest she has for that," Alexandra said.

"You didn't tell me I was going to have to make a speech," Karl said.

"What seems to be the problem," Emma asked.

"The father of the bride speech," Alexandra said.

"I see," Emma replied as the bridal party formed a huddle.

"This is a bit of a problem," Dan chimed in.

"Technically there is no rule that says the speeches have to be now," Alex stated.

"But it's tradition," Alexandra said.

"That might be, but when has that ever stopped me," Emma replied, taking the microphone from Karl as everyone laughed.

"Testing, testing is this thing on," Emma said tapping the microphone as Johanna lifted her up on a pillar of ice so she could see over the crowd. "First thank you all for coming this evening and second we are saving the speeches for later so please everyone go and fill up on Maggie's marvelous cooking, there is plenty for everyone," Emma said, directing the crowd to the food. "Once everyone has had their fill, I am told that Victoria is going to be performing later so I hope you brought your dancing shoes.

"Hey, that's my job." Alexandra called out.

"Then stop ogling me like a horny teenager and do it," Ria snapped.

"I can't help it, you are just so delectable in that," Alexandra replied, licking her lips while leering at Ria.

"Alex!" Ria squeaked as the crowd laughed.

"Oh, and anyone who has a problem with that can take it up with me," Emma said, ending any debate on the thought of the two getting together.

"Thank you, but some people are not going to like that," the pair said.

"Then tell them to write me a letter," Emma said.

"And we'll use it for target practice," Dan added, causing the group to laugh.

"Ok, you heard the lady, time to eat," Alexandra yelled.

"I guess that means us to…." Emma said.

"The bride does not stand in line," Maggie said.

"But…." Emma protested.

"No this is your special day," Maggie said, pushing her towards her seat.

"But…." Emma said.

"Maggie honestly, I can…." Emma protested.

"Is there anything you would like Mr. and Mrs. Grunberg," Elizabeth asked.

"Oh, your Johanna's friend Elizabeth, what are you doing working right now," Emma said.

"Mrs. Blustrode invited us to help because she was short staffed," Elizabeth replied.

"Maggie," Emma said, turning on her friend with a disappointed look.

"In my defense it seemed like a good idea at the time," Maggie replied, wilting under Emma's glare.

"No," Emma said.

"I'll handle it," Belldandy said, pulling Elizabeth along.

"Wait what's happening," Elizabeth squeaked.

"Guinevere, Agravaine," Maggie said, calling the older pair over.

"Yes," Guinevere replied.

"It seems Mrs. Grunberg has decided that Elizabeth and her friends are to join the party so you will be handling the entire wedding party," Maggie explained.

"Mother fucker, this is going to be a pain in the ass," Tracy thought. "Alright," she replied.

"It will not be a problem," Voldemort replied, keeping his distance from the happy couple. "She is dangerous," Voldemort thought, sensing something he couldn't quite place from Emma. Even with his innate sense of magic, he couldn't quite place what bothered him, about her, but whatever it was it had grown stronger after the wedding. Not unlike his wariness of Dumbledore's vast magical knowledge and skill, but it was more primal and unknown. Whatever it was he was detecting from her it was something he had never felt before.

"Is something wrong Agravaine," Maggie said as Voldemort kept his distance from the group.

"Don't blow it now you moron," Tracy thought. "No, he just has Gamophobia," she blurted out, moving to Voldemort's side.

"You have a fear of weddings and you are working a wedding," Dan said.

"Exposure therapy," Agravaine replied, nervously tugging on his collar. "Why does this woman remind me of Dumbledore, god dammit Catherine you moron, how could leave out the fact that she has magic."

"Ok, but don't work too hard, ok," Emma replied.

"Yes, ma'am," Tracy replied before leaving as Belldandy pulled Elizabeth and her friends aside.

"What the bloody hell was that Agravaine," Tracy snapped as soon as they were out of earshot.

"I am going to let this one slide," Voldemort thought. "You mean you didn't sense it," Voldemort said.

"Sense what," Tracy said as they went to get the happy couple's food.

"Emma Grunberg has a strong magical presence," Voldemort said.

"You can sense that," Tracy scoffed.

"Yes," Voldemort said. "Some might call it the fabled 6th sense, but it is not a myth for those with magic."

"Ereshkigal you've been holding back," Tracy thought darkly. "Teach me how to do that."

"Later, right now we have food to serve," Voldemort said. "Stupid old man, won't even teach the basics anymore, but kudos to you for wanting to actually improve that is a rare trait these days."

Break

"Elizabeth what did you do?" her friends said as they found themselves whisked away by Belldandy.

"How is this my fault," Elizabeth snapped.

"Well, I didn't do anything to get us in trouble," Sylvia said. The two looked at each other before turning to Anna and Belle.

"Hey we didn't do anything either," the girls protested.

"Says the two who started the biggest prank in the world," Sylvia said.

"In our defense, it seemed like a good idea at the time," Anna said.

"And it was really funny," Belle added.

"What kind of prank was it," Belldandy asked.

"Well, um, you see…." the girls stammered as the woman led them into her shop.

"We kind of, sort of, maybe, accidently helped, turn a British girl, into a Lichtenstein one," the girls stammered.

"You're talking about Johanna and Victoria," Belldandy said.

"Yes, wait what," the girls gasped.

"You know," Sylvia said.

"We're a tight night community of less than 1,000 magical and non-adapts. Do you think there any way we wouldn't notice 4 more magical just showing up out of the blue? Magicals that have a tendency to say screw the rules, we are doing this, when told they can't help people," Belldandy chuckled.

"And you're ok with it," Elizabeth said.

"Oh we are much more than ok with it," Belldandy said. "The Grunberg's have been nothing but kind and helpful since they arrived and truly love this country, so reality altering magic or not we fully embrace them, and welcome them."

"That doesn't make any sense," Sylvia said.

"Ok let me put it another way, thanks to them, people are beginning to look past painting all magical German speaking people as an extension of Grindelwald," Belldandy said.

"Yeah, I can't see Victoria or Johanna taking that well," Anna and Belle giggled.

"That explains why parts of a coronation ceremony were included in the wedding," Elizabeth said.

"You caught that," Belldandy giggled as she began pulling out dresses for them.

"How could I not, they weren't being subtle about it," Elizabeth replied.

"Caught what," Sylvia asked.

"Right, you had a normal upbringing," Elizabeth sighed, rolling her eyes. "So lucky."

"Of course, I did, but what does that have to do with anything," Sylvia replied.

"It means your relatives didn't shove a bunch of pomp and circumstance down your throat, which means that you wouldn't recognize that the ceremony included elements of a coronation," Elizabeth explained. "Which really freaking sucks."

"But why would they do that," Sylvia said.

"I don't think they did," Elizabeth said looking at Belldandy.

"Guilty as charged," Belldandy said.

"Oh, that is hilarious," Anna and Belle cackled laughing wildly.

"A monarchy needs a monarch and we all figured that Emma would make a good one, even if she doesn't know it yet," Belldandy said. "Now what do you think of these," she said, motioning towards a number of cute fur-trimmed dresses perfect for the cold weather.

Break

The massive wedding reception had soon turned into a grand festival celebration as Alexandra began to play. "Johanna, did you freeze over the dance floor," Victoria said.

"I dunno, maybe," Johanna replied.

"Then how are we supposed to dance," Victoria said.

"I'll handle it," Fleur said, pulling out her wand.

"Don't you dare light my hair on fire," Johanna said protectively cradling her hair.

"Seriously I only did that once," Fleur snapped.

"And that was one time too many," Johanna said as a boom like thunder sounded in the distance.

"Was that thunder," Fleur said.

"Yeah, but it's a long way off," Victoria replied.

"Thunder in the winter," Fleur said.

"It happens," Johanna replied, shrugging her shoulders as Fleur freed up the dance floor. A few others followed the blonds lead and soon it was free of the ice and snow.

"True, but it might put a damper on the festivities," Fleur said, cutting off her flame spell.

"If it comes, we can just have Liz blow it out of the way or something, I mean Invisible air can do that," Victoria said.

"I dunno, '' Johanna replied.

"Speaking of noblesse oblige and such, just what is Crystal ice palace," Fleur asked.

"Just a spell," Johanna replied.

Fleur rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on, you know me better than that, I'm French you think I wouldn't notice when one of them gets tossed around," Fleur replied.

"Ugh, boring," Victoria groaned.

"Really sis," Johanna said.

"This is a party and it's time to dance," Victoria exclaimed skipping on to the dance floor as the music began to play. "Oh wait that's right, you don't have dates…." she said waving to Marcus.

"Permission to flambé your sister," Fleur asked.

"Only after I turn her into a popsicle," Johanna grumbled watching her sister dance with her boyfriend.

"Wow, you two don't have dates, you're both so pretty I'm honestly surprised," Liz said. The pair recoiled as if struck before slowly turning to see Liz standing there with Matthew.

"I thought you fixed that," Johanna said looking down at her.

"I did, this is just a little teasing between friends," Liz replied. "And besides being nice doesn't mean I have to be a doormat."

"You don't say," Johanna said.

"Plus in all seriousness how the two of you don't have dates is beyond me. I mean come on I am a scrawny little dork who looks like a 3rd year or something and the two of you are….." Liz replied.

"Are what," Fleur growled nostrils flared as she loomed over the shorter girl.

"Eeep," Liz squeaked, ducking behind Matthew.

"Relax Fleur," Johanna said before looking back at Liz. "Now what are we?"

"Johanna, you're a freaking super star figure skater, and Fleur's practically a supermodel, so how are the two of you standing here alone and don't have men lining up to dance with you. I mean seriously you're like 11's and I'm maybe a 4, and I've got Mathew, so how you don't have men hanging off both arms is beyond me," Liz said.

"Say what," the pair gasped.

"You'll have to excuse my cousin, she can be a bit of an idiot at times," Olga chimed in.

"I am not an idiot," Johanna huffed.

"Only when it comes to boys," Olga chuckled, placing her arms around the pair.

"Don't stick me in with her," Fleur scoffed.

"But Fleur, that one time…" a smaller younger version of Fleur protested.

"That never happened, Gabrielle," Fleur said.

"What never happened," Cho asked.

"Fleur is shy around boys," Millie said as she walked by with Neville.

"Melissa," Fleur whined.

"What it's true," Melissa called out as she began to dance with Neville.

"One time, it happened one time," Fleur yelled, switching back to French.

"What happened one time," Cho and Cedric asked as they spun across the dance floor.

"I see, now I understand," Liz said, nodding as she examined the pair. "This actually makes sense."

"What does," Fleur said.

"Liz what are you rambling on about," Johanna asked.

"You both are infected with the curse of beauty," Liz replied.

"Say what now," Johanna said.

"My allure is not a curse," Fleur replied.

"Oh course not it is an innate skill inherent in those with Veela blood, what I am talking about is something much more mundane," Liz replied.

"Of course, why didn't I see it before," Olga said.

"Because you didn't grow up with it," Liz thought.

"See what," Fleur and Johanna asked.

"Hhhmmmm what's the best way to explain it," Liz said, putting a finger to her chin. "Oh "I know a demonstration, wait right here," she said before racing off.

"Are all your friends as crazy as her," Fleur said.

"No," Johanna replied.

"You could have fooled me," Fleur replied as Liz returned with two boys in tow.

"Now gentlemen you are very clearly single and not dancing with anyone at the moment, so I would like to ask your opinion on something," Liz said.

"Um, ok," the pair replied.

"Is there any reason as to why you haven't asked either of these girls to dance," Liz said.

"Well, um, you see…." the boys stammered, sharing a look. "We figured they already had dates since they are total babes, and above our league."

"Thank you, boys," she said, dismissing them. "See there you have it, you are both so gorgeous that most of the single men here think you are already taken or above them."

"And what would a 13-year-old know about that," Fleur scoffed.

"I am 18 thank you very much, and I'll have you know flat is justice," Liz said proudly sticking her flat chest out.

"Hahaha, she does have a point ladies," Olga chuckled.

"Fine," Johanna sighed, rolling her eyes.

"So the hunted have become the hunters," Fleur said.

"More or less," Mathew laughed.

"Then let the hunt begin," Fleur laughed. "And I will find one before you."

"Not on your life!" Johanna shot back as they sauntered off in opposite directions as the sound of thunder grew closer.

"You're really 18," Gabrielle asked, standing not that much shorter than Liz.

"Yes," Liz said.

"I'm eating all my vegetables from now on," she muttered before walking away.

"I'm not a shrimp," Liz yelled back. "I'm not," Liz huffed.

"I know," Mathew said, patting her shoulder. "Now how about some dancing."

Liz tilted her head up to look at him. "Mathew you are over a foot taller than me, I am not sure how this is going to work."

Mathew shrugged, we'll figure something out," he replied.

"You big lug don't ever change," Liz sighed as they began to dance.

Break

"Johanna certainly seems fired up," Emma said watching her daughter move through the crowd with a purpose.

"I believe she and Fleur are at it again," Appolline replied, watching her own daughter do much the same in the opposite direction.

"I wonder what it is this time," Emma mused.

"Who knows," Appoline replied.

"Well at least they aren't throwing spells at each other," Emma said.

"Speaking of spells," Appolline replied, turning back to her friend.

"Not this again," Emma sighed.

"Yes, this again," Maggie added.

"I agree," Sita chimed in.

"What are they going on about," Tracy thought, pausing with her tray of food for the bridal party.

"Come on seriously you walk through magical barriers like they are nothing," Maggie said.

"And the gem magic," Abigail chimed in.

"The barrier's mental suggestions were poorly designed and using gem magic is no different than someone using a computer," Emma replied.

"What's a computer," Anna asked.

"A non-magical device that is basically a typewriter, mechanical typewriter, sketch pad, and communication device all in one," Maria said, nearly causing Emma to drop her glass.

"Oh honestly," Maria said, reaching out to close Emma's jaw.

"But, you Perenelle, magical, behind the times, your castle so I thought," Emma replied.

"You do realize that I was born at the end of the Enlightenment, lived through the industrial revolution, the world wars, and the cold war, magical or not you don't live that long if you don't adapt and learn" Maria explained.

"Well when you put it like that," the ladies said.

"Plus, do you have any idea how boring it would be if we stayed in the same era," Maria said.

"Good point," the others replied.

"But still I didn't take you for the technology type," Emma said.

"Well, you can blame Johanna and Victoria and their idea for using gems to power electrical devices for that," Maria said.

"Accurate," everyone chimed in.

"I'm not sure if I should be proud, or worried," Emma muttered.

"I would say both considering Millie's unique taste in pets," Maggie said.

"Oh, don't change the subject," Sita said.

"Well, I tried," Maggie shrugged.

"I don't buy you not having magic, there is just no way, with how gifted your daughters are and your own skill, that you can't cast anything on your own," Sita said.

"She really did walk through those barriers," Tracy thought, cocking an eyebrow as she slowly moved around them while remaining out of their line of sight. "And she can use gem magic, she has to at least be a squib."

"Come on Dan help me out here," Emma called out to her husband.

"No can do dear, I told you that last dream escapade you had with Katherine Greengrass was done without a mana gem," Dan chuckled.

"Emma what did you do," Sita and Rama said.

"Oh, come on, you already know what she did," Abigail said.

"We do," Sita said.

"Wait, your crazy plan actually worked," Maria gasped.

"I think the results speak for themselves," Emma chuckled, nodding towards Victoria and Marcus who were sharing a drink.

"You severed the soul connection shared by mother and daughter, and made it your own," Maria said.

"What I told you she had something of mine and I was taking it back, plus it was what Victoria wanted," Emma said.

"So, she really was Astoria in disguise back then, Lady Greengrass would want to know this…. No, it just shows she's unworthy if she lost her own daughter," Tracy thought. "And if she can do that Emma Grunberg is not a woman to be taken lightly, squib or not."

"I should tell you how insanely stupid what you just said is and the many ways it is wrong, but seeing as it worked," Sita sighed.

"If it's stupid but it works," Emma chuckled.

"Then it's not stupid, and it is by far not the stupidest thing Emma's ever done," Dan laughed.

"Dan," Emma whined.

"Do I want to know," the others said.

"That was you," Maggie blurted out.

"Well, I guess that depends on what happened," Emma said.

"An unknown pregnant woman cold clocked a werewolf, with a wrench and threw it at another one cracking both their skulls," Maggie said.

"That was you," Sita and Rama gasped.

"In my defense they were being bad and my water just broke and I was rather upset at the time," a blushing Emma said leaning into Dan as he wrapped an arm around her.

"Why am I not surprised," the group sighed.

"Anyone else would do the same," Emma sighed.

"No, they wouldn't but that is what makes you special. You look at the world as it is and say what can I do to help to make things better, and not what is in it for me," Maria said.

"Wait a minute are you saying that you took out a pair of werewolves," Abigail said.

"In my wife's defense they were being bad," Dan chimed in before another round of thunder washed over the party.

"Thunder at this time of year," Alex said.

"Could it be a rogue thunderbird," Rama asked.

"Unlikely, thunderbirds are native to the America's and even if one escaped it wouldn't be out in the cold," Anna said. "And do not even tell me that it's not cold," she added.

"Fine, but it still is odd," Emma said.

"Meh it's probably a giant or two that got lost or something," Anna said.

"But we don't have any giants in Lichtenstein," Ria said.

"The Austrians do, and they might have wandered across the border by accident," Anna explained.

"My apologies, Mrs. Grunberg," Mr. Metternick said, coming over to the group.

"There is nothing to apologize for, for nothing has been ruined," Dan said.

"Yet," Tracy thought, knowing the giant's propensity for destruction. "Mr. and Mrs. Grunberg might I offer you something to eat or drink," she said, approaching with her tray.

"Ah Guinevere thank you," Emma and Dan said, grabbing a bite.

Break

"Gotta find a boy, gotta find a boy, gotta find a boy," Johanna muttered as she made her way through the crowd.

"I dunno what this stuff is but it is pretty good," Ron said between bites as he came back from another trip to the buffet line.

Bill couldn't help but groan at his younger brother's antics. "There is more to do than just stuffing your face with food."

"Such as," Ron replied.

"Dancing," Bill said.

"Dancing stupid," Ron replied.

"Is that because you can't," Bill laughed.

"No," Ron snapped.

"Or is it because no one wants to dance with you," Bill needled, elbowing his brother.

"Shut up, I don't see you dancing with anyone," Ron snapped.

"Ron for once your fat mouth has done something good," Johanna thought, having overheard the loud boy over the din of the crowd. "Oh no you don't Fleur."

"That is just because I haven't asked him yet," Fleur and Johanna said in unison.

"Hot dam," Ron gasped, dropping his plate in the snow.

"Hey, I asked him first," the ladies said glaring at each other.

"Good evening ladies," Bill replied.

"Good evening William Weasley," Johanna replied with a curtsey.

"Good evening Johanna, and Miss…." he said, turning to Fleur.

"Fleur Delacour," Fleur replied.

"The same Fleur that is the famous model and rival of Johanna," Bill said.

"So you have heard of me," Fleur said, flipping her hair back over her shoulder.

"Indeed, your performance in Monaco was something else, and I am sure everyone in Hogwarts has heard Johanna threaten to rip off your wings and stuff them down your throat," Bill chuckled.

"Hey stop making me sound like some violent maniac," Johanna said.

"Well, you do have a propensity for…." Bill replied.

"That was in self-defense and you know it," Johanna shot back.

"And stop deflecting the question," Fleur added, crossing her arms.

"Ladies please," Bill said, holding his hands up.

"I'd pick the French girl, her boobs are bigger, but the German does have nice legs," Ron said.

"You do realize that we understand English Ron," they both said glaring at him.

"Crap," Ron gulped, jumping behind his brother.

"Johanna, Fleur, it would be my pleasure to dance with both of you, but seeing as Johanna's family is hosting this event, it would be rude to deny her the first dance. So, if you don't mind stomaching a dance with my brother and perhaps teach him the error of his ways," Bill said.

Johanna giggled a smile blooming on her face, as Fleur groaned. "You only won because your parents threw this swaray," Fleur whispered to Johanna.

"And I picked her because, because I've seen what she can do, and I think you have more restraint," Bill whispered in Fleur's ear as he passed her.

"I see, but if your brother," Fleur replied.

"Feel free to crush his feet," Bill said before Johanna pulled him out to the dance floor.

"Um…. please don't kill me," Ron muttered, dropping his plate in the snow.

"Behave, and I won't," Fleur growled.

"Arthur is that Johanna dancing with Bill," Molly asked, watching the silver haired girl pull one of her sons onto the dance floor.

"Yes, it appears that she is," Arthur replied.

"And who is that dancing with Ron," Molly asked.

"I believe that is Fleur Delacour," Arthur said.

"The famous veela model," Molly replied. "I hope she didn't use her allure on him."

"If she did Ron would be a blubbering mess and he's not," April Brown stated.

"April I didn't know you were here," Molly gasped. "And I want you to know I am so sorry for what happened. Do you have any news?"

"It has been confirmed that she is alive and was sold off to a Russian," April replied.

"That's…" Arthur said as Molly hugged his arm.

"I understand it's not ideal, but at least I know she is out there somewhere…" April said.

"And we'll find her," a pair of young-looking women with light purple hair said.

"Stheno, and Euryale Matou I presume," Arthur said.

"You are more knowledgeable than we were led to believe," they replied.

"And your reputation precedes you," Arthur said.

"Do I want to know," Molly whispered to Arthur.

"It wasn't that bad, all we did was make another Troy," the pair giggled. "And we didn't even have to ask Anna for help," they giggled as Arthur paled.

"That was you…." he said.

"Guilty as charged," they said.

"Do you have any idea how long it took to cover that up," Arthur groaned.

"No, and the ICW can take their statute and stuff it," Stheno said.

"But…." Molly muttered.

"I would rather think about the hundreds of people we saved," Euryale said.

"Hundreds," April gasped.

"Yes, 752 to be exact and everyone involved will be going away for a long time," Stheno added.

"Good," April said. "It's about time we stopped sitting back and doing nothing when there are so many ways, we can help the world. And I cannot thank you enough for everything you've done."

"You can thank us when we find her," the pair said. "And if you think what we did was overkill, Victoria wasn't kidding when she said she would let Johanna off the leash," Euryale added.

"She's that," Arthur said looking towards his son and the girl he was dancing with.

"And more, Euryale said. "We're powerful and our little sister is quite literally a monster, but Johanna is a level beyond that."

"She's really that strong," Molly said.

"Yes," the pair said before walking away. "Her strength is the kind of strength that can change the world." Stheno said as the thunderous booming could be heard over the sound of the music.

Break

"Take your hand off my posterior before I remove it from you," Fleur hissed glaring at Ron.

"Right, sorry," he gulped, making sure his hands remained on her waist.

"And my eyes are up here," she said, stomping on his foot.

"Sorry," Ron yelped.

"Just don't do it again," Fleur hissed.

"Sorry it's just well…." Ron muttered.

"It's your first time," Fleur said.

"Yes," Ron said softly.

"Ok, let's keep it simple then," Fleur said, leading him along.

"Holy crap, is that Ron dancing with Fleur," Fred said while dancing with Parvati.

"Yes, though I am surprised how he managed that," Parvati replied.

"They both asked Bill at the same time, and well I think Bill is more scared of Johanna than Fleur," Olga said as she spun by with Charlie.

"I see," Charlie said as the song changed and Fleur and Johanna switched.

"Don't worry, I trained him enough that he shouldn't crush your feet," Fleur said, trading partners with Johanna.

"Thanks," Johanna sighed.

"Please don't turn me into a popsicle," Ron gulped.

"Behave and I won't have to," Johanna said as his trembling hands reached out to hold her waist. "Oh, please I am not a monster," she said, grabbing his hands and placing them on her waist.

"Right," Ron gulped as they slowly began to dance. "So um, how did you do…." he finally asked.

"Do what," Johanna asked.

"You know…." Ron gulped.

"No, I don't know," Johanna sighed.

"Um, well you see," Ron gulped.

"Just say it," Johanna groaned.

"Turn all skinny and pretty because back at Hogwarts you're really fat and ugly," Ron whispered.

"Ronald Weasley," Johanna growled glaring at him.

"Mind if we switch," Mathew said, pushing Ron out of the way.

"Wait what…. " Ron yelped as he suddenly found himself dancing with Liz.

"It's called saving your ignorant ass," Liz said.

"Oh man I'm dancing with a kid now," Ron sighed only to get a heel slammed into his foot causing him to yelp in pain.

"I am not a child, Ronald Weasley," Liz snapped, glaring at him.

"Hey," Ronald yelped.

"Is for horses, now close your mouth and act like a gentleman or I will do it again," Liz said. "And for the record Johanna Grunberg and Hermione Granger are two completely separate people. I should know I am the Marquises Tuttle and head girl of Slytherin after all," she said. "Even if I don't deserve it."

"But…" Ron stammered.

"Ugh just open your eyes you idiot, no amount of hair dye or charms can turn brown hair silver, and no wig can be made to have hair that long," Liz explained.

"Polyjuice," Ron replied.

"Have you once seen her take a sip from a flask of any kind since before the wedding even started," Liz said.

"Well, no, but I haven't been watching her the whole time either," Ron said.

"Point taken," Liz replied. "But look at it this way Hermione's barely passing, and you saw what Johanna did during her performance. If they were the same person why would Hermione hold back that much."

"I dunno, but Harry said," Ron said.

"Memory charms are a thing you know," Liz said.

"Are you saying someone played with Harry's memories," Ron gasped.

"You can't prove that someone didn't," Liz replied.

"Why would they do that," Ron said. "I mean they used to be friends; sure, she was a snake…."

"Aren't you Mr. All snakes are terrible people," Liz said.

"Well Millie is alright, and food is really good," Ron said.

"High praise," Liz chuckled as the speed of the music picked up.

"And well," he added.

"Well, what," Liz said.

"Neville happened," Millie chuckled as they spun by.

"Perfect, mind if we switch," Liz said.

"Certainly," Millie said as they switched partners.

"Liz, what are you doing," Neville asked.

"I'm gonna make two dummies talk to each other," Liz replied.

"Are you sure that's a good idea," Neville replied.

"Yes," Liz replied.

"So, what's the plan," Neville asked.

"We get someone to cut in that Harry can't or won't refuse," Liz said.

"Cho Chang," Neville replied.

"Cho," Liz replied.

"Yeah, while he might kind of sort of be with Ginny right now, he talks about her a lot when it's just the boys," Neville replied.

"Excellent," Liz replied. "Elizabeth, mind if we switch."

"Wait what," a surprised Elizabeth squeaked as she suddenly found herself dancing with Neville.

"Apparently Liz is up to something," Neville replied.

"What is she planning," Elizabeth said looking towards the former blond bombshell.

"Nothing bad if that's what you are thinking," Neville said.

"Are you sure, because," Elizabeth said.

"Yes, I am sure, so just relax and enjoy," Neville said.

"Ok," Elizabeth said as they danced. "Um, can I ask you something?"

"Sure," Neville replied.

"So um if I wanted to say officially cut ties with my family….." Elizabeth said.

"We've got your back," Millie said, returning with a boy. "Now Elizabeth is a good friend of mine so I expect you to treat her with the utmost respect."

"Not to worry, I will treat her with the utmost respect," the boy said. "Would you like to dance, Elizabeth?"

"The answer is yes," Millie whispered into her ear.

"Yes," Elizabeth squeaked as the boy took her hand.

"Cedric, switch with me," Mathew called out as he spun Johanna past Cedric and Cho.

The couple shared a look before Cho pushed away twirling towards Mathew.

"Sorry," Johanna said.

"Not at all," Cedric replied.

"Ok, Mathew what are you doing," Cho replied.

"Liz thinks that Johanna should dance with Harry," Mathew explained.

"Why?" Cho deadpanned.

"I'm not entirely sure, but I think Liz thinks that they should be together," Mathew said.

"Why…." Cho asked.

"I'm not entirely sure, but what I can tell you is that Johanna used to really like him, and feelings don't change on a dime like that," Mathew replied.

"You do realize what he did," Cho replied.

"Yes, which is why it doesn't make sense," Mathew replied.

"It doesn't," Cho replied.

"No," Mathew said. "I used to help her sneak in late a couple of times, and it wasn't skating that she was coming back from. So, it doesn't take a genius to know that those two were at least good friends."

"Mathew, are you saying what I think you are," Cho said.

"Maybe, that depends on what you are thinking," Mathew replied.

"Memory charms," Cho growled.

"Or something like that," Mathew replied.

"What is the plan," Cho asked.

"Get the two dancing with each other, instead of hexing each other," Mathew said before being cut off by a boom of thunder that shook the glasses.

"Then we'd better get moving before the storm hits," Cho said. "Penelope, mind if I cut in," Cho said with a wink."

"Not at all," she said.

"Should I be worried," Percy said.

"Well, that depends on whether or not you think your sister should be with Harry Potter," Cho said.

"Yes, that is a rather difficult decision, but I suppose…." Percy said.

"He will bow to a woman's institution," Penelope replied, returning to her boyfriend.

"Just don't hurt her, ok," Percy replied.

"Trust me that is the last thing on our minds," Cho replied.

"Alright, now what's the plan," Percy asked.

Johanna remained blissfully ignorant as she danced switching between friends and boys carefully vetted by her friends. All the while each new partner moved her closer to Harry, who continued to dance with Ginny. As did Cho and Cedric, who were drawing their own number of admirers, including Harry and Ginny.

"I didn't know they would be here," Harry said, his eyes lingering on the very high slit of Cho's qipao that left little to the imagination and would be considered indecent if not for her tights. "Oh wow," Harry thought, enjoying the view.

"Me neither," Ginny replied, her gaze also lingering on Cedric.

"I believe we have their attention," Cho whispered to Cedric.

"So, it seems," Cedric chuckled, leaning forward as Cho laid back, giving Harry an eyeful for a brief second. "But I believe we wanted to get their attention, not give him a heart attack."

"He's too young for a heart attack," Cho giggled.

"True, but I think it's time we got this started before we run out of time," as the thunder grew closer and had they not been dancing they would have felt the ground shake.

"Do you mind if I cut in," Cho said rather than ask as she hip checked Ginny into Cedric's arms.

"I do apologize but Cho is trying to scope out the competition," Cedric said, placing a hand on the girl's waist and taking her other hand dancing away with her. "You see, Cho thinks that skill on the dance floor equals skill on a broom, and we do have a match against Gryffindor coming up," he explained before stopping and gently tilting Ginny's head up so he could look her in the eye. "And I have to say so far you seem quite skilled and if I was a few years younger."

"Eeep," Ginny squeaked, blushing furiously.

"Good evening Harry fancy meeting you here," Cho said.

"Um, Cho what are you doing," Harry said.

"Dancing," Cho giggled.

"But why did you…" Harry asked.

"Yes, I am dating Cedric, but that doesn't mean I have to dance with him exclusively and consider this a bit of scouting for our upcoming match against Gryffindor," Cho said, taking the lead.

"What does that have to do with dancing," Harry replied.

"It lets me know how you handle stressful situations and moving in tight quarters," Cho replied, moving them to a more crowded section of the dance floor.

"Is that all," Harry replied.

"Well that and I saw you staring at my legs," Cho laughed, sliding her leg up his side.

"Honestly Cho stop trying to give the boy a heart attack," Olga laughed, bumping her out of the way.

"It was just a little fun," Cho replied.

"That's what they all say," Olga laughed, taking Cho's place.

"Well try not to smother the kid," Cho replied as Harry's head was right at the level of Olga's chest.

"Big," Harry muttered.

"Hee-hee I am glad you noticed," Olga laughed.

"Harry, you found my girlfriend, thanks mate," Charlie called out as Olga pulled away and another girl spun into his arms.

"You're welcome…." a confused Harry said as a silver haired beauty spun to a stop in front of him.

"You," Harry and Johanna growled as green eyes met blue.

"Now behave, you wouldn't want to cause a scene, now would you," the girls said.

"No," the pair said.

"Good, now Harry your hands go here and Johanna nothing too extravagant," Olga said, placing one of his hands on Johanna's waist and the other in her hand. The music slowed to a gentle waltz as her friends formed or circle around them to prevent any interruptions.

"I don't like you," the pair said at the same time causing each of them to blush.

"You lied to me," Harry said as they danced.

"No, she didn't you stupid moron!" a feminine voice yelled in the back of his head.

"Yes, she did," a male voice yelled back.

"Shut your pie hole you bloody wanker," the woman's voice shot back. Yet all of this came across as a headache and an urge to at least hear the girl out.

"I did not," Johanna replied.

"Then why the multiple names, and disguises," Harry asked.

"People change," Johanna said.

"Not that much," Harry growled.

"I think perhaps you are confusing me with someone else," Johanna said.

"Oh please, I know you're just Hermione using dark magic to change your appearance," Harry said.

"Are you trying to piss me off," Johanna growled.

"If the shoe fits," Harry replied.

"Listen you, if I am a champion figure skater why would I ever disguise myself as a girl who can barely walk down the hall without tripping over her two left feet," Johanna said.

"Because I'm the boy who lived," Harry replied only to get his foot stomped on. "Hey, what was that for," he yelped.

"Get over yourself, the world doesn't revolve around you," Johanna said.

"Tell that to he who must not be named," Harry replied.

"His name is Voldemort, and I was there too, you know," Johanna replied.

"You were," Harry asked.

"Oh you have got to be kidding me, who do you think froze the chains, or helped you against the basilisk," Johanna replied.

"What are you talking about," Harry replied.

"What do you mean what am I talking about you pig headed moron," Johanna growled. "I was there when Voldemort wrapped us in chains during the Philosopher's stone incident."

"He did," Harry asked.

"Yes, I had to freeze them to break us free," Johanna said.

"But I thought my frostbite was from Quirrell's freezing charm…" Harry groaned as a splitting headache washed over his mind.

"Yeah, sorry about that I didn't exactly have the best control…." Johanna said. "Wait why wouldn't he…. Memory charms…..."

Any further thought or discussion of their thoughts, feelings, or memories, were cut off by a thunderous roar followed by a massive jet of flame passing over the party, lighting up the night sky. "What the…" the pair said, turning their heads to see a chimera from Greek Mythology.

"Is that a…." Johanna said, looking at the gargantuan beast.

"Chimera, and this is probably all my fault," Harry said as they gazed upon the beast standing on the mountains lining the city. A normal Chimera was essentially a three headed combination of a lion, goat, and snake. The lion made up the head and fore legs, the forelegs of a goat, with a goat head that breathed fire, and a snake for a tail not larger than an extremely big lion. This chimera however was on a completely different level with the lion and goat head set at the front of the beast, breathing gusts of wind and fire respectively, the forelegs were that of a lion, with the body and hind legs of a goat, with leathery reptilian wings sprouting from it with a massive snake head for a tail. And its overall size looked to be about that of a massive blue whale 100 ft long and 20 ft high.

"Get over yourself, not everything revolves around you," Johanna snapped as something crashed into the middle of the crowd.

"Perenelle," Emma yelled racing forward.

"Sorry I brought the party to you," she groaned, her bruised and battered body rising to a knee.

"I don't see how that's a party," a number of people said as panic began to set in as an unearthly demonic howl washed over the party. The deathly wail of swarming banshee's forcing the crowd to their knees, hands clamping over their ears. All while the Chimera roared to the heavens blasting flames as it continued its slow approach from the ridge line.

"There's too many of them," Mathew thought, falling to his knees unable to hear the crunching of snow and ice beneath his feet, their collective howl creating a demonic chorus sapping his strength.

"Vacuum barrier," Tracy yelled, gripping her wand tightly creating a negative space between her and the banshees. The negative space blocking any sound from passing through it including the wail of a banshee.

"Quick thinking," Voldemort said, now able to be heard inside the barrier. "And more void magic, very interesting."

"Now what," Tracy said.

"While it's not a dragon I think the Hogwarts motto applies," Voldemort replied.

"Agreed, Tracy replied as Voldemort used his wand to throw a table at the approaching banshees.

"Might I make a suggestion," Voldemort replied.

"And that is," Tracy said.

"This is turning into a bloody mess," he said, as the banshees began circling the festival

"Well, that's just freaking great," Tracy said. "Now what is this suggestion of yours," Tracy said as many fell into the fetal position.

"You can't save them all," Voldemort said.

"I am not some altruistic fool," Tracy replied.

"True, but you could save those who might be of service to you later," Voldemort said.

"Ah I see," Tracy said, spotting a catatonic Pansy and Draco.

"Fuck my head feels like it is going to explode," a screaming Pansy thought unable to move or think as the high-pitched wails assaulted her ears.

"Pansy, we need to…" Draco yelled crawling towards Pansy, his voice drowned out by the banshee's

"I can't," Pansy replied. "Here you," she yelled as the noise suddenly vanished.

"Pansy," Draco screamed looking around.

"Good evening, Mr. Malfoy, and Mrs. Parkinson," Tracy said looking down at the pair.

"Who are you," Pansy asked looking at the girl who was dressed like the wait staff.

"My name is Guinevere Tudor," Tracy replied. "And this is my compatriot Agravaine."

"You have my thanks Ms. Tudor, I thought my head was about to explode," Draco said slowly, pulling himself up to his feet.

"Yes, prolonged exposure to a banshee's cry can be quite harmful," Tracy said.

"Might I suggest a change in venue," Voldemort said.

"Yes, some more cover would be nice," Tracy said as they began looking for a place to hide.

Still on the opposite side of the dance floor, Liz could only watch in horror as Mathew fell. "Mathew!" With what strength she could muster Liz began slowly crawling towards him. "I have to do something, anything," she thought, as everyone dropped one by one, and those who could still stand were barely able to move. "Wait, how am I still able to move," Liz thought as inched towards Mathew as several of the banshee's were forced back by a gust of wind with a few blasts of lightning. "Victoria's still moving…," Liz thought, spotting Victoria on one knee working with Marcus struggling to force the banshee's back with a flickering shield around them. "Her noise canceling spell, it's blocking the banshee's shriek," she thought as she finally made it to Mathew.

"Liz," Mathew groaned.

"Come on you big lug, you're better than this," Liz yelled trying to pull him to his feet.

"Sound, air," he mouthed struggling to remain conscious under the onslaught.

"What do you mean," she yelled, reading his lips.

"Vibrations," he mouthed.

"That's it, sound is just vibrations traveling through the air. Invisible Air controls the air itself, and therefore for sound. That's why I can move. Invisible air is blunting the effect of the Banshee's cry," She thought, perking up a bit as she looked back to Victoria. "Given what I saw in Monaco Johanna probably has a territory creation gift, which means Victoria probably has it as well. If we combined Invisible's air's control of the air with territory creation" she thought looking deep inside herself. A soft melody of wind chimes rang in her mind causing her to smile. "Mathew, wake up!" she yelled, pushing on the air with all her might to expand her protection around them.

"Liz," Mathew groaned through the pain to see her looking down on him. "I can't hear you." he yelled, only to be drowned out by the cry of the banshees.

"Victoria, get me to Victoria," she yelled pointing at the blue haired girl desperately trying to force the banshee's back.

"She's got a plan," Mathew thought, shaking his head to force back the splitting headache and ringing in his ears. "Crap can't move," he thought, struggling to make it to one knee. "Time for plan B" he said, grabbing Liz by the back of her dress.

"Mathew what are you…." she squeaked as Mathew picked her up.

"Marcus catch," he yelled, launching Liz across the pavilion and right into Marcus currently inside Victoria's barrier.

"What!" Liz wailed as she crashed into the shocked boy.

"Liz what the hell," Marcus groaned.

"Later," Liz snapped, turning to Victoria. "We need to combine our Noblesse Oblige," Liz said.

"What are you talking about," Victoria said.

"With your territory creation, and my control over the air, we can make a barrier blocking the Banshee's cry, before that thing gets any closer," she said, pointing to the Chimera.

"How do we do that," Victoria replied.

"You're the singer you tell me," Liz replied.

Victoria paused looking between the banshee's, the Chimera, and Liz. "It's possible, but Liz doesn't know the spells, or music, but if I had Invisible Air, I could possible…."

"You need Invisible Air don't you," Liz said looking at the pensive Victoria.

"Yes, the Banshee's cry is a song so I'll have to constantly adjust for any changes they make, and you're not skilled enough with music," Victoria replied.

Liz sighed. "I was afraid of that, but I have known for some time that Invisible Air would leave me, just promise that you will use it as a source for good in the world."

"You have my word," Victoria said, placing a hand on Liz's shoulder.

"Thank you," Liz said, closing her eyes. "Invisible Air, Sidhe that once served King Arthur, I release you from your bonds to the Tuttle Family," Liz said, placing her hands over her chest slowly blowing a glowing swirling mass of air into her hands.

"Fairy of the air, I ask you to grant me your gentle wind of blessing in this time of need so that I may sing a song of happiness to drive out the evil spirits plaguing the land," Victoria said, taking the swirling ball of air into her hands. "Well at least she didn't have to kiss me," Victoria thought, inhaling the mass of air as her body surged with energy. "But I could use an instruction manual," she thought, feeling her very being flooded with power, her barrier surging forward.

While Victoria stood tall surging with power Liz slumped backwards into Marcus her energy spent. "Dam that was draining," Liz muttered.

"You did good kiddo," Marcus said.

"Thanks," Liz muttered with a slight smile. "Now go, this space is yours to command," she added, struggling to keep her eyes open.

"Right," Victoria said, raising her microphone-like a wand to her lips turning to face the Banshee's.

"Victoria, what are you doing?" Marcus called out as she stepped to the edge of the barrier.

"Cover me, because I can't fight them and cancel the banshee cry at the same time," she said before exiting the barrier.

"Grunberg women are crazy," Marcus said, one arm around Liz, firing bolts of lighting at anything that came too close.

"Find it," Victoria thought, her eyes clamped shut in concentration as the banshee's wail echoed around her as the monsters moved closer. "This is a song every song has a melody, harmony, and rhythm," Reinforcing ear made it feel like her head was going to explode, but underneath everything she found it, the banshee's song. Arrows of lightning flashed past her head driving back a banshee that came to close. "Got it," A smile formed on her face, invisible air surging in her chest relishing the chance to be used for more than destruction.

"Victoria," Marcus cried out as a banshee flew down ready to strike Victoria.

"Too late," Victoria thought with a smirk opening her eyes. A resplendent mezzo-soprano booming from Victoria threw the banshee back as she began to sing. Her beautiful chanting slamming into the banshee's wail canceling it and slowly pushing it back. The dark spirits said to foretold the death of a family member screamed throwing their bodies against the barrier.

"Dunstan, we've got a problem," Abigail said as the screeching of the banshees decreased.

"What's wrong," Dunstan said.

"My water just broke," Abigail replied.

"Crap," Dunstan said. "It's too early."

"Early or not the baby is coming," Abigail said, wincing in pain as her contractions started.

"At least it can't get any worse," Alex said, helping Maggie to her feet as a second group of creatures appeared.

"You just had to say it dear," Maggie groaned.

"What are those things," Dan asked.

"Skrzaks," Alucard said as he casually grabbed on by the neck slamming it into the ground with a satisfying crunch.

"Think of them as Polish imps with a taste for human flesh,'' Maria said before performing a spinning roundhouse crushing the skull of an imp that flew too low..

"They're called shield spells you idiots," Perenelle groaned, struggling to stand as people screamed scrambling for cover as more of the imps descended as Victoria struggled to hold off the banshees.

The Grunberg's never one to take things lying down, and lived by the motto if I see people in need then I have to help. This usually meant directing resources to address the problem, but she wasn't against rolling up her sleeves and helping. While they preferred nonviolent methods, that didn't mean they were against cracking skulls when the need arose. And seeing their friends and family attacked was one of those times.

"Emma lookout," someone yelled as imp dove at her. It's claws gleaming in the moonlight, a sadistic grin on its face. With a glowing white shield forming on her arm, she met the beast's glare before back handing it into the ground. Slamming her heel into it before driving the shield through its skull. Meanwhile Dan took to slicing an imp in half with a black energy sword held in his hands.

"I knew they had magic," several people said.

"That's not possible," several others said.

If seeing the squibs use wandless magic was shocking enough, what happened next would go down in the history books. Blue eyes surveyed the chaos, as the panicked crowd was still suffering the after effects of the banshee's struggle to move. This and Abigail's muffled scream as she went into labor caused something in the depths of Emma's soul snapped a wave of magic rolling off Emma as she began to glow. A brilliant corona of white magical energy surrounded her as she raised a hand, the diamond of her wedding ring glowing brightly. "Panzerschild phalanx shift," she said as tens, then hundreds of glowing white shields formed, one for each person in the massive crowd.

"Go mom," Johanna said, pulling herself out of the snow she fell into when the banshee's cry hit.

"This is the light of my soul and shall never break or waver in defending those I hold dear," Emma called out to the stunned crowd. "Now take it and defend what you hold dear to you."

"And mom you're not the only one who can make a shield," Johanna said as her own magic flared to life. Her wand moved quickly carving a large runic array into the ground. "Crystal ice palace, fortress mode," Johanna yelled slamming her hands onto the rune, giant walls of ice rising out of the ground only to be instantly torn down by a blast of flame from the Chimera.

"Obscurant wall of chalk," Mathew exclaimed, slamming his shield reinforced by Emma's magic into the breach in the ice wall.

"Mathew," Liz screamed as the Chimera readied a second blast.

"Oh no you don't, '' Mathew yelled as the beast looked to aim at a different section. "Shield of rousing resolution," he yelled as the Chimera's heads all turned towards him.

"You idiot what are you doing," Liz cried out.

"Keeping its attention on me," Mathew said.

"It will kill you," Liz yelled.

"Only if you don't kill it first," Mathew replied grunting as another blast slammed against him.

"Victoria what's wrong," Marcus said as his girlfriend fell to one knee, the protective sound barrier weakening.

"The banshee's cry isn't just a cry, it's a song, and they are forming a chorus, and changing the song as I cancel it," Victoria said.

"How can I help," Marcus asked between blasting imps.

"Not much unless you've got a band hidden somewhere in that jacket," Victoria said.

"No, but I do know where to find one," Marcus said looking at Alexandra and her band on the far side of the festival. "Elizabeth cover Victoria," he called out to the girl whose shield was bigger and brighter than the others.

"Ok," a nervous Elizabeth said, moving to stand over Victoria.

"Anna, can you do something about that," Emma said, pointing to the Chimera.

"It's a class XXXXX magical beast, and only 1 person has ever defeated one," Anna replied.

"Who said you were doing it alone stupid," Euryale replied running over with her sister.

"Big sis," Anna replied.

"Wait, they are your older sisters," Maria said.

"Yes," Anna replied.

"And even I don't think it can resist all three of us at once," Stheno said.

"Alucard if we stun it can you kill it in one strike?" Anna asked.

"Yes," Alucard replied, calling his sword to him.

"And I thought I told you to back off," Emma growled, smashing another imp into the ground as they tried to swarm the defenseless Abigail. "Panzershild wall," Emma said, summoning more shields to form a dome around Abigail and Dunstan. "Stay, she said pointing at Abigail, and you help your wife," she added, looking at Dunstan before kneeling down and gently patting Abbigail's stomach. "And you little one stop causing your mother so much trouble." she said before standing and leaving the barrier.

"Alexandra," Marcus yelled, racing towards the singer. "Victoria needs help," he yelled, sliding to a stop.

"What does she need," Alexandra asked.

"The banshees are forming a chorus overpowering her song," Marcus explained.

"What's the plan," Alexandra asked.

"She needs you and your band to back her up," Marcus said.

"She's going to write the song and sing it at the same time," Alexandra said.

"Yes," Marcus said.

"Get up boys Victoria needs backup," Alexandra yelled.

"On it boss," the others said.

"What's the song," the drummer asked.

"I don't know," Alexandra replied. "Victoria's writing it as she goes," she added.

"A first time for everything I guess," Victoria thought, pointing her wand at her temple. "I just hope this works like the Professor Trewlany says it does. Mentat level 2 parallel processing," she said, activating a mental enhancement spell that would effectively split her brain in half allowing the right half of her brain to focus on analyzing and creating a song, while the left would continue to sing.

"It's alright everything will be just fine, so don't you dare give up just yet," Alexandra yelled to the crowd as Victoria's wand began drawing the sheet music in the air. "Ok boys let's rock," she said as they began to play Alexandra's voice backing up Victoria's chanting.

"Amazing, she is creating a song to silence a banshee's wail in real time," Septima said.

"That's impossible," McGonagall chimed in.

"She's using the second level of the mentat spectrum," Trelawny explained as Victoria continued to sing and write music at the same time. Unlike some of her coworkers she began to help people evacuate.

"Impressive," Dumbledore mussed.

"Are you going to stand there and gawk or do something," Fate snapped.

"Good evening Fate…." Dumbledore while flicking away several imps with a snap of his wand.

"It's Headmistress Testarossa, "Fate growled. "And are you going to stand around stroking your beard or actually do something for once."

"As the great Alexander Pope once said fools rush in where angels fear to tread," Dumbledore replied.

"If you aren't going to do anything then just get out of the way," Fate growled as Victoria's reinforced sound barrier pushed the banshee's back to Johanna's ice wall as it formed a protective barrier over the festival.

"Do nothing in haste; look well to each step; and from the beginning think what may be the end," Dumbledore said as the imps began flying off looking for easier targets as the Chimera continued to pound on Matthew.

"Really you are going to quote Edward Whymper to me now, this isn't mountain climbing or arctic exploration," Fate snapped.

"Yet, the scale of this disaster has now grown exponentially," Dumbledore replied as the Chimera turned towards the non-magical section of town.

"Then get off your ass and do something," Fate screamed.

"Johanna, can you catch up to the imps," Emma called out.

"Yes, but what about the Chimera," Johanna shot back.

"We'll handle the Chimera," Anna called out.

"Now get moving," Perenelle added.

"Fleur, Cho, Parvati," Johanna called.

"Are you a Potter or not, now get off your ass and do something," the female voice yelled inside Harry's head as the Banshee's cry receded.

"And make things worse, this is all your fault," the male voice said.

"Will you shut up," the woman's voice snapped.

"Why? Someone needs to be the voice of reason around here," the voice replied.

"Oh, that's rich coming from you," the woman's voice shot back.

"Make it stop," Harry groaned, grabbing his head as he rolled on the ground as pain radiated out from his scar across his entire skull.

Johanna wasn't sure what caused her to look towards Harry as he thrashed on the ground but she did. She also proved that she was very much her mother's daughter snapping off a quick spell not with her normal wand, but with her goddess wand. It was true that she hadn't had much luck actively channeling celestial mana, it still worked well enough as a second wand. It wasn't perfect on account of the faint amounts of celestial magic that would leak into the spells twisting them in some way. In the case of healing spells, they were a bit stronger than usual, which was exactly what someone needed, even if they didn't know it.

"ARGH!" the male voice screamed as he was forced back inside of a cage.

"Hahaha, serve you right, you bloody wanker," the female voice laughed.

"Impossible," the male voice raged, sounding as if he'd been gagged.

"I think we left the impossible behind 14 years ago, jackass," the woman's voice laughed.

"Thank you…." Harry groaned, his splitting headache slowly abating.

"I just didn't want your death on my conscience," Johanna replied.

"Flare Arrow," Harry yelled, snapping his wand up a pair of cherry red arrows of fire flying past Johanna's head blowing back a pair of imps.

"What is it with people and burning off my hair," Johanna snapped as a few strands of her front locks drifted past her face.

"It was that or letting those imps impale you," Harry shot back.

"I have everything under control," Johanna replied.

"I would not consider this under control," Harry said as Johanna sent a barrage of icicles over his head with a flick of her wand.

"It's a work in progress," she said as Harry touched his frosted hair.

"Today Johanna," her parents called out.

"Right," Johanna replied.

"Johanna, need a boost," Padma and Parvati said.

"Fleur," Cho called out, summoning her flames.

"Accio broom," Harry yelled, summoning a broom.

"Harry what are you doing," Ginny yelled.

"They won't get there in time," Harry said, catching a broom in his hand.

"Just try and keep up," Johanna said, before racing towards the Patil twins. The pair drew their fists back as Johanna closed the distance leaping into the air.

"Time to fly," the pair exclaimed, each twin driving a fist into Johanna's shoes, their reinforced muscles launching Johanna like a rocket. Fleur was a half-step behind her taking advantage of a speed boost from Cho's flame magic while Harry and Parvati brought up the rear. The quartet raced to get ahead of the descending swarm.

"Harry, No!" Dumbledore yelled in a futile attempt to stop him as he left the festival area.

"Quickly we must stop him," Dumbledore said, turning towards McGonagall.

"From what," Mina snapped.

"Miss Harker," Dumbledore said.

"Look, you can either help, or evacuate with the others," Mina said, pointing towards the nearby hotel.

"Miss there are," Dumbledore began to say.

"Stuff it up your pie hole," Mina said.

"Well, I never," McGonagall harped.

"Get off your ass and do something or get out of my way," Mina growled. "And I thought I told you to back off, accell smash" Mina yelled, spinning around and slamming a glowing foot into a retreating imp.

"How, I thought you were a squib," McGonagall said.

"Gem magic," Mina said, pointing to the anklet with a glowing gem. "Now either help or retreat, I have more important things to deal with," she said, stomping past them. "Is anyone here a doctor, we have wounded, and a woman in labor," she called out.

"What's the plan," Fleur said, pulling up to Johanna as she tapped her shoes creating skates, as she landed rocketing across the frozen ground.

"Exterminate with extreme prejudice," Johanna replied, turning to face the oncoming horde. "Sonorous," she said, aiming her wand at her throat. "Citizens of Liechtenstein, this is not a prank or filming for a movie," Johanna yelled, her amplified voice booming across the small city of Vaduz. "Everything you see is real, magic is real, and I will not let a single one of you die tonight. Our homeland may have been invaded by creature's strait of mythology but it ends here. So please stay away from any exterior windows or walls," she said, canceling the spell. "Fleur, can you buy me 2 minutes?"

"I'll give you enough time for a full short program," she said, rising into the sky. "Parvati, boy, if anything gets past me, burn it to ash."

"My name is Harry," Harry shot back.

"Not now," Parvati said, jumping to the top of a nearby statue.

"Now for a Fleur Delacour original," she called out glaring at the approaching storm, her white glowing wings lighting up the night sky, a growing ball of flame forming at the tip of her wand. "Phoenix flash, firestorm!" she yelled her wings flapping creating a massive gust of wind as she launched the fire ball. The air fueling and directing the flame into a massive blast of flames that exploded on impact with the swarm taking out about a quarter of them. The remaining wisps of flames turned into smaller bird shaped flames that chased down the rest until a third of the swarm was turned to ash. Desperation washed over the imps as they raced for any sort of cover inside the buildings.

"Oh no you don't, lightning bullets," Parvati shouted, punching rapidly each punch shooting out small blasts of electricity stunning any imps it impacted. Not to be left out, Harry began launching arrows of flame at the stunned imps, the dark ash marring the pristine snowy cityscape.

"Ok, Johanna, if there ever was a time to stop holding back it's now." "Crystal ice palace winter wonderland," Johanna exclaimed slamming her hands into the runic circle she carved around the roundabout. An explosion of frigid air washed over the city stunning everyone. However, what came next was more mind boggling as ice began growing on any exposed surface, slowly the city was being covered in a thick layer of crystal-clear ice. The claws and teeth of the Slavic imps bouncing helplessly off the ice as the stunned inhabitants looked on in shock as a horror movie came to life.

"Now what," Parvati called out to a panting Johanna.

"Work in progress," Johanna said, gasping for air as the spell had drained her reserves.

"One spell knocked you out," Fleur said.

"You try covering the entire city in a regenerating layer of protective ice that won't turn the people inside into a popsicle," Johanna shot back.

"I see your point," an impressed Fleur replied.

"And I think you pissed them off," Parvati said as the imps began giving up on breaking into the buildings and turned their attention on them.

"And we are still outnumbered," Harry chimed in.

"Thanks, captain obvious," Parvati quipped.

"What's the plan," Fleur asked.

"Can you do that flame spell again," Parvati said.

"Yes, but unless they are in the air and packed close together, I risk collateral damage," Fleur said.

"But the ice," Harry said.

"In magical systems flame beats ice, so the protections are less, and I don't need to tell you what might happen when fire and ice mix," Johanna said.

"What's that," Harry asked as they began firing spells as they backed away from the imps.

"Big boom you idiot, we did it in the chamber," Johanna shot back.

Harry shook his head, wondering when the explosion happened during his fight with the basilisk. "You and I remember the chamber very differently."

"Johanna if I get their attention can you freeze them like you did the city," Fleur asked.

"Yes, but I'll need help," Johanna said, pointing towards the moon. "There is a cathedral not far from here."

"Saint Florin, Padma and I went there the other day for some sightseeing," Parvati said.

"Good, you can show me the way," Fleur said, picking up Parvati as Harry picked up Johanna and put her on the back of his broom.

"Hey," Johanna sputtered.

"You can tell me where to go while you rest and figure out the next crazy spell you're going to do," Harry said.

"Argh! Stupid boy, I am not some damsel in distress," Johanna thought pouting as she sat on the back of the broom. "But I hate it more that he is right." she thought as they raced off.

"How are you going to get their attention," Parvati asked.

"My allure works on anything and everything," Fleur said. "So, I would raise your mental defenses."

"I don't swing that way," Parvati replied.

"It won't matter," Fleur said, releasing her genetic gift as a veela, allure. A Veela's allure is a combination of innate knowledge of body posture, extremely potent pheromones, and a magical compulsion that draws creatures towards the Veela. The Veela could also do things to increase or decrease the strength of the allure depending on the target, in the case of the imps, it was the scent of a virgin and exposed skin, both of which Fleur had in abundance after ripping off the lower half of her dress raising the hemline from the ankle to her upper thigh exposing her long shapely legs. This combined with her allure created just what the imps needed to chase after her.

"Wow, Fleur is pretty hot," Parvati thought as they raced through the sky a horde of imps fast on their trail. "No, that's the allure talking… but still she is…. ARGH!..." Parvati grumbled as they raced around the city drawing the remaining imps towards them.

"For a jerk he is skilled with a broom," Johanna thought, her arms wrapped around Harry's waist as they made a beeline for the Cathedral. Harry's thoughts were much the same, though he did think it would be nicer if they weren't being chased by bloodthirsty creatures.

The doors of the Cathedral burst open, shocking the poor nun keeping vigil over the holy building while a scant few parishioners observed an advent vigil. "I'm really sorry, but I promise that we are not witches, and this is an emergency," Johanna exclaimed in German, jumping off Harry's broom.

"What is going on," the nun exclaimed.

"God is real, magic is real, imps are real and attacking the city, so I lured them here where I hope to get a little boost so that I can finish them off," Johanna said to the flabbergasted nun.

"How can I help," Harry asked.

"Get them out of the way," she said, pointing to the people sitting in the pews.

"Johanna, I hope you're ready," Fleur called out, dropping Parvati as she entered the church.

"Engel," the shocked nun gasped

"No, that's just Fleur," Johanna said. "How much time do I have?"

"How about now," Parvati said as the imps swarmed into the cathedral.

"Demons! We're going to die," the people yelled.

"Not today," Johanna growled. "God, Artemis, whoever is listening, I need celestial mana and I need it now!" she thought, bathed in moonlight shining through a stained-glass window. "Thank you," she whispered a feeling of elation washing over her, not unlike the joy one might feel at the end of a successful hunt as the imps poured in circling the lamps hanging down from the ceiling.

"Johanna, whatever you are going to do you better do it soon," Harry said, his eyes locked on the snarling imps.

"You can't rush artistry," Johanna said, launching 4 glowing blue diamonds above and below the swarm. Twirling wands spinning in her hands she threw her ice wand into the air as she stopped both hands on her moon wand.

"Ätherisches Kristallgefängnis!" Johanna exclaimed a massive bolt of magical energy erupting from her wand with the force of a cannon causing her to go into a backflip. The beam looked like condensed moonlight as it rocketed towards the imps before splitting into eight smaller beams connecting them in bands of light. The flash of the gems lit up like it was day time. As their vision cleared, they found the imps encased in a giant floating cube of crystal-like ice. The imps could do nothing but smash harmlessly against their claws shattering on the glowing barrier. Johanna was not quite done catching her still spinning ice wand as she lept to the top of the container. "You who would defile the peace of my home, and threaten those I hold dear. You who live off the fear of others, feel the icy hand of death you forced upon others. Absoluter Nullpunkt!" She said firing a spell into the barrier slowly turning all of the imps into frozen statues of ice before shattering like glass.

"Mommy is she an angel," a child said pointing at Fleur who with her blond hair, and wings bore a striking resemblance to a stereotypical angel.

"Seeing is believing I guess," the mother replied, not sure of what else to say as Johanna took the shattered remains of the Imps outside where they blew away like dust in the wind.

"Johanna I've never seen an ice spell cause a living being to shatter, what was that spell you used," Parvati asked.

"The barrier channels the power of the moon which gets down to -171 degrees Celsius and my strongest freeze spell can lower the temperature by 67 degrees Celsius if I really push it. By combining the two I got within 35 degrees of absolute zero," Johanna said, putting a hand on her friend's shoulder.

"You have been blessed by the angels Michael and Haniel," the nun said, walking up to them.

"Sorry about all this," Johanna said.

"You performed a miracle and saved us all, there is no need to apologize," the nun said.

"So we're not heathens who should be burned at the stake," Harry asked, not really understanding the German but getting the gist of what was said nonetheless.

"Heathen no, a stupid boy yes," Fleur said.

"See I was right boys are stupid," a girl said to her mother causing the group to laugh.

Still giggling Fleur walked over to the girl kneeling down to look her in the eye. "Not all boys are stupid, it's just that one because he's…." Fleur said, pausing to find the right word.

"Still infected with cooties," the girl said.

"Yes, let's go with that," Fleur chuckled, patting the girl on the head.

"Parvati, why do I get the feeling I was just insulted," Harry said.

"Because you were," Parvati said.

Section Break

While things in the city had been handled, and Victoria had driven off the banshees, there was still the issue of the Chimera that continued to fire blasts of red-hot flames at Mathew. His shield was holding but he was slowly being pushed back. "Mathew," Liz cried out, doing all she could to support him with her tiny frame.

"I'm not going to break, not now, not ever," he thought, feeling Liz trying to help.

"Panzerschild wall," Emma said as a trio of large glowing white shields in front of him the flames splashing harmlessly against it. "You have done well Matthew Krielight, rest now," Emma said.

"No, can't stop," Mathew said, still standing strong, his shield firmly planted in the ground.

"Rest now, we shall handle the rest," Dan added.

"But…." Mathew said.

"Would you just relax for once you big lug, Liz is safe, we are all safe, so let us finish the job," Olga chimed in.

"I know you are strong but I suggest you…." Anna said.

Olga turned towards Anna. "Unlike Johanna I am quite sane and have no interest in doing something crazy, but you do need an opening and the Ursids are quite strong tonight," she said looking at the night sky raising her wand.

"Oh, hell duck and cover," Liz yelled as a beam of light shot from her wand lancing out into the sky.

"Wait you're from those Animusphere's," Anna said as a magic array formed in the sky using the stars as focal points.

"Yes," Olga said as her breath grew ragged from the power the spell required. "Meteor storm," she yelled, dropping her wand.

"And what good is that going to do," someone said.

"Wait for it," Olga panted as several falling stars changed direction.

"Duck and cover," Dan yelled as the glowing stars grew closer changing course to pelt the giant chimera with meteors the size of golf balls to tennis balls throwing up a cloud of dust as it roared.

"Go, go, go." Anna yelled as she leapt over the barrier her sisters not far behind racing to form a triangle around the beast.

"Maria now," Anna yelled. With a swipe of her hand the dirt, and snow from the meteor impacts was blown away revealing the beast.

"Mystic Eyes of Petrification," the trio exclaimed, their glowing purple eyes locking onto the beast's multiple heads. Euryale took the snake head tail, Stheno the goat head, and Anna the lion's head. The trio hoped their combined power would be enough to freeze and perhaps even begin to petrify the beast, alas their hopes were for naught, as it was still able to move, albeit with a slow staggering gait. It was enough to turn Alucards strike into a glancing blow that only took off the snake's head before breaking free.

"It's been enhanced," Stheno called out diving for cover as the remaining heads let loose with blasts of fire and wind.

"We noticed," Euryale shot back.

"It's not going to work a second time," Anna said.

"Now what," Alucard said.

"Anna, do it," Stheno and Euryale said.

"Sisters," Anna said.

"It's the only shot we have unless you've got some anti-tank weapons around here," Euryale said.

Anna sighed. "It's not exactly going to be subtle," she said.

"I think subtlety has left the building," Emma said, blocking a blast of flame with her shields.

"Do we have any other options," Maria asked.

"No, that beast has been programmed to come here and it is not going to stop until Lichtenstein is destroyed," Perenelle replied.

"I need a few minutes," Anna said.

"Then we'll give you that time," Arthur and several others said, running to help.

"Emma, when it comes to manipulating the size and shape of your element, the words are just window dressing to focus your thoughts. If you can imagine it, you can create it," Perenelle explained.

Emma nodded, turning to the small group huddled behind her shields. "Anna, Stheno, Euryale, do what you need to do. Maria take a group and cover them. Dan and I will do what we can to restrain the beast while the rest of you take aim at any weak spots you can find. Alucard if you get a clear shot at either of the heads take it," Emma said.

"I'll take care of the fire blasts," Arthur said.

"We'll help," his older sons added.

"And no dying because if you do, I will find a way to bring you back and punish you severely," Emma said.

"That doesn't," Bill began to say as they leapt into action.

"She's Johanna's mother I don't think the rules apply," Percy added.

"Dan anchor points," Emma yelled as they ran out past the barrier. He nodded, focusing on this new found power creating large black rods that shot into the ground.

"Oh no you don't," Arthur and his sons called out combining their spells to deflect a blast of flame into the sky before it exploded.

"Light binding chains," Emma yelled thick bands of light wrapping around its legs, neck and tail using the black magical rods as anchor points to hold it down. Roaring in defiance the beast began flapping its wings, buffeting the defenders. At first nothing happened but slowly it began to inch into the sky, Dan restraining rods beginning to inch out of the ground. "Someone clip its wings," Emma called out. Cho and Alucard shared a look before leaping into the air, slamming their weapons down into the creature's back, clipping its wings as it roared in defiance before throwing them off. Sadly, the damage was done, and it had slack to continue to tug on the chains slowly breaking them. "Light binding chains Emma called out trying to muzzle the beast as it continued to fight. The power and will was there but the knowledge and experience were lacking as her chains continued to break until at last it broke free rearing up on its hind legs a defiant blast of flame lighting up the night sky.

"Anna, whatever it is you are going to do, do it now," Alucard called out slamming into the exposed belly of the beast forcing it back and leaving a bleeding gouge in its stomach.

"Shit, we're not ready," Stheno cursed as the beast locked its gaze on the glowing trio of sisters.

"Looks like we're up Steve, can you do this," Millie said.

"For you, anything," Steve replied.

"Then let's do this," Millie said casting a size changing charm on Steve as they walked towards the beast.

"Millie get back," her parents yelled as she walked towards the beast.

"My name is Melissa Bellerose," Millie said, hopping onto Steve's back as he grew to match the Chimera. "And my counter attack starts now," she said, the faint glow of magic surrounding her. Now the size of a kaiju, Steve darted forward, wrapping his massive body around the beast as vines muzzled the beast, more vines growing for each one that snapped.

"Light binding chains," Emma yelled, adding to Millie's binds.

"Speak to me, troubled beast, why do you rage across the land," Millie said, looking the beast in the eye.

"What the hell is she doing," Arthur said.

"Don't ask me how it works, but Millie has a way to connect to animals and plants, in a way no other witch can," Percy explained.

Magic isn't exactly a science and even Millie was completely sure just how her powers worked, but by looking the Chimera in the eye and pulsing her magic she was able to form a temporary connection with it. Not enough to speak to it like she would Steve or Audrey, but she was able to feel it's surface thoughts and emotions. Pure unadulterated rage slammed into her mind as images of a Nemian lion, A Dahu, and a wyvern were injected with something from a tooth before being forcibly fused together in an act that surely violated the laws of nature. What came next was even more horrifying as it was systematically tortured and abused in the name of testing it's limits. "Wait, what was that!" She thought catching a glimpse of someone that looked similar to Lavender faded through one of the visions with a ghostly girl floating next to her. "No go back!" she pleaded before the connection broke, as she was thrown off by the beast.

"Millie," Steve cried out trying to catch her as he shrank back down to normal size.

"I got you," Neville said, catching Millie and the normal-sized Steve in his arms.

"Hey ugly, pick on someone your own size," Euryale called out.

"Breaker Gorgon release," Stheno and Euryale exclaimed as the magic bubble surrounding Anna shattered and something big began growing out of it. It was Anna, but a much larger Anna with the lower body of a snake, and bird like wings extending from her back. Her upper body was easily the size of a giant with an equally large snake tail to match, with a large wingspan, but she was still smaller than the Chimera.

"I suggest you get back; I can't control the collateral damage very well in this form," Anna said, blocking a blast of flame with her wings.

"The Greek government is not going to like this," Dumbledore muttered looking at Anna's monstrous new form rising into the sky.

"They can take their objections and shove it," Charles said walking up to Dumbledore as Anna slugged the Chimera in the jaw.

"Anna it's full of hatred and rage, please put it out of its misery," Millie exclaimed as Neville helped her away from the battle.

"They always are," Anna said, moving surprisingly fast for her size as she grappled with the beast.

"What I find more objectionable is that with all your power, knowledge and skill, that you are in here, and not out there," Charles said.

"There were extenuating circumstances," Dumbledore said.

"Then you better hope my mother finds them appropriate," Charles said before leaving to do what he could to help out.

"Bugger," Dumbledore muttered.

With her tail wrapped around the body of the chimera the pair rolled and thrashed along the ground destroying several cabins in the process. Having her hands full with the primary lion's head, the goat head on the monster's back was free to blast Anna in the face with a gust of wind slicing her cheek and forehead open. "Would you knock that off," Anna growled before head butting the goat's head. The force of the blow is enough to stun the beast for a split second. Taking advantage of the Chimera's momentary lapse, Anna changed positions. Her massive arms tensed as she reinforced her body, twisting the goat's head to the side snapping it. Roaring in pain the Chimera thrashed violently, tossing Anna into the mountain side.

"Mystic eyes of petrification," Stheno and Euryale called out rushing to their sister's defense as the Chimera prepared to roast her. The eye magic was next useless as the beast shook off the attack but it was enough for Emma and Dan to drive bolts of magical energy into the creature's paws pinning it.

Throwing her hair back Anna glared at the beast, her eyes glowing with power. "I suggest you get out of the line of fire," Stheno and Euryale said, taking a perpendicular path as they raced away from Anna and the Chimera. The purple ball of glowing magic forming in front of Anna's mouth was enough of a signal to the rest as they took the hint retreating away from the battle.

"Pandemonium Cetus!" Anna roared a dark purple beam of destruction firing from her mouth.

"I don't think so," Alucard thought, driving a huge sword into the Chimera's mouth preventing it from firing before flashing out of the way the instant before the beam hit. The purple laser engulfed the beast, breaking it down on a cellular level.

"She doesn't just have the mystic eyes of the gorgon," Voldemort thought, watching the Chimera melt under Anna's assault until nothing was left. "She is the gorgon itself, no, a descendent of the legendary beast," he thought watching as Anna began to shrink back to her original form. "But that blast doesn't seem to work on inorganic matter," he thought observing how despite the total destruction of the Chimera the landscape was relatively unscathed. "Overwhelming her with golems is the logical approach at this point."

With the battle now complete, Emma turned away from the bubbling remains of the Chimera looking back towards the crowd. "Stheno, Euryale tend to your sister. Maria, Alucard, can you see that the remains of the Chimera are taken care of. Arthur Weasley, could you use your contacts with the ICW that there will be no memory charms performed on any citizen or visitor of Lichtenstein. Mina, stick to Dumbledore like an angry ex-wife. Ria find Thormir and ask him to deploy the 4 winds, and ask Elaine to dispatch Harlequin and Helbram to deal with any lingering intruders," Emma said.

"Yes, of course, it would be my pleasure, consider it done," the group said.

Very early morning Sunday December 24th

"Mom, Dad, what happened?" Marcus said entering a room in the hotel with Victoria on his arm.

"Say hello to your new baby brother," Abigail said gently, holding a child in her arms. "Nicholas say hello to your big brother."

"Hey there little guy," Marcus said, reaching out to gently touch his nose, the baby giggling happily.

"So cute," Victoria gushed.

"I'm your big brother Marcus and this is your aunt Victoria," he said.

"Aunt Victoria…" his parents said as Victoria cheeks turned a brilliant crimson.

"I…. um…. Well, you see…." Marcus stammered realizing what he just said. "Bugger…." he sighed, dropping his head as Nicholas giggled and clapped happily.

"I approve but do wait until you're older before making it official," Emma chuckled.

"Mom!" Victoria snapped in embarrassment.

"I agree," Marcus's parents laughed.

"Mom, Dad," Marcus gasped.

"I think I'm going to um go and help or something," Victoria stammered before racing out of the room.

"Me too," Marcus added, running after her.

"So, what is the little guy's name," Emma cooed.

"Nicholas," Dustan said.

"Perenelle was such a help during the delivery, that we wanted to…." Abigail said.

"I am sure he would approve," Perenelle said, sticking her head in the room.

"Thank you…." Dunstan and Abigail said.

"Emma, it's ready," Perenelle said.

"What is ready," Dan asked.

"I was once hit with a Leth curse, and I refuse to let it happen to anyone else," Emma said. "It's not much but Perenelle is helping me place a ward that will not allow anyone to apparate or portkey into the country without permission."

"That's a standard ward, but to do it on the scale of a country," Dunstan gasped.

"It's only 47 miles and she's not doing it alone," Perenelle explained. "But it's best we do it sooner rather than later.

"Right," Emma said, tickling the baby one more time before leaving.

Section Break

"Harry what were you thinking," Dumbledore said, having finally tracked the boy down.

"Helping," Harry replied.

"You should have let the adults handle it," McGonagall added.

"Like you handled the Philosopher's stone, the Chamber, or the Dementors," Harry replied.

"I am disappointed in your rash action Harry," Dumbledore said looking down at him with a disapproving look. "You are destined for great things, and you cannot risk that by racing off at the drop of a hat."

"And what is this great destiny," Harry replied.

"Your actions last night have shown me that you are not yet ready to know," Dumbledore said.

"Still playing games, I see," Mina thought while discretely observing the conversation.

"Then you tell me what you would have done, people were in danger," Harry snapped.

"You need to look at the bigger picture Harry," Dumbledore said.

"And what is the bigger picture," Harry growled, balling his fists at being talked down to like a child after being hailed as a hero for helping a few hours earlier.

"The greater good," Dumbledore said.

"And what does that mean," Harry said.

"In total utilitarian philosophy one must seek to maximize the benefit for the greatest number of people. The collective actions that were taken last night put the statute of secrecy at risk of shattering and endangering the lives of wizards and witches everywhere," Dumbledore explained. "The great Philosophers Plato and Aristotle laid the foundation for our modern understanding of the greater good where people must make sacrifices for the larger community. This is how magical society has operated for generations. It would be an act of the utmost disrespect to so casually disregard the wisdom of our forebears."

"So, you are saying that I should have let people be killed if it means preventing others from harm," Harry said.

"Yes, action and inaction have consequences and you need to gauge both before choosing what to do. Something that was in very short supply last night," Dumbledore said.

"Stop blowing it out your ass Dumbledore," Mina growled, stepping out from her hiding spot.

"It is rude to listen in on another conversation," McGonagall said.

"And so is offering 30,000 people as a sacrifice," Mina said. "Some so-called leader of the light you are."

"Miss Harker there are…" Dumbledore said.

"You can take your statute of secrecy and shove it up your pie hole," Mina said.

"Miss Harker if the statue were to break it would be the witch hunts all over again," McGonagall said.

"You don't know that, and you don't know the people of Liechtenstein," Mina replied.

"And neither do you," McGonagall said.

"She knows more than you ever will," Ria said, coming to Mina's defense. "Harry Emma is looking for you."

"She is," Harry said.

"Yes," Ria said.

"I am afraid," Dumbledore said.

"Yes, yes in loco parentis, but I think I can fill that role for now," Fate said, stepping out from behind Ria. "Or does a headmaster of a school not count."

"That will be fine," Dumbledore said through clenched teeth.

Section Break

"Alexandra, Johanna's ice locking people inside is melting, the sooner I can broadcast the better," Emma said to the red head. Her temporary office in a hotel suite was a bustle of activity as she coordinated the recovery effort. "Urd, coordinate with the hospital and make magical healing available to all those who need it. I don't care if they have magic or not. Karl, can you see to it that the diplomats and heads of state are well taken care of. Maggie, can you and your staff help feed everyone for now. Hans, I'm going to need to convert part of a hotel into a temporary hospital," she said as people came and went as the sun slowly rose into the sky as a new day dawned. "Some ask Franz if I can count on his support with the ICW, and get me the American ambassador."

"Emma, I've brought Harry," Ria said lightly knocking the door frame.

"Ah yes, please come in," Emma said.

Harry gulped nervously standing across from a woman that reminded him of a much better-looking version of an angry McGonagall and Mrs. Weasley wrapped into one. "I um, well, you see," Harry muttered.

"You hurt my daughter deeply," Emma said, standing up. "And for that I cannot forgive you," she said walking around her desk. "But for helping my daughter and the people of Liechtenstein I thank you," she said softly, wrapping her arms around him and pulling him into a hug.

"I um…. You're welcome," Harry stammered.

"You did a brave and wonderful thing last night, which tells me there is a nice boy somewhere inside of you," Emma said.

"Damn straight," the female voice yelled inside his head.

"Oh, please he will fall, they always do," the male voice replied.

"Will you shut up," the woman yelled back.

"But you also hurt my family deeply. I only hope in the future you can make amends, as I think deep down," Emma said.

"He's an evil boy, and he will fall," the male voice railed.

"Are a good boy, who has simply made some terrible choices, while following the advice of others," Emma said.

"Got that right," the woman said.

"Which is expected of a child," Emma said gently patting his head.

"I am not a child," Harry said, breaking away from Emma.

"True, but you are not yet a man either," Emma replied.

"Then what do you expect me to do," Harry said as Emma sat down on the couch patting the spot next to her.

"I only ever had rather headstrong daughters, so who am I to say," Emma replied as Harry looked at her.

"Some help you are," Harry scoffed.

"Could you stop listening to that wanker for once in your life," the woman yelled.

"And that is the crux of the problem, you seem to want to do your own thing, while also seeking the guidance of others," Emma said again motioning for him to sit next to her.

"Is it wrong to seek guidance," Harry said slowly walking towards her.

"No, but do not follow guidance blindly either," Emma replied.

"Then how do I know who to trust," Harry said slowly sitting next to her as his headache grew.

"That is not for me to judge," Emma said. "As a sign of maturity and growth is being able to decide for yourself who is trustworthy or not."

"And why should I trust you," Harry said.

"You shouldn't,'' the male voice said.

"Why won't you just die already," the woman said.

"You don't have a reason not to," Emma shrugged. "And before you give me some line about being the boy who lived and all that, I don't care, and as you well know I have bigger problems to deal with, than a boy famous for something completely out of his control."

"But I…." Harry said.

"True, but a terrorist attack on my home takes precedence over what you did," Emma said.

"She really doesn't care," Harry thought. "Well, I mean she cares, but not like that…. She doesn't have an agenda…." "Do you mind if I just rest here for a bit," Harry asked, sitting down on the couch.

"Certainly," Emma said, letting him sit down as she got back to work. It wasn't long before he was out cold on the couch sleeping soundly. The nightmares and pain were silenced by the lingering effects of Johanna's and Emma's magic, while Fate watched from across the room.

"That was surprisingly gentle of you," Fate said.

"In many ways he is still a child," Emma replied.

"Agreed," Fate nodded.

"Emma, we're all set up and ready to go," Alexandra said, sticking her head in the room.

Section Break

Still dressed in her gown from the previous night Emma sat behind a simple table with a microphone sitting on it, a camera pointed at her. With a single calming breath, she began to speak.

"Citizens of Liechtenstein, for those of you who don't know me, my name is Emma Grunberg, and I am here to inform you of some things that will seem fantastical, but I speak the truth. I hope that you will give me the courtesy of listening to the end. Many of you saw creatures attacking Vaduz last night, creatures that looked like demons from hell, but they are not demons. What you saw were creatures that 90% of the world considered to be nothing more than myths and legends but they are real. As were the powers you saw used to subdue them, magic is real, and always has been, but it has been hidden ever since the 10% of the world that has easy access to their magic, in 1692 due to the witch trials and other events. A normal response to an attack like last night is for an international group of magicals to come and erase the memory of any who did not already know of magic. As a victim of such an attack in the past I say here and now that no one will lose their memory or be harmed in any way as long as I draw a breath. This is my line in the sand, and I promise you I will see it through. To that end I ask that you remain calm, and do not needlessly harm or accuse your fellow citizens of misdeeds. We are approaching a new millennium, and I think that mankind has come far in the 302 years since the magical community decided to hide itself. Please do not prove me wrong. If anyone has any questions or concerns you can come see me, my husband or my daughters Johanna and Victoria," Emma said, pausing a moment to let the information sink in.

"By now some of you are no doubt asking the question why nearly 1,000 of our fellow citizens have had to live a life in secret, and why we can't live in 1 world open to all. My answer is that we should, but that is going to take some time, so I ask you to share in their secret while the rest of the world catches up," she said, catching a glimpse of Alexandra and Ria out of the corner of her eye. "Oh and one more thing, there is another group of people that have had to live a life in secret, and yes you know exactly who I am talking about and yes it is just as stupid if not more so. So those of you living a life where you have to hide who you love, you have my support. Thank you all for listening to me today, and if you need anything food, money, a shoulder to cry on, or a kind ear to talk to please come see me." Emma said as the broadcast ended.

"Fuck me, I knew she might go that far but still," Alexandra whispered to Ria.

"Agreed, she's going to end the statute of secrecy," Ria replied.

"And that's not all she's going to end," Alexandra said.

"So how was it," Emma asked. "I've never been on TV before."

"Nicely done," Karl said, clapping his hands as he approached her.

"Karl, I hope I didn't overstep my bounds but you were still unconscious from the banshee attack and….." Emma fretted.

"You have nothing to apologize for," Karl said. "And I could not have said it better myself."

"Thanks," Emma yawned. "Sorry, the coffee and adrenaline is wearing off."

"When did you wake up this morning," Karl asked.

"Um, I didn't," Emma said, yawning again.

"You bed now," Karl ordered.

"But the ICW," Emma said.

"Won't be able to do anything for another 10 hours," Karl said.

"That long," Emma said.

"Franz and Perenelle have been pulling some strings," Karl said. "So, you, bed now."

"You heard the man," Dan said, throwing Emma over her shoulder.

"Dan what are you doing," Emma squeaked.

"I think the better question is what won't I do," Dan laughed. "You see Rama has been sharing some interesting things with me."