Chapter 53- Aftershocks
January 1996
Late Morning Tuesday January 2nd Grunberg home
Not unsurprisingly, having the second most powerful alchemist to ever live, the descendants of the Gorgon, the backing of the dwarves, fairies, and mermaids, plus the support of Monaco, Switzerland and Austria, not to mention a good deal of money, put Emma in a rather favorable position when it came to dealing with the International Confederation of Wizards and their task force. Instead of risking a confrontation and a further breach, as no non-magicals outside of Lichtenstein had spoken of the attack, the task force felt discretion was the better path. Of course, no one mentioned the fact that Stheno and Euryale took great delight in freezing the task force in their tracks. Another surprise was the support of the Greeks who actually had no problem with Anna's actions in taking down the enhanced Chimera. Rather they were pissed that a Chimera enhanced with one of Typohn's teeth, teeth they considered under lock and key, had been created. As the father of all monsters in Greek Mythology, it's DNA could be used to enhance any number of magical creatures. A fact the Greek magical government was more than aware of and wanted to get to the bottom of.
"Millie, Johanna," Anna said, approaching the pair as they worked on the stone puzzle that was Gilderoy Lockhart.
"Anna," the pair said.
"Are you feeling better," Johanna asked.
"Much, thank you," Anna replied. "That form isn't particularly dangerous to enter, it's just draining," she said.
"I just can't believe I missed it," Johanna said.
"I don't think battling a Chimera is something you would want to be a part of," Millie said as Anna chuckled slightly.
"I can second that," Anna added.
"Ok fine, but Skrzak's are disgusting," Johanna said.
"Also true," Anna said. "However, it is the chimera I am here to talk to you about."
"That's your department," Johanna said looking at Millie.
"I'm afraid I don't know much," Millie said.
"You know more than you think," Anna said sitting down with them.
"I do," Millie said.
"Yes, after I transformed you told me it was filled with nothing, but hatred and rage, and my sisters told me for an instant it looked like you were connected with it," Anna said.
"I tried doing what I do when I talk to Steve, Audrey or other plants and animals, but it didn't work," Millie said.
"But surely you must have seen something," Anna pressed. "Please, anything you can remember could be very important."
Pausing Millie closed her eyes focusing on her attempt at connecting with the Chimera, the visceral scenes she witnessed coming back to her. "They were captured, tested for their strength, injected with something. The wyvern saw a tooth in the center of the lab, he feared it, more than anything, they all did. And there was someone else there," Millie said.
"Who," Anna asked.
"I don't know, it was only for an instant, but she wandered in by accident, but she….." Millie said, wincing in pain as the memories overwhelmed her.
"Millie," Johanna called out.
"It's Lavender, or at least looked like Lavender if she hit the gym hard," Millie said.
"Are you sure," Johanna said.
"No, but whoever I saw in that brief instant looked like it could be her," Millie replied.
"Either way it's a lead," Johanna said.
"That only brings up more questions," Anna said.
"Why is that," the girls asked.
"Girls, you know who that tooth belongs to and where they got it from," Anna said.
"We do," Millie said.
"Yes," Anna said. "The question I have is how did they get it? After the battle with the revived Nephelium at the dig site off Santorini, the entire place was put on lockdown and any untrustworthy members of the dig had their memories wiped and anything going in or out was searched. If any irregularities are discovered, my sisters or I conduct the investigation."
"Why are you asking us?" Johanna asked, staring at Anna. "Surely you don't think we would take something like that."
"No, I know you didn't take it," Anna said. "But I've double and triple checked the logs of everyone that entered or left the sight, and there is a problem."
"What is the problem," Johanna asked.
"A name…" Anna said.
"What name is that," Johanna asked.
"Daphne Greengrass, the only problem is Daphne Greengrass doesn't seem to exist. All I had on her is her name on the sign in sheet under yours, and a birth certificate that mysteriously vanished before I could verify it. On top of that Catherine Greengrass does not have any children, the closest I could get was a Daphne Beaumont, but even those records are vanishing. Since her name was between yours I figured she must have come with you," Anna explained.
"Daphne Greengrass, Daphne Beaumont, can't say I know anyone by those names," Johanna said.
"But I do, or at least I know for now," Millie said.
"You do, is she a student at Beaxatom's," Johanna said.
"No," Millie said. "She should be a fifth-year student at Hogwarts, though they would know her as Hermione Granger," Millie explained.
"Then shouldn't you both know her as you both spent some time there," Anna said. "And what's with the two names."
"Anna, can you give us a minute," Johanna said.
"Certainly," Anna replied, leaving the room.
Johanna placed several silencing charms around the room before facing Millie. "Millie what is going on," Johanna asked.
"You will be everything I used to be and more Hermione Jean Granger, that is what you said to her is it not," Millie said watching Johanna's jaw drop in shock.
"Then why don't I … I never thought…. " Johanna gasped.
"Your own memories would change," Millie said.
"Yes," Johanna said.
"That is the price of changing reality I guess," Millie chuckled.
"Millie, this is serious," Johanna said.
"I prefer Melissa, and so was trying to survive four years in that hell hole, and you had it way worse than I did," Millie replied.
"Right, sorry," Johanna replied.
"No worries," Millie replied.
"That still doesn't explain how you remembered and I didn't," Johanna said.
"We all took our proverbial pound of flesh that day in Monaco, I gave her my braces, and took the summer she spent traveling Europe with you. I gain some memories each night as I dream, so it has taken some time for the memories to incorporate," Millie said.
"Which means it should take about 168 days until it's complete," Johanna said.
"Yes," Millie said. "And it's been about 120 days, which means the process is incomplete."
"And why do you still remember the difference," Johanna said. "It also explains my hatred for Hermione Granger as she was the one who did all those things to me along with Pansy, and Tracy."
"Yes, she was desperate to fit in, passing herself off as Catherine Greengrass's illegitimate child," Millie said.
"Pós diáola eseís oi dýo spásate tin pragmatikótita," Anna said, barging back into the room.
"Elle l'a fait," Millie said, frantically pointing at Johanna.
"I swear I didn't mean to do it, all I did was learn how to ice skate to lose weight and saw myself as a champion figure skater when Harry showed me the Mirror of Erised. And um I kind of sort of overcame the nightmare of the mirror later in the year during a confrontation with Voldemort. So I think maybe the mirror has something to do with it because I really started changing after that," Johanna cried out waving her arms in front of her.
"I would say that you are insane, but….." Anna sighed, running a hand through her hair.
"You're a woman who can turn into the mythical gorgon, and has the power of her eyes," Millie said.
"Yes, so I know just how powerful a mirror from the age of gods can be," Anna said.
"You know about the mirror," Johanna said.
"Only by reputation, but I have seen the smoking mirror of Tezcatlipoca used to search for locations that have been hidden from the world, and the Yata no Kagami used to create a compulsion to tell the truth stronger than verasitum. Then there is the mirror from Alice and Wonderland," Anna said.
"That's just a story," Millie said.
"Tell that to the mirror sitting in the depths of the British Department of Mysteries," Anna said.
"So, what do we do," Millie asked.
"Nothing, '' Perenelle said entering the room.
"Perenelle," Johanna squeaked.
"What do you mean nothing," Anna gasped.
"I mean exactly what I said,'' Perenelle replied. "The mirror of Erised, comes from the age of gods, and it's true history has been lost to time. What I was able to uncover, is that if someone were able to beat the nightmare, they would gain the power to change the world," Perenelle explained. "I just didn't expect it to be quite so literal."
"So there is nothing we can do to stop it," Anna replied.
"And why would we want to stop it," Perenelle replied.
"Because….. Wait what!" Anna gasped in shock.
"The statute of secrecy separating the magical and non-magical has been the biggest mistake the world has made in my lifetime, and trust me both worlds have made a lot. And I think Emma and by extension Johanna is going to bring it to an end. No more hiding, no more worrying, imagine what a truly united world can do," Perenelle said. "Plus if I can't do anything about it, I don't think a direct descendent of the Gorgon could either."
"Point taken," Anna said.
"Just try not to do anything crazy," Anna said.
"Fat chance of that," Millie chuckled.
"Hey, it's not like I asked for these things to happen," Johanna said.
"A butterfly flaps its wings," Anna stated.
"And all you can do is react to the changes," Perenelle replied. "And you have been doing some good reacting."
"Speaking of reacting, that tooth likely passed from her hands into Catherine Greengrass's and then to the lab where the Chimera was made," Johanna said. "At that time she would have done anything that woman would have asked."
"And now," Anna asked.
"No clue, but I doubt she is in a position to do much of anything," Johanna said.
"Alright, then I will focus my investigation on Catherine," Anna said.
"I can help with that," Perenelle said.
"Any help would be appreciated," Anna said.
"Oh and I might need your help later," Johanna said.
"Johanna what did you do," Perenelle groaned.
"Nothing yet, but I think I found a good lead on the floating city of Laputa," she said.
Perenelle burst out laughing. "I think the Grunberg family motto should be go big or go home, you don't do anything half way do you."
"Considering that Voldemort has already found the ruins of one of the lost Alteran cities, I figured it would be best to find the others before he does," Johanna replied.
"It's underneath Hogwarts," Anna said.
"Oui," Millie replied.
"And Bookmort, and the Basilisk were sucked into a glowing yellow gem," Johanna said.
"Which means what," Anna asked.
"I don't know, I was hoping you might have the answer to that?" Johanna asked Perenelle.
"Unfortunately, ancient super wizards are not something I am very familiar with," Perenelle replied.
"Perhaps, Dumbledore knows something," Millie said.
"Unlikely, he's not half as smart or clever as he thinks he is. Gelert was always the real brains behind the operation even if he is a twisted son of bitch," Perenelle said.
"Any chance….." Johanna began to say.
"No," Perenelle said glaring at the girls. "That man has a silver tongue and can twist a person's mind through words alone."
"I can block…." Johanna said.
"At low power, plus my mystic eyes are more of a blunt force attack," Anna said. "This is a more subtle and insidious form of magic."
"Then let me do it," Victoria said entering the room. "Sorry I was practicing with the Ethereal Air palace, and accidentally overhead you."
"I thought Liz said invisible air couldn't be used for eavesdropping," Millie said.
"Well that was before she gave it to me. It turns out that you can't hold two noblesse obligues so Invisible air combined with territory creation to create a new noblesse oblige called Ethereal air palace," Victoria said.
"And that allows you to do what exactly," Johanna asked.
"Total control of the air inside of a sphere 400m in diameter," Victoria explained.
"And it's destructive power," Perenelle asked. "As it was used to form the basis for the Protestant Winds."
"The strike air series of spells and skills were lost in the merger as those focused more on large bursts of magic, while territory creation is a more subtle art. That said all of the air inside the sphere is mine to command," Victoria said, creating a whirlwind in the palm of her hand. "So it can still be rather destructive when it needs to be."
"That is going to annoy some people," Perenelle said.
"Gut, Bien," Johanna and Millie replied.
"Aren't you worried about her being defenseless," Johanna said.
"She has real friends now so it shouldn't be too bad, and she still has karma to balance," Millie explained. "But if anyone takes it too far they will be getting a visit from Steve," she said, running a hand along his belly as he lounged by the heater.
"I will follow your lead," Johanna said.
Wednesday January 3rd Bus stop Vaduz Liechtenstein
Despite Perenelle's words, Johanna was a bit concerned given that her own memories were changing and just how crazy things were getting. So to say she was having second thoughts about her little experiment would be an understatement. I mean she never considered that just trying to improve herself to end bullying would lead her to be in a position where she was against Dumbledore, Voldemort, who ever attacked her home. All she really wanted was for the bullying to stop and maybe be a world class magical figure skater. Not become the heroine of a story about changing the world.
"Johanna," Sylvia said as they walked to the bus station as Emma was still keeping a lock on magical transport in and out of the country.
"Ja," she said.
"I'm in," Sylvia said.
"No, we are all in," Elizabeth said.
"I see," Johanna said.
"We were useless last spring and we were useless this time as well," Sylvia said speaking for the group.
"And we will not be useless again," Anna said.
"Again I am sorry for what happened," Johanna said.
"It is not your fault," Sylvia said.
"But if I," Johanna said softly.
"Moron," Sylvia said, bonking her on the head. "If you hadn't done anything, Quirrelmort would have killed you. If you hadn't we would have been subject to harassment we can only dream of. If you hadn't Liz's spell could have crippled you. If you hadn't done anything, who knows how many would have been killed or petrified by the Basilisk. How many would have died at the hand of the Dementors. Not to mention Elizabeth would have been left at the mercy of her mother, where now she has a chance," Sylvia said.
"Sylvia," Johanna said looking in the determined eyes of her friend.
"You've slowly been making the world a safer, better place, so don't you dare stop now. I heard your mothers speech and I agree with her. A fully unified world at peace is a place I want to see, and one I want to help create, so don't you dare stop now. You are Johanna Grunberg, the Ice Princess of Liechtenstein, who obliterates any obstacles placed in her way, forging her own path to the future, so keep moving forward, " she said, poking Johanna in the chest.
"Geeze, tell her how you really think," Anna chuckled.
"Well, someone had to say it," Belle added.
"True, we can't have her getting all emo," Elizabeth said.
"Yeah, then she would turn into you," Sylvia quiped.
"Hey!" Elizabeth snapped as Johanna broke out into giggles before hugging the lot of them.
"Danke," Johanna said.
"No we're the ones who should be thanking you," Elizabeth said.
Johanna began to grin a devious glint in her eyes. "Oh don't thank me yet, the fun is only just getting started."
"I'm scared," Anna and Belle yelped, jumping into each other's arms.
"Voldemort has his Death Eaters, Dumbledore has his own followers, and 1 person can not fight an army, so I think it's time I start training my own," Johanna said, pulling out 4 large spiral bound books with laminated pages.
"Oh hell yeah," Elizabeth cheered, thrusting her hand in the air.
"Full disclosure Elizabeth really, really, really does not want to go back to her mother," Sylvia whispered.
"And she doesn't know what family to try and join," Anna added.
"Hey, you weren't supposed to say anything about that," Elizabeth squeaked.
"Elizabeth would make a nice sister, but it still needs to be her choice," Johanna thought, not wanting to tip the scales one way or the other this time. "Regardless of the choice you make, you have my full support."
"Thanks," Elizabeth said.
"So some light reading for the bus and train," Anna said.
"And the plane," Johanna said.
"We're taking a plane," the girls gasped.
"Yes, in light of recent events, I think muggle travel will be safer and more discrete," Johanna said. "But don't worry it's a private chartered flight."
"Isn't that really expensive," Slyvia said.
"Probably, but I've money so why not use it to keep my friends safe," Johanna replied.
"Good point," Sylvia said.
"And we can expect Dumbledore to want to talk to us when we get back," Elizabeth added.
"Probably, sadly there is not much I can do about that," Johanna sighed.
"We'll figure something out," Anna and Belle said. "And if not we'll ask the Weasley twins."
"Just don't do anything I wouldn't do," Johanna said.
"So anything except blowing up the school," Elizabeth said.
"Hey! Stop making me sound like a violent thug!" Johanna yelled, chasing after her.
"Look mommy it's the ice princess lady who saved us," a young boy said pointing at Johanna.
"You're right it is her," the boy's mother said, causing Johanna to screech to a halt in front of the bus station.
"Are you really Johanna Grunberg," someone called out.
"Yes this is the real Johanna Grunber," Anna and Belle chimed in.
"Is it true, is magic really real," several kids yelled..
"Yes, how do we know it's not a joke," a man called out.
"Remember your mom basically ended the statute of secrecy with her declaration," Sylvia whispered in her ear.
"That is true, and it's going to take live impromptu demonstrations to convince people. Now where and what to do…. It needs to be something that can't be set up in advance… or done by science and technology…." Being on the steps into the station she was able to look out over the crowd spotting a snowman in a park across the street. "Perfect!" "Now I can't make Frosty the Snowman, but I think a snow golem will suffice. Girls if you could please get me some snow and ice," Johanna said.
"Snow and ice coming up," the quartet said. Anna and Belle used levitation charms to bring over part of a nearby snow drift, allowing several people to check for wires while Sylvia knocked off a number of icicles forming on the roof directing them into the bowl of ice Elizabeth made using ice off the sidewalk.
Always one for the dramatic, Johanna did a little spin twirling her wand into the air before catching it and pointing it at the pile. "Ice make Golem," she said as the crowd gasped as the collected snow turned into a 2 meter tall, 1 meter wide humanoid figure.
"It's just smoke and mirrors!" someone from the back yelled.
"We checked for those," another person called out.
"What's so special about an ice statue? Yeah we can make those too," people began to mutter.
"Fair point, now would someone like to cover my ears," Johanna said, handing her wands to Sylvia.
"Here use this," several people said, tossing her ear warmer, a hat, and a scarf, which she used to cover her ears, and eyes.
Her head now covered, she gave another instruction. "The golem will do what you tell it to do as long as it is something it is physically capable of and it won't hurt anyone or anything it will do it," Johanna explained. "Please don't tell it to do something stupid."
Thankfully several mothers in the crowd were already tugging on the ears of the men and boys muttering and giggling about what they could make it do. Instead she found the golem dancing or lifting up children when she finally opened her eyes. "Can anyone with magic do something like this," a man asked as he approached.
"Golem creation is a mid level spell, but making one with snow is a bit harder than average," Johanna replied.
"And the gathering spells," he said looking towards the others.
"That was fairly basic," Sylvia said.
"And what about the spell you used to cover the city in ice, or the ones you used in the cathedral," a woman asked.
"Advanced," Johanna said.
"Just how advanced, you covered an entire city in ice in an instant," the man asked.
"Extremely," Johanna replied.
"Which is Johanna speak, for those spells being Johanna originals that only she can pull off," Elizabeth said.
"That is true for at least one of them," Johanna said thinking of the Ethereal Crystal prison.
"Well you have me convinced," an older woman said. "I was present in the Cathedral that night."
"I am just glad everyone is alright," Johanna said.
"Can I have your autograph," a girl said.
"Certainly," Johanna said finally onto something she was at least a little familiar with.
The Afternoon of Wednesday January 3rd Private Charter Flight over Europe
Johanna's guide to better grades and a healthier you
AKA welcome to hell brought to you by Victoria
The use of meditation and exercise to increase the growth of the magical core by Padma and Parvati Patil
The system you are about to use has been carefully designed to hit key target areas designed to increase the physical, mental, and magical growth of the individuals. It is also an all for one plan, one has to follow all of it or none of it, as missing any one part will cause the plan to fail, and the true gains to go unrealized. Which means if you slack off you just get calmer, smarter, more fit, ect and won't become the you, you are hoping to be. While they are described as steps they are not and should be done inconcert.
The first step is also probably one of the hardest to accomplish, at least at Hogwarts anyway. You need to focus on a nutrient dense macrobiotic diet, to give your body the best fuel possible for what is to come. Given that Melissa taught you to cook this really shouldn't be too much of a problem.
Step two is daily yoga and meditation using the instructions provided. It is crucial that you give it your utmost focus as it is a key part of connecting with your magic. To that end you will be casting spells while meditating with the goal of feeling your magic as it moves through you. Once you have accomplished this you will repeat the process but while not holding your wand. It took me several months to figure this out, but eventually you should be able to cycle your magic through your body without holding a wand. There are levels past this but we will show you those in person once you can cycle magic through your body. What you can do is try to discover your element, which is the element your magic is most attuned to. Those elements can be any element from any of the classical systems found around the world.
The third step is your athletic training. It can also be highly varied as any sport that has a performative aspect that requires a degree of focus and magic usage. Johanna's is figure skating, Victoria is music and modern dance. While the Patil Twins also dance using a traditional indian style, while Melissa is on the flag team. Other options include ballet, gymnastics, diving, synchronized swimming, and even certain forms of horseback riding.
Step four is focusing on your schoolwork which again seems simple, but the idea is not to just parrot back what the Professors want, but to move past what the magic does. Instead focus on the how and why a spell does what it does. This can also help in discovering your element as spells connected to your element tend to be stronger than other spells at the same level of power.
Step 5 is the most important of all the steps and can be summed up in two words: visualize and attack. What it means is to do some introspection and think not about who you are, but about who you want to be. Once you answer that question, put your whole self into becoming that person, act as if you are already who you want to be and strive for it with everything you have. Believe you are that person whole heartedly, holding nothing back, if something is not part of who you want to be, discard it, and replace it with what you want. Fair warning this is the step that can cause dramatic and irreversible changes, because once I started fully embracing and accepted the idea of being Johanna there was no turning back.
One final note, not that I need to tell you this, but being a good person seems to increase the effect insofar as we can tell. So do not be a jerk or karma will come back to bite you in the posterior if you know what I mean.
"Bloody hell there are instructions for everything in here," Elizabeth said as they read over their manuals that had everything from an in depth guide to magical yoga to dietary recommendations with recipes, to a general fitness guide, and even study methods, along with what looked like a character creation sheet to help in the visualization process.
"Agreed, and there is no time like the present," Anna said.
"What do you mean," Belle said.
"Ah yes, these are probably not the best snacks to eat," Sylvia said looking at the cookies they had picked up before getting on the train.
"Agreed," Elizabeth said.
"Meditation then," Anna said as their stomachs rumbled.
"Agreed," they said in unison.
Somewhere in Russia
"Despite the defeat, I was quite impressed with your new breed of chimera," Voldemort said as he sat across from Vladimir.
"Yes, Anna Matou is quite formidable with those mystic eyes of hers," Vladimir replied.
"True, but it took the combined efforts of all three of the Matou sisters to simply stun the creature and even then it was not complete and lasted for a few seconds at best," Voldemort said.
"Then the DNA extracted from the tooth truly is Tyhon's as only a beast with superior divinity could resist the power of mystic eyes from the age of gods," Vladimir said.
"Agreed," Voldemort replied. "Now that you have proven the concept, enhancing other creatures should be possible."
"Yes, you are indeed correct," Vladimir replied. "I have begun looking into doing more than selectively breeding cerberus."
"Yes, that would be a logical step, but why not a sphinx or dragon? I have been providing plenty of funding and resources for such an endeavor," Voldemort asked.
"Indeed your funding has been extremely beneficial, but between creating the Chimera, your body, and dealing with the government," Vladimir said.
"I thought you would have destroyed them by now," Voldemort replied.
"I was going to, but you required my only chimera….." Vladimir stated.
"Surely your control over the Russian Winter should have been more than enough to break through," Voldemort said.
"Albus Dumbledore, and Perenelle Flamel have proven rather difficult to deal with," Vladimir said.
"If that is the case then you should prepare a killing blow three days from now," Voldemort said.
"Why," Vladimir said leaning forward clasping his hands under his chin..
"Because while the Chimera failed to cause the rampant death and destruction I had hoped it did not fail in causing massive disruptions," Voldemort said.
"What sort of disruptions, there has been little news out of Lichtenstein since the attack," Vladimir said.
"Yes, that is the ICW trying to prevent the fact that the non magical population of Vaduz saw the imps, and saw Johanna Grunberg, Fleur Delacour, Parvati Patil, and Harry Potter destroy the attacking horde. It was one of the largest breeches of the statute on record, and Emma Grunberg cast an anti apparition and portkey ward around the country," Voldemort explained.
"They are not going to take that sitting down," Vladimir said.
"No but with her ward and the backing of the Perenelle, the Matou's and several others she has prevented them from acting," Voldemort said. "Which has led to a full conclave being called in a few days time. At which point they will be indisposed."
"Yes, that could work," Vladimir said, stroking his beard.
Saturday January 6th Geneva Switzerland
The easiest way to describe the International Confederation of Wizards would be to call it the magical United Nations, but even that would be a gross understatement. The confederation was founded in the wake of the 100 years war, and further solidified during the age of discovery. However it's first major act was to enact the statute of secrecy to deal with the great fire of London and the Salem witch trials. Given the magical world generally being 100 to 200 years behind their non magical counterparts the confederation was only made of 44 member states as a majority of the Magical European governments maintained their colonial empires. The notable exception being the magical United States breaking away like their muggle counterpart. Thus 31 of the 43 were European, 10 from Asia, 2 from Africa, and 1 from all of the Americas. To make matters worse Dumbldore could reliably count on 11 countries to vote for him while Emma could only count on 5 as she walked into the building.
"Karl, are you sure I should be the one doing this," Emma asked.
"I think it's about time someone shook things up around here and I can think of no one better," Karl replied.
"But, I've never done something like this before," Emma stammered.
"True, but you will not be alone in there," Maggie said.
"Maggie, what are you doing here," Emma exclaimed.
"Monaco thought it would be a good idea to send me as their representative," Maggie replied.
"And you have the backing of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria," their ambassadors said.
"But that's not the biggest surprise," Appoline said, approaching with none other than the pope on her arm.
Emma along with everyone else's jaws dropped in amazement. "Appoline, is that the pope, I mean the actual pope," Emma said softly pointing at the older man.
"Yes, Mrs. Grunberg I am actually the pope, and I am really here," Pope John Paul the second chuckled. "And it is a pleasure to meet you."
"Your Holiness, the pleasure is all mine," Emma said gently, shaking the offered hand.
"But how, why, the church….." Maggie muttered.
"You can thank Fleur for that," Appoline said.
Emma breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness it's not my daughters for once." Which caused everyone to laugh.
"Mrs. Delacour, what is the meaning of this," Dumbledore said as she took a seat that had never been used.
"Supreme Mugwump, it was my understanding that each member was allowed to bring an advisor," Appolline replied.
"That is true, but that seat has…" Dumbledore replied.
The pope coughed, drawing the attention away from Appoline. "While it is true that the Holy See has never used the seat granted to it as an observer to the International Confederation of Wizards, the times have changed," he said. "And a new Papal Bull has overruled the previous one declaring those with magic as bearing the mark of cain. The lord works in mysterious ways, and he has given us intelligence and free will. As such we are free to use his gifts for good or evil. I see magic as no different than science, it is but a tool for everyone to use," he said.
"What about the many violent beasts that terrorize humanity," the Bulgarian ambassador stated.
"Define violent beasts," the pope replied.
"The Veela sitting next to you, how do we know you are not under the sway of her allure," another man said.
"I took a vow of celibacy to serve the lord and I have kept that vow for decades so while yes Mrs. Delacour is a very beautiful woman her charms mean nothing to me. Not to mention I take a very dim view of people who look down on the suffering of others. I didn't stand for it from the Communists and I certainly will not stand for it now," he said glaring at the man.
"That just got us the support of Poland, and the Baltic States," Karl whispered to Emma.
"Thank you for your acceptance, your Holiness," Dumbledore said, nodding his head. "Now the main order of business is Emma Grunberg, and her illegal portkey and apparition barrier which is preventing the taskforce from enforcing the statute of secrecy. For now we have been fortunate as the muggle media has not reported on magical incidents, but I fear our time to contain the breach is running short. I do not need to remind the chamber of the horrors of the Witch Trials, inquisitions, and other such atrocities that have been committed against wizard kind over the centuries. There is a good reason the worlds are kept separate as they are like oil and vinegar never able to mix together." Dumbledore said keeping his face passive and solem despite relishing the looks of acceptance from many of the members.
"I would be remiss if I did not mention that oil and vinegar do actually mix and can create a light and refreshing salad dressing with the right herbs and spices," Maggie said.
"And your point is," the Italian ambassador Alesandor Ricci said.
"My point you overgrown manchild, is that just like mixing oil and vinegar together can make something wonderful, so too could mixing the magical and non magical worlds," Maggie said which got a few smiles, and looks of appreciation.
"Order," Dumbledore said, firing off a boom from his wand.
"We are not here to discuss hypotheticals, but to discuss the actual problem facing us, starting with an illegal ward placed by Emma Grunberg to cut Lichtenstein off from the rest of the world," Dumbledore said, locking his eyes on Emma who met and returned his gaze.
"Let me handle this one," Karl said, placing a hand on her arm. "The ward was not illegally placed as Emma Grunberg is a citizen of Liechtenstein, and the minister of Finance as well an ambassador at large. As I was incapacited by the banshees during the attack and as the highest ranking official present she has taken over leadership of Liechtenstein until such time as I have fully recovered. Also my homeland was attacked by a coven of banshees, a horde of imps, and a chimera, these are events that do not happen at random. We were targeted, so it made sense to ward the country to prevent a follow up attack. Now excuse me, my injuries are acting up," he said before leaving.
"So you are fine with another outsider dictating to your country," the ambassador to Luxembourg, said.
"Are you questioning my citizenship," Emma said glaring at the man.
"Yes," the man said.
"How dare you," the Austrian ambassador roared, slamming his fists on his desk as he stood glaring at the man.
"Emma Grunberg's roots in Lichtenstein and the German speaking world are as wide as they are deep. How dare you in pune her honor and lineage," the ambassador said.
"Insulting questions about my citizenship aside, is it wrong for a country to take action to protect its citizens," Emma said looking over the assembled diplomats. "If your country was invaded what would you do? Would you do as the Supreme Mugwump suggested and evacuate those that could sacrifice the rest, which includes a city of 5 thousand innocents," Emma said glaring at a surprised Dumbledore. "Don't act so surprised Dumbledore, Mina told me everything, you bastard. I stood by while you allowed my daughters to be bullied, well not this time. This time I can damn well do something about it." "Five thousand people who have kept the secret despite witnessing magic."
"That is only because we've had your country on lockdown," the Egyptian ambassador said.
To this Emma threw her head back and laughed. "There is more to traveling than trains, automobiles, apparition, portkeys, and brooms." "Daily helicopter flights, walking, not to mention the dwarves and fairies helped." She thought.
"Why would they keep the secret, surely discovering magic is quite the shock to their world view," the Persian ambassador asked.
"Because those who can use magic are their family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and fellow citizens. They are the same people, they've always known. It's no different than discovering your neighbor knows how to paint, play the piano, or fix an engine," Emma said.
"I am afraid that is a rather simple minded view of the world," Dumbledore said.
"I have a double doctorate in Economics and Public Health, and my masters thesis was on hard light magic so I find being called simply minded rather insulting," Emma shot back.
"Don't mistake intelligence for wisdom Mrs. Grunberg," Dumbledore said.
"I'm not," Emma replied. "I just have more faith in humanity, and hope for the future than you do," she said with a smirk before sitting down as the chamber erupted in whispers.
"Order, order," Dumbledore called out, quieting the chamber.
"Head Mugwump, I suggest a short recess to discuss our options before voting on censuring or leveling sanctions on Lichtenstein," the Egyptain Ambassador said.
Dumbledore nodded. "All in favor," he said, watching a majority of the wands rise into the air. "All opposed." This time only a few wands rose into the air.
"The motion passes," Dumbledore said, allowing the chamber to disperse.
"Well that was unexpected," Perenelle said.
"Perenelle I didn't see you in there," Emma said.
"I try to keep a low profile, but as the oldest human on the planet I also have observer status," she said. "And I'm here in case the little whizzer tries anything."
"Thanks," Emma said.
"And keep up the good work, you've got him rattled," Perenelle said.
"I do," Emma replied.
"The Egyptian's are in his pocket, and Dumbledore doesn't like calling for votes he doesn't already know the outcome of," Perenelle explained.
"Which means he doesn't have 23 votes," Emma said.
"You've got some politicking to do," Pernelle said before heading towards Dumbledore.
"Don't worry, I'll see what I can do to bring the rest of Scandinavia to your side," a middle aged man with brushed blond hair in an expensive suit said.
"Uncle Marisbury, thank you," Emma said.
"Anything for the family," the man replied. "Plus I owe you one, your laser pointer spell allowed Olga to take our mark further than I ever thought possible," he said.
"Please Olga did all the hard work all I did was give her a better tool," Emma replied.
"You always sell yourself too short," Marisbury laughed before walking away.
"Maggie, do you have any read on the French," Emma asked.
"I think they will abstain or vote against Dumbledore. They are no fans of Dumbledore, but they are not fans of your push to decolonize the magical world. And that goes for the Dutch and Spanish as well," Maggie said. "I'll see what I can do about some of the other microstates."
"Thanks, but I think it's time to get down to politicking," Emma said as several ambassadors passed by.
"Excuse me Mr. Yusef, Mr. Amir," Emma called out to the Turkish and Iranian ambassadors.
"What can I do for you Mrs. Grunberg," the ambassador to Turkey asked.
"I am rather new to the whole horse trading that is international politics but I am curious as to your thoughts on my response to the recent situation," Emma asked.
"Indeed you do not know much about international relations,'' the Persian ambassador chuckled. "But that is what makes you much more dangerous."
"I would hardly consider myself dangerous," Emma replied with a slight chuckle.
"Indeed," the man said. "Now I will answer your question with a question. What are your thoughts on the Kurdish question?"
Emma cocked an eyebrow at the question. "Now that is an interesting one, I feel that anyone has the right to defend themselves, but that defense should be proportional to the insult. I wouldn't go asking Anna Matou to turn full gorgon for a rabid dog," she replied, catching their full attention. "That said, I think all people have the right to self determination, now this could mean revisiting the Sykes–Picot Agreement where all people involved are represented, or tweaking the existing structure to something like the United States that would give the Kurdish people the autonomy they wish for while keeping the country together. Of course these are radical ideas from an outsider with little knowledge of the people or the region. So if I am wrong please enlighten me, but be warned I would also talk to the Kurds as well."
The men chuckled. "Indeed you are a rare gem Mrs. Grunberg, your open mindedness and straightforward manner is a breath of fresh air," the Turkish ambassador said.
"And it would be a shame to see that air snuffed out so soon," the Iranian ambassador said.
Monday January 8th
The Quibbler
The Real Albus Dumbledore by Xeno Lovegood
Many articles have been written about the destructive and ultimately failed invasion of Lichtenstein by a host of magical beasts. Many of you have also read about the heroic actions taken that night, but what you haven't read about is that Albus to many titles Dumbledore was present and did not lift his wand to help. I do not write these words lightly and I have eye witness proof of what you are about to hear from multiple sources including Mina Harker who recently changed her citizenship from Britain to Lichtenstein and works in the Lichtenstein ministry of Magic, Fate Testarossa the headmistress of Saint Hidle's Academy of Magic, and Perenelle Flamel. So yes, the man who defeated Gellert Grindelwald in single combat hastening the end of the second magical world war did not cast a single spell during the battle. This might be forgivable given that no one really knows exactly what Dumbledore spells are capable of, and there might have been a risk to innocent bystanders. However I am fairly confident this is not the case given that he was heard saying that it would have been better to let the banshee, imps, and chimera run free slaughtering everyone at the festival and in the rest of the country. Yes, the great Albus Dumbledore said that up to 30,000 people should have been sacrificed to maintain the statute of secrecy. Yes, I understand how important it is, but nothing is worth the lives of thirty thousand people. So the question must be asked, is Albus Dumbledore truly the leader of the light he proclaims to be. I for one do not think so, given that he would so easily sacrifice 30,000 people.
"Hot dam Luna, your dad didn't pull any punches," Elizabeth said after putting the newspaper down.
"Daddy is a very good journalist when he isn't looking for cryptids," Luna replied.
"And you're not worried about it," Sylvia said, nodding towards Dumbledore.
"I would be lying if I said no, but it seems the staff is a bit divided at the moment, plus I have friends now," Luna said. "Don't forget me kiddo."
"Darn right you do," Anna and Belle replied.
Leprechaun Times
Lichtenstein Censured by Brian Murphy
In a surprising turn of events Lichtenstein avoided the expected magical lockdown leading to a full trade and travel embargo until the supposed breach in the statute of secrecy was remedied. I say supposed because there is little evidence that there even was a breach in the statute as the non-magical world has remained unaware of magic at the time of writing. The 23 to 21 vote came as quite the surprise as the Scandanavian countries long supporters of Britain voted instead to support Lichtenstein, as did Poland and the Baltic states. Perhaps the biggest surprise were the perpetual fence sitters Turkey, Iran, and Mongolia voting in support of Liechtenstein. One has to wonder what this means for Egypt in the future. Despite this the ICW did vote to censure Lichtenstein warning them that any further potential breeches would lead to a vote of no confidence in their government and dissolution of magical Lichtenstein into Switzerland or Austria. When asked for a response to the ICW vote, Emma Grunberg said the following. "I will not be bullied into not defending all of my country's citizens, and to whoever orchestrated this attack you will be found and will be brought to justice." There you have it, Emma Grunberg has no intention of stepping down or slowing down in protecting her people or charitable endeavors.
Japan, Finland, seek return of the Kuril Islands and Karelia
Copenhagen Mermaid
Second Russia Revolution by Carly Anderson
Despite the best efforts of the Russian government the last bastions of the Russian Federation fell under an overwhelming assault in harsh weather conditions. It is unclear what this successor government will be, at this time, but for now the country has been placed on lockdown by the ICW and they are watching the situation closely. Frankly the situation brings more questions than answers as it was a combined magical and muggle insurrection, with muggle forces attacking under the cover of winter storms generated by magic. Like Lichtenstein, official observers have not been able to enter the country in months yet there have been reported breaches in the statute of secrecy. What little is known is that the magical storms were generated by the feared Empress of the Ice and Snow otherwise known as General Winter. A skill that was the imperial privilege of the Romanov Dynasty that was thought lost in the Bloody Russian Revolution of 1917. Perhaps Annastasia did indeed survive, or perhaps some other long lost branch of the family survived and is making a bid to return to power. If true this would be a boon to traditionalists across Europe. However the biggest question on everyone's mind is the state of the government in exile that Vladimir Putin the First Deputy Chairman of Saint Petersburg is trying to form in Kaliningrad. As expected of a former member of the KGB, he has knowledge of magic and has proved that by asking this very reporter how to get in touch with the Matou, Grunberg, and Flamel families.
"When hell freezes over," Dan said, putting the newspaper down.
"So the next time, Johanna uses magic," Emma chuckled.
"As much as I would like to see it, I'll deal with that jerk myself," Dan said.
"I take it you've met this Mr. Putin before," Emma said.
"He used to run a KGB station in East Germany before the wall came down," Dan explained. "And he didn't ask for help or support for the people, but for specific individuals or families known for their strength. He doesn't want stability and international recognition but a counter attack. With the bulk of the Russian navy now in Kaliningrad he most likely plans to use your Panzershild spell to shield his troops for an invasion of Saint Petersburg."
"What if he is reaching out for humanitarian help, as I do have a hand in that," Emma asked.
"That is true, but it wouldn't explain the rumors an American buddy of mine passed along about a massive troop build up in Kaliningrad. Additionally that might explain you and Pernelle, but the Matou family, they tend to keep a low profile and the only reason someone wants their help is he wants their powers or DNA." Dan explained.
"I see your point. It's just sad that that would be the first thing he would think of," Emma sighed.
Mid January Hogwarts
Despite Dumbledore's and the staff's best effort the news of recent events spread like wildfire, and being that he had been at ground zero for the attack everyone wanted to talk to Harry. As if to make matters worse the pictures and video of Millie and Johanna were starting to raise questions about the events of the past few years. Questions that were just giving him a splitting headache.
"Will you shut up," Harry groaned, rubbing his temples as it felt like a pair of jackhammers going off in his head.
"Does my lesson bother you," Professor Fitwick said, his harsh eyes locked on Harry.
"No sir, I just have a headache," Harry said softly as the class snickered.
"Fine, go see Madame Pomfrey, but I expect you to complete the day's work for tomorrow," he said pointing to the door.
"Yes, sir," he said slowly walking out of the room.
"Stupid, headache, it feels like my skull is going to split in two," Harry said slowly walking along before stopping about halfway to the nurses office sitting down on a rarely used staircase waiting for his headache to subside.
"Stupid, Tracy, stupid Pansy, stupid Vainsley," Hermione hissed limping down the hallway in a discheveled maid outfit. "Why is this…... Owe…" Hermione groaned as she smashed into the floor at the foot of the stairs.
"Oh it's you," Harry said looking at Hermione spread eagle at the foot of the stairs.
"Great Potter," Hermione sighed. "Are you going to hex me too?"
"I should," Harry sighed. "But I'm not in the mood to deal with you right now," he said standing up.
"What the hell did I ever do to you," Hermione groaned.
"Stop with the pathetic act, you know damn well that you lied to me, tried to trick me," Harry snapped. "And what the hell was up with the whole dancing stunt to try and take me away from Ginny."
"What the bloody hell are you talking about!" Hermione yelled. "When did I lie to you and what dancing stunt, I've never danced with anyone, and I was in the castle the entire break," she shot back.
"She's not the same girl you idiot," the female voice yelled.
"Yes, she is," the male voice sneered.
His headache now back all he could do was sit back down on the stairs. "Ugh, I don't understand why you continue with this farcical masquerade," Harry said. "We all know you're really Johanna."
"I'm not her," Hermione said, stomping her foot. "I bloody hell wish I was, but I'm not." "I'm just a fat loser who picked the wrong friends."
"Prove it," Harry replied.
"And just how the bloody hell am I supposed to do that," Hermione yelled.
"Ask her to cast a healing spell," the female voice in Harry's head said.
Harry winced in pain grabbing his head. "Look if you really are Johanna, then cast a healing spell on me," he groaned.
"What is that going to do?" Hermione said.
"Just shut up and do it," Harry said.
"Alright already, I'm working on it," Hermione said, fumbling with her wand. "Episky," she said, firing a weak spell at him.
Harry waited for his headache to subside, but it never did despite the weak healing spell. "It didn't work." He muttered.
"I could have told you that," Ron said walking up the hallway. "Hermione is useless."
"I am not useless," Hermione grumbled.
"Are you feeling any better?" Ron asked.
"A little," Harry said slowly, standing up.
"No thanks to the liar," Ron said.
"I'm not so sure about that," Harry thought as he walked away. "So what did the loser want this time anyway?"
"Nothing," Harry replied.
Ron looked surprised. "That just means the snake is up to something," Ron said.
"I don't think she is," Harry said as Hermione's voice echoed down the hallway as she tripped and fell again.
"Oh come on she nearly got me killed at that stupid wedding party," Ron said.
"I was there to remember," Harry said.
"Yeah but you stopped the imp attack," Ron said.
"No I didn't," Harry replied.
"That's not what," Ron began to say.
"Ron," he said, grabbing him by the shoulders. "I was there and all I did was shoot a few flare arrows. Johanna….."
"You mean Hermione," Ron said.
"Whatever," Harry sighed. "Look, all I am saying is that Johanna/Hermione or whoever she is, used ice magic that I've yet to find in any book to protect the city and kill the imps. And anyone saying otherwise is a liar," he said as the bell rang. "Come on, let's get to class."