Chapter 55- Tracy ascendent
March 1996
Friday March 1st Hogwarts
"Took you long enough," Tracy thought as Vainsley and Lev cornered her in an empty dungeon corridor. "What can I do for you, Vainsley, Lev?" she said.
"Cut the crap, Liz was mine," Vainsley growled.
"Yes, I do remember our agreement," she said, examining her nails.
"Then what the hell did you do," Vainsley growled.
"A situation occurred and I had to defend myself. "Taking down Liz was simply an unfortunate side effect," Tracy said, twirling a lock of hair around her finger.
"That was supposed to be me. Do you have any idea how long I've waited to take her down," Vainsley growled.
"8 years give or take, that's pretty sad considering it only took Johanna 4 years to deal with Hermione," Tracy said, discreetly slipping her wand into her hand as she turned to the side and pulled hair up. "How do you think it would look if I put my hair up?"
"I do not have to take this from a mere baronet," Vainsley growled, drawing her wand.
"Pulling rank on me," Tracy said, turning her head to look Vainsley in the eye.
"No, just a simple statement of fact," Vainsley said.
"Oh really," Tracy said, narrowing her eyes at Vainsley. "I'm thinking a braided bun could be nice."
"Enough!" Vainsley yelled. "Aries," she growled, thrusting her wand forward.
"Battering ram charm." In one motion Tracy dropped her hair wand at the ready, turning to the side. "Protego maxima," she said softly, angling her defensive shield against the battering ram, bouncing it to the side before her shield fractured. "I accept your challenge, Vainsley."
"She blocked a point blank Aries with just a protego." "I never said it was going to be a challenge," Vainsley boasted.
"You're right it won't be," Tracy said, her eyes flashing gold in the low light of the dungeon. "Sagitta duplex excandescunt," she said with a slash of her wand twin lances of flame slamming into Vainsley's shield forcing her back.
"She has some skill and power." Vainsley slid back from the force of the spells despite the solid block. "So you accept your place," Vainsley replied.
"As the big sister of Syltherin, of course I do," Tracy said.
Vainsley sneered holding her wand arm out while pulling her other arm back as if she was holding an arrow. Glowing strands of magic formed a bow while a bolt of magic formed in her hand. "When hell freezes over, Polybolos, dodge this," Vainsley said, letting the first bolt fly.
"Mana burst," Tracy thought, pulsing magic through her legs empowering them dancing to the side. The magical bolt missed by inches before plowing into the wall. "Polybolos, a siege engine spell focused on piercing fortifications, but slow." Tracy continued to dance around the remaining 10 bolts as Vainsley continued to fire, missing by inches as Tracy weaved around them.
"Stand still god dammit," Vainsley growled.
"You're as blind as Hermione," Tracy chuckled. "Mana burst," "Bullet excandescunt, verberare," Tracy said with a wave of her wand a barrage of dark red bullets slamming into Vainsley's shield littering it with small cracks. "Void step."
"What!, elemental bullets can't shatter a shield" Vainsley thought as her shield shattered into slivers of flickering magic. "I'll show you blind, thunder arrow," Vainsley yelled, firing a bolt of lightning through the shattered remains of her shield.
"Predictable," Tracy remarked, watching as the lighting splashed harmlessly against the wall from the other side of the room, casually tapping her foot against the wall.
"I'll show you predictable," Vainsley growled. "Corpora ictu verberare," Vainsley yelled, launching a flurry of mid level bludgeon charms.
"Time to test it's defensive power." "Mana burst!" Tracy exclaimed, flaring her magic until a faint corona of dark red almost black flames formed around her. The first spell crashed through the flames before fizzling out as Tracy slowly walked forward. The second was no better than the first punching through the flames but doing little more than ruffling Tracy's clothes. She actually felt the third spell knocking her shoulder back slightly as she pushed onward her flames diminishing with each spell. As her flames died out she felt more and more of each spell, light taps becoming punches, before feeling like she'd taken a hit from a bludger. "Vincent and Gregory hit harder than this, she didn't try an elemental spell so I'm not sure how effective mana burst is on those."
"Why won't you go down," Vainsley screamed as Tracy pushed through her barrage.
"Pathetic," Tracy sighed before performing a roundhouse kick to Vainsley's hand and arm sending her wand clattering against the wall. A followup leg sweep knocked her off her feet.
"Lev," Vainsley cried out as she frantically scooted away from Tracy until her back was against the wall.
"It seems I am otherwise indisposed at the moment," Lev said, his teeth chattering as Ereshkigal sat on his shoulder filling his whole body with the icy grip of death.
"Thank you, Ereshkigal," Tracy said, nodding to the doll.
"Who are you, and what have you done with Tracy," Vainsley stammered looking up at Tracy with fear filled eyes.
"Who am I," Tracy said looking down at Vainsley. "For now you may call me Tracy Davis, the new Big Sister and ruler of Syltherin," Tracy said. "Now are you going to have a problem with that," Tracy said.
"But you are just a baronet," Vainsley said.
"For now, and despite you being a baroness, you failed to unlock your element, or utilize your noblesse oblige, if you even have one that is," Tracy said.
"I have a noblesse oblige," Vainsley snapped. "But it's useless."
"Oh, and what is it," Tracy said.
"Like I would tell you," Vainsley said.
Tracy kneeled down, her yellow eyes glowing in the lowlight. "I think you are forgetting who you are talking to," she said, grabbing Vainsley by the collar and lifting her up. "Now what is your noblesse oblige?"
"Celeri verba," Vainsley said.
"Where did this girl get rapid words of the divine," Ereshkigal said mentally to Tracy.
"What is it," Tracy asked.
"It is a skill that allows the caster to say a shorthand version of spells," Ereshkigal replied.
"So it allows for faster incantations," Tracy said.
"Yes," Ereshkigal said.
"Rapid words," Tracy said looking straight into Vainsley's eyes.
"Yes," Vainsley said. "All it lets me do is talk really fast."
"And you didn't use it to fire spells at a faster rate, or boost the power of your spells," Tracy said.
"It can do that," Vainsley gasped.
"It can do many things, but you haven't earned that right," Tracy said.
"I am a baroness, I have every right," Vainsley said before Tracy suddenly threw her into the wall releasing a cry of pain on impact.
"You haven't earned a thing," Tracy growled.
"Temper, temper," Ereshkigal whispered in the back of Tracy's head.
"But that is not your fault," Tracy sighed, doing her best to soften the harsh look on her face.
"It is the fault of Hogwarts, and society for not upholding the values that made us great," Tracy said. "If you like, I can help you unlock the secrets of Rapid words, and show you what it means to be a great mage," Tracy said, extending a hand.
"Greater than Liz," Vainsley said.
"Of course," Tracy said.
"Deal," Vainsley said, taking Tracy's hand.
"It will be a pleasure working with you, Vainsley," Tracy said, helping her up.
Saturday March 2nd Buckingham Palace
It is not everyday someone meets the queen, but this was not Dumbledore's first rodeo so to speak as he had met several past member of the family and even assisted in covering up that nasty business with Edward VIII and the NAZI's, which was far more than the public especially the muggle public was led to believe. So while he had delayed and angered Queen Elizabeth he still felt in control of the meeting, or at least it was until the doors opened. There, kneeling next to the queen was Mathew Krylieght with his massive shield planted on the ground next to him. A faint shimmer in the air creating a dome around him and the queen. "Oh bugger."
"Professor Dumbledore, how nice of you to finally answer my summons, a summons I sent 9 weeks ago," the queen spoke, her voice soft, but firm, with a look of fiery displeasure in her eyes.
"My apologies to your highness but there were extenuating circumstances…..." Dumbledore said.
"Yes, the fallout from the Lichtenstein incident, and your attempts to censure a close friend of the family," the queen said.
"There are international laws for a reason, your majesty," Dumbledore said.
"And you are not the judge and jury," the queen said. "Yes, Lichtenstein changed things, and your world has certain rules, foolish as they may be for an outdated reason."
"I am glad you understand your majesty, these are difficult times," Dumbledore replied.
"I do not like being interrupted, Professor," the queen replied glaring at him.
"My apologies, your majesty, it will not happen again," Dumbledore said.
"See that it doesn't. Now as I was saying the magical government of Great Britain has created a Byzantine mess of laws and it has yet to be determined if your government signed the various treaties and documents that led to our current system of government. What I do know is that at least culturally I am more significant in the day-to-day operation of the magical world than the non-magical one," she explained.
"She wouldn't, that would throw society into chaos," Dumbledore thought.
"And that scares you doesn't it," she said, folding her hands.
"Impossible, the family hasn't had magic since…..." Dumbledore thought.
"Don't act so surprised Dumbledore, while the family has relied on the Royal Wizard as their liaison to the magical world, that is not our only source of magical knowledge," the Queen said. "And you can calm yourself. I have no desire to throw society into unnecessary chaos. If I had I would have allowed my sister to be with the one she loved. I digress, because out of everything I have learned, and all the issues that I have with you right now Professor, it is the fact that you had the audacity to declare the Grunberg children bastards and tried to make them wards of the school. To that I end I have written and enacted a proclamation declaring Victoria, Johanna, and Cornelia the daughters of Dan and Emma Grunberg. You have one chance to explain yourself and you better hope I like your answer"
"Your majesty, there are questions surrounding their birth and given their power and ability I feel it is best to take them in to ensure they have the proper guidance," Dumbledore said.
"And your guidance is more appropriate than that of their parents," the Queen replied.
"In light of the Lichtenstein situation and how dangerously close the Statute of Secrecy is to breaking, yes. Surely you must understand that…"
"It should come down yes, I do," the Queen said. "A house divided against itself can not stand. While it is not quite the same situation Abraham Lincon faced, I feel the situation is much the same."
"You would have millions slaughtered when it could simply be avoided," Dumbledore said.
"Who said it has to be a bloody revolution, I will not sacrifice a family for your distorted view of utilitarianism and your so-called greater good ," the queen said.
"Your majesty as the Royal Wizard…" Dumbledore said.
"Yes, about that, it seems your services will no longer be necessary, Albus Dumbledore the man with too many titles," the queen said.
"Your majesty I strenuously object," Dumbledore protested.
"Your objection is noted, but my decision stands. We are at a fundamental impasse over the future of Great Britain, and the world. I refuse to work with those who I do not trust or feel hold the best interest of the country at heart, so consider yourself dismissed from your position effective immediately," the queen said.
"Your majesty, might I ask who my replacement might be," Dumbledore said. "I may have lost my direct access, but there is still a chance."
"I thought my choice was obvious," the queen said, reaching out and placing a hand on Mathew's shoulder.
"But he's just a boy," Dumbledore gasped.
"Sir Mathew Krylieght is 18 and through his actions in Lichtenstein he has proven himself more than worthy of holding the position as the Royal Wizard," the queen said. "Or is your real objection that he is quite resistant to certain spells wizards like yourself like to use," the queen added with a smile. "Guards see Professor Dumbledore out," she said with a wave of her hand.
"Thank you Mr. Krylieght," the queen said after the doors closed.
"It is my pleasure, your majesty," Mathew said.
"Now, I must know did Johanna really blow up a castle," the queen asked.
"Castle no, bathroom yes," he replied as the queen called for another chair. "Though she did end up making it shake down to it's foundation.
"Good heavens! What possessed her to do that," the Queen asked.
"The shadow of a ghost and a giant snake monster kidnapped her friend and tried to kill her," Mathew replied.
"Oh my," the queen gasped.
"Yes, it's best not to anger Johanna as she has quite the blast radius," Mathew chuckled.
"And power it seems," the queen said. "Now can most magicals perform such feats?"
"Magic can be quite powerful, but the number of people who can channel power like that is somewhat limited," Mathew said.
"From what my family has told me Johanna and Victoria make it look easy," the queen said.
"Are you a fan of sports, your majesty," Mathew asked.
"I have been known to watch a game or two," the queen replied.
"Then you are well aware that the best make it look easy," Mathew said.
"Yes, you do have a good point," the queen said. "Now do magicals specialize in a type of magic or can they do all types equally?"
"They specialize, and some develop their own personal style," Mathew said. "When personal spells start coming out that is how you know they are getting serious."
"Really," The queen asked.
"Yes, when the gems come out or Johanna starts drawing runes it is time to duck and cover," Mathew said.
"And her second wand," the queen asked.
"That's something that only Johanna and possibly one other can do," Mathew said. "And of all the knowledge the magical world has hid from the rest of the world it is the one that could cause the most upheaval."
"And that is," the queen asked.
"Magical energy can be divided into three categories, mana or the standard magical energy most living things generate. Aether or the magic of nature that permeates the planet, which I think inspired the force in Star Wars. Funny thing a lot of stories were inspired by….."
"Mr. Krylieght, please stay on the topic," the queen said.
"Yes, my apologies, the final type is celestial mana," Mathew said.
"As in the magic of the stars," the queen said.
"No it is the magic of the divine," Mathew said.
"As in God," the queen asked.
"That I do not know, I only know that it exists and that two individuals have it," the queen said.
"One being Johanna and the other being?" the queen said.
"I have my suspicions but only the Grunbergs, Patils, and their close friends know for sure," Mathew said.
"Is this person in danger," the queen asked.
"Potentially," Mathew said.
"From who?" the queen asked.
"Dumbledore and his greater good, or a madman named Voldemort who refuses to stay dead," Mathew said.
"Then as my knight and wizard you are to return to Hogwarts and continue to protect those who can not protect themselves," the queen said.
"Yes, your majesty, but I do have one question," Mathew asked.
"And that is," the queen asked.
"What is mana defense, and why do I suddenly have it," Mathew asked.
"I haven't the foggiest idea, is this going to be a problem," the queen said.
"Probably not, but I think by knighting me you just gave me a special skill known as a Noblesse Oblige, or at the least unlocked it," Mathew said.
"What does it do," the queen asked.
"I suspect it will increase the ability of my defensive spells," Mathew said.
"Marvelous, shall we test it," the queen said.
"Sure," Mathew said.
Section Break
"How was your meeting with the queen," Snape asked.
"She has removed me as the royal wizard and replaced me with Mathew Krylieght who now has mana defense on account of being knighted," Dumbledore explained.
"That is a problem, mana defense was the ultimate defensive skill of the Shield Knight Galahad," Snape said.
"Indeed, but he also revealed that Johanna Grunberg possesses Celestial mana and that there is one other who has it," Dumbledore said.
"Did he say who," Snape asked.
"No, but I know it is a student in the castle," Dumbledore replied.
"How," Snape pressed.
"He mentioned that the student was still in danger from me and Voldemort, which leads me to believe that this person must be a student, who also is a friend of Johanna," Dumbledore replied.
"How did you discover this information," Snape asked.
"Mathew Krylieght's skill is in defensive spells not detecting listening charms," Dumbledore replied.
Sunday March 10th Unplottable location in the Austrian Alps
Nurmengard Castle, once the base of Gellert Grindelwald's operations and now his prison, was located high in the Alps in what was probably once a picturesque location. However such beauty was long gone, dark foreboding clouds blotted out the sun choking out the meager plant life that could live in such a corrupted place. Victoria grimaced, stumbling slightly as they entered the valley proper, a twisted sense of wrongness washing over her.
"Are you alright," Dan said, placing a hand on her daughter's shoulder.
"Yes, I just didn't expect this place to feel so wrong," Victoria said.
"That is Gelert's doing; he along with Dumbledore did many experiments into the nature of magic in their younger days," Pernelle replied.
"What sort of experiments," Dan asked.
"You've read the working paper by Fleur and Melissa," Pernelle said.
"Yes, they are offering an alternative to the standard system of magical elements," Dan said. "I found their discussion of combining the basic elements of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water to make the other elements found in classical systems intriguing."
"As was her theory for additional elements like magma, and plasma plus an explanation for lightning," Victoria chimed in.
"But there were two missing from that paper," Pernelle said. "Two that even Nicholas and I are not sure truly existed in a magical sense.
"Light, and darkness," Dan said.
"Yes, your wife's shield surprised even me, for that wasn't a shield spell but actual light given shape and form," Pernelle said as they made the long walk towards the castle.
"Then Dad's sword feels more like a void, not this darkness," Victoria said.
"Victoria, you are forgetting that while the void is a classical element in some systems, thoughts, feelings and emotions play a role in magic, and what does darkness symbolize," Dan said.
"Fear, death, evil," Victoria replied as the castle gate loomed large in front of them
"Why," Dan said.
"For all my knowledge that is something I do not have the answer to," Pernelle said.
"For the greater good," Victoria read as they passed under the gate.
"He knows we're here," Pernelle said looking up to a face in a window high in the castle.
"Ethereal Air Palace, Gentle wind of blessing," Victoria said, releasing a pulse of magic, a soft wind swirling around them blowing away the taint of the castle creating a bubble of clear air forming around them.
"A spatial enchantment spell, I'm impressed," Pernelle said.
"Yes, as long as you remain inside this space you will be protected," Victoria said.
"She gets that from her mother," Dan said ruffling Victoria's hair.
"Come even with your protection I do not want to linger here for long," Pernelle said.
"Agreed," Dan said. "I can feel the whispers of the dead even now."
"I didn't know…" Victoria gasped, hugging her father.
"It's a part of being connected to the void. Just like your sister doesn't feel the cold, and you can hear the voice of the wind, I can sometimes feel the lingering sense of death," Dan said.
"But why," Victoria asked.
"Ash to ashes dust to dust, We are all made of star stuff, Return this body to the earth from whence it came, you can pick your quote but they all mean the same thing, we are born from the world, and we all will return to it. As much as we like to believe that we are special apart from nature, humans are connected to the world and our elements represent our connection to it. The whispers represent your connection to the world," Pernelle explained.
"Well said Pernelle," an old powerful voice said belying the disheveled, decrepit body it came from.
"Gelert," Pernelle replied, looking down the long hallway to the cell at the very end.
"My, My, you haven't aged a day Pernelle, the years have been kind to you, but we all know why that is the case," he said as the woman narrowed her eyes at her. My condolences for the loss of Nicholas; he was a great man."
"My husband is many things, being deceased however is not one of them," Pernelle replied, wishing death on the old man.
"Then you are a fool, and you are no fool," Gellert replied. "You think I wouldn't notice the change in the structure of the golems who delivered my food over the last two years. The only reason for this change would be that he has passed from this world."
"You always were observant," Pernelle muttered.
"So tell me, how did that bratty little upstart Voldemort do it," Gelert said. "Did he use a red stone in that city?"
Pernelle took a step back in shock. "How could you possibly know that? The entire valley is warded and sealed off, and a negative pressure system keeps the wind constantly flowing into the valley, cutting you off completely."
"And yet here you are," Gelert said. "While my usual visitors are golems, I am allowed other visitors."
"Dumbledore," Pernelle growled.
"Yes, even after all this time he still can not bear to part with me," Gelert laughed. "Despite all his trappings he has never been as lily white as he claims to be. But then neither are you," Gelert said. "Girl you should know your teacher here has the blood of thousands on her hands."
Pernelle growled, balling her fists marching towards the cell only for a hand to grab her just as she was about to leave the protective barrier. "I suggest you stop talking about things you don't understand," Victoria said.
"Oh you dare to lecture me girl," Gelert replied.
"No, I am going to ask the questions and you are going to answer them," Victoria said.
Pernelle moved to object but Dan pulled her back whispering in her ear. "He could not have predicted this, let's see what Victoria can get out of him."
"Better men than you have tried, what makes you think I will answer them girl" Gelert said.
"My name is Victoria Grunberg, not girl, and as a fellow scholar of magic I thought you would like to know that recent scholarship has theorized that gems synergize with the primary elements based on the color and not the physical structure as previously believed," Victoria said.
"Interesting, but the physical structure of the gems is still important," Gelert replied.
"True, but that has more to do with the amount of magical power they can store," Victoria said.
"Interesting, and you said primary elements, I am not familiar with that term," Gelert said leaning forward.
"The so-called rare or special elements like ice are in fact combinations of air and water," Victoria said.
"An interesting theory but where is your proof," Gelert replied.
"Are you familiar with the Chinese elements," Victoria said.
"Ah yes, Wuxing, a cultural distillation of the Greek system," Gelert said.
"Or it was until a friend of mine discovered that her natural element is wood," Victoria said tossing a small wood sculpture Millie created for her between the bars of the cell.
Gelert grabbed the sculpture, feeling the lingering magic inside of it. It was weak, and fought him, but it was enough to show that it was created using an elemental transfiguration. Something that was thought impossible to do with wood. Wood was either grown or conjured and conjured wood never lasted long and had a certain fakeness to it. "It does exist," Gelert gasped.
"Indeed, it does," Victoria said. "And if the fabled element of nature itself is real, then perhaps the lost cities of the Alterans do as well."
"Many have spent their lives diving down that endless rabbit hole," Gelert said.
"Including you," Victoria said with a smirk.
"You know something," Gelert said.
"Indeed I do," Victoria replied.
"And that would be," Gelert said.
"A glowing yellow mana gem 12 by 24 inches, located inside an old structure with a long history," Victoria said.
"So Hogwarts was built over the lost city of earth," Gellert said. "I always suspected that is why he stayed, so he still believes it is one, but he doesn't know where it is," he muttered.
"She got him," Dan whispered to Pernelle.
"Now then, Mr. Grindelwald as a student of history, might you explain why people have spent their lives searching for these lost ruins?" Victoria asked
Gelert laughed. "Well played, Miss Grunberg well played, but that is something you will have to discover for yourself before Voldemort does. He is up 1-0 at this point," Gelert said. "And thank you for the illuminating revelations." He said with a bow.
"Come we're gotten all we can," Pernelle said, leading them away from the cell.
"A word of warning young Victoria, to practice magic, true magic, magic that can change the world is to walk with death by your side," Gelert called out.
"My sister and I have faced dementors and found them wanting," Victoria replied.
"Dementors are pale imitations of the true horrors that await you," Gelert said just as they vanished down the stairs.
"What was he talking about," Victoria asked.
"I pray that you never do," Dan said, repressing a shudder.
"You also have witnessed the beasts of man," Perenelle said. Dan replied with a simple look as they made the long slow march out of the dark fortress.
Thursday March 14th Hogwarts
"Hey Maid, how old are you again," Merula said as Liz folded their laundry.
"18," Liz grumbled.
"No way," another girl said.
"Some use the age charm," a girl said.
"I knew it, 17…. Wait no 16 and 11 months," a girl said.
"Hey cut that out," Liz cried, her voice echoing through the dorms. "Give that back!" she yelled fruitlessly struggling.
"Sylvia," Elizabeth said after listening to the faint cries.
"As much as I would like to, they will simply scream that an older student bullied them, and deny what we can all hear is happening, should you go in there," Sylvia said.
"I know," Elizabeth said. "But I can't sit here and do nothing."
"Then what are you suggesting?" Sylvia asked.
"Something incredibly stupid, that requires a high degree of intelligence and cunning," Elizabeth said.
"What is it that you are going to do," Sylvia said, turning to look at her friend.
"Tracy has clearly turned most if not all of the first years to herside, and she is using that influence to bully Liz while remaining in the clear. Most likely to appear like a more rational actor at some point down the road when she throws Merula Synde under the bus as she has a lower standing than her. What Liz needs is a friend," Elizabeth said.
"But we're her friends," Anna said.
"Yes, but she needs a friend in her year," Elizabeth said.
"Wait, you're not suggesting what I think you are suggesting," Belle gasped.
"I am," Elizabeth said.
"That's crazy," Sylvia said.
"Is it though, Johanna speculated we might age up, so why not the opposite," Elizabeth said.
"She's got a point," Anna said.
"Still, why I thought you wanted," Sylvia said.
"Yes, I wanted to be closer to them and break away from my mother, and being older and their close friend or extended family member would facilitate that, but I think Liz needs that friend more," Elizabeth said.
"You've come a long way from first year," they said, hugging her.
"That is all Johanna's fault," Elizabeth said, enjoying the hug.
"It always is," Belle chuckled.
"Just promise me one thing," Elizabeth said.
"Sure," they said.
"That we will always be friends," she said softly.
"You baka," Anna and Belle said, smacking Elizabeth on the head.
"Hey what was that for," Elizabeth moaned.
"Because nothing is going to stop us from being your friend,' they said.
"So that's where you're going," Sylvia said looking at Anna and Belle.
"Yep," the pair said. "No more orphanages for us!"
"I feel like I am missing something," Elizabeth said.
"Oh it's nothing a wee little firstie has to worry about," they giggled.
"So we're starting now are we," Elizabeth said.
"Yes, and as a good little firstie you need to finish your homework crafting your new persona," Sylvia said wagging a finger at her.
"Yes," Elizabeth giggled as she grabbed her notebook, vibrating with excitement as she began crafting the girl she was to become. "Say goodbye to Elizabeth L'estrange and say hello to Cecelia Tuttle soon to be Cecelia Bellerose."
"So Japanese," Sylvia said as Elizabeth worked.
"Yes, but that's not all," Anna said.
"Do tell," Sylvia pressed.
"That is a secret," Belle chimed in.
Section Break
"Tracy," Merula said, catching Tracy as she came back from jogging around the lake as the sun set.
"Yes," Tracy said.
"I can confirm that Liz Tuttle is just under 17 years old according to the age charm, and 4'10 according to a measurement charm," Merula said.
"And her weight," Tracy said.
"95 pounds," Merula said. "Tracy, may I ask a question?"
"Certainly," Tracy said.
"Was she really 18 like she says she is," Merula asked.
"No she was always 11 she was just faking it for some reason, the Tuttle family is a little off after all," Tracy said.
"I know right, I heard about how her mom was caught traipsing around with muggles," Merula said.
"What you're seeing is just the spells wearing off," Tracy said, patting the girl's head. "So continue keeping watch, and be sure to let me know if anything crazy happens."
"I will," Merula said proudly.
"Hey Merula," a Griffndor girl said, waving at her.
"I um, it's not what it looks like," Merula said.
"You think I would be upset by you having a friend in Gryffindor," Tracy said.
"Well you see…" Merula said.
"I could care less about what house your friend is in," Tracy said.
"Really," Merula gushed.
"I only ask, is she a traditionalist?" Tracy asked.
"Yes," Merula said.
"Excellent, now go eat dinner with your friend," Tracy said, sending the girl off.
"Gah I hate kids," Tracy groaned as soon as Merula was out of ear shot.
"But you are so good with them," Marietta chuckled.
"I hate you," Tracy said.
"No you don't," Marietta chuckled.
"Only because you are useful," Tracy said.
"Well I did get Hannah Abbot to lay into that Hong Kong girl over her stinky food," Marietta said. "Ronald Weasley was just a welcome bonus."
"True, but what about bringing her over to our point of view," Tracy said.
"I don't know, she is close friends with Susan Bones," Marietta said.
"Still she is the best option at the moment, we don't know the younger students and Cedric, and Olga have the older ones locked down," Tracy replied.
"What about Gryffindor?" Marietta asked.
"Merula's friend is a good place to start," Tracy said.
"Ah so that's why….." Marietta said.
"Partially," Tracy said. "While I have no love for those arrogant do-gooding blowhards, I find their political and socio economic stances to be more important."
"So traditionalists," Marietta said.
"Exactly," Tracy said.
"Lady Davis, Lady Edgecomb," Vainsley said.
"Baroness Ackerson," the pair replied.
"Lady Davis, might I spare a moment of your time," Vainsley said.
"Vainsley, Marietta is an associate of mine so anything that you have to say to me you may say in front of her," Tracy said.
"You keep an interesting retinue," Vainsley said.
"A person's worth is more than just their title, or lack thereof," Tracy replied.
"I didn't take you for a modernist," Vainsley replied.
"Perish the thought Vainsley," Tracy replied. "The privileged should rule over the simple folk as it was for thousands of years. I simply think that limiting that power to a lucky few who won the hereditary lottery is necessarily the best way to go. Sure the founding members of that family might have made them great, but where are they now? The Marchiquee Tuttle, the family that long held a small fraction of King Arthur's power, lost it and has been seen consorting with muggles and not even the right kind of muggle," Tracy said.
"One example does not make a pattern," Vainsley replied.
"True, but I beat you a true noble two ranks higher than me, or have you forgotten," Tracy said, her eyes flashing gold for a moment.
"I haven't," Vainsley said, taking a step back.
"Pathetic," Tracy thought. "Good because I would hate to have to remind you, but aside from that why should Marietta be stuck to suffer a life of servitude when she has the aptitude for so much more."
"She has no peerage," Vainsley stated.
"And yet she was made a Lady of Guinevere," Tracy said as Marietta proudly showed off the pin on the lapel of her dress.
"For an act we've yet to learn about," Vainsley said.
"It is not my story to tell," Tracy said motioning to Marietta.
"I provided vital assistance to Lady Greengrass at a critical juncture," Marietta explained.
"I was not aware of that," Vainsley said.
"So you see Vainsley, why not reward the wheat that rises above the chaff," Tracy said, "But come the night is cold and we can better discuss this over dinner."
"Fine," Vainsley said as they walked along. "Just try and walk yourself out of this one." "But what you're advocating is SOCIAL DARWINISM and that will lead to social unrest and destruction at the hands of muggles and their unchecked population growth." A few heads turned in their direction as they continued their way to dinner. Several students began skulking within earshot as they walked.
"I never said anything about Darwin's theory of evolution or wanting social unrest," Tracy said. "It seems she is not yet fully pacified."
"And while Darwin's theory of evolution is very modern and controversial even in the muggle world, it is something that both worlds have known about for a long time," Marietta said as they entered.
"Really, and what use would the world of magic have for such muggle knowledge," Vainsley replied.
"This is for blowing me up, you stuck up SOB," Sylvia thought. "Do you like horses, Vainsley?" Sylvia interjected sliding down the table to join them.
"What does that have to do with anything," Vainsley said.
"Yes, she does, her family has bought Abraxans from the Malfoys in the past," Draco chimed in.
"Excellent, so then you are familiar with breeding horses," Sylvia said.
"Yes," Draco replied.
"Then if you want a faster horse, what do you do and the short version please," Sylvia asked.
"You take your fastest horses and breed them together, and continue to repeat the process. Over time the top speed of the horse will increase," Draco said. "My family has been doing that for centuries."
"And since the Malofy line predates Darwin then all of humanity has known about the idea that you can breed two living things together to make a stronger one," Sylvia said. "Got her!" Vainsley's blush of embarrassment was like music to her ears.
"Fine," Vainsley huffed. "But that still doesn't excuse you for supporting SOCIAL DARWINISM."
"Yet, you are the one spouting off about it, what the problem with it anyway," Marietta said.
"Tracy is advocating for the best and most powerful to rule," Vainsley said.
"Well duh she is a traditionalist," Pansy said.
"Hardly she is saying whoever is the strongest should rule," Vainsley said. "Regardless of rank or peerage."
"I never said that," Tracy replied. "I simply said we should reward those who rise above the rest."
A smile grew on Sylvia's face. "Tracy, if that is actually true then why did you pick on Johanna so much? Was she not rising above the chaff as you put it."
"Touche," Tracy said. "But my problem with Johanna was never about her ability."
"Bullshit," Sylvia thought. "Then what is your problem with her?"
"Hhhmmm, what is the best way to say it," Tracy said, folding her hands as she stalled for time. "Ah yes, the muggle problem, and the statute of secrecy. It is no secret that the muggles are inching closer to discovering magic, and that the Battle of Lichtenstein moved us closer to the statute breaking. Now the only thing I agree with Johanna Grunberg on is that the Statute will fall in our lifetimes," she said, pausing to let her words take affect. "This will put our smaller numbers and magical power against overwhelming numbers and muggle technology. Johanna seems to think that this confrontation can be avoided and the world's peacefully merge together as they work towards a better future. While in reality the great society that we have built and nurtured for thousands of years will be wiped away by a morass of mongrels unworthy of the gifts we were given. This is why I can not stand her. Johanna Grunberg is an optimistic fool who cares little for our culture and tradition."
A silence settled over the table as people looked at each other, everyone trying to gauge everyone else's reaction. "She's got a point," people began to whisper.
"Then pray tell how you would handle the situation," Sylvia finally said looking directly at Tracy.
"Britain and the magical world needs a strong hand to guide it through these trying times," Tracy said.
"You didn't answer the question," Anna chimed in.
"We have spells and charms that increase fertility. Surely we can do the opposite," Tracy said.
"That's forced sterilization," Belle snapped.
"I didn't hear anything about forced sterilization," Marietta said.
"I don't want to see anyone sterilized but if we reduced the fertility rate of muggles their population growth would slow, and eventually decline in a completely humane way," Tracy said.
"That's so simple, why haven't we thought of that before," several people whispered.
"Because it takes a strong leader to make the hard choices, to protect their people and culture and that is who should lead," Tracy said looking towards Draco. "Come on take the bait."
"The purity of the magical bloodlines is what makes the old purebloods the best to rule, as we have shepherded magical society for generations nurturing our power," Draco said.
Tracy dipped her head towards Marietta signalling her to respond. "If that is true, then why do so many purebred dogs have more issues than mutts."
"I wanted you to go for the jugular," Tracy thought.
"We are humans not dogs, Marietta," Draco replied.
"She was trying to be diplomatic, but I will cut to the chase, yes breeding can grow strength power, and ability but, excessive inbreeding destroyed the Gaunt family, so there is a risk from to much intermingling, as it can destroy a lineages nobility and power," tracy said as many gasped in amazement and shock at saying the quiet part aloud.
"You dare," Draco growled.
"What is your game Tracy, and dammit Johanna we need you back here," Sylvia thought.
"While I applaud your deep philosophical discussions across house lines, I think perhaps it is getting a bit too heavy for a saturday night dinner don't you think," Professor Burbage interjected.
"Yes, I agree, professor," Anna said. "Is there any chance you could turn the wireless on?"
"Certainly," Charity said, music filling the hall with a flick of a wand.
Friday March 22nd St. Hilde's
"Professor Nanoha, is there a problem," Johanna asked as the staff wielding brunette and Saint Hilde's Professor of Magical Defense escorted her out of the school as the sun sank below the mountains.
"Here put this on," Nanoha said, throwing an invisibility cloak over her shoulder.
"SSSHHHHH," Nanoha said, shushing her student as they walked across the grounds.
"Relax, Nanoha, I've swept the edge of the wards like you asked, and all I found were a couple of Skrzaks that escaped Lichtenstein," Stheno said, tapping Johanna's back.
"That is great news, we've been worried after a couple of troubling reports as of late, and well you came highly recommended," Nanoha said, stepping back behind the school's barriers leaving Johana standing next to Stheno.
"I may not have my sister's eyes but one look is still enough to stonify those nasty buggers." Stheno said.
"Well safe travels," Nanoha said.
"Thanks, I'm off to Malta next. I've got several apparitions in a row." Stheno said with a wave before vanishing with Johanna.
"Eísai argoporiménos," Euryale huffed as her sister appeared.
"Syngnómi, i mikrí aderfí ítan, kalá xérete pós gínetai," Stheno sighed delicately, moving the still invisible and extremely confused Johana towards her sister.
"Étsi tha páme na to doúme, akoúo óti o naós eínai to théama katá ti diárkeia tis panselínou," Stheno said.
"Nai, nai, allá ennoó sovará óloi gnorízoun óti eínai i aderfí mas pou échei tin pragmatikí dýnami óchi emás," Euryale groaned as walked towards a large collection of grecoroman columns and other ruins.
"Alithís," Stheno said as they crossed another barrier.
"I need to learn Greek," a now thoroughly confused Johanna thought.
"Ok, you can drop the act," Perenelle said, stepping into the open.
"Schließlich," Johanna said, throwing off the invisibility cloak. "Now can someone please tell me what is going on."
"Sorry but it was necessary," Perenelle said.
"What was necessary," Johanna said.
"Johanna, the battle of Lichtenstein changed everything," Emma said, stepping out next to Perenelle.
"Mom what are you doing here and what is going on," Johanna exclaimed.
"Once is a fluke, twice is a coincidence, and people aren't waiting to see if a third time is a pattern before taking action" Perenelle said.
"My actions have caused a renewed interest in Celestial Mana," Johanna said.
"Ja," Emma said, hugging her daughter. "But it is not your fault."
"None of this is, but we got lucky in Lichtenstein," Perenelle said. "That Chimera was enhanced with the powers of a beast that brought the ancient world to its knees. Even with all my knowledge power and experience I could barely scratch it. Only Anna and her Gorgon abilities saved us. Plus your fast action with celestial mana stopped what could have been a slaughter."
"Ok, but why all of this," Johanna said.
"Because Albus Dumbledore, Gellert Grindelwald, Voldemort, and an unknown faction from Russia have taken an unhealthy interest in you. Not to mention Anna revealing her true strength to the world has kicked off a new magical arms race. While it's temporary, when Anna is in that form she has strength and power not seen since the age of gods, a golden age of magic. There are some rumblings that not even the secrets in the British Department of Mysteries may not be able to stop her." Perenelle said, as she looked at Johanna with every one of her years visible in her eyes. "Listen kid, there is a rather short list of truly powerful stand out witches or wizards out there, and that list narrows when it comes to combat potential.
"And I've made it on to that list," Johanna said, growing weak in the knees.
"As much as I wish I didn't have to say it, yes, you are on that list due to possibly having access to Celestial Mana," Emma said.
"As is your mother, sister, Millie, Fleur, and the Patil's," Perenelle added. "You kids are doing things that most can not do, and certainly not at such a young age."
"Perenelle, must you," Emma said, hugging Johanna.
"Yes, like it or not, she needs to know," Perenelle said.
"I'm sorry mom, I just wanted to have friends and maybe be a decent figure skater," Johanna said, dipping her head.
"I'm not," Emma giggled. "You've given me more daughters to be a mom to, and life is much more fun this way. Even if you are now a magical princess, you will always be my daughter," she said, hugging her.
"Danke mutter," Johanna replied, returning the hugg, enjoying her mother's embrace.
"Warte….. Prinzessin!"
"Kann sein…" Emma giggled. "You see this meanie insulted our family so the Austrians are digging through their genealogical records."
"Oh boy," Johanna said. "Hahahahaha take that Daphne I'm a real princess which is way better than some stupid countess. Wait, what was that?" "But that still doesn't explain all this."
"Your foes will not be your everyday run of the mill wizards or monsters, Celestial magic is going to be your ace in the hole. An ace that could make Anna's gorgon form look like a kitten." Perenelle said.
"Mama," Johanna said, looking at her mother.
"It's up to you, but know that I will love and support you no matter what," Emma said, squeezing her shoulder.
Sylvia's words echoed in her mind as Johanna stood up looking directly at Pernelle. "My name is Johanna Grunberg the Ice Princess of Liechtenstein and I will be the light shining in the darkness, now let's get started," she said as the moon broke through the clouds.
"Good, now what do you know about Celestial mana," Perenelle said.
"Celestial mana is a more potent form of mana that comes with the divine authority of the god or goddess it is derived from. In my case this is Artemis the Goddess of the moon, and I have less to worry about from the taint as it was given freely, was a small amount overall," Johanna said.
"Good, and Atermis's domain," Perenelle asked.
"In Addition to the goddess of the moon she is the goddess of the hunt, children and childbirth, which means I will be inclined to protect kids, enjoy the thrill of the hunt more than most and may remain a virgin maiden," Johanna said. "I wonder if this is part of the pretty girl problem Liz told me about, because I still want a boyfriend, but he needs to be well. Let's just say he'd better be standing next to me or infront of me like Marcus and Mathew do for Victoria and Sylvia… No wait he's with Liz….. but she's just a kid now."
"Excellent," Perenelle said.
"Does this mean that Johanna will never marry," Emma said, growing a little worried.
"No," Stheno said. "It just means that it will take a very impressive man or woman to catch her eye, and win her heart."
"So you won't have to worry about boys plowing your daughters' fertile fields," Euryale added only to get blasted in the face by Perenelle and Emma.
"Honestly could you be any more perverse," Perenelle and Emma said while Johanna exhibited a full body blush.
"She can't help it," Stheno said, shrugging. "Anna got the Gorgon and we got our respective namesakes so Euryale can't help it when she goes off about being god's gift to man."
"I'm 15 and can we please get back on track," Johanna said. "I'm giving any kisses away for free, they need to earn it."
"Agreed," Emma said. "And I feel like we are forgetting something very important."
"What's that," Perenelle said.
"Artemis is the goddess of the moon, and the moon controls the tides," Emma said, causing Perenelle to drop her wand, walk over to a stone column and smash her head against it.
"Did I say something wrong," Emma said.
"No I just can't believe I didn't think of that," Perenelle said.
"Learn something new everyday I guess," Johanna shrugged. "So um how do I cast celestial spells?"
"The problem with Celestial Mana is that there are no known spells that can cast celestial mana and you need to consider how the divine authorities that come with it can affect your spells," Perenelle said.
I get the no spells part, but why do the divine authorities matter isn't it just really potent mana," Johanna replied.
"It is very potent mana that you have been using as a power booster, but do you know why your ice spell was super effective against those imps," Perenelle replied.
"It was in an enclosed space," Johanna said.
"That, and the celestial mana you used to form the cage reflected the spell back on them," Perenelle said.
"It wasn't supposed to do that," Johanna said.
"And yet it did," Perenelle said. "But for now you need to meditate to try and draw on that power outside of battle."
"But I've been trying that," Johanna said.
"Might I make a suggestion," Emma said.
"Yes," Perenelle said.
"Artemis is the Goddess of the Hunt and we came to her temple on a full moon to see if it would help draw out that power. But instead of meditating why don't we try hunting," Emma said.
"Hate to break it to you mom but I don't see any animals around here," Johanna said.
"I never said you would be the hunter," Emma said, walking over and taking her daughter's Ice wand.
"Um, Mom," Johanna said, looking at the glint in her mothers eye and the growing smirk.
"My dear daughter adores her lovely long hair, and would do anything to protect it," Emma said, firing off a simple cutting charm lopping a few strands off.
"Mom!" Johanna squeaked.
"Oh I see where this is going," Perenelle said, taking off a few more strands.
"Would you cut that out," Johanna protested.
"Then I suggest you get to work using celestial mana to stop us," Emma said as Johanna leapt away from them.
Monday Morning March 25th St. Hilde's
"Um, Johanna, is something wrong?" Nanoha said after the silver haired girl was safely back inside the school's barrier.
"I don't wanna talk about it," she muttered, pulling the hood of her cloak down around her face.
"Look kiddo I dunno what kind of training they are putting you through but it can't be that bad," Nanoha said.
"It wasn't, Ria's put me through tougher routines," Johanna said softly.
"Then what seems to be the problem?" Nanoha asked.
"Promise not to laugh," Johanna said softly.
"I promise," Nanoha said.
Johanna slowly pulled back her hood revealing the same old Johanna with one very important difference. The absurdly long shimmering silver hair she prided herself on was no more, as the 15 year old sadly twisted a bit of the barely shoulder length strands around her finger. "Does it look bad," Johanna said softly.
"What the hell kind of training involves cutting your hair?" Nanoha asked.
"Motivation to cast a special kind of shield," Johnna said softly as her sister and friends came out of the building.
"So did you do it?" Nanoha asked.
"No," Johanna sighed.
"Well at least we don't have to worry about you clogging the drain anymore," Victoria laughed as her sister just sighed in defeat.
"You're hair what happened," Parvati exclaimed.
"Perenelle and Mother considered it extra motivation," Johanna sighed.
"Did it work," Padma asked, the long suffering sigh was the only answer they got.
"They're gonna take it all the way to bald," Johanna cried. "I don't want to be bald, the proof of a magical girl's power is her hair."
"Then I guess you don't have much left then do you sis," Victoria chuckled. "Short hair for a short girl," Victoria giggled, patting her only slightly shorter sister on the head. 'But that's ok because as the big sister…" Whatever Victoria was going to say was cut off by a blast of frigid air from Johanna.
"Victoria," Johanna growled, gripping her ice wand tightly as a few strands of light blue hair floated down to the ground.
"You wouldn't dare," Victoria said.
"I would," Johanna said with a grin as a few more strands were removed with a flick of her wand. "Run," Johanna said before Victoria bolted away. The sound of their battle filled the school grounds drawing the entire student body out for their performance or battle it was hard to tell. Victoria was fast and gave as good as she got but an angry and pissed off Johanna was no easy opponent even with her powers over the air. Several professors took advantage of the fight to discuss spells, counter spells, dueling strategy and other topics.
Sadly all good things must come to an end. "Raging Thunder," Fate yelled, dropping a pair of thunderbolts on the sisters.
"Was it worth it," Padma asked, looking down at the charred Victoria sporting a haircut as short as her sisters.
Victoria turned her head to the side to see the giggling smiling face of her sister despite the hair cut and burnt clothing. "Yes," Victoria said without question. "She saved me, so I will do anything to make sure my sister keeps smiling."
Wednesday March 27th Saint Petersburg Russia
"Those fools really think that a few ships are going to be enough," Annastasia said, looking out over the Harbor of Saint Petersburg to the military vessels just cresting the horizon line.
"Do those ships have long range weaponry," Yekaterina replied.
"Their missiles are useless against the EMP ward, and they will not risk firing on the city as they need the port facilities intact," Vladimir replied.
"Which is why they are landing troops right," Annastasia said.
"Yes," Vlladimir replied.
"Sir it was my understanding that storming a city can be very costly to both sides," Yekaterina said.
"Yes, my dear you are correct, but this is not Stalingrad, and they are under the mistaken impression that by diverting our magical beasts we are defenseless," Vladimir said.
"You would unleash them in a city," Annastasia gasped. "Because I will not let you." She growled as an icy chill settled over them.
"Calm yourself Tsarina, I have no intention of harming our own citizens," Vladimir said. "Is she evolving into a nature spirit?"
"Good," Anastasia said.
"Which is why I brought the two of you here," he said.
"What is the plan sir," Yekaterina asked.
"Tsarina, I would humbly request that you freeze the ships in place with your command of General Winter. Yekaterina once that is done you will put your training to use and send the ships to the bottom and prevent any of these invaders from stepping foot on Russian soil," Vladimir explained.
"Yes, sir," Yekaterina replied.
Section Break
"This is too easy," the Admiral of Russian Task Force said.
"Perhaps the magicals did not expect us to go straight for the city," a seaman said.
"That is possible, but why did they not send any monsters after us," another asked.
"We warded against that possibility," a wizard said. "And Dumbledore assured us that the beasts were drawn off to deal with an incursion led by the Matou sisters in the south."
"Not to mention our ace in the hole," the admiral said.
"Unhand me this instant," Natasha growled as a young woman in cuffs was brought forward.
"You will shut up and do what you're told," the admiral said as the harbor of Saint Petersburg appeared on the horizon.
"I am not one of your soldiers," Natasha spat.
The admiral backhanded her against the wall. 'You are a Russian citizen who has been drafted to do her patriotic duty to help us take back the motherland."
"Communist pig," Natsha growled glaring at the man.
"Is this really necessary," the wizard said.
"Had you provided us the forces we requested this would not have been necessary," the Admiral said as the cloud cover increased.
"Yes, but can this girl do what you think," the wizard said.
"You were the ones who said that a descendant of the Romanovs could command General winter," the admiral said.
"Oh my fucking god these people are nuts, my faimly name is because we used to be serfs raising Romanov sheep. Not because we're related to the actual Romanov's." Natasha thought as the wind and snow began to blow.
"Continue with the operation," the Admiral said as the snow squall increased.
"Yes, sir," the sailors said.
"You're up, girl," the Admiral said.
"You'll have to take off these cuffs and give me my wand," Natasha said as small hunks of ice began floating by the ships.
"I have warded the ship against portkeys and apparition," the wizard said, handing Natasha her wand.
"And they will shoot if you try anything," the Admiral said motioning to two guards who raised their pistols at her.
"ледорез," Natsha said, a get of magic lancing out of the bridge past the bow of the ship splitting an iceberg in half.
"Have the other ships form up behind us," the admiral ordered as Natasha continued to split the growing icebergs in half. The ships passed by Kotlin Island entering the harbor as the icebergs died off, replaced by thick slabs of ice, as the water itself began to freeze over.
The barrel of a gun to the back of her head was all the incentive Natasha needed to continue. "Ледокол," she said smashing the ice to pieces allowing the flotilla to continue, but the ice was reforming as fast as she could break it until the ship finally came to a slamming halt.
"I'm done," a sweating panting Natasha said, dropping to the deck.
"You are far from done," the admiral said, hauling Natasha to her feet.
"Look, I don't know what you do or don't know about magic, but it's like a muscle and getting you this far was like doing a 10,000 meter race twice," Natasha said.
"We are close enough that you should be able to," the wizard said as the ship itself began to freeze over ice and frost growing over the windows as a chill descended over the bridge.
"To what, you need to pull back now!" Natasha said as the snow cleared revealing a frozen landscape, a lone girl walking across the ice carrying an impossibly large sword.
"It's one girl, open fire," the admiral ordered. The guns of the ship began to turn their motors wining as they iced over locking them in place. Smirking, the girl raised her sword, slashing downward a blade of energy slamming into the ship shaking it as the armored hull and bulkheads bent and crumpled.
` "What was that," the admiral said as another blast hit the ship. "Sir the forward hull has been breached."
"Get these cuffs off of me," Natasha growled as the girl drove her foot into the ice breaking off a large hunk and using it as a shield from the small arms fire raining down from the deck.
"Duck," a man yelled before the ice came smashing through the bridge. Using the distraction the girl leapt to the deck of the ship the few remaining men who weren't frozen solid slashed in half by the girl carving a path of blood across the ship.
"If we stay here we're dead. Now get these cuffs off and follow me!" Natasha growled surveying the carnage.
"Right," a sailor said as the Admiral and Wizard lay dead crushed by the ice while explosions began to rock the ship.
"What's the plan," the remaining sailors said as the ship lurched to the side.
"Getting the hell off this ship," Natasha growled.
"We'll freeze to death," one of them said as a frozen body fell through the shattered window bursting into shards on impact.
"And we'll drown if we stay here," Natasha said. "But he's got a point, that body was frozen solid, but we can't portkey from here either. No wait the wizard is dead so the ward will be weakening, but I'll still need to punch through it" She looked down to her wrist and the bracelet she was wearing more importantly the diamond on it. "Johanna once said gems can sometimes pick up bits of magic from the user if it is worn frequently. You're not even here and you're still saving me," "That's it," she gasped.
"What," the group said.
"Get anyone you can here in the next five minutes, we're leaving," Natasha said as the girl left for the next ship in the line.
"Get me his wand and pull any gems you find off that wizard," Natasha ordered. "You rip the wires out of something."
"What are you doing," a man asked as they got to work.
"Narva should be about 100 miles," Natasha muttered, burning an array into the floor.
"How's this," the man said, holding up a long cord of wires. "You strip it and lay it on top of the rune. You remove the diamonds and wrap them in copper and place them here, here, and here. You check the work, it should look something like a circuit board," Natasha ordered before sitting down and crossing her legs.
"Da," the man said, getting to work.
"What is she doing," another sailor said, returning with several injured crewmates.
"портключа для оказания экстренной медицинской помощи в Нарву," she muttered tapping her belt with her wand expanding it several times over. "Times up, everyone step on the circle," Natasha said standing up. "Wrap this through one of your belt loops and lock arms with the person next to you. This is going to be a bumpy ride," she said holding her wand and the wizards wand out snapping them and dropping them into the array where they began to burn. "I just hope this is enough power." she thought watching the array light up. "Активация," she yelled before the group popped out of existence.